Shows
Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityFrom Compliance to Curiosity – Rethinking Student EngagementGuest Rebecca Winthrop is a leading global authority on education, the director of the Center for Universal Education at Brookings, and an adjunct professor at Georgetown University. She is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in life, work, and as an engaged citizen. She leads cutting-edge research and initiatives aimed at transforming education systems around the world to better support children’s learning and development. Rebecca is a trusted advisor to both school communities and national and international organizations. Her expertise is sought by many, including parent networks, schools, district ed...
2025-09-2355 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityJournalism at a Crossroads—How to Save the Beast Guest In a career that spanned a quarter-century, Ted Czech covered crime for newspapers in three states. Disenchanted with how journalism was taught and practiced, Czech launched a second career in public relations in 2021 and began work on Saving the Beast: A Recovering Reporter Reflects on America's Broken Media and How to Fix It. Why This Episode Matters This episode explores the state of American journalism with Ted Czech, a former newspaper reporter and author of Saving the Beast. Czech critiques the decline of objective reporting, attributing it to sensationalism, ideological bias, and...
2025-05-0644 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityFind Your Niche and Your Secret—The Power of DifferentiationGuest Reuben Swartz is the founder of Mimiran, the fun, anti-CRM for independent consultants. He founded Mimiran out of his experience as a sales and marketing consultant for the Fortune 500 who struggled with his own business development efforts. He's also the host and chief nerd on the Sales for Nerds podcast. Summary – Why this discussion matters This episode explores how solopreneurs can effectively differentiate themselves, refine their niche, and build meaningful relationships. Reuben shares insights on the importance of defining a unique "secret" that sets a business apart, the power of genuine conversations in client relationships, and why narrowing on...
2025-04-0139 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityUnlocking the World of Recipes and Cooking Through TechnologyGuests Jane Kelly founded Eat Your Books in 2009 with her sister Fiona Nugent because she wanted to easily find recipes in her extensive cookbook collection, and reasoned there are other cooks with the same need. She has spent the past 15 years building the site into a search engine for 2.6 million recipes found in cookbooks, food magazines, and online. Previously, she held senior roles in television and music for the Virgin Group in the UK. Katie Thacher leads CookShelf, which now manages Eat Your Books and is building the next iteration of the product. A lifelong co...
2025-03-2533 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriositySo, You Want to Be a Writer Guest Deborah Sosin, MSW, is a writer, editor, psychotherapist, and an instructor at GrubStreet, the Center for Creative Writing. Her essays have appeared in the New York Times, Boston Globe, Salon, Cognoscenti, Brevity Blog, and several literary magazines. She wrote the award-winning picture book Charlotte and the Quiet Place; and a workbook, Sober Starting Today. Debbie just completed This Is 70, a linked set of 70 micro-memoirs of 70 words each, written to mark her 70th birthday. She lives outside of Boston. Summary This episode explores Deborah’s journey of writing, creativity, and self-expression. She discusses her path t...
2025-03-1853 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityThe Power of Objects—Sharing Stories and Creating ConnectionsGuest Sarah Elkins is your guide to uncovering the right personal stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and effectively demonstrate their character, values, and vision. She is a storyteller, communication coach, author, and professional musician. As a Gallup-certified StrengthsFinder coach, Sarah uses that tool and story-sharing strategies as the foundation of her work with teams, improving communication to reduce tension and stress in the workplace. Why this episode matters This co-produced episode of “Getting Unstuck-Cultivating Curiosity” and “Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell...
2025-03-1140 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityNavigating the Challenges Facing U.S. Public Education Guest Julie A. Vitale, Ph.D. is the Superintendent of the Oceanside Unified School District. Her educational journey includes a Ph.D. in Urban Educational Administration from Claremont Graduate University, a Master of Arts in Educational Administration, and a Masters and Bachelor of Arts from the University of LaVerne. Dr. Vitale has been a faculty member at Concordia University since 2007, contributing to the development of their Ed.D. Program. Her dedication to education has earned her prestigious recognitions, including the Western Riverside County Association of School Managers Superintendent of the Year and the Ur...
2025-03-0455 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityRepurposing Video and Podcast Content to Build Business RelationshipsGuest Paul Banks is an ADHD father and husband who broke out of corporate life and spent 5 years in complex SaaS sales, understanding how to create meaningful connections through the power of video content. The former retail manager and volunteer police officer now spends his days combining technology, AI, and expertise to help his clients attract and convert premium clients. His ‘Why’ is to help people make better decisions so they can live their most fulfilling lives. Summary In this episode, Jeff and Paul discuss curiosity, relationship-building, and ethical sales and marketing strategies. Paul d...
2025-02-1844 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityPerspectives—The U.S. Home Front During WWII and the Lessons of HistoryAllan M. Winkler is the University Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Miami University of Ohio. He has also taught at Yale University and the University of Oregon and, for one year each, at the University of Helsinki in Finland, the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and the University of Nairobi in Kenya. In addition to his own books, he co-authored a college textbook and a high school textbook on American History. Summary In this episode, Jeff speaks with historian and author Alan Winkler about the importance of critical thinking in history education. They discuss how...
2025-02-1146 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityCreating Safe Passage—Road Ecologists and the Intersection of Wildlife and Development (Pt 2)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. Su...
2025-02-0434 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityCreating Safe Passage—Road Ecologists and the Intersection of Wildlife and Development (Pt 1)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. Su...
2025-01-2832 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityBreaking Barriers: Men, Vulnerability, and Emotional GrowthGuest Bob Reece has worked as a full-time educator with at-risk teens and as a successful small business owner over the past two decades. He now works as a Clinical Counselor and Personal Coach. He holds Master of Natural Science and Master of Clinical Counseling degrees as well as Life Coach Certification from the Tony Robbins/Madanes Training School. Summary In this episode, Jeff Ikler talks with Bob Reece, a counselor and fly-fishing guide, about his work addressing the mental health of men and at-risk teens. Bob highlights the importance of emotional well-being, the...
2025-01-2158 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityLiving with Purpose—Eastern and Western Insights into Habits and Growth Guest Tamsin Astor: Tamsin Astor is a Chief Habit Scientist. She helps her clients shift their mindset, organize their vision, and improve their habits, creating productivity and joy! Dr. Astor’s clients reduce their decision-making, increasing their time and energy for fun! Tamsin is a mother, a traveler and foodie. She believes travel breeds tolerance and cultivates gratitude and reflection. Tamsin holds a PhD in neuroscience and psychology and a post-doctorate in education. She has certifications in yoga, coaching, mindset & ayurveda. She is an executive coach and author. Summary In this ep...
2025-01-1452 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityWhat and Why We ReadSummary In this episode, I reflect on how books have impacted my life and why standing up to book censorship is essential. Given my interest in books, I was curious to know what some of my colleagues, friends, and family members read in 2024 and what they will read in 2025. So, I contacted more than 40 of them, asking them for a brief bio, their books of choice, and why a given title found its way to their bookshelf and nightstand. See their suggestions below. Three Major Takeaways Books as Lifelong Companions: Jeff's "next" shelf...
2024-12-3106 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating Curiosity80 Years On—Revisiting Hitler's Desperate GambleGuest 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 the story of Donald Montgomery who served with the Canadian Corps in the First World War. He moved to Vancouver in 1908 and was the older brother by one year of Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery. In 2021, Paul received the Howard Browne Medal from the Victorian Military Society. Summary ...
2024-12-171h 01Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityUnlocking the Power Within to Overcome ResistanceGuest Luann Horobin is one of 1700 ICF Master Coaches who serves clients as an Executive and Leadership Transformational Coach and Consultant. Having been raised on a farm, the core values of work and community have been her guiding life principles. Yet, when facing life and career transitions, a pivotal point was learning how to achieve ambitions, not by working harder but by adopting a different mindset. Luann’s dive into the science of transformation led to her customized coaching of breakthroughs that achieve ambitions, make better decisions, and put zest into life without stress.
2024-12-1048 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityThe Marriage of Neuroscience and Mindfulness Practice: Better Lives, Better LearningGuest Laura Bakosh, Ph.D., is a mindfulness teacher, published researcher, and co-founder of Inner Explorer, an organization that brings stress resilience, attention, and mental well-being skills to K-12 schools and early learning centers. She earned a Ph.D. from Sofia University and a Bachelor of Science from Boston College. Laura was trained as a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) instructor at the University of Massachusetts, Center for Mindfulness, and is an Allstate/Northwestern University Nonprofit Fellow. Laura has practiced and studied mindfulness for over 30 years and began teaching it to children 15 years ago. She realized it...
2024-12-0342 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityCrafting a Winning Marketing Campaign in a Crowded MarketGuest Frank Zaccari is a TV/podcast host and keynote speaker with a background in the U.S. Air Force and over 30 years as a high-tech executive & business owner. A five-time Best-Selling and two-time Award-Winning Author, he has written nine impactful books and co-founded the “Trust the Process” Book Marketing Program. Frank mentors at Arizona State University and the University of California Entrepreneurship Academy and guides veterans through the Veterans Treatment Court. Summary In this episode, Jeff and Frank discuss the challenges of promoting books and creating a successful mark...
2024-11-1250 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityAmerica at the Crossroads: How Power PassesGuest 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 almost 7 years. The guests and topics he explores are designed to help listeners think differently about the familiar and welcome the new as something...
2024-11-0511 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriositySmall Changes, Big Impact: Practical Solutions for Reducing WasteGuest Award-winning cookbook author, blogger, fermenter and sourdough baker Anne-Marie Bonneau has lived plastic-free since 2011. Through social media, her blog and her book, The Zero-Waste Chef: Plant-Forward Recipes and Tips for a Sustainable Kitchen and Planet, Anne-Marie shows others how reducing their trash not only benefits the planet but also satisfies their taste buds, improves their well-being and boosts their bank accounts. Summary Anne-Marie Bonneau offers practical approaches to reducing waste, particularly focusing on food waste and plastic consumption. She emphasizes that while achieving absolute zero waste isn't realistic, making small, manageable changes can have a significant impact. The...
2024-10-2952 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityFrom Worthless to Well-Being—Helping Others Heal After TraumaGuest With skills developed initially through training for the ministerial priesthood and over 25 years of continued professional development, Seamus Corry has a unique set of talents and abilities to engage, mentor, support, advise, and guide people of all backgrounds and experiences to be the best they can be and realize their true potential. This is achieved by building authenticity, trust and ongoing commitment. Seamus joined forces with Angela di Marco and Dana Sardano of https://finduniquelyu.com in 2023 and, under their support, guidance, and collaboration, has trained to become a specialist instructor delivering programs on behalf of the organization....
2024-10-2259 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityHealing from the Inside Out—The Power of Self-AwarenessGuest In January 2015, Dana Sardano picked up a paintbrush for the first time since childhood, which was the catalyst for a major shift in her career. In June 2017, she decided to retire from her career in education to fully embrace an artist’s life and to model for her daughters the importance of listening to your soul’s purpose by following your bliss. She has since opened Ubuntu Fish Gallery in Stuart, Florida, co-founded Uniquely Phenom Collaboration, co-hosts the Going Commando with Angela and Dana podcast, and has authored several books of inspiration and empowerment, incl...
2024-10-1550 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityHow Can District-Driven Education Enable Access to Democracy?Guest Dr. Erwin Garcia is the Superintendent of Billings Montana Public Schools, the largest district in the State of Montana. During his tenure, he has pioneered the establishment of three public charter schools: the Billings Early College School, the Opportunity School, and the Multilingual Academy. Dr. Garcia has broadened access to college, career, and military pathways. Before his role in Billings, Dr. Garcia served as Area Superintendent in the Houston Independent School District. Summary In this conversation, Dr. Garcia emphasizes the importance of reading proficiency, teacher empowerment, and community involvement to support the n...
2024-10-0851 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityWading Into Addiction Recovery: The Therapeutic Power of Fly FishingGuest Sylvia Huron has had a deep love for fishing from an early age, a passion instilled in her by her father. Her son Ian introduced her to fly fishing. For Sylvia, this was a welcome challenge, and the introduction to the fly-fishing community was just what she needed. Sylvia has been in recovery since 2018 and is passionate about supporting the recovery community. Fly fishing has been a source of peace and healing for Sylvia, so sharing this with others is deeply fulfilling for her. In 2021, Sylvia, her son Ian, and Jennifer Gilbert joined founder Becca Klein in establishing...
2024-10-0148 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityTrekking Beyond One's Comfort Zone—A Journey of Self-Discovery Guest Canadian author Patti Shales Lefkos celebrated her creative nonfiction debut with Nepal One Day at a Time, an adventure travel memoir with a humanitarian twist. Her second book, Grounded by Granite, highlights her childhood on a remote island in a pristine lake in the Canadian Shield. In 2023, at the age of 77, Patti and her husband, Barry Hodgins, completed a 500-mile trek on Nepal’s Great Himalayan Trail. Summary This podcast episode features an interview with Patti Shales Lefkos, author of Nepal One Day at a Time. Patti discusses her solo trek through Nepal...
2024-09-2450 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityExploring Solutions with Curiosity on the Path of Visionary LeadershipGuest Dr. Oleg Konovalov is named among the top eight global experts in leadership and shortlisted for the Distinguished Award in Leadership by Thinkers50. He is the #1 Global Leading Coach named one of the Global 100 Inspirational Leaders 2022, along with Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Oprah Winfrey. Having been named ‘the da Vinci of Visionary Leadership’ by many leading authorities of our time, Oleg is considered #1 in the world in the field of vision and visionary leadership. He is the author of The Fisherman’s Path to Leadership, The Vision Code, Leaderology, and other books. My co...
2024-09-1750 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityUnveiling Healing Stories—A Ghostwriter's Approach to Authentic StorytellingGuest Gail Harris is a Certified ghostwriter specializing in women’s memoirs. She is an IPNE (Independent Publishers of New England) Book Award Finalist for the memoir FINDING ZOE. She collaborates with authors who have risen above life’s challenges and have a journey to share. Gail values the cathartic nature of storytelling in that our reflections and takeaways are life-changing, both for the author and those who read her book. She experiences first-hand how an author’s personal story of healing is universal—that what sets us apart pales against what brings us together. Gail inspires women to...
2024-09-1045 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityShot Down: A Son's Journey Through His Father's WWII LegacyGuest Following 4 ½ years of dedicated research about the World War II experiences of his father, pilot Howard Snyder, and the crew of the B-17 Susan Ruth, Steve published his book SHOT DOWN. Steve is president of the 306th Bomb Group Historical Association and on the board of directors of the 8th Air Force Historical Society. Summary This podcast episode explores the air war over Europe during World War II, focusing on the experiences of B-17 bomber crews in the 8th Air Force. The discussion covers the dangerous missions aircrews face, including enemy attacks, h...
2024-09-0349 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityCultivating Student Curiosity and Engagement in the Thinking Mathematics Classroom (Part 2)Guest Lorenzo Rodriguez has been a math educator for the past eight years, joyfully honing his craft and developing a pedagogy that works to convince students that a mathematician can be anybody, with any background, who thinks in any language. He has served as the Math Department Chair and Activities Director, worked within our cross-curricular Cybersecurity pathway, and hosted “math labs,” collaborative days spent engaging in dialogue about how best to support mathematical thinking in our diverse classrooms. Summary This is part 2 of an episode I aired with Dr. Peter Liljedahl last week. Pete...
2024-08-2743 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityCultivating Student Curiosity and Engagement in the Thinking Mathematics ClassroomGuest Dr. Peter Liljedahl is a Professor of Mathematics Education in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University and author of the best-selling book, Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics (Grades K-12): 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning. Peter is a former high school mathematics teacher whose work emphasizes collaborative learning for a more effective mathematics education. Most recently, he received the Læringsprisen [Learning Award] for Changing the way we think about Education in Denmark (2022). Summary The podcast episode explores Professor Liljedahl’s journey in understanding how teaching practices affect student learning in math c...
2024-08-2049 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityThe Achievement Trap and the Need to Reimagine Education for Student Well-beingGuests Dr. Ken Wallace recently retired as the longest-serving Superintendent in Maine Township High School District 207’s history, which dates back to 1902. During Ken's tenure, District 207 was named one of America’s most innovative districts multiple times for advances in technology, adult learning, and career advisement. Ken is currently an educational consultant for multiple organizations. 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 enab...
2024-08-131h 03Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityShowcasing Organizational Authenticity: The DNA of Effective BrandingGuest Angela DiMarco is an intuitive design leader with 30+ years in branding, marketing, and advertising. As Chief Creative Officer at Phenom Publishing, she collaborates with authors to create impactful book designs. Co-host of "Going Commando with Angela & Dana," she champions authenticity and honest conversations. Angela's expertise helps businesses express their unique brand with creativity and integrity, connecting them with their audience on a profound level. Summary In this podcast episode, Angela shares insights on branding and authenticity. She discusses her career journey from aspiring doctor to branding expert, emphasizing her curiosity about people's authentic selves and the masks they...
2024-08-0651 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityTechnology Innovations: Augmenting Human Capabilities or Replacing Them?Guest Neil C. Hughes is a technology writer and the host and producer of the Tech Talks Daily podcast. He is the author of Great TED Talks: Innovation: An Unofficial Guide with Words of Wisdom from 100 TED Speakers. He is also the behind-the-scenes engineer wizard on this and 15 other podcasts. Summary In this episode, Neil and I delve into the rapid pace of technological change and its multifaceted impact on our lives. Neil expresses curiosity about how AI and emerging technologies will augment human capabilities, stressing the need to balance tech usage with...
2024-07-2348 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating Curiosity"Food Rescue U.S."—Tackling Food Hunger and Waste Guest Dave Lampert is the CEO of Food Rescue US, a national non-profit tackling food waste and food insecurity. Dave spent the bulk of his career in the for-profit sector, including 20 years with Dutch multi-national Wolters Kluwer, building and leading B2B businesses in content and software. He has also been actively feeding the hungry for over 30 years as a volunteer. Dave has three grown children and lives with his wife and their two dogs in Hartsdale, NY. Summary This episode tackles the startling reality of food waste in the US, while highlighting the insp...
2024-07-0243 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityFishing the Good Fight—Healing on the Stream for Men with Mental Health IssuesJim 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 Go...
2024-06-2541 min
Stories From Women Who Walk60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday: Casting for Recovery: An Essential Episode for the Women’s Breast Cancer Community with Jeff Ikler & Diane WyzgaHello to you listening in Chesaning, Michigan!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.Recently, I had the pleasure of sharing the mic as co-host with my friend, colleague, podcast host, author, and genuinely curious human being, Jeff Ikler, Quetico Coaching about the mission of Casting for Recovery. CFR is a national nonprofit serving women with breast cancer using the therapeutic sport of fly fishing. Our guest is Susan Gaetz, the executive director for Casting for Recovery.
2024-06-2403 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityEmbracing Change by Empowering Teachers: A Recipe for Educational TransformationGuest 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...
2024-05-2849 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityFacing History: Combating Hate Through Curriculum and ConversationGuest 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...
2024-05-1439 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityWalking Through History: World War I Battlefields and the Legacy of WarGuest 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...
2024-04-301h 02Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityChanneling Self-gratitude to Unlock Confidence and PurposeGuest 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...
2024-04-2345 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityYou’re Dead. How Do You Want to Be Remembered?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 contem...
2024-02-1311 min
Own Your AwkwardAwkwardly Perfect with Jeff IklerJeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co). He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing, where he served as an editor, marketer, and eventually the head of all publishing disciplines. There, he was first exposed to coaching – as a client – and the concepts of self-awareness and servant leadership. Prior to his career in educational publishing, Jeff taught high-school U.S. history and government.Jeff hosts the “Getting Unstuck—Cultivating...
2023-12-2347 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityCrossroads: Assessing a Life at the Intersection of This Way or That WaySummary This week, something different. As we approach Thanksgiving, I find myself in a contemplative mood. So, I’m solo this week, starting what could become a lengthy exercise that will have me unwrapping and considering the package that is my life in 15 crossroad moments. Talk about being curious. Jeff’s Crossroad Topics Punching the clock: newspapers, groceries, and dishes Book of the Month Club Earning my keep at home Neighborhood explorer The U-505: life foreshadowed in a German submarine Montana: killing spiders, stac...
2023-11-1411 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Jeff Ikler - Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching - Teaching, Educational Publishing, Podcasting, Writing, and Fishing - 607
Jeff Ikler - Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching - Teaching, Educational Publishing, Podcasting, Writing, and Fishing. This is episode 607 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast.
Jeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co).
He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing, where he served as an editor, marketer, and eventually the head of all publ...
2023-10-1657 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityIdentifying the Business Practices that Create Future LeadersSummary This is part 2 of my conversation with two very smart guys, Wade Bruffey and Zoltan Sarda, the co-founders of GoMobi.work, a partnership-driven software company that helps organizations build and optimize their employee development program. They bring 30 years of experience working with teams and individuals to help people grow and succeed. Organizations using GoMobi.work’s frameworks build systems that foster clarity, empower high performance, and help team members take aligned actions. With GoMobi.work, organizations create transformation that lasts. In Episode 274, I interviewed Wade and Zoltan. In this episode, they interviewed me for th...
2023-10-0355 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityCreating the Secure Place for Home, Heart, and HeadMy Guest Born in the San Francisco Bay Area, Jennifer Lang lives in Tel Aviv, where she runs israelwriterstudio.com. Her prize-winning essays appear in Baltimore Review, Under the Sun, Midway Journal, and elsewhere. She holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and is an Assistant Editor at Brevity Journal. She is a longtime yoga practitioner and instructor. She has two unconventional books forthcoming, Places We Left Behind: a memoir-in-miniature (9/5/23) and Landed: A yogi's memoir in pieces & poses (10/15/24), both with Vine Leaves Press. Summary In this episode, Jennifer and Jeff explore Jennifer’s...
2023-09-1942 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityGetting to Know Your Inner Cave DwellerGuest Annette Taylor is a part-time researcher of evolutionary psychology who works to understand how our common biology, which evolved from our days as cave dwellers, may help explain various social and antisocial behaviors today. Summary Jeff and Annette discuss the concept of the "cave dweller" inside each person, which refers to our instinctual, psychological, and biological tendencies. Annette shares her personal experience of discovering her own cave dweller, “Claire,” and how it influences her behaviors and interactions with others. Listen for • the inner critic's relationship to the cave dweller
2023-08-2951 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityEmbracing the Healing Powers of Nature and CommunityGuest Scot Simmons is a husband, father, and fly fishing guide. He is 12 years in recovery from addiction and doing well managing depression and anxiety, which started at a young age. Fast forward decades, and he is able to walk and talk in his truth and make purposeful change. Summary Jeff and Scot's conversation delved into their mutual love for fly fishing and the connection it fosters with nature. They emphasized the significance of savoring the process and environment over fixating solely on catching fish. Amidst shared fishing dreams and destinations, Scot revealed hi...
2023-08-2237 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityRediscovering Oneself Through the KeyboardGuest Tammy Hader, with a BBA in accounting from Wichita State University, her professional history resides in numbers. In 2018, after a 30-year accounting career, Tammy reinvented herself as a writer. She is an essay writer at Medium, BizCatalyst360, The National Association of Baby Boomer Women, BabyBoomer.org, and WebMD. Tammy is also a contributing author in the Daily Gift Book Series. Walking Old Roads is her first book. Summary Tammy and Jeff discuss her book Walking Old Roads, reflecting on her journey to rediscover her personal sense of kindness and overcome a feeling...
2023-08-1543 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Jeff Ikler & Steve Miletto Discuss the Memoir Rocket Boys in Terms of Student Agency in Schools - 586
Jeff Ikler & Steve Miletto Discuss the Memoir Rocket Boys in Terms of Student Agency in Schools. This is episode 586 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast.
Jeff is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh- co).
He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing, where he served as an editor, marketer, and eventually the head of all publishing disciplines. There, he was...
2023-08-0744 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating Curiosity267: The Argument for Giving Students More Voice and ChoiceMy co-host in this episode is a fellow podcaster and someone I am proud to call a friend – if only a virtual one at the moment, Steve Miletto, EdD. Steve has been an educator in Georgia(US) for 36 years. He has served public school families as a history teacher, assistant principal, high school principal, and RESA Executive Director in the Heart of Georgia RESA (8 years) and now with North Georgia RESA. In 2009, he was the Georgia Principal of the Year and a finalist for NASSP/MetLife National Principal of the Year in 2010. Steve is the host of th...
2023-08-0144 min
Cultivating ResilienceTrauma in Schools - Season 2 WelcomeSummary Equity, inclusion, and justice should be critical goals of education today. To effectively work toward achieving them, though, the mental health and overall well-being of children and school staff must first be addressed. Following the success of Season 1, the podcast series, Cultivating Resilience: A Whole Community Approach to Alleviating Trauma in Schools continues to explore various ways to reduce anxiety and stress that are so prevalent in many of today's schools. Sponsorship and the Team This podcast series supports the work of the Compassionate Schools Leadership Academy (CSLA), a research grant to...
2023-06-1915 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Daniel Proffitt, Jason Clevinger, and Patrick Roberts - Teachers at Elizabethton High School, Tennessee - Explain to Jeff Ikler and Steve Miletto How They Are Helping Students to be Curious - 546
Daniel Proffitt, Jason Clevinger, and Patrick Roberts - Teachers at Elizabethton High School in Elizabethton, Tennessee - Share with Jeff Ikler and Steve Miletto How They are Helping Students to be Curious. This is episode 546 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast.
Daniel Proffitt -
I am a native of Elizabethton, where I have lived my entire life. I am married with two children and have spent 20 years as an educator. I have never left this school system, having spent elementary through high school here, volunteering directly after h...
2023-03-121h 02Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityEncouraging Student Curiosity Part 2Guests Jeff Carver is an English teacher who has been working in New Orleans charter schools for the last nine years. Before teaching, he spent the good part of a decade working in music and advertising. Nia DeCoux is a writer, educator, and activist who believes that when done well, storytelling and teaching become the same practice. Her work has been honored by both the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts and the National Black Arts Festival. Summary While many educators continue to follow the standard 150-year-old approach to instruction an...
2023-02-0745 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Jeff Ikler & Steven Miletto Discuss Knowing Your Purpose and Doing One More - 525
Jeff Ikler & Steven Miletto Discuss Knowing Your Purpose and Doing One More. This is episode 525 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast.
Jeff Ikler is Director of Quetico Career and Leadership Coaching, a firm dedicated to helping individuals overcome career issues, and leaders develop sustained changes in their leadership practices and organizations. He received his certificate in coaching from the Coach Training Institute, a firm recognized as one of the leading coach-training organizations in the world. His approach blends data-driven coaching, and consulting informed by working for more than 35 years in the...
2022-12-0834 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityWant to Simplify Your Money Management?“As it turns out, personal finance is like touching an electric fence that you didn’t know what electric. Managing our money is not a math problem; it’s a behavioral problem.” Carl Richards is a Certified Financial Planner™ and creator of the Sketch Guy column that appeared weekly in The New York Times (2010-2021). There, he used simple illustrations to introduce calming financial advice and counsel. He is also the author of The One-Page Financial Plan and The Behavior Gap resources — a book, website, and podcast that provide simple ideas to help us “Stop Doing Dumb Things with Mon...
2022-09-2745 min
Time for Teachership75. Where Meaningful Educational Change Begins with Jeff IklerOn the show this week, I am talking with career and leadership coach Jeff Ikler. Jeff has worked for nearly 50 years to help students, teachers, and administrators acquire knowledge and find meaning in their work. Students need more agency and to be cared about by adults at school. Educators are at their best when they recognize that the things students go through and manage in their lives have a direct effect on their desire and ability to put academic work in. If teachers want to shift their mindsets and start making those changes, there’s no r...
2022-06-0737 minCultivating ResilienceImplementing Mindfulness District-WideA student's community influences their overall well-being, academic success, and social development; meaning the people in a community must interact with students in various situations. As part of that community, teachers need training to be the strong and trustworthy core adults to support students holistically. Jeff Donald, the Mindfulness Coordinator for Montgomery County Public Schools, offers his insights and argues that the days of just focusing on academics should be long gone.
2021-12-2135 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityTreating Students as a Natural ResourceAs today’s guest observed, “Many kids fall through the cracks somewhere.” Maybe they’ve experienced trauma outside of school, and as a result, they don’t fit in inside of school. But Jeff Rivero, veteran history teacher at Yosemite High School in Merced California, knows how to reach them and help them uncover their passion. How? He treats them like the natural resources they are.
2021-11-0937 min
Anette On EducationGetting Unstuck--Jeff IklerAnette visits with long-time educator and education advocate, Jeff Ikler. Jeff is an author, a podcaster, and leadership coach. They discuss what students really need to learn, and how innovative leadership can provide a robust learning experience, even in our current focus on accountability. You can find out more about Jeff in the links below.Coach - Personal LeadershipPodcaster – Educators Leading ChangeAuthor - Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change
2021-09-2632 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityWhat Roles Can Social Studies Education Play?In this episode, Jeff takes a nostalgic trip, and social studies educators Larry Cuban and Phil Roden discuss the state of social studies education today, wrestling with both the purpose of social studies education: Is it to develop patriotism, citizenship, or critical thinking? And the best instructional method: Chronological? Thematic? Skills? Experiential?
2021-05-0448 min
The Hot Mic @ Arch DevOpsJeff Ikler - Pivoting Education Toward Leadership and Culture ChangeJeff Ikler has worked in education in the broadest sense his whole life – first as a high school history teacher, then as an editor, marketer and executive in the educational publishing industry for more than 35 years and finally as Director of Quetico Coaching where he focuses on leadership development and career shifts. He co-hosts his own podcast, "Getting Unstuck – Educators Leading Change," and he is the author of SHIFTING - HOW SCHOOL LEADERS CAN CREATE A CULTURE OF CHANGE.
Find more about Jeff below at:
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffikler/
Twitter - @je...
2020-09-2930 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityLooking at What's Best for Kids Now – Melissa RomanoA lot of times when we ask why we are doing something in education a certain way, we get the answer "Because we've always done it that way." One educator who challenges that assumption is Melissa Romano, candidate for Montana State Superintendent of Instruction. And she challenges that assumption with a question that asks us to stop and think, "Are we doing what's best for kids now?"
2020-09-0841 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityUsing "Visible Learning" to Improve Student Success – John HattieThe educational research is pretty clear: two critical factors move the student success dial the most (1) understanding how teachers think about their instruction and student learning, (2) how students learn, and the intersection of the two. Educational researcher Professor John Hattie explains.
2020-09-0139 min
TNT ESQTNT ESQ: Episode 48 with Jeff Ikler - MR. PERFECTToday we welcome Jeff Ikler to TNTESQ.
Jeff is the principal of Quetico Personal Leadership and Career Coaching where he works with individuals to overcome their internal obstacles to leading effectively.
He is the co-host of the “Getting Unstuck – Educators Leading Change,” podcast that focuses on changes in education: who is leading them and why; what they're trying to accomplish; and what obstacles they're encountering and overcoming.
He is the co-author of Shifting: How Educational Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change, which focuses on helping education leaders and their teams lead sustained change...
2020-08-3036 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityUtilizing the Power of Place – Tom Vander ArkInnovating in today's schools is tough for a number of reasons. There are historic barriers and sometimes frankly, there's the inertia of leadership. One easy way to innovate and bring some pretty interesting results for kids, however, is to literally step outside the walls of the classroom and school. Long-time educational observer and reformer, Tom Vander Ark explains "The Power of Place."
2020-08-2548 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityFocusing on the REAL WORK – not FAKE workWe all like to think we’re working hard, right? The sad fact, though, is that most of us spend a lot of time doing “fake work,” which is emotionally draining and non-productive. And someone who has researched the concept of fake work and seen a lot of it first hand – and sometimes engaged in it – is Gaylan Nielson, author of Stop Fake Work in Education. Listen in as Gaylan defines "fake work" and how we can avoid it.
2020-08-1844 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityImpacting Teaching, Learning, and Relationships with Technology - Chris NesiHow do you teach during these challenging times? Experiment. Try something. Try something else. And above all, nurture student relationships. Teacher and education technology master Chris Nesi explains.
2020-08-1151 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityStepping Back to Address our Biases – Principal Anthony McWrightHow do we move forward as a national around the discussion of race? We start, says principal Anthony McWright, by acknowledging our biases.
2020-08-0445 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityTeaching Students Before Teaching Subjects - Principal Chris LehmannWhy won’t a cooker-cutter approach to transforming schools work? Principal of the innovative Science Leadership Academy, Chris Lehmann explains.
2020-07-2851 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityLeading in a Time of Crisis: Part 11 - Dr. Jeff Hawkins and Steve MilettoWelcome to Part 11 of a special series: "Leading Schools in a Time of Crisis." In these conversations, we will probe how educators are helping their schools and communities pivot due to the COVID-19 pandemic. So, how do educators effectively lead change during a crisis? For educational service agency heads Dr. Jeff Hawkins and Steve Miletto, it's ultimately about helping schools answer the question: “What do we do next year?”
2020-04-1537 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityOur book Announcement!Today on “Getting Unstuck,” authors Kirsten Richert, Jeff Ikler, and Margaret Zacchei unabashedly talk about their new book, Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change, why they wrote it, the school leaders and thought leaders who influenced it, and how they feel it will help educators ask the right question about a potential change: “Is this change something that will help us achieve our “Why of Intended Impact” – the outcomes we seek on behalf of our unique students”?
2020-04-0714 min
Shifting for ImpactWhat Future Do We Envision for our Children?Listen to more of the interview we conducted with Mary Howard where she distinguishes between change initiatives and a culture of change. Listen especially for what she means by a collectively embraced “passion-fueled mindset,” and the difference between initiatives that are merely an act of “doing” instead of “becoming.”
2020-03-1905 min
Teaching Learning Leading K-12Jeff Ikler & Kirsten Richert: Shifting - How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change - 285Kirsten Richert and Jeff Ikler talk with me today about their new book - Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change. They also tell us about their audio podcast Getting Unstuck - Shift for Impact. Thanks for listening. Lots to learn. Please feel free to share and subscribe. This is episode 285 of the audio podcast Teaching Learning Leading K12.their Kirsten Richert (KEAR-sten RICK-urt) is an innovation expert who works with leaders on transformational efforts. Kirsten teaches Design Thinking, Communication and Innovation at a number of colleges in the greater NYC area. Her teaching...
2020-03-1444 minShifting for ImpactListen for BrillianceListen to part of an interview we conducted with Steve Paul where he outlines the goals, steps and benefits of a “Performance Acceleration Meeting.” Listen for why he puts a heavy emphasis on behaviors that affect the “Healthy”-side of his business.
2020-03-0406 minShifting for ImpactStay Curious a Little Bit LongerListen to our interview with Michael Bungay Stanier, author of The Coaching Habit (2016) and founder of Box of Crayons, an organization that promotes coaching as the essential leadership behavior. Listen as Michael recounts the five layers of resistance to coaching – and how he counters them.
2020-03-0409 minShifting for Impactinnovating Inside the BoxListen to our two-part interview with Amnon Levav, Chief Innovation Officer of SIT - Systematic Inventive Thinking, where he reviews the firm’s “Function Follows Form” innovation process. Listen for why innovating with constraints and manipulating what you already have yields better results than trying to innovate out of thin air.
2020-03-0433 minShifting for ImpactCultivating Change at the Grassroots LevelListen to part of our interview with Evan Robb where he described how he set the stage for another change initiative - revising the school’s grading procedures. Listen for the strategies he used to increase engagement and get people ready to embrace and implement the change.
2020-03-0405 minShifting for ImpactKeeping the Wheel of Change TurningOne who didn’t stop applying at least one of the principles from Good to Great and the Social Sectors (2005) is Deb Gustafson, former Principal of Ware Elementary School in Fort Riley, Kansas. Listen as she describes how she applied the Flywheel principle and achieved dramatic results. Pay particular attention to what she determined had to be the all important first step of the school’s flywheel.
2020-03-0423 minShifting for ImpactCritical Behaviors of the Mindful LeaderListen to part of an interview we conducted with mindfulness author and expert Michael Bunting where he describes the “7 Disciplines of the Mindful Leader.” As he talks, think about how these disciplines would be especially relevant to the change leader.
2020-03-0413 minShifting for ImpactIt Takes a Lot of Conversations With a Lot of Folks in Different ArenasListen to part of an interview with Greg Ewing where he describes a change initiative when he served as superintendent of Cobb County School District in Georgia. Note how leaders revised their plan as they gathered and assessed new data.
2020-03-0407 minShifting for ImpactProvide the Right Kind of SupportListen to more of the interview we conducted with former Superintendent Dr. Karen Rue where she describes the need to listen carefully to her faculty during the district’s technology change initiative. Listen for why it was necessary to assemble the right team to determine the real problem they were trying to solve.
2020-03-0407 minShifting for ImpactHow You Tell the Story Creates Who You AreHere we speak with Sarah Elkins, author of Your Stories Don't Define You, How You Tell Them Will and a communications coach who specializes in working with clients on the stories they tell themselves – and on what happens to them as a result.
2020-03-0413 minShifting for ImpactDistortions of ThoughtHere we speak with Courtney Ackerman, a researcher and writer who focuses on organizational psychology, especially with how it pertains to the areas of wellbeing and healthcare. Here she speaks about cognitive distortions, or faulty patterns of thinking. As you listen to her description of a few of these distortions, consider the impact that someone who operates under one or more of these faulty patterns of thinking might have on a complex organizational change.
2020-03-0410 minShifting for ImpactHow Do We Need to Behave to Be Successful?Listen to part of our interview with Margaret Zacchei as she describes the work she led to change the culture and climate of her school by focusing on shared leadership, and increasing student and staff engagement. Note how eliciting and using feedback effectively was key to this change effort.
2020-03-0414 minShifting for ImpactIn a Mindful Culture You Can Sense Calm Productivity—Even in a CrisisListen to part of an interview we conducted with mindfulness expert Oksana Esberard where she describes the characteristics a mindful culture would likely exhibit. As she talks, think about the implications of those characteristics on an organization’s “why” and its ability to deliver on behalf of that “why.”
2020-03-0413 minShifting for ImpactWhat Do People Need from Me?Listen to part of an interview we conducted with Kimberly Davis, author of Brave Leadership (2018). Note where she discusses the need to have an external focus verses an internal one – a focus on serving some higher purpose outside of yourself – to achieve the impact you want to have. And note, too for why being vulnerable challenges us to our core.
2020-03-0412 minShifting for ImpactBreaking the Mold of the Conventional High SchoolListen to part of our interview with Rona Wilensky, creator and first principal of New Vista, an alternative high school in Boulder, Colorado and Ivette Visbal, a founding faculty member and currently the school’s Dean of Students. Listen for evidence of how these two leaders wanted to change the concept of high school education relative to instruction, student choice, responsibility, and community involvement. Listen, too, for how “healthy” played into their thinking about the school culture.
2020-03-0419 minShifting for ImpactRecognizing the Power in OthersListen to part of our interview with Mike Oliver, Principal of Zaharis Elementary School in Mesa, Arizona where he talks about realizing the importance of creating an environment where people can take risks and think creatively.
2020-03-0409 minShifting for ImpactFocus on the WhyListen to part of our interview with Jonathan Adams, Assistant Principal at the International School in Luxembourg where he describes his work to clearly articulate the “why” behind a literacy initiative and ensure that those implementing the change viewed themselves as valued contributors.
2020-03-0407 min
Value through Vulnerability podcast from HEXO ChangeEpisode 96 - Jeff Ikler of Quetico Leadership Coaching & Consulting and Kirsten Richert of Richert Innovation ConsultingThe weekly #HumansFirst open and inclusive calls can all be found here -> https://humansfirst.club/events
Find the Aequip team at https://www.aequip.co.uk/
I thoroughly enjoyed my first 3-way conversation on this platform and it really added some extra value.
We discuss education, innovation, leadership, culture, language, purpose and so much more. Please find some of the key highlights as follows:
- “One of the central, underlying themes of our book is the ba...
2020-02-2448 min
Value through Vulnerability (boosted by HumansFirst)Episode 96 - Jeff Ikler of Quetico Leadership Coaching & Consulting and Kirsten Richert of Richert Innovation ConsultingI thoroughly enjoyed my first 3-way conversation on this platform and it really added some extra value.We discuss education, innovation, leadership, culture, language, purpose and so much more. Please find some of the key highlights as follows:- “One of the central, underlying themes of our book is the balance between smart and healthy. Smart is what we typically have a lot of training in. Yet much of our enjoyment, success and ability to pull off those things on the smart side, are really on...
2020-02-2449 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityBecoming a Brave LeaderHow do you show up as a leader at work (and in life)? What impact do you want and need to have to feel engaged, energized, and accomplished? In this episode, Kirsten and Jeff talk with leadership expert, Kimberly Davis, author of the best seller, Brave Leadership. Here we’ll learn how to show up authentically in life and at work, and how to define our “super objective” – our personal impact statement – and what can hold us back from implementing it.
2019-02-121h 11Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityGenerating Ideas that Can Move You ForwardYou or your organization are stuck. How do you break free and come up with new ideas to help you move forward? Dr. Esmilda Abreu, Getting Unstuck's producer, interviews hosts Kirsten Richert and Jeff Ikler to share a few systematic methods for helping teams and individuals generate break-through ideas. Kirsten shares six key steps toward creating an effective Innovation Lab. Jeff closes the show with a coaching technique to break fixedness and shift thinking by adopting multiple perspectives.
2018-12-1858 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityGetting to Know Career and Leadership Coach Jeff IklerHere, Jeff is interviewed by Joe Kwon, our friend and host of the uniquely formatted "Why It Works" podcast. We'll learn why Jeff chose coaching as a follow-up to his career in educational publishing, the main challenges he faced in shifting from that career to coaching, and some foundational coaching principles such as being stuck in the first place, having a hidden commitment not to change, and how our inner critic can hold us back from leading the life we really want.
2018-12-0455 minGetting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityRecognizing Obstacles to Moving ForwardEffective change leaders acknowledge what is holding them back. Hosts Jeff and Kirsten explain how individuals and organizations can recognize how systemic and self-imposed obstacles – the inner critic, bad habits, and self-defeating stories – can stand in their way of moving toward their desired goals. Jeff interviews expert storyteller Sarah Elkins, who shares her experiences, and challenges us to take control not only of which stories we tell ourselves, but how we tell them.
2018-11-271h 20Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityEnvisioning the FutureUnlock your potential to get unstuck by actively envisioning your ideal future state. Host Jeff Ikler interviews educator Dr. Melissa Hughes, author of Happy Hour with Einstein. Dr. Hughes shares her insights on how the brain works and how to harness what we know about neuroscience to build cultures of learning and leadership. Co-host Kirsten Richert offers brain-friendly methods you can use with groups to visualize a successful future and capture key elements to activate change.
2018-11-201h 00Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityLooking Inward to Gain Organizational or Personal AwarenessIn this episode, hosts Kirsten Richert and Jeff Ikler recommend the counterintuitive strategy of pausing – intentionally slowing down to conduct an internal scan to fully grasp what’s underlying the state of being stuck. For individuals, Jeff Ikler suggests asking powerful questions, taking personal assessments, and engaging in specific activities as ways to unlock greater understanding. For organizations, Kirsten Richert recommends gathering customer and staff input through observations, interviews, questionnaires.
2018-10-311h 00Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityAcknowledging that You Are StuckIn this episode, hosts Kirsten Richert and Jeff Ikler review the “why” behind their respective practices of serving as an innovation catalyst for organizations, and a career and leadership coach for individuals. They then dive into the world of being stuck and the phases that one goes through to get unstuck. The critical first stage is accepting that you are stuck in the first place. At this stage, you acknowledge your discomfort and begin to contemplate change.
2018-10-311h 00Getting Unstuck – Cultivating CuriosityIntroducing "Getting Unstuck"In this first episode, innovation catalyst Kirsten Richert, and career and leadership coach, Jeff Ikler, explain their mission – to help individuals and institutions think differently about change, not as something to fear, not as something they constantly have to react to, but as something they can initiate to have the impact they desire. Through these podcast episodes, they will introduce listeners to different ways of thinking through tools and thought-leaders to help them move toward their desired goals
2018-10-2355 min