Shows
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#60 How Do I... Give Feedback That Builds People Up?Ever feel a little anxious giving feedback, and worry it won’t land the way you intended? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into the art of offering feedback that truly lifts people up and helps them grow.Here’s what you’ll hear:Why feedback is more than just pointing out what went wrong—and how to make it a gift people actually appreciateThe importance of “accountability with love,” and how holding people to high standards doesn’t mean being harsh or negat...
2025-08-2109 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#59 How Do I... Support My Partner During Difficult Times?Ever wonder how to support your partner when life takes a tough turn? In this short “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine get honest about the art of showing up for someone you love… especially when you’re both going through it.Here’s what you’ll hear:Real-world approaches for recognizing what your partner needs (even when their style is way different from yours)The power of small gestures, from acts of service to words of praise, to lighten someone’s loadHow to stay flexible...
2025-08-1407 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#58 How Do I... Be a Positive Presence in Meetings?Ever wish meetings didn’t feel so… meh? In this mini “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine tackle the art of being a positive energizer in meetings, whether you’re on Zoom or in the room.Here’s what you’ll hear:The simple choices that set the tone in any meetingHow to make an impression before the agenda even startsSubtle ways to shift group energy in a positive directionWhat it means to show up fully—without saying a wordTips for becoming the person everyone’s excited to work wi...
2025-08-0707 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#57 How Do I... Light Someone Up?Ever wonder how to really light someone up—not just with a passing compliment, but in a way that sticks? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine roll up their sleeves to share practical ways to intentionally uplift the people around you.Here’s what you’ll hear:The magic of specifics: Why “great job” isn’t enough, and how pointing out exactly what impressed you makes praise more meaningful—and memorable.Keeping it real (and brief): How authentic, concise a...
2025-07-3107 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#56 Inside Real Wellness: Lori Schulweis & Jenn Giamo on Friendship & Positive LivingWhat happens when two powerhouse women from distinctly different professional backgrounds bring science, soul, and a whole lot of humor to the podcast mic? In this inspiring episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine welcome Lori Schulweis, a longtime (Emmy Award-winning!) television producer known for her years on “Live with Mark and Kelly”, and Jenn Giamo, a certified trainer, nutritionist, and longevity coach, from the “Every Body Talks” podcast for a raw, uplifting conversation on the art of heliotropic living and the transformative power of friendship.Why tune in?
2025-07-2454 min
Every. Body. Talks.104 - We Got Interviewed! Our 2-Year Anniversary Reflection with Dr. Harry Cohen & Connie FontaineIn this special second-anniversary episode, we pause to celebrate with deep gratitude the incredible people, transformative connections, and inspiring conversations we've experienced through this podcast. Reflecting on two amazing years, we highlight the conversations that forged new friendships and the events that brought us to places where we are part of a bigger community. Plus, a special bonus: We flip the script with a fun crossover episode, where we're interviewed by the insightful and charismatic Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine on their podcast, "Be the Sun, Not the Salt." Harry inspired us to reflect o...
2025-07-241h 01
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#55 How Do I... Start My Day Off Right?Ever wonder how to actually practice being the sun, not the salt, in daily life? In our very first episode of the “How Do I…” series, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into the practical side of living heliotropically, starting with the question: “How do I start my day off right?”Here’s what you’ll hear:- Honest, real-life routines from Harry and Connie, including gratitude lists, positive planning, and morning rituals that set a sunny tone, even on tough days.- The little daily details that make a big dif...
2025-07-1709 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#54 Longevity & Mindset: Dr. Michael Roizen's Tips on Posse, Purpose, & PlayEver wondered if you could actually turn back the biological clock? In this game-changing episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine welcome Dr. Michael Roizen—pioneering longevity expert, Chief Wellness Officer Emeritus at the World-Renowned Cleveland Clinic, author of 9 best selling books and 195+ Peer-Reviewed Papers, and Holder of 14 Patents—for a conversation that will completely shift how you think about aging, health, and the choices you make every single day.Here’s what you’ll discover:The jaw-dropping truth about mindset: You have power over 93% of your...
2025-07-1044 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#53 Our Origin Story: "Be the Sun, Not the Salt"Ever wonder how Be the Sun, Not the Salt came to life? In this special origin story episode, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine pull back the curtain on the journey from a single TED Talk to a bestselling book and a podcast that’s sparking positive change around the world.What’s the story behind the sun and the salt?Harry shares how the phrase “lead people with an afterglow, not an aftertaste—be the sun, not the salt” first landed, and why it stuck with so many. Forget the “aha!” moment—this boo...
2025-07-0312 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#52 Gentle Nudge: Frickin Do ItEver find yourself nodding along to good advice… but not actually putting it into action? You’re not alone! In this final episode of our Gentle Nudge series, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine go all in on Chapter 30: “Frickin Do It”—the ultimate rally cry for turning knowledge into action and making positive habits stick.Why should you tune in?Get a burst of motivation to move from “knowing” to “doing”—because real change happens when you take that first step, no matter how small.Hear how Harry and Connie keep it real about the da...
2025-06-2606 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#51 Gentle Nudge: Be An Olympic ListenerEver wish people really heard you—or that you could be the kind of listener everyone trusts? In this episode of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt,” Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine continue their Gentle Nudge series with Chapter 29: “Be an Olympic Listener”—your invitation to level up from “just hearing” to truly connecting.Why tune in? Listening is an everyday superpower: Discover why being an “Olympic listener” isn’t just for therapists or leaders—it’s for anyone who wants stronger relationships, better communication, and more meaningful moments.More than ears: Learn how to “listen...
2025-06-1906 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#50 Gentle Nudge: Practice, Practice, PracticeEver feel like there’s a daily battle between your best self and… well, the other one? What if winning was as simple as choosing which one to feed? 🤔 In this powerful episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine unpack Chapter 28: “Practice, Practice, Practice”—a transformative look at the one habit that changes everything.Why should you tune in?Discover the ancient parable of the two wolves and what it reveals about mastering your inner world.Learn the crucial difference between honoring your negative feeli...
2025-06-1206 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#49 Gentle Nudge: Do It AnywayEver feel like giving up when things get tough or when others don’t play fair? What if the most powerful choice is to shine your light anyway? 🌟 In this Gentle Nudge episode of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt,” Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dive into Chapter 27: “Do It Anyway”—your ultimate anthem for resilience, perseverance, and choosing to be heliotropic no matter what.Why should you tune in?Discover a timeless, powerful message (inspired by Mother Teresa’s wisdom) that will reframe how you face challenges and negativity.Learn how to build your “do it...
2025-06-0504 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#48 Gentle Nudge: Fill in the PotholesEver wondered what it means to make a difference—even when no one’s watching? 🌟 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine guide you through Chapter 26: Fill in the Potholes—a thought-provoking conversation about small acts, big impact, and the quiet magic of doing good.Why tune in?Discover how tiny, anonymous gestures can ripple out and change your world—and maybe even someone else’s.Get inspired to spot everyday opportunities to help, uplift, or simply smooth the path for others (and yourself).Hear real-life sto...
2025-05-2906 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#47 Gentle Nudge: Decide What Matters MostWhat really matters—and what’s just noise? In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine invite you to hit pause and reflect with Chapter 25: “Decide What Matters Most.” If you’ve ever felt torn between speaking up or letting something go, this gentle nudge is for you.What’s the Big Idea?Discover how to spot the difference between life’s real priorities and those little annoyances that try to steal your peace.Hear how Harry and Connie navigate tricky moments in family, work, and ever...
2025-05-2209 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#46 Gentle Nudge: Remember Who You AreEver catch yourself feeling a little off your game? 🤔 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine explore Chapter 24: “Remember Who You Are” - your gentle nudge to reconnect with your best self, live authentically, and shine a little brighter every day.Why does remembering who you are matter?🌟 Identity shapes action: As James Clear puts it in Atomic Habits, every action you take is a vote for the person you want to become. When you act in line with your core values, everything else flows.🧘♂️ Be heliotropic: Showing up as your t...
2025-05-1509 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#45 Mastering Your Mind: Ethan Kross on Emotional Regulation & ResilienceEver feel like your emotions are running the show instead of you? 😵💫 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Ethan Kross, world-renowned expert on emotional regulation and bestselling author of Chatter and Shift. Together with Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine, Ethan dives deep into the science and practical tools for managing your inner voice, controlling emotional chatter, and harnessing your feelings instead of being overwhelmed by them.What you’ll learn:🧠 How managing your emotions boosts your thinking, performance, relationships, and health🗣️ Why self-talk in the third person...
2025-05-0857 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#44 Gentle Nudge: Keep Your CoolEver lost your cool over something tiny-like spilled coffee or a snarky email-and then realized it set the tone for your whole day? 😬 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine break down Chapter 23: “Keep Your Cool”-your go-to guide for stress management, emotional regulation, and staying calm under pressure.Why does keeping your cool matter?🧠 Practice makes peaceful: The more you handle life’s little annoyances with grace, the easier it gets when real crises hit. Think of every minor mishap as a “calmness simulation” for your brain!😌 Your moo...
2025-05-0107 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#43 Gentle Nudge: Smile and Move OnEver found yourself knee-deep in an argument about chocolate vs. vanilla—or something way more personal, like politics or identity? 🍦🗳️ In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine shine a light on Chapter 22: “Smile and Move On.”Here’s the real talk:😁 Smile first, react later: Whether it’s a silly debate about ice cream or a deeply held belief, arguing rarely changes minds—especially when emotions or identities are involved. Instead, genuine conversation (not combat) is what leads to real understanding.🧠 Pick your battles: Not every disagreement needs a winner. Sometimes...
2025-04-2406 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#42 Gentle Nudge: Release Your Pet PeevesEver find yourself stewing over little things—like someone being late or leaving the cupboard open (again)? 🙃 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into Chapter 21: “Release Your Pet Peeves”—your gentle nudge to let go of those everyday annoyances that just aren’t worth your peace.What’s the big idea?🧘♂️ Let it go, let it go: Holding onto pet peeves only keeps you mildly irritated and robs you of your own peace of mind.🕵️♀️ Assume positive intent: Most of the time, people aren’t out to g...
2025-04-1708 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#41 Gentle Nudge: Take the High RoadEver felt like you deserved to stay mad? 😡 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine unpack Chapter 20: “Take the High Road”—a powerful reminder that holding onto anger only salts your own roots.Key takeaways:🌟 The high road is for YOU: Letting go of petty negativity isn’t about the other person—it’s about freeing yourself.⏳ Work through it: Whether it takes two hours or two weeks, give yourself grace as you move toward letting go.🧠 Don’t “feed the bad wolf”: Gossip a...
2025-04-1006 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#40 Gentle Nudge: Make Your Motive Clear & CleanEver had someone say one thing but mean something totally different? 🙃 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dive into Chapter 19: “Make Your Motive Clear and Clean”—a gentle nudge to check your intentions before you speak or act.Key takeaways:💡 Say what you mean, mean what you say—but don’t say it mean: The golden rule of clear communication.🧹 Check your motives: Are you being passive-aggressive or trying to “win”? Time for a little self-reflection!🧠 Trust your gut: Why we can often sense when someone’s motives aren’t pure—and ho...
2025-04-0306 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#39. Gentle Nudge: Do the Next Right ThingEver had one of those "Oops, I messed up!" moments? In this mini-episode, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine are back with a game-changing mantra in Chapter 18: "Do the Next Right Thing"!Spoiler alert: We're all gonna be salty sometimes, but it's what you do next that counts!Harry's hot takes:🧼 Clean-up on aisle "Me": Why your screw-ups are actually your best teachers 🏃♂️ Speed is key: The magic of fixing things ASAP (but it's never too late to make it right)🧠 Trust your gut: If something's nagging you, it's probably worth addressingConnie's real-talk corner...
2025-03-2706 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#38 Gentle Nudge: Help Others Keep PerspectiveEver tried cheering up a friend… only to accidentally make things worse? Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine are back with a Gentle Nudge from Chapter 17: “Help Others Keep Perspective”—and they’re dishing out gentle wisdom for those “I just want to fix it!” moments.Hot takes from today’s toolkit:🩹 Scars, not wounds: Borrowing Rachel Hollis’ genius line, learn why timing matters when offering perspective (hint: wait till the bleeding stops).🧠 Swap “get over it” for “let’s move your lens”: How to metaphorically guide someone to “higher ground” without sounding like a know-it-all.👂 Empathy first, advice second: Harry’s own...
2025-03-2011 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#37 Gentle Nudge: Speak Fluent GratitudeReady to supercharge your relationships with a little gratitude magic? 🌟 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dive into Chapter 16: “Speak Fluent Gratitude.”The magic trick? Expressing thanks isn’t just about saying “thanks” – it’s about speaking from the heart with specificity. Harry shares a heartfelt text from a friend that brightened his day, while Connie reveals how a daily gratitude experiment brought unexpected joy to old friends.Your takeaways:Speak it out loud: How verbalizing gratitude can transform your relationships and mood.Make it personal: Why...
2025-03-1306 min
The Rachel Hollis Podcast771: Finding Joy and Purpose | Rachel Hollis Interviewed on the Be The Sun Not The Salt PodcastIn this special episode, Rachel Hollis shares her interview with podcast hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine from the Be the Sun Not The Salt Podcast. She discusses the ups and downs of life, the importance of pursuing joy and love despite hard times, and the power of self-compassion.Check out Be The Sun Not The Salt wherever you get your podcasts!Get your copy of Rachel's New Book Here: Audible, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Millon, Bookshop.org, or wherever books are sold!01:43 Meet Rachel Hollis: Author and Podcaster07:14 Rachel's Journey...
2025-03-1157 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#36 Gentle Nudge: Make Your Words CountEver caught yourself rambling through a story or dropping verbal grenades that backfire? Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine—your Be the Sun, Not the Salt super-smart duo—are back with Chapter 15: “Make Your Words Count.”Spoiler alert: Less really is more when it comes to communication! Harry spills the tea on why cutting extra or inflammatory words turbocharges your clarity, while Connie shares examples of unhelpful self-talk she’s totally never said to herself. 😉 With some tiny tweaks, we get a big impact, so trim the fluff, ditch the drama, and remember that practice makes precision.Perfect...
2025-03-0606 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#35 Gentle Nudge: Don't Be A ComplexifierHave you ever turned a simple task into a full-blown project? We’ve all been there! In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine tackle Chapter 14, “Don’t Be a Complexifier,” from Harry’s book. Together, they unpack why simplicity is not only powerful but also essential for improving our lives and relationships.We’ll explore how overthinking and complicating things can weigh us down—and how keeping it simple can be a game-changer, everywhere from military strategy to daily life.You’ll also hear practical tips on how to:Av...
2025-02-2705 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#34 Gentle Nudge: Be Your Own Best FriendHave you ever called yourself a friggin idiot? Most of us have, but would you ever say that to your best friend? Nope! In today’s tip to make your life a little better, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine explore Chapter 13, 'Be Your Own Best Friend,' from Harry's book, Be the Sun, Not the Salt. Today we’ll delve into how to recognize and STOP the negative self-talk. While it’s true that we’re evolutionarily wired to focus on negativity for survival, it's crucial to disrupt this tendency for a healthier mental state! We’ll get into perso...
2025-02-2010 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#33 Gentle Nudge: Hold the SaltIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine explore the key concepts of Chapter 12, 'Hold the Salt,' from Harry's book. We’ll discuss the metaphorical significance of salt and how toxic behaviors can negatively impact others. We know that by refraining from expressing negative emotions and behaviors, we create a more positive and supportive environment. Here we’ll provide practical insights and real-life examples to illustrate the profound effect of avoiding 'salting the roots' of others.Links & ResourcesBe the Sun, Not...
2025-02-1309 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#32 Gentle Nudge: Learn to Walk AwayIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine explore the concept of walking away from toxic environments, as described in Chapter 11, 'Learn to Walk Away' from Harry's book. Our discussion drills into the importance of gracefully extricating oneself from negative situations, whether they be physical, emotional, or conversational. With practical advice and personal anecdotes, the episode offers insights on maintaining composure, avoiding conflict, and making deliberate choices about the company we keep, especially during challenging times - and we've all got them!Links & Resources
2025-02-0607 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#31 Gentle Nudge: Don't Hang with CilantroIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine explore Chapter 10, 'Don't Hang with Cilantro,' from Harry's book. (Did you know cilantro tastes like soap to some people?) This chapter highlights the importance of being and surrounding oneself with good company. We’ll discuss maintaining healthy boundaries to protect ourselves from negative influences, and share practical advice on limiting contact with toxic individuals and finding common ground to improve difficult relationships. We’ll also go over the types of people we SHOULD surround ourselves with - the ones who...
2025-01-3007 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#30 Gentle Nudge: Win-Win Always WinsIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine delve into Chapter 9, 'Win Win Always Wins,' from Harry's book. We discuss how to keep a win-win mindset in various scenarios, and the importance of ensuring positive outcomes for all parties involved. Through real-life examples and insights, we’ll dig into how this approach can lead to more harmonious and effective interactions. By integrating this mindset into our daily lives, we can foster fairness and mutual satisfaction in all kinds of relationships.Links & Resources...
2025-01-2307 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#29 Gentle Nudge: Assume Positive IntentIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine delve into Chapter 8, 'Assume Positive Intent,' from Harry's book. We discuss the profound impact of interpreting others' actions positively rather than jumping to negative conclusions. Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, we’ll explore how shifting one's perspective can improve overall life experience and interpersonal relationships. Try practicing this mindset to foster a more positive and empathetic daily life. Don't forget to share and subscribe for more insights on heliotropic living!Links & Resources
2025-01-1607 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#28 Radiant Resilience: Jill Martin's Journey Through Life's ChallengesIn this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Jill Martin to explore her inspiring journey from a renowned lifestyle expert and TV personality to a resilient cancer warrior. Jill shares personal anecdotes about her battle with breast cancer, the lessons she’s learned, and how she strives to live by the philosophy of 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt.' We delve into Jill's professional accomplishments, including her successful ventures on QVC and the Today Show, as well as her deeply personal mission to help others facing similar challenges. Jill’s authenticity shines through as she discusses the importance of k...
2025-01-0957 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#27 Gentle Nudge: Apologize WellIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine explore Chapter 7, 'Apologize Well,' from Harry's book. They discuss the importance of making heartfelt apologies without justifications or excuses. By sharing personal experiences and practical insights, they highlight the key elements of a genuine apology — acknowledging the hurt caused and expressing honest regret. Listeners are encouraged to practice and refine their apologizing skills to foster more meaningful and respectful relationships.Please be sure to share and subscribe if you found this useful on your journey to heliotropic li...
2025-01-0108 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#26 Gentle Nudge: Light Someone UpIn today’s episode, Dr. Harry Cohen and co-host Connie Fontaine explore Chapter 6, 'Light Someone Up,' from the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' book. They delve into the concept of heliotropic people, discussing the science behind heliotropism and the characteristics that make someone a positive energizer. They emphasize the importance of being intentionally uplifting, kind, and compassionate in everyday interactions. By sharing tips and personal stories, they encourage listeners to consciously make others feel good, amplify their positive traits, and set a positive tone in various settings, from the workplace to family life.Please be su...
2024-12-2509 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#25 Creating Big Change through Small Acts with Brad AronsonJoin us for an inspiring discussion with Brad Aronson, author of 'Humankind: Changing the World One Small Act at a Time.' Brad shares his journey of discovering the profound impact of small gestures of kindness, especially during difficult times. He emphasizes the importance of being seen (and what that really means) and the power of simple actions to make a huge difference in the lives of others, and for ourselves, in return. Brad also talks to us about his impressive background in digital marketing and entrepreneurship, his teaching experiences, and his dedication to mentoring and nonprofit work. The...
2024-12-181h 01
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#24 Gentle Nudge: Be Your Best SelfIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, co-hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine delve into Chapter 5, 'Be Your Best Self,' from Harry's book. They discuss the power and simplicity of showing up in our own uniquely heliotropic ways, to authentically bring our best to any situation. We don’t have to pretend to be anybody else; we just have to bring out our best traits more often. By sharing personal stories and empirical insights, they emphasize the importance of self-awareness and continuous personal growth - sometimes what we others think are our mo...
2024-12-1107 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#23 Gentle Nudge: Show You CareIn this special mini-episode of 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt,' hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine discuss Chapter 4, 'Show You Care,' from Harry’s book. We’ll explore the deeper aspects of genuine and authentic caring, emphasizing the importance of expressing love and appreciation in meaningful ways. Connie and Harry stress that caring is a learnable skill, and share the ways they’ve personalized their expressions of care for the people in their lives. They also touch on the challenges and the impact of being honest about what one cares about, especially with intimate relationships. Tune i...
2024-12-0408 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#22 The Empowered Life: Cultivating Strength & Kindness with Rachel HollisJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Rachel Hollis, who opens up about her remarkable journey from lifestyle blogger to best-selling author. Rachel's candid stories reveal how life's twists and turns have shaped her into the motivational powerhouse she is today.Rachel's infectious energy shines through as she discusses her upcoming book, 'What If YOU Are the Answer?' a hard-won guide for self discovery that guides readers on a journey through thought-provoking questions. Her passion for helping others find their path is evident in every word. Throughout the episode, Rachel emphasizes the importance of sel...
2024-11-2657 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#21 Gentle Nudge: Respect People's FeelingsToday we have a new "Gentle Nudge" mini-episode, where we take a deep dive into each chapter, breaking down each tip into actionable examples so that we can each practice being our best selves in new ways. In this episode of 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt,' co-hosts Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine explore the vital importance of respecting others and their feelings. From the famous Maya Angelou quote about the lasting impact of how we make others feel, through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they emphasize the significant influence our behavior has on both personal and...
2024-11-2010 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#20 Gentle Nudge: Be HelpfulToday we have a new "Gentle Nudge" mini-episode, where we take a deep dive into each chapter, breaking down each tip into actionable examples so that we can each practice being our best selves in new ways. Co-hosts Connie Fontaine and Dr. Harry Cohen explore Chapter 2 from the "Be the Sun, Not the Salt" book: “Be Helpful.” We chat about what that really means and how to determine what help is genuinely wanted by others, why giving unsolicited advice might not be the best move, and we’ll explore practical tips on how to think before we speak (especially in tho...
2024-11-1307 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#19 Gentle Nudge: Do All the Good You CanToday's episode is the first of our "Gentle Nudge" series of mini-episodes, where we take a deep dive into each chapter, breaking down each tip into actionable examples so that we can each practice being our best selves in new ways. Co-hosts Connie Fontaine and Dr. Harry Cohen explore Chapter 1 from the "Be the Sun, Not the Salt" book, entitled "Do All the Good You Can." The discussion delves into the importance of small acts of kindness inspired by a famous John Wesley quote, emphasizing immediate and tangible impacts on both the doer and the receiver. From the biggest...
2024-11-0706 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#18 Harnessing Anxious Energy: Life Lessons from Laura MortonIn this episode of the 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' podcast, we dive deep into the life and wisdom of Laura Morton, a prolific author and filmmaker, known for her work on the documentary 'Anxious Nation.' With over 22 New York Times bestselling books to her name, Laura shares invaluable insights from her journey as a storyteller, a breast cancer survivor, and a single parent. The discussion unpacks Laura's advocacy for mental health, especially through her documentary, which addresses the rising anxiety among youth and provides tools to manage it. Laura shares personal anecdotes and lessons learned from...
2024-10-031h 01
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#17 The Wise Warrior: Commanding a Resilient Team with Adam KahnkeIn this episode, Commander Adam Kahnke, a highly accomplished (yet incredibly humble) naval officer, shares his 30-year journey in the U.S. Navy and the teams he’s built along the way. Currently serving at the Pentagon, Kahnke discusses his unique experience in developing the command of the USS Arkansas from scratch while applying the principles of 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt' to create a positive and high-performing culture. Kahnke emphasizes how focusing on interpersonal skills and mental health is essential in both the military and business environments. He introduces his approach to leadership that's built on respect, ac...
2024-08-0752 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#16 Miracle Mentality: Using Your Gifts with Tim StoreyStep into the ring with Tim Storey, the legendary 'Comeback Coach,' as he unveils the secret weapons for life's toughest battles. In this episode, Storey shares his remarkable journey from a childhood in Compton to working with some of the world's most influential figures, including Barry Gordy and Oprah Winfrey. In this insightful conversation, Storey offers a unique perspective on life's challenges and triumphs:How to choose your ultimate 'corner man' and build an inner circle that propels you to greatnessStrategies for mastering the mundane and navigating life's messinessTransforming difficulties into opportunities for growthWhy expecting daily miracles...
2024-07-241h 00
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#15 Gratitude in Action: From Morning TV to Motherhood with Joan Lunden & Jamie HessIn this heartfelt episode, hosts Connie Fontaine and Dr. Harry Cohen delve into the profound lessons learned from Joan Lunden and her daughter, Jamie Hess. Joan reflects on her journey as a national morning show anchor of Good Morning America for nearly 20 years, navigating motherhood and demonstrating the power of embracing one's vulnerabilities while maintaining a positive, authentic presence. Jamie shares her past struggles with addiction, her path to recovery, and how gratitude reshaped her life. Together, they emphasize the importance of being real, the power of showing vulnerability, and creating a nurturing, truthful environment for their children. The...
2024-07-0259 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#14 The Company We Keep: Choosing Role Models with Ira RosenIn this episode, Harry, Connie, and their guest Ira Rosen, a 24-time Emmy-winning investigative journalist formerly with 60 Minutes, discuss the importance of positive influences, making conscious choices, and the profound impacts of role models, both good and bad. Ira shares his family's history of survival during World War II, offering a poignant lesson on the choices between good and evil. He also talks about his career challenges, stresses around high-stakes journalism, and how he found joy and fulfillment in the smallest yet significant aspects of life.About Ira RosenFor nearly 25 years, Ira Rosen...
2024-06-1946 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#13 "Unreasonable" Hospitality: Being Nice and Cozy with Will GuidaraIn this engaging episode, Will Guidara, a pioneering figure in the world of fine dining and hospitality, and the author of “Unreasonable Hospitality,” joins hosts Connie Fontaine and Harry Cohen. Will delves into the philosophy and practical applications of 'Unreasonable Hospitality,' sharing impactful stories from his career, including the origins of his concept and how it can be applied beyond the restaurant industry. The conversation also covers the importance of hospitality in creating meaningful relationships, the impact of small gestures, the forgotten art of friendship, transforming criticism into thoughtful guidance, and maintaining a balance between perfectionism and kindness. We’l...
2024-06-051h 03
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#12 Good Medicine: Rethinking Patient Care with Dr. Rana AwdishDr. Rana Awdish shares her profound journey from being a critical care physician to a patient fighting for her life, and how this experience revolutionized her perspective on patient care. After losing an unborn child and nearly losing her own life due to a burst tumor, Rana witnessed firsthand the gaps in the healthcare system, particularly in how medical professionals handle emotional care and communicate with patients. Her experience led her to advocate for a healthcare approach that emphasizes empathy, effective communication, and the small yet impactful acts of care that can significantly alter a patient's experience. Her story...
2024-05-2243 min
Be the Sun, Not the Salt#11 Stay in the Light: Surviving Trauma with Trinea GonczarTrinea Gonczar, a former gymnast and survivor of the Larry Nassar sexual assault case, shares her ongoing journey from trauma to healing and how she helps others find light in their darkest times. We discuss the importance of offering grace to oneself and others, and Trinea’s impactful work at the Avalon Healing Center, and the need for survivors to have support systems and plans in place to navigate their healing journeys. The episode highlights the significance of every individual's courageous choice to spread positivity and support those around them.Please be advised that this episode contains co...
2024-05-1639 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#10 Mindy HolmanMindy Holman is the Chair of Holman, a privately owned 100 year old automotive services company with over 7000 employees in the US, Canada, Mexico, UK, and Germany. As the third generation leader of a company whose stated mission is to provide a rewarding career and a better life for their employees and their families, she takes that mission to heart. Mindy, in fact, is as much responsible for "Be the Sun, Not the Salt" as anyone. She wrote the forward to the book and embodies the principles articulated in it. She gets uncomfortable when we compare her to Mother Theresa...
2024-01-1547 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#9 Farzin ShadpourFarzin Shadpour started a venture capital fund which has invested in over 58 start up companies from countries all over the world. Two of those startups now have a valuation of over one billion dollars - a “unicorn“ in investment terms. Identifying as a high functioning neuro-diverse autistic person, Farzin articulates the points he practices from "Be the Sun, Not the Salt," which he describes as a concise “hand book” for how to relate to all people at home and at work. He shares the ways he brings these points to life in order to earn a seat at the table of...
2024-01-0842 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#8 Kathy WhiteKathy White is not only remarkable in her lifelong accomplishments - Princeton graduate, Rhodes Scholar, Law Professor, Brigadier General, University of Michigan Regent - she is equally committed to being a better person. In this episode, Kathy shares why the metaphor and the book, 'Be the Sun, Not the Salt,' has been such a helpful tool for her and her colleagues. Listen to how her team of leaders from the different branches of the US Armed Forces remind themselves - daily - to be their best selves, and how that impacts their ability to collaborate. For those of...
2024-01-0139 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#7 Marion HarrisMarion Harris, CEO of Ford Motor Credit, is a successful captain of industry and a serious practitioner of heliotropic leadership. He shares his tips for success in the corporate world, as someone who’s learned from leaders both good and not-so-good. As you’ll hear from him, the most important leadership trait is to care enough to want to be a better leader. Our nickname for this podcast is, “If you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right.”Useful links from this episode:About "Be the Sun, Not the Salt"To expl...
2023-12-2542 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#6 Kristi VandenBoschKristi VandenBosch is the President of the Oliver advertising agency in NYC. Having grown up in the advertising industry and achieving top-tier success, her advice to young professionals in the field is to never compromise your values or your voice. Through compelling examples, she illustrates how she has effectively stepped in to assist others, encouraging all of us to follow suit—if we possess the courage and confidence to do so in our unique ways. This episode is affectionately dubbed "Be the Wise Sunflower" and invites us to "Do a 'Kristi'" by stepping into the fray.Us...
2023-12-1835 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#5 Corey FriedCorey Fried, who has taught second grade, third grade, and fifth grade, has transitioned into an educator for fellow teachers. She transformed the insights from the book "Be the Sun, Not the Salt" into daily lesson plans for her students, leading to remarkable results. This podcast is affectionately named "I Want to Be THAT Teacher." As you listen to her story, we hope it inspires you to strive for the best version of yourself.Useful Links from the Episode:About "Be the Sun, Not the Salt": https://bethesunnotthesalt.com/Book on No-Nonsense Nurturer approach: "...
2023-12-1137 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#4 Kim CameronKim Cameron is the William Russell Kelly Professor of Management and Organizations at the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. He is the godfather of the term "heliotropic leadership." His research proves beyond the shadow of a doubt that being a heliotropic person can transform our lives, and the lives of the people around us. As you listen to the studies he cites, we hope that you are forever changed, knowing that the moment-to-moment decisions we make have profound implications for the success of our lives. The nickname for this episode is “We are Born Inherently Go...
2023-11-2751 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#1 Kevin ShaughnessyKevin Shaughnessy is a world-class human being and remarkable leader of a 1200-person automotive dealership organization. We chose him as our first Be the Sun podcast guest because he embodies the principles of what it means to be a heliotropic leader as well as anyone we’ve met. We call this "the bagel and schmear" episode, and you'll soon understand why. When you hear Kevin's story, we hope it stays with you and inspires, reminds, and helps you just like it has done for us.Reference Links from this Episode:James Clear on the “the...
2023-11-2040 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#2 Duncan CampbellDuncan Campbell, a retired entrepreneur turned philanthropist, is the visionary behind the national non-profit organization, Friends of the Children. While some folks merely talk about doing things and making a difference, Duncan is a true action-taker. A doer. Duncan's work has reshaped the futures of thousands of children born into poverty. This podcast, aptly nicknamed "Just Fricken Do It," introduces Duncan's remarkable journey. We hope it will inspire you to take meaningful action for the greater good. Useful Links from the Episode:About "Be the Sun, Not the Salt": https://bethesunnotthesalt.com/
2023-11-2033 minBe the Sun, Not the Salt#3 Valorie Kondos FieldValorie Kondos Field is the retired UCLA women's gymnastics coach and PAC 12 Coach of the Century. In this episode, she reflects on the realization that she was inadvertently hindering her players' growth instead of fostering their potential - salting their roots instead of pouring sun onto their leaves. Valorie's story serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible when we are open to listening. Whether in the role of a parent or a coach, she emphasizes that our mission remains consistent—to bring out the absolute best in those under our care. This episode is affectionately named "Remind You...
2023-11-2055 minBe the Sun, Not the SaltBe the Sun, Not the Salt trailer"Be the Sun, Not the Salt" is a podcast about Heliotropic Living, an idea based on the science of why we are drawn to some behaviors and recoiled by others. To spread the message, we did a Tedx talk, then wrote a short book, and now we’re doing a podcast. Here we’ll interview a range of famous and not so famous guests whose personal stories bring to life how they (and we) can put these simple ideas into daily practice. Anyone who listens will be infected in a good way, to be and spread what it means to b...
2023-10-2002 min