Jim Flint has been directing non-profit organizations for the past 25 years. He was the founding director of two youth development organizations, the Fiver Children’s Foundation in New York City and the Peak Initiative in Milwaukee. He joined the “Fishing the Good Fight” team in 2022 as the organization’s Director of Operations and currently serves at the interim Executive Director Jim lives in South Florida but spends a considerable amount of time in Denver, CO, where “Fishing the Good Fight” is based. Summary This episode delves into the innovative work of “Fishing the Good Fight,” a non-profit that leverages the therapeutic power of fly fishing to address men's mental health challenges. Through personal stories and insightful discussion, the conversation explores how these retreats provide a safe space for men to open up, connect with nature, and build a supportive community. We learn about the retreats' structure, the importance of volunteers, and the organization's future goals, including expanding their reach and impact. Three Takeaways: Breaking the Silence: This episode tackles the often-overlooked issue of men's mental health. Jim shares his own story and highlights the importance of creating a safe space for men to open up and seek support. Beyond the Cast: Fly fishing becomes more than a hobby in this context. “Fishing the Good Fight “uses fly fishing retreats as a therapeutic tool, fostering a supportive environment for men to connect with nature and each other. Building a Community: The episode explores the power of community for men's mental health. The retreats provide a space for men to share their struggles, build connections, and find a sense of belonging. Jim emphasizes the importance of alumni support networks that keep the connections strong. Social Media Website: https://www.fishingthegoodfight.org/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/p/Fishing-the-Good-Fight-100064770040571/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/fishingthegoodfight/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fishing-the-good-fight  About Jeff Jeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co). He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing. Prior to his career in educational publishing, Jeff taught high school U.S. history and government. Jeff has hosted the “Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity” podcast for 5 years. The guests and topics he explores are designed to help listeners think differently about the familiar and welcome the new as something to consider. He is also the co-host of the Cultivating Resilience – A Whole Community Approach to Alleviating Trauma in Schools, which promotes mental health and overall wellness. Jeff co-authored Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change. Shifting integrates leadership development and change mechanics in a three-part change framework to help guide school leaders and their teams toward productive change.

Guest Susan Gaetz is the executive director for Casting for Recovery, a national nonprofit serving women with breast cancer using the therapeutic sport of fly fishing. Susan has been a fixture at CfR for many years. She began volunteering for the organization 25 years ago. She joined the national staff in 2010 as Regional Program Manager and became Program Director in 2016. She lives in Austin, TX, and holds degrees from Vanderbilt University and the University of Texas at Austin. My co-host in this episode is Diane Wyzga. Diane is a nurse attorney turned litigation consultant turned story guide. For 30 years, Diane has helped professionals take their story from a message only they could hear to the publishing world, the courtroom, hospitals, board meetings, and the airwaves. Today, as Quarter Moon Story Arts, Diane custom-coaches women committed to discovering their Origin Story so they are seen, heard, understood, and listened to. Diane is also the host of Stories From Women Who Walk, a long-running global podcast. She will co-publish this episode. Summary Our conversation dives into the inspiring work of Casting for Recovery, an organization that provides fly-fishing retreats for women battling breast cancer. Driven in part by her own curiosity about life's next chapter, Susan highlights the transformative power of these retreats. Three Takeaways: Healing Through Nature: Casting for Recovery offers unique retreats specifically designed for breast cancer survivors. By combining fly fishing with oncology support, these getaways provide a chance to reconnect with nature, build confidence, and find solace in a supportive community. The Power of Fly Fishing: More than just a hobby, fly fishing offers therapeutic benefits for recovering women. The gentle act of casting helps with physical rehabilitation and provides a welcome distraction, keeping both mind and body active. Beyond the Reel: Casting for Recovery goes beyond the basics of fly fishing. Their approach focuses on empowerment, building competence and comfort in the outdoors, and fostering lasting connections among survivors. Social Media Website: www.castingforrecovery.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/castingforrecovery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/castingforrecovery

Summary No guest today. Just me musing on the upcoming Father’s Day celebration. Given that my father passed away almost forty years ago, I get reflective as the holiday approaches and, more so, as the years between his passing and my age increase. In this episode, I explore why I’ve been thinking about him more, what I remember about him, why there are gaps in my knowledge, and what I would ask him if I could. My dad was a complex man—perhaps all fathers are—because he was a product of a generation he understood and one that he didn’t always. Over the years, I celebrated Father’s Day by giving my dad traditional gifts, such as a circular saw, barbecue equipment, or a history book. He always appreciated the gifts, but I wonder if he might have appreciated a conversation more, the result of me asking him questions in an attempt to understand him better. I’d like to think that he would hear my questions as caring on my part. His responses, in turn, would be a gift to me.

Guests Bill Whiteside is a sales and marketing executive turned software salesman turned lay historian turned narrative nonfiction writer. He is the author of an engaging memoir, Everyone Knows a Salesman Can't Write A Book. To further debunk the myth that he can’t write, he's finishing up a much-anticipated book about a little-known incident in Winston Churchill’s tenure as Britain’s Prime Minister during World War II. After completing an undergraduate degree in history and political science at Simon Fraser University, Paul McNicholls spent a career in insurance claims investigation. When nearing retirement, he was approached by the UK publisher Helion and Company, and the result was his first book Journey Through the Wilderness. He is now writing Canadians on the Veldt, which chronicles Canada’s role during the South African War between 1899 and 1902. In 2021, Paul received the Howard Browne Medal from the Victorian Military Society. Summary Bill and Paul discussed the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers on D-Day, the complexities of the Normandy landing operations, and the hypothetical scenario of a failed invasion. They also explored the importance of various events on June 4-5, 1944, and the critical factors that contributed to the success of D-Day, including deception planning, detailed training, air superiority, and contingency planning. The conversation also touched on the value of intellectual counterfactual exercises and the importance of personal and historical investigations. Throughout the conversation, the speakers emphasized the importance of understanding the complexities of historical events and the connections that can be gained through exploring them. Social Media Links Bill LinkedIn Website Twitter Spoutible (bwhiteside3@gmail.com) Paul LinkedIn Referenced Article from The Guardian Podcast: “We Have Ways of Making You Talk” Film of Canadians landing

Guest Danelle Almaraz, an educational leader with over three decades of experience, is committed to advancing leadership in modern education. At InnovateED, she empowers middle-tier leaders, promoting collaboration, innovation, and growth. Danelle champions continuous improvement, student success, and curiosity, advocating for an inclusive educational experience that enables learners at all levels to drive positive change. Summary This episode dives into three key ingredients for educational systems that are curious about transformation: empowered students and teachers, overcoming resistance to change, and establishing the all-important share purpose. Danelle argues for shifting the focus from top-down directives to cultivating student curiosity and creativity. Schools can better prepare students for the unpredictable future by granting teachers more autonomy. The discussion also tackles overcoming resistance to new initiatives. Collaboration is key, with Danelle advocating for a "lead from the middle" approach that involves teachers and principals as partners in navigating change. Finally, Danelle and Jeff emphasize the importance of a clear, shared purpose to guide decision-making and rally the school community. Social Media http://linkedin.com/in/danelle-almaraz https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100013505683057&mibextid=LQQJ4d https://www.instagram.com/dalmaraz007?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Referenced Uncertain, the Wisdom of Being Unsure by Maggie Jackson

Guest Ethan Bryson is the Founder of Natural Urban Forests. Natural Urban Forests is an afforestation company focused on addressing the urgent need to restore native forest ecosystems.  Based in Seattle, Washington we create forests utilizing the Miyawaki method of forest planting with heightened attention to transforming life in the soil. This innovative method enables forests to grow 10x faster at 30x the density of standard afforestation methods.  We work to honor and involve local indigenous communities in the planting and ongoing care of these forests. When possible we begin each planting with a blessing to reset the land, and nurture the plants, animals, and people. Powered by a steady dose of locally crafted espresso, Jarie loves nothing more than to figure out how to explain complex things in clear and compelling ways. My goal is to help build a more ethical, inclusive, and resilient world by educating and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs—be they 18 or 80.   Summary Ethan and his organization are on a mission to restore harmony between nature and urban life through forestation. Their efforts encompass three main aspects: Firstly, they focus on designing forests with intentionality, incorporating elements like circular plots and symbolic features to create healing and transformational spaces. This includes projects in New York City and collaborations with Indigenous communities. Secondly, they emphasize the importance of community involvement in planting and maintaining urban forests, with volunteers playing a key role in ensuring the long-term survival of these green spaces. Lastly, Ethan stresses the educational aspect of their work, highlighting the environmental benefits of urban forests and the potential for experiential learning through a forest-based curriculum. We discussed topics ranging from soil health to the symbiotic relationships within old-growth forests, all aimed at fostering a deeper connection between people and nature. In summary, Ethan's organization is dedicated to planting forests as a means of restoring ecological balance, engaging communities, and providing educational opportunities.   Social Media www.naturalurbanforests.com ethan@naturalurbanforest.com   Referenced Kyle Lybarger: https://www.nativehabitatproject.com/ Manhattan forest project: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5-v1GKMnc4/?igsh=MTg5YzB5dTAxd2M2NQ== Miyawaki planting method: https://urban-forests.com/miyawaki-method/ Sugi Project: https://www.sugiproject.com/ Ida Nason Aronica Forest: https://www.sugiproject.com/forests/Ida-Nason-Aronica-Forest

Guest Dimitry Anselme is the Chief Officer of Growth and Engagement with Facing History & Ourselves. In that role, he innovates program design for school and district implementation and facilitates organizational partnerships in the US and internationally. Facing History partners with educators worldwide to help students prepare for civic life and better understand themselves and the world. Summary In this episode, Dimitri and Jeff discuss the persistence of hate and racism despite society's efforts to combat it. They delve into the mission of Facing History and Ourselves to challenge bigotry and hatred through engaging history teaching. The conversation also explores the challenges of teaching sensitive topics like the Holocaust and the increasing need for tolerance education in elementary schools. They underscore the importance of raising ethical children and Facing History's outreach efforts, including partnerships with aligned organizations. The discussion also touches on the intersection of education, curiosity, and professional development, emphasizing the importance of preparing teachers and fostering curiosity for creativity and problem-solving. Social Media Website - https://www.facinghistory.org/

Summary In this episode, I sit down with four LinkedIn friends/colleagues to discuss Dacher Keltner’s book, Awe the New Science of Wonder and How it Can Transform Your Life. Each of my guests brings an important perspective to the topic. Dr. Keltner defines awe as connecting to something larger that yourself; “the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your current understanding of the world.” He then supports that definition by detailing eight emotional wonders of life: Moral beauty: appreciating other people’s courage, kindness, strength, or ability to overcome obstacles. Collective effervescence: being part of a larger collective self, e.g., a Taylor Swift concert, a political rally, gathering with others to watch the recent eclipse Nature: what I feel when I stand in a trout stream or look out over the Grand Canyon Music Visual design: attractions in New York City: the Edge, the Little Island, and the High Line Spirituality and religion Life and death Epiphany – understanding of an essential truth, insights, scientific discoveries, sudden disclosures After introducing the concept and speaking about it from my guests’ various perspectives, I asked whether the leader can inspire awe in the workplace. Guests Rich Gassen works as a print shop supervisor at UW-Madison, where he focuses on empowerment, creativity, and process improvements with staff. He also chairs the Campus Supervisors Network (CSN), a community of practice at the UW supporting supervisors in their roles by offering training and networking events, a weekly newsletter, and a website. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richgassen/ Melissa Hughes is a neuroscience researcher, educator, keynote speaker, and author of Happier Hour with Einstein — Another Round https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissahughesphd https://www.melissahughes.rocks/ Sarah Elkins is your guide to uncovering the right personal stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, advocates, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and effectively demonstrate their character, values, and vision. She guides individuals and teams toward improved communication and reduced friction in the workplace. Sarah is a storyteller, keynote speaker, Gallup-certified StrengthsFinder coach, podcast host, author, and professional musician. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesmileisfree/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahlynnelkins/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elkinscommunication Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Bwk56V5neXxjJXk3tarSE?si=01589bf8438d43c6 Brooke Erol is a corporate dropout who pursued her dream of having more meaningful work for herself and others. All her life, she has spent writing, speaking, coaching, and consulting on the topic of having a life of fulfilling and purposeful work. She works with individuals—YourBestLife—and organizations—Purposeful Business, Inc. Instagram: www.instagram.com/purposefulbusiness www.instagram.com/happielliatwork LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ozlemerol X: www.twitter.com/boerol1   References The Pause Principle by Kevin Cashman How Minds Work by

Guest Iain McHenry was born in Belfast and, after leaving school, joined the British Army and had a career that took him all over the world. He was stationed in Germany, Northern Ireland, Canada, The Falkland Islands, and Belgium, and he has completed operational tours in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Sierra Leone. He has always had a passion for WW1, and after leaving the army, he started his own business in Belgium, working as a WW1 researcher, battlefield guide, and published author. Today, he splits his time between his home in Tallahassee, Florida, and the old battlefields of France and Belgium. Aside from military history, he loves to fly light aircraft, travel and run. Summary Iain’s World War I tours go way beyond dates and statistics. They cater to diverse interests, from general historical context to specific family narratives. By visiting trenches, tunnels, and lesser-known sites, participants gain a unique perspective on the daily routines, living conditions, and struggles faced by the soldiers. The emotional impact of war is a recurring theme, with Iain sharing stories of families searching for the final resting places of loved ones and the poignant inscriptions found on gravestones. The episode doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of war. It explores the vast cemeteries holding the remains of thousands, the ongoing process of identifying soldiers through artifacts like ID disks, and the constant threat of unexploded ordnance that lingers in the ground. Yet, amidst the tragedy, there's a sense of connection to the past. Iain and I describe the energy one feels on these historical sites and the stories unearthed through excavations, like the discovery of a soldier's remains and the heartwarming reunion with his granddaughter. Overall, the episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of learning about history. By studying World War I battlefields, we not only gain a deeper understanding of the conflict itself but also connect with the human stories of those who lived through it. Social Media Bespoke Battlefield Tours Referenced Menin Gate About Jeff Jeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co). He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing. Prior to his career in educational publishing, Jeff taught high school U.S. history and government. Jeff has hosted the “Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity” podcast for 5 years. The guests and topics he explores are designed to help listeners think differently about the familiar and welcome the new as something to consider. He is also the co-host of the Cultivating Resilience – A Whole Community Approach to Alleviating Trauma in Schools, which promotes mental health and overall wellness. Jeff co-authored Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change. Shifting integrates leadership development and change mechanics in a three-part change framework to help guide school leaders and their teams toward productive change.

Guest Tara LaFon Gooch, an acclaimed Keynote and TEDx speaker, is known for her expertise in confidence empowerment. As an international best-selling author, Tara's dynamic presence and passion inspire audiences globally. With an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and certifications from Cornell University and The University of Notre Dame, Tara's transformative message has been featured in Forbes, LA Weekly, and Fox News. Her recent TEDx talk, "Gratitude: The Foundation of Confidence," has garnered global acclaim, showcasing her ability to help individuals unlock their full potential and live confidently. Summary Ditch the corporate grind? This episode's guest did just that, leaving behind a toxic job and battling depression and anxiety. Their secret weapon? Gratitude. They found that focusing on what they were thankful for, not just in the world but in themselves too, helped them turn things around. But gratitude is just the first step. The conversation digs into how to rewire your brain for positivity. We're talking about taking responsibility for your actions and appreciating yourself, past and present. It's not always sunshine and rainbows though – there's real work involved in changing negative thought patterns. But with some effort, you can silence that inner critic and start feeling good about yourself again. Feeling stuck? This episode also tackles how to find the motivation to get moving. Visualization and taking action are your new best friends. Plus, figuring out what truly matters to you – your core values and strengths – can be a game changer. It all adds up to building confidence and a sense of purpose, both in your personal life and your career. Speaking of career, our conversation switches gears to how confidence plays a major role in leadership and branding. The key? Authenticity. Turns out, people can see right through a fake. The speaker even opens up about their own struggles with confidence as a leader, proving it's a common hurdle. The episode wraps up with a powerful message: stay true to your values, no matter what. It might mean turning down clients or walking away from situations that don't feel right. But in the end, staying aligned with your principles is the recipe for long-term success and personal growth. Social Media / Referenced https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-lafon-gooch https://www.facebook.com/tara.lafon https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTXN57YGfMOMJdkphzr2PoQ https://www.tiktok.com/@taralafongooch https://www.instagram.com/taralafongooch About Jeff Jeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co). He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing. Prior to his career in educational publishing, Jeff taught high school U.S. history and government. Jeff has hosted the “Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity” podcast for 5 years. The guests and topics he explores are designed to help listeners think differently about the familiar and welcome the new as something to consider. He is also the co-host of the Cultivating Resilience – A Whole Community Approach to Alleviating Trauma in Schools, which promotes mental health and overall wellness. Jeff co-authored Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change. Shifting integrates leadership development and change mechanics in a three-part change framework to help guide school leaders and their teams toward productive change.

Guest Bradley Wright is a professor of sociology at the University of Connecticut and the director of the Life Purpose Lab (lifepurpose.lab.uconn.edu). He teaches courses on well-being and research methodology. He is the co-author of The Purpose Journal: Discover Your Destiny and Leave a Legacy. His teaching and mentoring have received departmental and university awards. Bradley grew up in California and lives in Connecticut with his wife. They have two sons and a small, fluffy dog. His hobbies include cycling, hiking, and photography. Summary In this episode, Bradley tackles the question of finding purpose and meaning in life. He acknowledges the challenges, including a lack of clear systems and the fear of uncertainty that holds many back. Bradley proposes a "purpose portfolio" –– engaging in multiple meaningful activities across various aspects of life –– to maximize overall fulfillment. His work at the Life Purpose Lab emphasizes "possibility management," a framework designed to help people intentionally explore and navigate different life paths. Journaling is a key tool, prompting exploration of purpose itself and offering practical steps for discovery. The conversation emphasizes taking action over waiting for inspiration to strike. Small, incremental steps can lead to significant change. Bradley highlights the transformative power of purpose, not just for personal happiness but for creating a positive impact on the world. His training program suggests living purposefully can positively affect the lives of others, with a potential reach that can range from a few individuals to hundreds. Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleywrightphd/   Referenced “Serendipity is not Serendipitous” Life Purpose Lab

Summary This episode explores the importance of storytelling in business communication and life. Inspired by his late wife Jane's spirit, Jarie Bolander delves into the importance of narratives that inspire action. The discussion weaves in Jarie’s experience supporting organizations in crafting impactful stories, highlighting a common challenge faced by businesses and non-profits alike. The episode takes a poignant turn as Jarie recounts his marriage to Jane, their life together, and the profound impact of her leukemia diagnosis. Their relationship transformed from spouse to caregiver and patient, demanding immense resilience and commitment. Jarie reflects on the significance of their vows in the face of such hardship while acknowledging the initial struggle to ask for help and prioritize self-care amidst overwhelming circumstances. Through Jane's illness and eventual passing, Jarie grapples with grief and the preciousness of life. He shares his own challenges in seeking support. The conversation explores the healing power of therapy alongside the enduring comfort of unconditional love and support from loved ones. Social Media Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Referenced Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder Stuart: A Life Backwards Diane Wyzga - the origin story

Summary I’ve been podcasting for more than five years and have more than 300 hundred episodes on topics that include space exploration, cooking, history, education, movie scores, the importance of objects in movies, inn-keeping, serendipity, beavers, bagels, nature, and fly fishing—to name a few! And I’ve been privileged to meet some incredible, giving, wise people. But like most podcasters—all?—I’ve been unable to secure interviews with everyone I wanted to see on the other side of the mic. Why? The reasons vary, ranging from “Sorry, I’m just too busy” to silence—no response at all. This is an episode about some of them—the ones whose photo will never fill an empty square on my podcast website—and why I wanted to talk to them in the first place.

Guest As a former teacher turned speaker and happiness coach, Kim Strobel helps schools, businesses, and organizations prioritize their happiness and well-being so they can overcome their fears, discover their joy, activate their limitless potential, and boldly pursue their dreams. She is the author of Teach Happy. Summary This episode focuses on Kim’s journey with panic disorder, highlighting the power of cognitive behavioral therapy and helping others overcome anxiety. Kim emphasizes happiness as a direction rather than a destination, urging the implementation of happiness habits for well-being. Of particular note, Kim explained that up to 40% of our happiness is within our control, so looking at the world through a lens of positivity and possibility is essential. Lastly, Kim advocates for radical wellness through boundary-setting and rewiring brains for happiness, encouraging investment in building healthy relationships and regulating social media usage for personal growth and fulfillment. Social Media / Referenced www.StrobelEducation.com www.KimStrobel.com Break the Habit of Being Yourself by Joe Dispenza The Tools: 5 Tools to Help You Find Courage, Creativity, and Willpower--and Inspire You to Live Life in Forward Motion by Phil Stultz

Guest Ben Goldfarb is an environmental journalist whose work has appeared in National Geographic, the Atlantic, Smithsonian Magazine, and many other publications. He is the author of Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet, named one of the best books of 2023 by the New York Times, and Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter, winner of the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award. He lives in Colorado with his wife, Elise, and his dog, Kit — which is, of course, what you call a baby beaver. Summary This discussion highlights the beaver’s role as a keystone species, an organism crucial to maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Beavers create ponds and wetlands, benefiting numerous species and providing vital services like water purification, flood control, and wildfire mitigation. Historically, unregulated trapping nearly decimated beaver populations in North America, causing dramatic ecological decline. In Yellowstone National Park, for instance, the absence of wolves led to elk overgrazing, destroying beaver habitat. Beaver reintroduction efforts in the 1980s significantly improved the ecosystem. The conversation emphasizes the importance of coexisting with beavers and wolves. Non-lethal solutions like "beaver deceivers" can mitigate property damage, while the ecological benefits (fish habitat, flood control) far outweigh minor inconveniences. The future of beaver management lies in learning to share our environment, not removing these valuable ecosystem engineers. Social Media / Referenced Website: https://www.bengoldfarb.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ben.a.goldfarb/ X: https://twitter.com/ben_a_goldfarb Books: Crossings https://www.amazon.com/dp/1324005890 Eager https://www.amazon.com/Eager-Surprising-Secret-Beavers-Matter/dp/160358739X

Guest Katie Mullen is the founder of MMS Consulting, which specializes in sales training and consulting and has helped Fortune 500 companies from all over the country increase sales, improve performance, and create more customer trust.  MMS Consulting was founded on a several-year research project on the topic of how customers want to be treated.  Hundreds of customers were interviewed on pet peeves, likes, dislikes, etc, and the answers were aggregated into data points that are now used during the training and consulting offered by MMS Consulting.    Before founding MMS, Katie Mullen spent fifteen years selling into diverse industries, including medical devices, online media, fundraising, and event planning.  Katie hosts the “Golden Rule of Selling” podcast and is the author of The Sales Tightrope: A Research-Based Guide to Not Annoying Customers and Still Being a Top Performer. Summary Focusing on qualities essential for success in sales, such as curiosity and adaptability, Katie emphasizes the importance of building rapport and understanding customers individually. Her approach combines scientific research with personalized presentations tailored to each client, prioritizing long-term relationships over short-term gains. By employing discovery questions and addressing root issues, she ensures a mutually beneficial fit, fostering trust and loyalty for future opportunities. Social Media / Referenced kmullen@mms-consulting.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiefmullen/ https://www.tiktok.com/@katiemullen_goldenrule

Guest John Camp (he goes by Camp) is Head of Teaching & Learning at the New England Innovation Academy, where he oversees the development of systems to recruit, hire, support, and evaluate teachers. He also supports teachers in developing and implementing the curriculum. He's been a leader and a teacher at various schools throughout his 29-year career.  His experience includes English and writing classes and interdisciplinary courses such as “The Art and Physics of Time Travel.” At St. Mark’s School, which bestowed him with The Trustees Chair and the Kidder Faculty Prize, Camp served as the Director of Experiential Learning and Associate Director of The Center of Innovation in Teaching and Learning. His pedagogical mantras include, “I aim to teach what cannot be Googled” and “I expect you to work hard, so I work hard.” Summary Our conversation examined how the New England Innovation Academy is shifting the landscape of 6-12 education toward integrating various learning styles and innovative teaching methods. Competency-based assessment was discussed as a promising alternative to traditional tests, emphasizing gauging students' mastery of skills and practical knowledge. The conversation went beyond academics, highlighting the growing importance of student-centered learning and fostering social-emotional development as crucial aspects of education. We also explored the practicalities at the New England Innovation Academy, delving into student workload, school policies, and their innovative practices. A central theme emerged: education is no longer solely about knowledge transmission. Instead, it is vital to nurture well-rounded individuals and promote personal growth through student-centered instructional approaches. This discussion provided valuable insights into the evolving education landscape, where innovation and student success are the driving forces shaping the future of learning. Social Media / Referenced New England Innovation Academy - https://neiacademy.org/

Guest Bennett (Ben) Bratt helps leaders and their teams create the transformative, inclusive, and enduring changes in their team effectiveness that fuel their most deeply desired outcomes. He is the founder and principal at Team Elements, a consulting and coaching organization that helps identify and resolve issues holding teams back from achieving their desired goals. Ben is the author of The Team Discovered (BMI Publishing 2020). Summary A number of factors will contribute to team ineffectiveness, including: • insufficient resources and training, • unrealistic expectations, • poor organizational culture, • lack of psychological safety and emotional intelligence, and • lack of conflict resolution tools. Often, underlying all of these reasons is a lack of clarity around team goals and individual roles, which contributes to a lack of trust among team members. Social Media / Referenced LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bennettbratt TikTok:  @bennettbratt Website: Team Elements

Guest Dr. Donya Ball is a leader, author, and keynote speaker. She currently serves as superintendent of schools in California. Dr. Ball is a professor of both educational leadership and teacher education and is passionate about studying, writing, and speaking about overcoming leadership hardships. She published her first book of the leadership series, Adjusting the Sails: Weathering the Storms of Administrative Leadership, in 2022, followed by Against the Wind: Leadership at 36,000 Feet in December 2023. Summary Dr. Donya Bell’s journey from studying communications to discovering her passion for education was sparked by her curiosity, cultivated through tutoring with the America Reads program. This experience led her to prioritize people development over technical skills in school leadership, emphasizing the significance of listening and inviting input to build trust and involvement. Donya highlighted the evolving purpose of education, advocating for personalized learning experiences beyond standardized tests. She also underscored the benefits and challenges of connecting with diverse perspectives, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and growth through exposure to varied viewpoints across industries and communities. Social Media / Referenced LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/donya-ball-ed-d-314bb011/ X- @SuptDonya Instagram - @dr__d__ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SuptDonya Lyle Kirtman - 7 Competencies of Highly Effective School Leaders

Summary “Getting Unstuck” host Jeff Ikler reflects on recent messages of remembrance that prompt him to consider life's impermanence of life and how he wants to be remembered. The Universe sends us messages to consider and, if we’re open to them, to act upon. Facing the task of decluttering after his sister's passing, Jeff embraces "death cleaning" to downsize personal effects. Cherishing artifacts from his parents, Jeff displays them as a tribute, shifting his perspective on imperfections and upbringing. The impermanence of life becomes evident, leading to a contemplation of how objects and memories shape one's legacy. Meaningful items, like a metal cup from wilderness adventures, hold sentimental value, prompting thoughts on how he'll be remembered. Jeff's experiences at Quetico Provincial Park in Canada significantly influenced him, inspiring the naming of his coaching company after the place. Referenced Jane Duncan Rogers – Before I Go: The Essential Guide to Creating A Good End-of-Life Plan  Margareta Magnusson – Dostadning: The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning