Shows
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! My Job Bores Me-- How Do I Stay On Track? (S5E60)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about job boredom and the challenges of waiting for a promotion. She emphasizes the importance of open communication with managers and offers strategies to stay engaged at work while waiting for new opportunities. The episode concludes with resources for further reading on managing workplace boredom and preparing for career advancement.Key Takeaways· Boredom at work is common; engaging in additional learning opportunities can help.· Boredom can be for different reasons.· Employees will feel bored...
2025-12-1711 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Talk About My Job as a Career? (S5E59)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about the distinction between a job and a career and how to talk about them in a way that works for you. She emphasizes that it's perfectly acceptable to love a job without labeling it as a career. Christa discusses the evolving nature of careers, the importance of self-reflection on personal strengths, and how to articulate one's job in a way that aligns with career aspirations. She also provides resources for further exploration of these themes, encouraging listeners to embrace their...
2025-12-1008 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! I'm Going Nowhere in My Job, How Can I Get Out of This? (S5E58)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about feeling at a standstill in their job with no possible development ahead. She discusses the emotional journey of loving a job and then feeling stuck due to a lack of advancement opportunities. Christa emphasizes the importance of recognizing job stagnation and provides strategies for seeking new opportunities and resources for career development. She encourages listeners to explore organizations that prioritize growth and offers practical advice for navigating career transitions.Key Takeaways· It's to feel bored...
2025-12-0307 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Convince My Manager I'm Ready for a Promotion? (S5E57)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Dr. Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about feeling ready for a promotion and needing to convince their manager they deserve the promotion. Christa discusses the importance of understanding the promotion process, the role of readiness, and the value of a formal development plan. She emphasizes that promotions should be based on an employee's readiness to succeed in a new role rather than just mastering their current position. Additionally, Christa provides resources for further learning about promotions and career development.Key Takeaways
2025-11-2609 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Stop Feeling Like My Career is Going Nowhere? (S5E56)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concerns about feeling stagnant in their career despite having qualifications, experience, and an upcoming promotion. The listener shares how setbacks, including layoffs and a lack of challenging opportunities, led to feelings of being stuck. Christa emphasizes the importance of shifting perspectives on career stagnation, encouraging listeners to recognize their progress and prepare for future opportunities. She also provides resources for further career development and insights into overcoming feelings of inadequacy.Key Takeaways· The feeling of being stuck...
2025-11-1909 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Develop When There's No Budget? (S5E55)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about career development amidst budget cuts and organizational uncertainty. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creativity in navigating these challenges and provides practical strategies for self-development without a formal budget. Christa also highlights the need for clarity in communication regarding promotions and development plans, encouraging listeners to seek out free resources and learning opportunities to continue their professional growth.Key Takeaways· A development budget is an enabler, but development can happen even without a budge...
2025-11-1208 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Do I Have to Take a Big Step Back to Change Industries? (S5E54)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concerns about transitioning to a different industry. She emphasizes the importance of identifying transferable skills, understanding the current and desired future state, and the potential need for further education or experience. Christa also discusses the significance of mindset in navigating career changes and provides resources to assist in the transition process.Key Takeaways· The key to unlocking opportunities across industries is to assess your current state and desired future state.· Gap-analysis of technical skills and experience...
2025-11-0812 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! My Boss Is Stuck. Do I Have to Be Stuck, Too? (S5E53)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about career growth when their manager seems stuck, worried that the listener will become stuck, too. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-directed growth, exploring opportunities both within and outside the organization, and understanding the role of company culture in supporting employee development. Christa provides actionable advice on how to navigate these challenges and take control of one's career trajectory, even in less-than-ideal circumstances.Key Takeaways· Your manager's growth impacts your own, but it's not the only...
2025-10-3110 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Can My Career Grow If I Don't Want to Manage People? (S5E52)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a common concern among professionals: lack of career growth if they opt-out of management roles. She emphasizes that career growth is possible without managing people, debunking the myth that management is the only path to advancement. The discussion includes insights on organizational structures, the importance of management skills for individual contributors, and resources for further career development. Christa encourages self-awareness and understanding of one's strengths to navigate career paths effectively.Key Takeaways· Your career can and will grow even if yo...
2025-10-2912 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Am I Stuck in Middle Management Forever? (S5E51)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges and opportunities faced by middle managers in their career growth. She discusses the perception of middle management as a stagnant role and emphasizes the importance of viewing it as a strategic position within organizations that should be focused less on task management and more on performance management. Christa provides insights on how to navigate career paths, the significance of management training, and the need for a mindset shift regarding the value of middle management. She also explores alternative career options for those feeling...
2025-10-2414 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What's My Next Career Step? (S5E50)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about career progression in the service industry, particularly from a call center representative to potential supervisory roles. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, recognizing when one has outgrown their current role, and the need for actionable guidance from supervisors. Christa also discusses alternative career paths within the service industry and the value of networking, especially through platforms like LinkedIn, to explore new opportunities.Key Takeaways· It's important to recognize when you've outgrown a role.· Supervisor...
2025-10-2209 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Should I Be Thinking About Career Growth? (S5E49)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about career growth, emphasizing the importance of adopting a growth mindset. She discusses how career growth is a personal journey that varies for each individual and encourages listeners to define what success means to them at different stages of their careers. Christa also provides resources for further exploration of career development and growth strategies.Key Takeaways· Career growth is a personal journey that varies for each individual.· Career paths can be linear or variable...
2025-10-1408 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Do I Stay Engaged When I'm So Underutilized at Work? (S4E48)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the effects of employees being underutilized in the workplace, exploring how it can lead to feelings of disengagement and burnout. She discusses the importance of strategic talent management as a competitive differentiator, and how organizations improve their overall performance by tracking how they best utilize their employees. Christa provides strategies for individuals feeling underutilized, emphasizing the need for open communication with management, determining employee value, and focusing on the pursuit of personal development opportunities. The episode concludes with resources for further exploration of workplace wellbeing...
2025-10-1010 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Do I Get Over My Fear of Speaking Up? (S4E47)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses the common challenge of speaking up in workplace meetings. She explores the psychological barriers that prevent individuals from voicing their thoughts and ideas, particularly in team settings. Through the listener's question, Christa delves into the complexities of communication dynamics, the impact of workplace culture, and offers practical strategies to overcome anxiety associated with speaking up. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, preparation, and seeking support from peers and managers. Additionally, Christa provides resources for further learning and development in communication skills....
2025-10-0720 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Ask My Work Friend to Meet Deadlines? (S4E46)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the significance of workplace friendships and how they impact employee engagement and performance. She addresses a listener's dilemma about managing a close friend's performance issues at work, emphasizing the importance of open, direct, and compassionate communication and support. Christa provides strategies for addressing missed deadlines while maintaining the friendship and highlights the research supporting the benefits of having work friendships.Key Takeaways· Workplace friendships enhance employee engagement and productivity.· Trust and respect are foundational for healthy work relationsh...
2025-10-0310 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Ask My Co-Worker to Quit the Chit Chat? (S4E45)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about managing social interactions in the workplace, particularly when a coworkers chatty style disrupts focus, flow, and productivity. She discusses the importance of establishing boundaries, effective communication strategies, and the need for a supportive workplace culture that respects individual work styles. Christa offers practical solutions for addressing interruptions, including having candid discussions with managers, collaborating with coworkers, and using the BIC method for direct communication. She emphasizes that while socializing is beneficial, it should not come at the expense of productivity.
2025-10-0109 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Ask a Co-Worker to Tone it Down? (S4E44)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about managing team dynamics, particularly focusing on the listener’s co-worker, whose exuberance and enthusiasm are overwhelming for others. Christa emphasizes the importance of understanding self-awareness, and the need for adjustments in behavior to foster a high-functioning team environment. Christa provides strategies for improving team dynamics and highlights the significance of effective management and ongoing communication among team members. Additionally, Christa shares valuable resources for further understanding and enhancing team dynamics.Key Takeaways· Focus on your objectives when addressing team dy...
2025-09-2312 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! I Hate Office Politics - Help! (S4E43)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concerns about office politics, emphasizing the importance of understanding influence in the workplace. Christa defines office politics, differentiating between toxic and constructive politics, and provides actionable strategies for managing toxic environments. She encourages listeners to focus on company objectives and offers practical exercises to navigate office politics effectively. Additionally, she shares valuable resources for further learning. Key Takeaways· Office politics is about influence, not just power.· Experience in different industries can provide valuable perspectives.· N...
2025-09-1916 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Diplomatically Decline Wasteful Meetings? (S4E42)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common workplace issue of excessive meetings and how to navigate them effectively. She consolidates listener questions about declining unnecessary meetings while maintaining professionalism. She also reviews the cultural dynamics that influence meeting attendance. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in meeting purpose and objectives as well as the potential for organizational improvement through better meeting management. Christa provides multiple additional resources for listeners to enhance their understanding of effective meeting practices and change management. Key Takeaways· Cultural norms...
2025-09-1617 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What are some best practices when working with partners? (S4E41)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo tackles a listener’s question about alliance management, exploring the challenges, best practices, and evolving role of managing partnerships in business. She emphasizes the importance of understanding alliance objectives, building trust, and fostering collaboration for mutual success. Listeners will walk away with insights to enhance their alliance management skills, along with valuable resources for further learning.Key Takeaways· Clear objectives are essential for alliance management.· Best alliance management practices include clear objectives and execution strategies.· Trust and respect are f...
2025-09-1215 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What Are Some Tips to be More Focused at Work? (S4E40)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo answers the listener question about tips to stay more focused at work. Christa explores what “focus” really means, then emphasizes the importance of making it personal, understanding how our own definition of focus can transform the way we approach work. She shares practical, research-backed strategies for boosting concentration, reducing workplace distractions, and managing stress. You’ll also learn why meaningful “brain breaks” matter, how self-care directly impacts productivity, and some simple adjustments you can make to your environment and daily rhythm to sharpen attention.Key Take...
2025-09-0911 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Why do I hate deadlines so much? (S4E39)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the listener question asking, “why do I hate deadlines so much?” She explores the psychological and environmental factors that contribute to stress and aversion to deadlines, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual perceptions and realities of workload and time. Christa discusses how organizational culture and resource availability can impact employees' feelings towards deadlines, and she offers strategies for reframing one's relationship with deadlines to foster a healthier work environment. Additionally, she provides resources for further reading on the subject.Key Takeaways· People have vary...
2025-09-0512 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Better Manage Anxiety at Work? (S4E38)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concerns about managing anxiety in the workplace, particularly in the context of an upcoming reorganization. She emphasizes the importance of understanding anxiety as a natural response to uncertainty and offers practical strategies for managing stress, including leveraging workplace resources. Christa also underscores the importance of supportive management, and highlights leveraging workplace resources where available. She provides three key steps to empower listeners when they are feeling anxious because of work changes they feel they have no control over, and reminds the listeners that there are always...
2025-09-0220 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Improve Collaboration in My Team? (S4E37)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about improving team collaboration amidst growing organizational challenges. She distinguishes between collaboration and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of shared goals and effective communication. Christa provides insights into common misconceptions about collaboration, such as equating it with consensus, and offers practical strategies for managers to foster a collaborative environment. The episode concludes with resources for enhancing collaboration skills in the workplace. Key Takeaways· Collaboration is about working together to achieve shared goals.· Many confuse collaboration with cooperation...
2025-08-2912 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Improve My Presentation Skills? (S3E36)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about improving presentation skills as a way to advance their career. Christa emphasizes the importance of connection with the audience, every-day practice, rigorous preparation, and finding one’s unique style. She discusses the complexities of communication, the typical pressures of presenting, strategies for designing and conducting effective presentations. The episode concludes with resources for further development in presentation skills.Key Takeaways· Nerve wracking work like presenting makes us nervous, but it can also make us better.· Perspective is your best...
2025-08-2616 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How can I run meetings better? (S3E35)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the common challenges of effective meeting management, emphasizing the importance of preparation, understanding the purpose of meetings, and fostering a culture of respect—especially a respect for time. She provides practical tips for structuring effective meetings, ensuring they serve the team's needs rather than the meeting owner's needs. She also discusses the cultural implications of frequent, unproductive meetings and offers resources for improving meeting practices. As with all Ask Christa! episodes, she also shares additional resources for further learning on best practices in meeting management.
2025-08-2213 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What Do Executives Do? (S3E34)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about the role of executives in any size organization. She explores the fundamental responsibilities of executives, emphasizing the importance of accountability, communication, decision-making, performance, and efficiency. She also reviews the traits that make effective leaders, especially executives, and talks about the significance of executives enabling strategy execution. Christa also highlights the significance of understanding organizational dynamics and setting expectations for executive behavior, while providing resources for further learning about executive roles. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to...
2025-08-1918 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Much Finance Should I Learn? (S3E33)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about how much finance knowledge and learning a founder needs as they get a business started. She emphasizes that while finance is crucial, it is not the sole focus of a business. Christa discusses the various functions within a business, particularly the role of General and Administration (G&A), and how they support overall operations (and how Finance is a part of G&A). She encourages a holistic approach to understanding business functions and stresses the importance of learning the basics...
2025-08-1517 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What Do Boards of Directors Do? (S3E32)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the essential functions and responsibilities of a Board of Directors (BODs). She talks about how BODs serve as oversight bodies, the importance of matching board composition with organizational needs, and the evolving functions of boards as companies grow, and a BOD’s responsibility to constructively steward an organization through challenges, too. Christa emphasizes the traits and characteristics that make for effective board members, the legal and ethical responsibilities they hold, and the dynamics of crisis management within board settings. The conversation highlights the critical role of...
2025-08-0818 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (6/6) - What Areas of a Business Do Founders Overlook? (S3E31)Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the listener question asking what aspects of a business are commonly overlooked by founders. She emphasizes the critical importance of having an executable plan, understanding customer needs, having a sound perspective on business, and the necessity of detailed planning for success. Christa also discusses the unique traits of founders and how they can impact business outcomes, highlighting that success is not solely based on personality but also on effective planning and execution. Key Takeaways· Founders often overlook the need for a detai...
2025-08-0513 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (5/6) - What is Outsourcing and Should All Businesses Do It? (S3E30)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the concept of outsourcing, explaining that every business engages in outsourcing to some extent, emphasizing the importance of leveraging outsourcing to enable businesses to focus on their core competencies: what they do best. The key to outsourcing is being intentional about what stays in-house and what gets handed off. She shares relatable examples from areas like logistics and PR, and walks the listeners through how to decide what to outsource and when, and offers additional guidance on making informed outsourcing decisions based on business objectives...
2025-08-0110 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (4/6) - Why Do So Many Startups Fail? (S3E29)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common question of why so many startups fail. She explores the assumptions about founders, the importance of vision and mission, market fit, business management, and effective leadership in startup success. She discusses how founders are often driven by a deep belief in the vision for their business and mission of their product(s) rather than a tolerance for risk. Christa emphasizes that while startups face numerous challenges, many failures can be avoided with proper preparation, support, and workforce talent. Key Takeaways
2025-07-2913 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (3/6) - What's the Best Funding Model for Startups? (S3E28)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the various funding models available for startups, understanding which model aligns best with a founder's objectives and business goals. She reviews the misconceptions surrounding funding, the significance of ownership and leverage, and the complexity of products in determining funding needs. She also highlights the common misconception that venture capital is the only funding option and encourages entrepreneurs to explore a mix of funding sources tailored to their business and growth needs. Key Takeaways· The best funding model is one that e...
2025-07-2518 min
Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations#686 Christa Dhimo: 🧠 From Breakdown to Breakthrough: How Companies Can Truly ChangeSend us a text🚀 Episode Description:In this high-impact episode, Joey Pinz dives deep with a powerhouse strategist who has revitalized everything from startups to Fortune 100s. With a background in social science and over 20 years in highly regulated industries, our guest breaks down what really causes companies to fail—and what helps them thrive.She explains why most boards unknowingly kill innovation, how poor organizational structure sabotages performance, and why courage—not just competence—is the most overlooked leadership trait.From decoding complex b...
2025-07-231h 15
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (2/6) - What's More Important, Funding or Product? (S3E27)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's dilemma about whether to prioritize product development or seek funding for a prototype. She emphasizes the importance of understanding market research, protecting intellectual property, and building value before approaching investors. That puts you in a position of strength. The conversation explores various funding strategies, including seed funding and the significance of prototypes in demonstrating product viability. She also provides perspective on how to keep the future potential of a product in perspective. Key Takeaways· A prototype can demons...
2025-07-2216 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (1/6) - How Do I Learn About Business Basics? (S3E26)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo introduces a new series focused on business basics, addressing common questions about how to learn about business. The episode itself explores the fundamentals of learning about business. She emphasizes the importance of understanding personal learning objectives and how they shape the learning process. She emphasizes the importance of understanding personal learning objectives and suggests various resources and methods for acquiring business knowledge, including real-world examples of startups and turnaround efforts. Christa also highlights the significance of continuous learning in the business world and encourages listeners...
2025-07-1713 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can I Feel Less Intimidated by Business? (S3E25)SummaryIn the Season 3 opener of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common intimidation felt by individuals entering the business world and engaging in business concepts, particularly those from non-business backgrounds. She emphasizes that business is fundamentally about understanding people and processes, and that anyone can learn the necessary skills to succeed while navigating the business world without formal training. Christa debunks myths surrounding business expertise, encouraging listeners to embrace their curiosity and recognize their inherent business acumen. The episode concludes with practical advice on how to integrate business principles into everyday life, ultimately breaking...
2025-07-1511 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! When Should I Leave? (S2E24)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about the decision to leave a job to pursue career growth. She explores the dynamics of personal engagement and fulfillment in the workplace, the difference between jobs that are merely transactional and those that provide deeper meaning, and the importance of recognizing when to move on. Christa emphasizes the need for individuals to assess their career ambitions and the compatibility of their current workplace and how they view their job. This includes recognizing when it’s time to move on. She al...
2025-07-1013 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What Are the Top Skills of Effective Managers? (S2E23)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the essential skills of effective managers, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and the ability to apply learned skills in real-world scenarios. She discusses the challenges of management, particularly in matrix organizations, and highlights the need for personal growth and understanding individual team members. Christa also provides valuable resources for aspiring and current managers, while acknowledging that management may not be suitable for everyone.Key Takeaways· Management is about accountability for deliverables.· Self-awareness is crucial for effective management.· ...
2025-07-0815 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Do I Do More with Less?? (S2E22)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common workplace challenge of being asked to do more with less. She critiques the phrase 'doing more with less' as a misguided approach for austerity that often leads to employee burnout and a scarcity mindset. Christa discusses the historical context of austerity measures, their impact on innovation and organizational culture, and the importance of strategic investment in resources and technology. She offers practical strategies for managers facing these challenges and emphasizes the need for a shift towards Lean Principles that focus on efficiency and...
2025-07-0317 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Can We Manage Time If We Have No Control of Time? (S2E21)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo explores the complexities of time management, emphasizing that time is a human construct and that managing time is not the same as controlling it. She discusses the importance of understanding personal perceptions of time without the pressure of control, encourages listeners to make friends with time, and offers practical tips for effective time management with a focus on what truly matters in their lives. As always, Christa also offers additional resources for the listeners to review at their leisure to go deeper into this topic.Key...
2025-06-3012 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What Does a Healthy Work Culture Look Like?? (S2E20)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the complexities of workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of employee engagement over mere satisfaction. She discusses how a healthy work culture is characterized by trust and respect, with a mindset that organizational performance is sustained by getting the best out of your employees each day, not the most out of your employees (which often leads to burn out and disengagement). She provides insights on how to identify organizations that foster such environments and offers additional resources for understanding the power of workplace culture.
2025-06-2710 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Why Organizational Structure Matters!! (S2E19)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo discusses the strategic role of organizational structures in business success. She explores various organizational structures, explains how they directly impact employee and organizational performance, and how org structures impact decision-making and employee empowerment. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning organizational structures with business goals to enhance innovation and overall performance. Key Takeaways· Employees deserve an environment where they can thrive.· Organizational structures are essential for enabling effective work flow and outcomes.· Effective decision-making...
2025-06-2415 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Does Management Training Matter? (S2E18)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the critical importance of management training in today's workplace. She emphasizes that effective management is essential for organizational performance, team success, and employee retention, especially in matrix organizational structures. Christa outlines necessary skills that managers need to develop, such as active listening, diplomacy, and emotional regulation, and the significant impact that well-trained managers have on their teams. Christa provides resources for further learning and highlights the need for continuous improvement in management practices, and concludes with a call to action for organizations to invest in...
2025-06-1915 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Do I Stop Putting Up with Bad Behavior (Put-Downs) at Work? (S2E17)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about dealing with a disrespectful coworker whose style is to put others down. She emphasizes the importance of respect and dignity, and the impact respect and dignity has on organizational performance. She discusses how to understand and utilize harassment policies, encourages listeners to seek support and resources to address their challenges, and provides actionable advice on communicating with management in this circumstances. Key Takeaways· Toxic work environments can deplete your energy and morale.· Respect and dignity...
2025-06-1612 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Managing an Interrupting Boss (S2E16)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenge of being interrupted by a manager during your team meetings—in front of your team. She explores the concept of an interrupting culture, the reasons behind interruptions, including excitement, poor listening skills, and power dynamics. Christa provides practical strategies for managing such behavior, including setting ground rules for meetings and using a feedback model called BIC (Behavior, Impact, Change) to address the issue directly with the manager. Additionally, she shares resources for further learning on managing interruptions in both professional and personal contexts....
2025-06-1312 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How to Give Feedback to a Defensive Team Member?? (S2E15)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges of giving feedback to defensive coworkers. She explores the reasons behind defensive behavior (including low self-esteem and past criticism), the importance of understanding it, and offers strategies for effectively providing feedback. Christa emphasizes the need for self-care, resetting conversations, and seeking support when dealing with defensiveness in the workplace. She also provides resources for further understanding and managing defensive behavior in the workplace.Key Takeaways· Defensive behavior often stems from past criticism or low self-esteem.· It's essential to separate t...
2025-06-1011 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How to Introduce a New Idea within a RIGID TEAM? (S2E14)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about introducing new ideas in a resistant team environment. She explores the underlying reasons for resistance, particularly focusing on learned helplessness, and offers strategies for effectively pitching new ideas. Christa emphasizes the importance of learning about team members' past experiences, understanding team dynamics, and creating dedicated spaces for discussing new concepts. She also provides resources for further reading on overcoming rigid mindsets and fostering a culture of innovation.Key Takeaways· Resistance to new ideas often stems from...
2025-06-0610 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Season 1 Reflections: What if You Consider Yourself First? (Negotiations, Conflict Management...) (S2E13)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo wraps up the first season of her podcast by emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in navigating business challenges and workplace issues. She discusses how understanding our own needs and concerns can enhance our ability to influence, negotiate effectively, and handle conflict management more productively. The conversation reviews the basics of negotiation and conflict management skills while reinforcing that it starts with each of us individually, tying back to the overall theme of the episode: how we consider ourselves. She reviews key points as a primary set up for Season t...
2025-06-0209 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! What if Failure Didn't Exist in the Business World?? (S1E12)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the concept of failure in the workplace, emphasizing that it is crucial to focus on learning and achieving goals rather than being weighed down by the fear of failure, and the importance of reframing our understanding of failure and success. She discusses how perceptions of success and failure can impact performance, and how by changing our perspective on failure, we can foster a more positive workplace environment that encourages creativity and innovation. Christa also shares resources for further understanding and reframing.
2025-05-3009 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Ugh, I Yelled at Work, and I'm Ashamed-- What Do I Do?? (S1E11)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about yelling at work due to stress. She discusses the impact of workplace stress on performance, behavior, and emotional responses, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing stress levels by diffusing stress to get back to a “Green” zone. She offers practical strategies for managing stress, including how the Stress Continuum model, which enables self-awareness through categorizations of stress, can lead to better ways to reduce stress in the moment. She also provides resources for further understanding stress and encourages listeners to seek support and commu...
2025-05-2614 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Strategy Series (3/3): How Do I Create Goals If There's No Strategy?? (S1E10)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common challenge of creating goals aligned with a company's strategy, particularly when that strategy is, or corporate goals are, unclear. She discusses the importance of understanding corporate goals, the process of crafting and drafting individual goals, and practical steps to align individual objectives with broader organizational aims.. Christa emphasizes the need for clarity in goal-setting and provides resources for effective goal setting and alignment with organizational strategy.Key Take Aways· It's common to struggle with goal align...
2025-05-2214 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Strategy Series (2/3): HELP!! I Don't Know My Company's Strategy!!! (S1E9)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common concern of employees feeling that there is no clear strategy within their organizations. She discusses the importance of understanding what constitutes a strategy, how to identify existing strategies, and the steps employees can take to engage with leadership about strategic goals. She also reviews the importance of understanding and communicating strategy, especially in smaller businesses, and provides insights on how to explore and clarify strategic goals. The episode emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy that encompasses all aspects of a business, not...
2025-05-1913 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Strategy Series (1/3): What is STRATEGY?? (S1E8)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the concept of strategy in organizations, emphasizing its importance in achieving goals and navigating uncertainties. She discusses the common misconceptions of strategy as well as how many small and mid-sized companies lack clear strategies and the implications of this on their operations. Christa provides insights on how to think about strategy in a less complex way, focusing on the necessary alignment between strategy and execution. She also introduces a series on strategy, addressing common challenges faced by organizations regarding clarity and communication of their strategic...
2025-05-1510 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Do I Raise My Freelance Rates (without chickening out!)? (S1E7)SummaryIn this conversation, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges freelancers face when considering raising their rates. She emphasizes the importance of viewing oneself as a business, mindset, preparation, and effective communication strategies to navigate these discussions with clients. Christa provides practical advice on how to overcome fears and anxieties about “money talk,” options for approaching rate adjustments, the significance of knowing one's worth, and navigating client reactions. She also shares resources for further learning and encourages freelancers to view these conversations as business decisions rather than personal ones.Key Take Aways
2025-05-1228 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Humility or Imposter Syndrome? (S1E6)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the complexities of imposter syndrome—which is actually and originally called imposter phenomenon—and humility. She distinguishes between the two concepts, explaining that imposter phenomenon is a feeling of self-doubt regarding one's achievements, often attributing success to external factors such as luck rather than personal capability. In contrast, humility involves graciously accepting recognition, and often includes acknowledging the contributions of others. Christa provides resources for further understanding of these topics, and encourages listeners to continue learning and developing as imposter phenomenon is an experience many have...
2025-05-0904 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! How Do I Startup a Business? (S1E5)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the essential steps to starting a business, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's feelings about and commitment to the business idea, creating a strong foundation, and utilizing available resources. She highlights the various funding options and the significance of addressing unmet needs in the market. Christa also encourages self-awareness and community engagement as vital components of the entrepreneurial journey.Key Take Aways· Starting a business involves understanding your readiness regarding your idea.· Creating a strong foundation is crucial...
2025-05-0510 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Adapting to Change as a SUPERPOWER!!! (S1E4)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges of managing necessary changes in the workplace. She emphasizes the discomfort that often accompanies change and offers strategies for reframing our approach to it. By focusing on adaptation rather than mere handling of change, individuals can find stability and growth opportunities. Christa also highlights the importance of maintaining perspective beyond one's job and provides resources for effective change management.Key Take Aways· Necessary changes can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but also lead to growth.· It's important to normalize feelings o...
2025-05-0117 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Do All Startups Need Advisors? (S1E3)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the critical role of advisors for early-stage startups. She emphasizes that all businesses, even those just starting out, can benefit from having advisors who provide honest and supportive assessments. Effective advisors help founders navigate the complexities of transforming ideas into viable business models, focusing on strategy, market needs, and personal growth. Christa also highlights the importance of finding advisors who ask the right questions and facilitate deeper thinking rather than simply managing tasks. She concludes by recommending resources for startup founders and encourages ongoing community...
2025-04-2809 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Fear of Making Mistakes as a Source of POWER! (S1E2)SummaryIn this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the fear of making mistakes when stepping out of comfort zones, particularly in new job roles and promotions. She emphasizes the personal nature of fear and encourages listeners to value it as a perspective rather than a hindrance. Christa provides practical tips for reframing fear and mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning, highlighting the importance of influencing others' perceptions positively. She also shares resources for overcoming fear and building confidence in the workplace.Key Take Aways· Fear is a personal emotion root...
2025-04-2406 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Forget About Inspiration-- Learn How to MOTIVATE!!! (S1E1)SummaryIn this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenge of inspiring a team when one lacks the energy to do so. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between inspiration and motivation, advocating for a shift in focus from being an inspirational leader to a motivating one. Christa discusses the significance of creating a motivating environment and the role of employee engagement in achieving organizational success. She also provides valuable resources for further exploration of workplace motivation and performance.Key Take Aways · We can't inspire people...
2025-04-2008 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Season 1 Preview (April 20th Launch!!)Hi everyone, and welcome to the season one preview of Ask Christa! the place where you can ask questions about how to work through business challenges and workplace issues. I’m Christa Dhimo, and our first season hits on a few big themes, and managing and leading in an organization takes up a lot of space, which I love. I offer answers to questions like: how can I inspire my team when sometimes I don’t have the energy? And how can I manage my fear of failure in front of my team?I also answer block and...
2025-04-0901 min
Ask Christa!Ask Christa! Trailer (coming in April 2025!)Hi everyone and welcome to Ask Christa! the place where you can ask questions about how to work through business challenges and workplace issues, like starting and scaling a business, developing your career at any stage and growing skills as a professional and as a person too. I'm Christa Dhimo and after decades of getting through a lot of different business and career scenarios, some easier than others, I grow a client and media base of professionals who come to me when they're feeling stuck.Perhaps their companies aren't growing as expected, or they realize t...
2025-04-0301 min
The Stakeholders PodcastEp. 19: Christa DhimoIntro music | Fun Day by BensoundWant to get email notifications for new episodes? Click here._____Today we are joined by Christa Dhimo. She is the Biotechnology Advisor at Impono and the Professor of the Practice at Northeastern University's College of Science in Masters in Biotech. In this episode, we discuss COVID, the stakes of having ethics in biotech, our own biology, and more!Make sure to follow Impono on all social channels. LinkedIn
2020-12-3034 min