Episodi
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Part One.
Ever left a toxic boss or workplace, hoping for a fresh start, only to land in the same chaos at your new job? It’s a frustratingly common cycle.
The truth is, office politics are everywhere. From power plays and subtle maneuvers to that colleague who always seems to win, navigating workplace dynamics can be exhausting.
In this two-part series, leadership expert Jennifer Selby Long joins me to unpack why office politics happen, how some people thrive in politically charged environments, and why others struggle. We’ll explore toxic cultures, power dynamics, and the hidden forces shaping your work life—and how to navigate them without losing yourself along the way.
Feeling stuck or burned out? These episodes are packed with relatable stories and actionable insights to help you take your next step forward.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:Finding Your Ally Among the Majority
“In political environments, success hinges on securing a powerful ally. Aligning your interests with theirs and elevating them as a leader in your cause is essential if you plan to stay and thrive in such an environment.”
When Conversations Clash, Progress Pauses
“Business meetings often default to task-focused debates where differing perspectives turn into verbal standoffs. Rarely do teams pause to acknowledge the conflict and approach it constructively, missing opportunities to uncover deeper understanding.”
No Permanent Friends, No Permanent Enemies—Just Interests
“Drawing from the wisdom of Martin Luther King’s attorney, Clarence Jones: the game of politics is about aligning interests, not forging everlasting alliances. Understanding this can shift how you approach your workplace dynamics.”
Assumptions: The Silent Saboteur
“Most conflicts arise not from genuine disagreement but from unchecked assumptions about others’ motives or goals. Pausing to clarify and validate these assumptions can eliminate a significant portion of perceived conflict.”
_________________________Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jennifer Selby LongChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
I’m joined by Nellie Wartoft, someone I like to call the chief change officer behind change leaders. Originally from Europe, she’s spent years in Asia—especially Singapore—working across cultures. Now based in the U.S., Nellie is the founder and CEO of Tiger Hall, a tech-driven platform helping organizations navigate change more effectively.
This is part two of a two-part series.
In these episodes, we’ll dive into navigating cultural differences across three regions, why most change initiatives fail, and how to set up for success. If you’ve ever struggled with change—whether in your career, company, or life—this series is for you.Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Hating SharePoint and Finding a Better Way
“The inefficiency of tools like SharePoint highlighted a fundamental gap: employees struggling to align with HQ’s vision. Miscommunication bred resistance and fatigue, even when both sides had good intentions. The question arose—why can’t change communication be as engaging as social media or Spotify?”
The Universal Human Side of Change
“No matter where you are in the world, the human psyche reacts similarly to change—fear, chaos, uncertainty, and emotion are universal experiences. Change fatigue and resistance aren’t cultural anomalies; they’re deeply human responses shared across geographies.”
The Ego Factor: A Leadership Killer
“High-ego, high-fear leaders stifle transformation. They resist feedback, take criticism personally, and foster a top-down, do-as-I-say culture. Modern transformation demands collaborative leadership that embraces input, fosters trust, and thrives on dialogue—not outdated command-and-control styles.”
“Short-Term Results vs. Long-Term Vision”
“U.S. organizations prioritize quarterly results and trend-driven decisions, like the AI boom. Meanwhile, Asian companies often take a more measured, long-term approach, rooted in heritage and identity. Both approaches have their strengths but lead to vastly different paces of execution.”
_________________________Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Nellie WartoftChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Episodi mancanti?
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Part One.
I’m joined by Nellie Wartoft, someone I like to call the chief change officer behind change leaders. Originally from Europe, she’s spent years in Asia—especially Singapore—working across cultures. Now based in the U.S., Nellie is the founder and CEO of Tiger Hall, a tech-driven platform helping organizations navigate change more effectively.
This is part one of a two-part series.
In these episodes, we’ll dive into navigating cultural differences across three regions, why most change initiatives fail, and how to set up for success. If you’ve ever struggled with change—whether in your career, company, or life—this series is for you.Key Highlights of Our Interview
More Cows Than People: The Swedish Small-Town Origin Story
“Growing up in a small village in southern Sweden—population: lots of cows, not many humans—instilled an early drive to explore bigger horizons. For professional and cultural reasons, leaving was a must.”
The McDonald’s Effect: Discovering Professional Passions
“The guest credits their time flipping burgers at McDonald’s as a pivotal moment in shaping their career. It was there they discovered their love for three key elements: a high-paced environment, the thrill of commercial success, and the art of leadership. These ‘professional addictions’ would become the foundation of every role they pursued.”
Resilience and Identity: Anchoring Yourself Beyond Titles
“Basing your identity on external factors like job titles or status is a risky game—what happens if they’re taken away? Instead, ground your sense of self in unshakable traits: hard work, learning, good intentions, or resilience. These are constants, no matter what life throws your way.”
Life of Adventure vs. Life of Leisure
“Challenging societal norms, the guest recounts a thought-provoking quote: ‘A life of leisure is hell, and a life of adventure and purpose is heaven.’ From childhood, we’re often told to seek rest and relaxation, but the guest argues that purpose and adventure are what truly give life meaning.”
_________________________Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Nellie WartoftChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
In this 2-part series, we sat down with Robert MacPhee. From parking cars to co-piloting lives, Robert has gone full throttle with his best-selling book Living a Values-Based Life
A former right-hand man to Chicken Soup for the Soul’s Jack Canfield, Robert now helps people figure out their life’s GPS—or rather, their VBS (Values-Based System).Why are we so bad at knowing what we actually value? How can aligning your actions with your core values make work feel less like work? And why does he have such strong opinions about clarity?
Robert dishes out wisdom with a side of wit, helping us tackle life’s big questions with plenty of “aha” moments and a few laughs along the way.
Key Highlights of Our Interviews:
Why It’s So Hard to Define Our Own Values
“Most people’s initial list of values often reflects what they think others want to hear. We’re so conditioned to impress others or meet external expectations that it’s challenging to pause and ask: What truly matters to me? The real magic begins when we strip away external noise and align with our authentic priorities.”How a Values-Based Life Can Improve Work
“Clarity about values doesn’t just make personal life better—it’s transformative for work too. Aligning your actions with priorities like contribution or integrity can help you show up fully, even in challenging moments. That alignment makes work feel purposeful instead of draining.”Do Values Change Over Time? The Short Answer: Yes.
“Values aren’t set in stone—they evolve with life stages and circumstances. For instance, what mattered to you in high school may be worlds apart from what tops your list in your sixties or seventies. Life experiences, like becoming a parent or caring for aging loved ones, naturally shift our focus, making values an ongoing conversation, not a one-time declaration.”Keeping Values Visible
“The importance of keeping your values front and center can’t be overstated. Whether on your phone, bathroom mirror, or bedside table, revisiting your values regularly keeps them aligned with your current life stage. A daily reminder to reflect, re-anchor, and adjust ensures your values stay relevant.”
_________________________Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Robert MacPheeChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part One.
In this 2-part series, we sat down with Robert MacPhee. From parking cars to co-piloting lives, Robert has gone full throttle with his best-selling book Living a Values-Based Life
A former right-hand man to Chicken Soup for the Soul’s Jack Canfield, Robert now helps people figure out their life’s GPS—or rather, their VBS (Values-Based System).Why are we so bad at knowing what we actually value? How can aligning your actions with your core values make work feel less like work? And why does he have such strong opinions about clarity?
Robert dishes out wisdom with a side of wit, helping us tackle life’s big questions with plenty of “aha” moments and a few laughs along the way.
Key Highlights of Our Interviews:
A Masterclass with Jack Canfield
“I was fortunate to work closely with Jack Canfield, the co-creator of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Over nearly a decade, I learned invaluable lessons about personal development and training, which inspired me to branch out and develop my own concept—Excellent Decisions.”
Living a Values-Based Life
“My current focus, and the heart of my book, Living a Values-Based Life, is helping people clarify their most important values. Once they’re clear on those, they can create a life—and in many cases, a business—that truly aligns with what matters most to them.”
What Are Values, Really?
“At its core, values are what’s most important to us. They define how we want to show up in the world and guide the ways we choose to be. When we are clear about our values, they become a compass, fundamentally shifting how we navigate life and work."
Why Are Values So Hard to Define?
“Most people struggle to articulate their values simply because no one teaches them how. Schools don’t prioritize it, and while parents might model certain values, they often don’t have the tools to guide their children through truly understanding and clarifying their highest values. It’s not intuitive, and it’s certainly not a one-hour workshop—it’s a journey.”
Values Are More Than Ideals; They’re Tools
“Without clearly defined values, navigating life is like walking blindfolded. You may move forward, but without a compass, you risk heading in the wrong direction. Society constantly pushes external markers like money, cars, or houses as measures of success. But aligning goals with deeply personal values, like strengthening family relationships or contributing to a cause, brings fulfillment and focus.”
_________________________Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Robert MacPheeChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Ral West is the kind of person you meet and immediately think, “Wow, she’s lived a life.” Over 40 years as an entrepreneur, her story is full of twists and turns.
In her mid-twenties, she took a leap and started her first business. That was just the beginning. For 25 years, she and her husband ran a charter air service between Alaska and Hawaii, flying wide-body jets. Eventually, they sold it to Alaska Airlines—a huge milestone, but not the end of her journey.
She’s owned small cruise ships, invested in real estate, and kept building.
And now? She’s helping other entrepreneurs figure out the same thing she did: how to run a business and have a life. Her story is inspiring, real, and packed with lessons for anyone chasing big dreams.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:Challenging Generational Norms
“Early in my career, working for my father, I hit the glass ceiling. He came from a different generation, and his views were, let’s say, a bit old-fashioned. But I decided, ‘Thanks, Dad—I’ll take it from here.’ And I broke away to chart my own path.”
Juggling Act: The Exhausting Middle Years
“Between 35 and 55, I was stretched thin—running a business, raising young kids, volunteering. Sleep felt like a luxury. My health suffered, my marriage struggled, and I couldn’t do it all.”
The Breakthrough: Building Systems and Letting Go
“I learned the hard way that trying to do everything myself wasn’t sustainable. I created systems, implemented processes, and built a team I could trust. Using metrics and data-driven management, I structured my business so it could run smoothly—whether I was there or not.”The Slow Burn of Transformation
“Building systems, processes, and a reliable team didn’t happen overnight. It was years in the making. I started small—reading books like The E-Myth by Michael Gerber, going back to college, and studying with mentors like Robert Kiyosaki. Each step added a piece to the puzzle.”
Bite-Sized Delegation: Starting Small
“You don’t need massive financial success to start delegating. It starts with breaking down your daily tasks into bite-sized pieces and identifying what you can transfer to someone else.”
Turning Intuition Into Systems
“One of my toughest challenges was documenting decision-making processes—like when to increase advertising spend. It took weeks of introspection and trial and error before I realized I was relying on sales trends over a three-day period. Once I had clarity, I turned it into a system my team could follow, even when I wasn’t there.”
Creating Culture: Embodying Values and Principles
“It wasn’t just about systems and metrics; it was about building a team that shared my values. From customer service to feedback collection, we worked hard to create a culture that prioritized our principles.”
_________________________Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Ral WestChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
Today’s guest is Erin Diehl, founder and CEO of Improve It, a company that uses improv to help teams grow and thrive. Like me, she’s also a top podcast host!
From a young age, Erin dreamed of becoming a talk show host. Why did she choose that path? And how did her journey lead her to combine improv and business?
I told Erin, “You’re in the business of joy.”
But beyond joy, we also talked about failure. Erin calls herself a “failfluencer”—a blend of failure and influence. This two-part series dives into her unique approach to joy, failure, growth, and learning.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
WTF: Worst Terrifying Failure
“2020 was my crash course in failure. The pandemic forced our in-person business to pivot entirely online overnight. At the same time, I juggled new motherhood, supporting a recovering parent, and trying to keep my business afloat. It was my WTF moment: my Worst Terrifying Failure.”
This breakdown captures the essence of the MOVE ON methodology:
1. Marinate: Sit With It, Not In It
Failure isn’t something you can brush off overnight. Take the time to sit with your worst terrifying failure—your WTF story. Reflect deeply. Walk, journal, or simply allow yourself to process. It’s about feeling without rushing to fix.
2. Own It: Forgive and Face the Thought Worms
“Own your part in the failure, but more importantly, forgive yourself. We repeat 80% of our negative thoughts daily, so break that cycle. Recognize those thought worms for what they are and stop letting them dictate your story.”
3. Verify the Lessons: What Will You Take With You?
“Failure comes bearing lessons—two or three takeaways that you can carry forward. Identify what you’ve learned and how you’ll avoid the same pitfalls in the future. This step transforms failure into wisdom.”
4. Evaluate: What’s the Plan?
5. Observe the Growth: Prepare for the Next Chapter
6. Embrace Failure as Part of Change
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Erin DiehlChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part One.
Today’s guest is Erin Diehl, founder and CEO of Improve It, a company that uses improv to help teams grow and thrive. Like me, she’s also a top podcast host!
From a young age, Erin dreamed of becoming a talk show host. Why did she choose that path? And how did her journey lead her to combine improv and business?
I told Erin, “You’re in the business of joy.”
But beyond joy, we also talked about failure. Erin calls herself a “failfluencer”—a blend of failure and influence. This two-part series dives into her unique approach to joy, failure, growth, and learning.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Improv Meets the Corporate World
“I didn’t plan to merge improv and business. But during my nine-to-five at a recruiting firm, my nights were dedicated to stages at Second City and ImprovOlympic. Suddenly, I saw how listening, empathy, and quick thinking from improv transformed my work life. The dots connected.”
United We Innovate
“Pitching an improv workshop to United Airlines was a gamble, but it paid off—literally. What started as a passion experiment became a calling when United became my first paying client. Improv wasn’t just for the stage anymore.”
The Teacher’s High“That feeling of guiding someone toward growth is intoxicating. It’s a high I kept chasing, and the more I taught, the more I wanted to do it. Seeing others find joy became my own source of joy.”
From ROI to ROO: The Objective Shift
“We don’t measure ROI; we measure ROO—Return on Objective. Every engagement starts with a consult call to pinpoint your specific challenges and objectives, ensuring everything aligns with the participants’ needs.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Erin DiehlChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
I sit down with Nina Sossamon-Pogue, a former professional gymnast who started her journey at just four years old and went on to join the U.S. Gymnastics Team.
In her own words, gymnastics is a perfect example of resilience—you literally fall down and get back up, all day, every day, as you learn new skills. That mindset became part of Nina’s DNA, and it carried her through some incredible twists and turns.
From the heartbreak of not making the Olympic team to leaving the sport for good after an injury, she faced one identity crisis after another. But she didn’t stop there. Nina built a successful journalism career that spanned 17 years, only to be let go, despite being a beloved news anchor. And instead of staying down, she jumped into tech—starting from scratch—and reinvented herself yet again.
Yesterday, in part one of our conversation, we looked into Nina’s journey. Her training, her triumphs, and her setbacks. Then, today, in part two, we’ll explore the tools Nina has developed over the years to help others rise above their challenges. Tools like the Reverse Resume and Successful Timeline. We’re not talking about your typical resume or conventional ideas of success—we’re going beyond that.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Why the Reverse Resume Matters
“When hiring, I ask, ‘What’s something you’ve overcome?’ That’s where the magic is. Those bottom-line moments define the strength you bring to every table.”
The Power of Perspective: Achievements and Challenges Together”
“Your resume tells one story, but your reverse resume tells the deeper truth: what you’ve overcome. Together, they define not just what you’ve done, but who you are.”
“Success vs. a Successful Lifetime: Spot the Difference”
“A nice car, a big house, a shiny jet—that’s success. But a successful lifetime? That’s the legacy, the relationships, the impact. The timeline reveals the whole messy, marvelous story.”
Life is a Bag of Legos
“Imagine dumping out a Ziploc bag full of Legos. Same colors, same shapes, same pieces. Yet, you’d build something entirely different from me. That’s your life—it’s uniquely yours to assemble.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Nina Sossamon-PogueChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part One.
I sit down with Nina Sossamon-Pogue, a former professional gymnast who started her journey at just four years old and went on to join the U.S. Gymnastics Team.
In her own words, gymnastics is a perfect example of resilience—you literally fall down and get back up, all day, every day, as you learn new skills. That mindset became part of Nina’s DNA, and it carried her through some incredible twists and turns.
From the heartbreak of not making the Olympic team to leaving the sport for good after an injury, she faced one identity crisis after another. But she didn’t stop there. Nina built a successful journalism career that spanned 17 years, only to be let go, despite being a beloved news anchor. And instead of staying down, she jumped into tech—starting from scratch—and reinvented herself yet again.
Today, in part one of our conversation, we’re diving into Nina’s journey. Her training, her triumphs, and her setbacks. Then, tomorrow, in part two, we’ll explore the tools Nina has developed over the years to help others rise above their challenges. Tools like the Reverse Resume and Successful Timeline. We’re not talking about your typical resume or conventional ideas of success—we’re going beyond that.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
The Personal Toll of Public Life
“While doing three live shows a day, I went through a divorce, an accident, and some of the darkest moments of my life. I wondered if I’d ever feel happy again.”
Finding Your Sweet Spot: Skills, Opportunities, and Trends
“When making a career pivot, ask yourself three key questions: What am I good at? Where’s the money? And what’s the trajectory of the industry I’m entering? Aligning these answers sets the foundation for a successful transition.”
Coffee, Conversations, and Clarity: Gaining Insight From Your Network
“To discover where I could make an impact, I turned to trusted colleagues and asked: If you had to hire me, what would you hire me for? Their answers revealed skills I hadn’t fully recognized and pointed me toward opportunities I hadn’t considered.”
Your Skills, Seen Through Fresh Eyes
“What others find valuable in you might surprise you. It’s a reminder to seek outside perspectives—they could reveal your next big opportunity.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Nina Sossamon-PogueChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
In 2022, an accident left Erica Sosna, Author of The Career Equation, paralysed, facing months of recovery, and re-learning to walk. Yet, she is grateful, even through pain and uncertainty, to have rediscovered her own resilience and purpose. Over two years, she has fought her way back to walking, rebuilt her business, and found a new mission in helping others.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Speaking the Same Career Language: The Foundation of The Career Equation
“The Career Equation is designed to create a common understanding between employers and employees around career development, much like having a shared accounting system. Without it, career conversations risk inconsistency and lack of clarity, but with it, we can truly align aspirations and strategies.”
Building Career Conversations with Four Simple Components
“The Career Equation focuses on four key insights: understanding strengths, uncovering passions, measuring success, and aligning with optimal work environments. These components create a common ground, enabling both employer and employee to understand what’s needed to thrive.”
Insatiable Curiosity: Embracing Unconventional Paths to Healing
"An insatiable thirst for novelty keeps me exploring, whether it’s acupuncture, microcurrent therapy, or spine-specific chiropractic techniques. I’ve discovered that healing requires openness to new possibilities, even when they fall outside the traditional model.”
The Right Environment: The Crucial Factor for Success
“From workspace to team dynamics, the environment is essential to performance. Knowing where a person does their best work and making adjustments as needed creates a space where strengths can flourish.”
Visualizing the Outcome: A Plan Begins with the End in Mind
“I start by envisioning the experiences I want—whether it’s dancing, running, or picking up my child—then map out the steps that would lead me there. By framing it with vivid goals, I find clarity and purpose in the smallest daily actions.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Erica SosnaChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part One.
In 2022, an accident left Erica Sosna, Author of The Career Equation, paralysed, facing months of recovery, and re-learning to walk. Yet, she is grateful, even through pain and uncertainty, to have rediscovered her own resilience and purpose. Over two years, she has fought her way back to walking, rebuilt her business, and found a new mission in helping others.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Two Jobs, Two Failures: A Gut Check Moment
“After two roles that didn’t work out as planned, I hit a crossroads. I took a step back and asked: am I in the right place? I needed to rethink my priorities, work style, and the kind of organization that would truly support me.”
The School of Hard Knocks: Rejections and Redirections
“Returning to the corporate world after running my own social enterprise was unexpectedly tough. My CV was different, unconventional, and people didn’t trust me to hold down a job. It took resilience to find an organization that valued my unique experience.”
Shifting Gears: When Your Work Becomes Your Solace
“Returning to my consultancy after a year’s absence was grounding. My work has always been my passion, but after such a physically uncontrollable experience, the familiar structure felt like a comfort. It also became a chance to rethink: How could I reach more people, make a bigger impact? And so, the podcast was born.”
A Balancing Act: Rediscovering Purpose in a Three-Day Week
"Managing a business on a three-day week, while also recovering from a spinal cord injury and parenting, meant redefining success. I’ve refocused on what truly matters, aligning my time with my gifts and refining how I reach people. It’s been a balance of impact and sustainability.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Erica SosnaChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
We dive into an extraordinary journey of resilience with Athena Brownson. At the peak of her real estate career—feeling invincible and unstoppable—Athena’s life took an unexpected turn. Strange health issues appeared, and she was eventually diagnosed with Lyme disease, a condition that would change everything.
For the past eight years, Athena has lived in chronic pain, relying on plasma transfusions four days each month just to keep going. Her life now revolves around battling this disease, something she never imagined facing. As she says, “If life didn’t give us adversity and challenges…”
This story is too powerful for just one episode.
Yesterday, in Part 1, Athena shared her experience with Lyme disease—a condition that remains poorly understood but has profoundly impacted her health. She talked about how she had caught it, what she had endured, and the fight to survive.
In Part 2, airing today, Athena will reveal how she not only survived but found ways to thrive, rebuild her support system, and grow her career once again.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Retraining the Brain
“Pain puts the brain in fight-or-flight mode, and it can get stuck there. So it’s on us to train our minds to tell our bodies we’re okay, to push through and find relief.”
The Power of a Routine
“For me, routines are huge. My toolkit includes morning and evening rituals – breathwork, meditation, journaling, writing affirmations. I remind myself every day: I am healthy. I am healing. My body can get through this.”
The Art of Delegation
“Delegation isn’t just about getting things off your plate; it’s about giving others a chance to shine. My illness showed me I can’t do everything, nor should I. Letting go allows others to thrive, and it’s empowering to see them do what they love.”
Building My Tribe
“Finding the right people was a decade-long journey, but now I have a team around me who would do anything for me. They’re not just coworkers; they’re my support system, my tribe. I know they’re here for me, health and all, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”
The Power of Pen and Paper
“Writing by hand does something special. Seeing the words you put down lets them sink in, letting you visualize and internalize them in a unique way.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Athena BrownsonChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part One.
We dive into an extraordinary journey of resilience with Athena Brownson. At the peak of her real estate career—feeling invincible and unstoppable—Athena’s life took an unexpected turn. Strange health issues appeared, and she was eventually diagnosed with Lyme disease, a condition that would change everything.
For the past eight years, Athena has lived in chronic pain, relying on plasma transfusions four days each month just to keep going. Her life now revolves around battling this disease, something she never imagined facing. As she says, “If life didn’t give us adversity and challenges…”
This story is too powerful for just one episode.
Today, in Part 1, Athena shares her experience with Lyme disease—a condition that remains poorly understood but has profoundly impacted her health. She’ll talk about how she caught it, what she’s endured, and the fight to survive.
In Part 2, airing tomorrow, Athena will reveal how she not only survived but found ways to thrive, rebuild her support system, and grow her career once again.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
The Hidden Threat of Lyme Disease
“I had no idea what Lyme disease was before I was diagnosed with it. It’s the fastest growing epidemic in the United States, and it can turn life upside down.”
From Athlete to Survivor
“My life has made a complete 180 from being a professional athlete to just trying to get through each day. It’s a nightmare I wouldn’t wish on anyone.”
When Life Becomes a Series of Challenges
“It’s hard not to get stuck in the mud when you’re dealing with something so challenging and constant… chronic pain, chronic fatigue, enough to make anyone want to stay in bed and not do anything.”
Creating a Toolkit for Every Day
“How do we pivot our mentality? How do we create our toolkit of things to get us through each day, even when we don’t want to? Sometimes it’s as simple as blasting favorite music or making a great cup of coffee.”
Becoming Your Own Biggest Advocate
“With Lyme, I’ve learned that you have to be your own biggest advocate. It’s about mental resilience, surrounding yourself with the right people, and finding those anchors to push forward.”
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Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Athena BrownsonChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
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50+ Countries -
Part Three.
Today’s episode has a unique twist: I’m interviewing a storytelling expert to share his own story.
My guest, Chris Hare, is a strategic narrative advisor and coach for companies like Amazon and Microsoft, guiding leaders and executives with his approach, Atomic Storytelling. His method breaks down complex stories into their core, resonant elements.
In this three-part series, we’ll journey through Chris’s experiences in three stages.
On Wednesday, in Part 1, we explored his expertise in helping businesses craft compelling corporate stories and understand the connection between story and narrative.
On Thursday, in Part 2, we looked at storytelling for personal transformation as Chris shared some of the best and worst stories he had heard or felt. He also opened up about his own mental health challenges.
Then, today, in Part 3, he’ll introduce tools we can use to develop our own stories and narratives. And here’s a personal confession—I told him one of his exercises might just make me cry! I’ll also be sharing my own experience with another exercise, highlighting both its challenges and insights.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
The Power of a Reflective Movie Theater Exercise
“I have people visualize that movie that plays is actually not the blockbuster. It’s actually your life playing and your career…What might you call that movie?”
Beyond the Corporate 360: Finding Stories That Matter
“This is not the 360 that many of us from corporate America are used to…the goal here is to go and talk to three to five people who know you, care about you, and want you to succeed.”
Feedback as a Double-Edged Sword
“People could give feedback that might reinforce the wrong narrative…we just have to be careful and think about them as inputs, not absolute truths.”
The Weight of Opinions and Invisible Biases
“We unknowingly put more weight on some people’s opinions than others…whether it’s because of the friendship, the level of friendship, or the position they have.”
Rewriting Stories with Every Interaction
“I’m never telling the same story twice. I’m rewriting the story as I’m telling you based on your face, your facial expressions, your body language, your tone of voice. There are all those factors that play into it that make it incredibly complex.”
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Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Chris HareChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
Today’s episode has a unique twist: I’m interviewing a storytelling expert to share his own story.
My guest, Chris Hare, is a strategic narrative advisor and coach for companies like Amazon and Microsoft, guiding leaders and executives with his approach, Atomic Storytelling. His method breaks down complex stories into their core, resonant elements.
In this three-part series, we’ll journey through Chris’s experiences in three stages.
Yesterday, in Part 1, we explored his expertise in helping businesses craft compelling corporate stories and understand the connection between story and narrative.
Today, in Part 2, we’ll look at storytelling for personal transformation as Chris shares some of the best and worst stories he’s heard and opens up about his own mental health challenges.
Then, in Part 3, he’ll introduce tools we can use to develop our own stories and narratives. And here’s a personal confession—I told him one of his exercises might just make me cry! I’ll also be sharing my own experience with another exercise, highlighting both its challenges and insights.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Rewriting Your Inner Cassette Tape
“I find it helpful and more visceral to think about our personal narratives as a cassette tape—a tape that’s playing in our head that we’re constantly writing, rewriting, and adjusting.”
Building One Authentic Narrative Across Multiple Worlds
“A serial CEO I worked with wanted one narrative that connected his private equity, board roles, and yoga community. The result was an authentic narrative rooted in his true self that could be lensed across different audiences.”
Proximity Blinds Us to Our Own Stories
"We’re so close to our own narrative and stories that we don’t see the broader picture… if you’re building with Lego, you might not see that there’s a gigantic pile of Lego behind you."
Changing the Inputs to Shift the Narrative and Change the Outcome
“If you continue to put in the same inputs, things likely won’t change… One of the positive inputs I changed was I got into fly fishing, and that was part of changing those inputs to shift not only the narrative but the outcomes.”
The Power of Raw Storytelling
"Our stories are not always the really clean, really curated story that makes us look good, but that raw story that has the power to shift the future."
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Chris HareChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part One.
Today’s episode has a unique twist: I’m interviewing a storytelling expert to share his own story.
My guest, Chris Hare, is a strategic narrative advisor and coach for companies like Amazon and Microsoft, guiding leaders and executives with his approach, Atomic Storytelling. His method breaks down complex stories into their core, resonant elements.
In this three-part series, we’ll journey through Chris’s experiences in three stages.
Today, in Part 1, we’ll explore his expertise in helping businesses craft compelling corporate stories and understand the connection between story and narrative.
Tomorrow, in Part 2, we’ll look at storytelling for personal transformation as Chris shares some of the best and worst stories he’s heard and opens up about his own challenges.
Then, in Part 3, he’ll introduce tools we can use to develop our own stories and narratives. And here’s a personal confession—I told him one of his exercises might just make me cry! I’ll also be sharing my own experience with another exercise, highlighting both its challenges and insights.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Stories Fuel the Narrative
“In my mind, stories are time-bound: this happened, it started here, it ended there. But the narrative is ongoing—it’s an architecture shaping the direction of an individual or company.”
Storytelling’s Overplayed? Think Again
“For years, I wouldn’t even call myself a storyteller because it was so overplayed. Everyone is using frameworks like the hero’s journey as if they’re paint-by-numbers. But storytelling is far more complex.”
The Narrative Flywheel: Stories That Drive Strategy
“The stories are the fuel that flows into the flywheel. We synthesize them, find patterns, and decide where to play and how to win. Then, with experimentation and learning, we create more stories—and the flywheel keeps spinning."
Human-Centered Design in Action: Logitech’s Transformation
“Bracken Darrell took Logitech’s failing narrative and reframed it with a vision: human-centered design across every part of the company. This vision wasn’t pushed from the top but inspired teams, driving Logitech’s turnaround—from 30-day financial reporting to just two.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Chris HareChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two. Who couldn’t use a bit more happiness?
In this two-part series, we dive into the journey of Rahshea Cardiff, VP of Partnerships at Happy Companies—a venture dedicated to building happier, healthier workplaces. With over 20 years of experience in people management across big names like Best Buy, Starbucks, and Microsoft, Rahshea is passionate about creating meaningful employee experiences.
But her story goes beyond the corporate world; she’s faced deep personal challenges, including the loss of her mother, a divorce, and raising her first child, all while navigating major career transitions.
In Part One, Rahshea shared the resilience behind her journey and what led her to join Happy Companies.
Today, tune in for Part Two, where Rahshea delves into her role at Happy Companies, her mission to integrate technology with genuine human care, and her vision for transforming the modern workplace. We’ll explore how she’s using her life experiences to shape a fresh approach to employee wellbeing and workplace happiness.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Unbecoming to Become: Shedding What Isn’t You
"Maybe it’s not about becoming anything. Maybe it’s about unbecoming everything that isn’t who you really are."
The Power of Staying True to Yourself
“I was told I needed to change who I was… to fit into somebody’s picture of what they thought I should be. Instead, I learned to step into who I am and be proud of it.”
Unlocking a Team’s Full Potential through Behavioral Insights
“With Happy, leaders get a snapshot of every team member—how they’re wired, their strengths, their energy drivers, and what drains them.”
Putting a Personalized Coach at Every Leader’s Fingertips
“Happy’s platform essentially puts a one-on-one coach at the fingertips of every leader and employee, including self-coaching to improve communication and motivation.”
Human Stories and Tech-Driven Scalability: A Perfect Balance
“Technology is terrific for us at Happy; it provides the behavioral insight, but it’s that human coach who can tell the story, make it personal, and take it to the next level of impact.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Rahshea CardiffChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part One. Who couldn’t use a bit more happiness?
In this two-part series, we dive into the journey of Rahshea Cardiff, VP of Partnerships at Happy Companies—a venture dedicated to building happier, healthier workplaces. With over 20 years of experience in people management across big names like Best Buy, Starbucks, and Microsoft, Rahshea is passionate about creating meaningful employee experiences.
But her story goes beyond the corporate world; she’s faced deep personal challenges, including the loss of her mother, a divorce, and raising her first child, all while navigating major career transitions.
In today’s episode, Rahshea shares the resilience behind her journey and what led her to join Happy Companies. We’ll explore how she’s using her life experiences to shape a fresh approach to employee wellbeing and workplace happiness.
Then, tune in for part two on Tuesday, where Rahshea delves into her role at Happy Companies, her mission to integrate technology with genuine human care, and her vision for transforming the modern workplace.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Conditioned Ambition: The Corporate Ladder Wasn’t the Life I Wanted
“As we’re growing up, we go to school, we get good grades, we go to college, we get married, buy a house. Climb the corporate ladder—it’s what we’re taught, what we see. But in 2016, everything shifted—I realized I was chasing something that no longer felt right."
Loss and Legacy: Realizing We’re Not Promised Tomorrow
“Losing my mother and going through a divorce within a year taught me that we all fall into this trap of thinking there’s always tomorrow. I began asking myself, ‘If today were my last day, would I be at peace with how I spent it?’ Too many times, the answer was no. I knew it was time to recalibrate.”
Choosing Purpose Over Position
“I walked away from corporate stability and took a leap into entrepreneurship. And now, working with Happy, I’m able to stay close to my family and focus on meaningful work that aligns with my values.”
The Gift of Presence: Living in the Moment
“When we are able to shift our mindset and perspective to live in the present, it really is such a gift.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Rahshea CardiffChief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries -
Part Two.
Thinking about leaving Corporate America? Or maybe you’ve already taken the leap and are still navigating the journey? This episode is tailor-made for you.
Today’s guest, Alison Stewart, made a bold move from a decade-long career in finance and insurance into the fast-paced world of startups. A switch she made in the midst of the pandemic.
Even more inspiring? She landed this opportunity through networking on LinkedIn. While many of us turn to LinkedIn for job searches, skepticism around job postings is common.
This is actually part two of a two-part series.Yesterday, we’re diving into the personal changes Alison has experienced: her motivations, the steps she took, and her LinkedIn story of connecting with her current co-founder.
Today, we’ll talk about her new venture, Overalls, which is making waves in the employee benefits space. They’re building a network of “life concierges,” including stay-at-home parents, the underemployed, and retirees, and linking them with employers to help reduce the day-to-day stress on employees. Will this model make employees feel more loyal? More willing to return to the office? We don’t know yet, but it’s definitely an idea worth exploring.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Building a Village for Every Stage of Life
“Overalls is essentially your village… supporting you through life’s messier, more complex situations, like helping an elderly parent or finding summer camps for kids.”
A Rare Benefit That Earns Employee Appreciation
“This is one of the first times HR is getting thanked by employees for a benefit… they’re amazed at how thankful employees are for the support.”
Confidence in Uncharted Territory
“The biggest challenge was… do I have the skill set to do these things? Am I qualified to make some of these decisions?… In this environment, it’s all core because again, if you’re not doing it, it’s not getting done.”
Keep Your Goals in Sight: Write Them Down
“We can get distracted… By writing it down, being honest with ourselves, talking to others, that’ll help us hold ourselves accountable to what it is that we’re looking for.”
The Power of Focus and Manifesting the Right Move
“I wasn’t reaching out to a million people… I was focused, determined to put the time and energy in. My excitement led me to take a risk, and it worked.”
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Alison Stewart______________________
Chief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.
Experiential Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives
Global Top 3% Podcast on Listen Notes
World's #1 Career Podcast on Apple
Top 1: US, CA, MX, IE, HU, AT, CH, FI, JP
2 Millions+ Downloads
50+ Countries - Mostra di più
