Shows
Comfy ChairsStewards of talentIn this comfyHQ episode of the comfy chairs, Kate tackles three everyday leadership questions with her signature blend of clarity, candor, and care.→ How do I help my team members grow when there’s no clear promotion path? → How can I get better at listening instead of jumping in with solutions? → What’s one simple way to encourage more ownership from my team?These questions reveal deeper truths about how leaders define their roles, shape expectations, and support employee success. Kate offers practical tools like sticky-note mindset reminders...2025-08-0513 min
Comfy ChairsSticky, productive hiresWhat happens when you stop hiring for experience and start hiring for strengths?In this episode of the comfy chairs, I talk with Dr. Mike Neal, optometrist and founder of Build My Team, about the moment he realized traditional hiring wasn’t working—and what he built instead. Drawing inspiration from Disney and the Ritz-Carlton, Mike created a system that helps small businesses (especially medical practices) hire better, faster, and more fairly. Together, we explore what it means to lead with clarity, reduce bias, and take the emotion out of hiring without losing the human elem...2025-07-2957 min
Comfy ChairsAwareness & purposeIn this comfyHQ installment, Kate tackles three leadership questions that share a common root: self-awareness. She shares best practices for time management that actually work, rethinks the idea of “work-life balance” through the lens of needs and priorities, and offers a grounded approach to self-advocacy that doesn’t veer into self-serving. What are the best practices for time management as a leader?What are tips or suggestions for balancing work and life?How can I advocate for myself without coming off as self-serving?If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin or strug...2025-07-2218 min
Comfy ChairsShow up as trustworthyShow up as trustworthy: A conversation about trust. 🪑🪑 Celebrating two years of big conversations from the comfy chairs. What makes a leader trustworthy? In this special anniversary episode of the comfy chairs, Kate and Angela revisit one of the most foundational—and often most fragile—elements of effective leadership: trust. Together, they unpack how trust shapes team dynamics, leadership credibility, and even business outcomes. This isn’t just about “being nice”—it’s about communication, consistency, and taking responsibility for the flow of information. Angela...2025-07-1553 min
Comfy ChairsSuccess mindsetsIn this episode of comfyHQ, Kate tackles three leadership questions that share a common root: self-awareness. She shares best practices for time management that actually work, rethinks the idea of “work-life balance” through the lens of needs and priorities, and offers a grounded approach to self-advocacy that doesn’t veer into self-serving.What are the best practices for time management as a leader?What are tips or suggestions for balancing work and life?How can I advocate for myself without coming off as self-serving? If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin or struggle...2025-07-0811 min
Comfy ChairsEveryone owns itEveryone owns it. A conversation for leaders about workplace culture.What makes a workplace feel supportive—and what happens when it doesn’t?In this episode, clinical social worker and Connect Counseling founder Sarah Harris joins Kate to talk about how culture isn’t just something you talk about; it’s something you live. They explore how communication, physical space, and policies shape the way employees experience their work—and how these elements shift in hybrid and virtual settings.Sarah shares research-backed insights on the link between culture, m...2025-07-0151 min
Comfy ChairsHolistic honestyIn this episode of comfyHQ, we answer two leadership questions that many managers quietly struggle with:How do leaders cultivate trust and credibility with their teams?How do I handle a team member who has great skills but a bad attitude?Kate shares practical strategies to lead with consistency, communicate with clarity, and address behavioral issues without falling into the trap of vague “attitude” conversations. From performance management to psychological safety, this episode gives you a grounded, human-centered approach to navigating two of leadership’s toughest challenges. 👉🏻 Have a question for comfyHQ? Sha...2025-06-2413 min
Comfy ChairsEarly and well-structuredEarly and well-structured: A conversation about confrontation.In this episode of the comfy chairs, Kate is joined by her father, Charlie, a seasoned leader with experience in higher education, the military, and church governance. Together, they unpack the often-misunderstood relationship between confrontation and leadership. Their conversation explores how direct and kind communication can strengthen teams, prevent unnecessary conflict, and help leaders lead with both clarity and care. From real-time feedback to decision-making under pressure, Charlie shares stories and insights rooted in practice—and in love.Additional resources mentioned during our conversation:...2025-06-171h 01
Comfy ChairsSignificant connectionsIn this episode of comfyHQ, Kate tackles two key questions about modern leadership:What role does mentorship play in leadership development?How do you lead a remote or hybrid team effectively?From structured mentoring programs to managing remote employees with clarity and care, Kate offers practical strategies for leaders who want to build trust, encourage learning, and lead well, no matter where their team is sitting. If you're looking for grounded, human-centered approaches to people leadership, this episode is for you. 👉🏻 Have a question for comfyHQ? Share your questions.👉🏻 Subscribe to the “as easy...2025-06-1012 min
Comfy ChairsContinuously developed (rereleased on July 1, 2025)Continuously developed: A conversation about student leadership.Rereleased on July 1, 2025, with corrected audio.Kate is joined by Emily Barnett, former teacher and current Campaign Development Manager with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, to talk about preparing the next generation of leaders. Their conversation explores the importance of developing student leadership, the value of flexibility and dependability, and why investing in youth isn’t an “extra”—it’s a strategic imperative. Highlighting Emily’s work with the Student Visionaries program, this episode encourages community leaders, mentors, and employers alike to take small, deliberate actions that...2025-06-0356 min
Comfy ChairsBONUS! Welcome to the club! Introducing the Informed Readers podcast.BONUS! Welcome to the club! Introducing the Informed Readers podcast.📚 Big opinions. Awesome books. And one shared belief: Reading makes us better leaders.Here at the comfy chairs, I've been collaborating with Stephanie Lemek with The Wounded Workforce to launch a new podcast called Informed Readers—for people who love to talk about books and think about how stories shape the way we lead, learn, and live.In our first episode, we cover a lot of ground:✔ Childhood favorites that still hold up✔ What’s on...2025-06-0141 min
Comfy ChairsKnow your peopleIn this comfyHQ episode, we tackle three critical leadership challenges:Motivating teams through difficult times,Managing burnout, andNavigating the stress of constant change.Through practical advice and personal anecdotes, Kate shares insights on how to communicate effectively, set realistic expectations, and create a sustainable work environment. Learn how to spot early signs of burnout, reduce stress by addressing its root causes, and lead with empathy to foster resilience in your team. Tune in for actionable tips that will help you lead through uncertainty and drive meaningful change.👉🏻 Have a question for comfyH...2025-05-2711 min
Comfy ChairsLandscape of thoughtLandscape of thought: A conversation about critical thinking.In this episode, Kate welcomes Amelia Menk Brown, founder and CEO of Knowzy (formerly MyCited), for a thoughtful conversation about critical thinking, metacognition, and inclusive leadership. Together, they explore what it means to lead with intention—not by directing, but by cultivating communities where diverse perspectives and deep thinking thrive.Amelia reflects on her liberal arts foundation and startup journey, making a clear case for the value of slowing down, thinking deeply, and embracing difference. From challenging the fast-knowing bias of corporate culture to...2025-05-2048 min
Comfy ChairsLeading is the workIn this comfyHQ episode, we’re answering two questions that hit close to home for many leaders:How can I make space for learning when my calendar is packed?How can I balance being a high performer with leading others effectively? Kate challenges the idea that these are opposing demands—and offers practical ways to rethink your time, your role, and your definition of high performance. From the 70-20-10 model of learning to a simple strengths-based audit, this episode offers clear, compassionate strategies to help you lead with more intention and less overwhelm. 2025-05-1311 min
Comfy ChairsContinue to be curiousContinue to be curious: A conversation about lifelong learning.In this special episode of the comfy chairs, Kate sits down with someone who shaped her own learning journey—her mother.With nearly three decades of experience leading a church education program, Kate’s mom brings a rich perspective to this conversation about growth, vocation, and the quiet power of community. Together, they reflect on how curiosity, empathy, and endurance show up in leadership—and why learning is always, at its core, relational. If you’ve ever wondered how our personal lives shape ou...2025-05-061h 00
Comfy ChairsHold this mindsetBalancing empathy and authority. Modeling accountability without harshness. These are questions that come up often in leadership conversations—and they point to something deeper: mindset.In this episode, I’m exploring the relationship between power and empathy, the process of accountability as a shared practice, and how small shifts in mindset can shape the way leaders show up every day. This is an episode about reflection, relationships, and the quiet choices that make leadership work. 👉🏻 Have a question for comfyHQ? Share your questions.👉🏻 Subscribe to the “as easy as” newsletter from onetwentythree ltd.2025-04-2911 min
Comfy ChairsBeyond the obviousBeyond the obvious: A conversation about questions.In this episode of the comfy chairs, Kate talks with leadership development consultant Amber Johnson, PhD, about the power of questions in leadership and everyday conversations. Amber shares how the best leaders don’t just have answers—they ask better questions. From sparking “uncommon insight” to building emotional safety, they explore how questions shift dynamics, foster deeper connection, and strengthen teams. Amber also offers practical examples, like her list of 50 alternatives to "How are you?"—designed to make conversations more human, more helpful, and more honest.Connect...2025-04-2258 min
Comfy ChairsGrow stronger togetherIn this comfyHQ episode of the comfy chairs, we’re talking about what it really takes to build strong, adaptable teams—starting with two foundational leadership questions:How do I foster a culture of continuous learning?How do I develop resilience and mental toughness as a leader?We explore the mindsets, habits, and frameworks that help leaders grow alongside their teams—and show up with steadiness, curiosity, and compassion, even when things feel uncertain. If you’re leading in the middle of change or helping others stretch into something new, this one’s for you.2025-04-1516 min
Comfy ChairsExperiment with meExperiment with me: A conversation about human-centric teams.What does it mean to lead in a truly human-centric way—and what gets in our way when we try?In this episode, Kate is joined by Rachel Anderson, owner of Pivot Studies, a fractional CMO, and leadership coach who invites us to experiment with a different kind of leadership—one rooted in curiosity, courage, and care. Together, they unpack the tension leaders often feel between meeting organizational goals and tending to the well-being of their people.Rachel shares her definition of human-centric lead...2025-04-081h 10
Comfy ChairsNot all-knowingIn this comfyHQ episode, we’re looking at three everyday leadership challenges: when your team over-relies on you, when you don’t have the answers, and how to make it safe for people to ask questions. These moments are common—and fixable. We explore practical ways to shift patterns, build trust, and lead with clarity, even in uncertainty.👉🏻 Have a question for comfyHQ? Share your questions.👉🏻 Subscribe to the “as easy as” newsletter from onetwentythree ltd. www.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/ Music by Geoff Harve2025-04-0123 min
Comfy ChairsConnect to performConnect to perform: A conversation about developing leadership teams.What makes a leadership team truly great? In this episode, I sit down with James Madison, CEO of On Purpose Life, to explore the traits that elevate leadership teams—starting with purpose, alignment, and trust. From personal vision statements to the power of humility and relational health, this conversation is a masterclass in intentional leadership.Listen in, reflect on your leadership team's energy, and ask yourself: are you leading on purpose?Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesfmadison/Learn more about hi...2025-03-251h 03
Comfy Chairsbig idea wordsWe hear it all the time: “Managers manage, leaders lead.” But is that really true? In this episode of comfyHQ, I explore the distinction between leadership and management—why we tend to separate them, why that might be a mistake, and what actually matters when it comes to guiding people and work.We also tackle two other big topics: workplace language and feedback. Some leadership buzzwords—like mission, vision, and strategy—get thrown around constantly, but do we all mean the same thing when we use them? And when it comes to feedback—especially the kind we don’t want t...2025-03-1814 min
Comfy ChairsThe 25 problems mythThe 25 problems myth: A conversation about problem-solving.In this episode of the comfy chairs, I sit down with Jamie Flinchbaugh to unpack the complexities of leadership problem-solving. We challenge the conventional “bring me solutions” mindset, exploring why real leadership requires both structure and imagination. Jamie shares insights on the power of coaching, the necessity of sponsorship, and why problem-solving is less about quick fixes and more about an ongoing, intentional practice.Connect with Jamie and learn more about his business:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamieflinchbaugh/https://www.jflinch.com 2025-03-1157 min
Comfy ChairsElements of styleLeadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all role—so why should your leadership style be?In this episode, we explore how to identify your strengths, recognize how they shape your leadership, and intentionally refine your approach to align with your values and your team’s needs. We’ll break down the five key elements of leadership style—communication, relationships, structure, development, and failure—and explore how to craft a leadership presence that is both authentic and effective. These shorter episodes are designed to spark reflection and build your leadership toolkit. Have a question for comfyHQ? Share it wit...2025-03-0419 min
Comfy ChairsExplore, Define, AlignExplore, Define, Align: A conversation about values.In this Comfy Chairs episode, Dr. Benjamin Ritter and I explore how relying on your core values can lead to fearlessness and career fulfillment.Drawing from his book Becoming Fearless, Dr. Ritter provides a step-by-step guide to exploring, defining, and aligning your personal values with your professional goals. We discuss practical approaches like calendar audits and team crafting to help you identify what matters most and build a career you’re proud of. Tune in to learn how clarity, purpose, and self-leadership can support your journey....2025-02-251h 00
Comfy ChairsDon’t leave this to chance.Don’t leave this to chance.How do you balance long-term vision with short-term goals? And when setbacks happen (because they will), how do you recover with resilience?In this comfyHQ (comfy chairs, hard questions) episode, we’re diving into practical strategies for keeping your leadership balanced and adaptable. From making short-term goals more purposeful to developing "double vision"—the ability to see failure as both a challenge and a learning opportunity—you'll walk away with tools to strengthen your leadership approach.Join me as we explore how small adjustments can help you align da...2025-02-1818 min
Comfy ChairsKindness is an actKindness is an act: A conversation for leaders about kindness.Kindness isn’t just nice—it’s a force for connection, well-being, and even workplace success. In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Browning, founder of Time for Kindness, to explore how small acts of kindness ripple outward, shaping healthier teams and stronger communities. We dive into the science behind kindness, its impact on productivity and mental health, and why noticing kindness is just as important as practicing it. Sarah shares practical ways to cultivate kindness in our daily lives—starting with ourselves.2025-02-1158 min
Comfy ChairsMake sense of thingsHow do great leaders use storytelling to inspire and motivate? And how can you lead effectively through uncertainty when you don’t have all the answers? In this comfyHQ Q&A episode, we explore the power of stories as leadership tools and practical strategies for navigating ambiguity with confidence, clarity, and trust. Tune in for insights that will help you connect, communicate, and guide your team—no matter the circumstances.These shorter episodes are designed to spark reflection and build your leadership toolkit. Have a question for comfyHQ? Share it with us here: https://www.one2...2025-02-0419 min
Comfy ChairsThe right amountThe right amount: A conversation about leadership styles.In this episode, Kate Johnson and guest Paul Thornton explore leadership styles: the practical application of different leadership behaviors and how they impact people and organizations.The discussion covers the three primary leadership styles – directing, discussing, and delegating – and how effective leaders adapt their approach based on the needs of their team members and the circumstances at hand.Kate and Paul also tackle the challenges facing leaders today, such as finding the courage to speak up and dealing with constant change.2025-01-281h 04
Comfy ChairsWhat, why, howWhat, why, how: A comfyHQ Q&AIn this bite-sized episode of the comfy chairs, we’re diving into two essential leadership questions:How can you delegate effectively without micromanaging?What’s the best approach to giving constructive feedback?Join me as we break down common misconceptions about micromanagement, explore how clarity is the key to delegation, and discover the “what, why, how” of delivering impactful feedback.These shorter episodes are designed to spark reflection and build your leadership toolkit. Have a question for comfyHQ? Share it with us here: https://www.one2...2025-01-2120 min
Comfy ChairsPull them closePull them close: A conversation about grief and lossIn this episode of The Comfy Chairs, host Kate Johnson welcomes Justin Clifford, CEO of bereave, for a heartfelt conversation about the critical role of workplace bereavement practices. Together, they delve into how employers can compassionately support employees navigating grief and the profound ripple effects this has on retention, productivity, and workplace culture.Justin shares actionable insights for managers, from fostering empathy through training to crafting inclusive policies that honor modern family dynamics. He challenges leaders to rethink how they approach grief—not only as a mo...2025-01-141h 08
Comfy ChairsManage your own actionsWelcome to comfyHQ! New from the comfy chairs.In this first comfyHQ installment of the comfy chairs, we’re answering some of your burning questions and introducing a new format: shorter, focused episodes packed with practical advice.This episode explores what it means to lead with intention, offering actionable insights for leaders who want to make an impact—without overcomplicating things. If you’re looking for quick, meaningful takeaways to apply at work (or in life), this episode is for you.Get comfy, because today we’re answerin...2025-01-0713 min
Comfy ChairsTell me moreTell me more: A conversation about curiosity and joyWhat if the secret to joyful, innovative, and resilient leadership lies in a single quality—curiosity? In this episode, Kate sits down with Tatyana Sanikovich, HR consultant and executive coach, to explore how curiosity transforms leadership and team dynamics. Together, they unpack the true meaning of curiosity and offer actionable insights on how leaders can build trust, foster experimentation, and create psychological safety. From curiosity check-ins at meetings to celebrating both successes and failures, Kate and Tatyana highlight practical strategies to integrate cu...2024-12-311h 08
Comfy ChairsEnvision a leaderEnvision a leader: A conversation about humanity in leadership. What if leadership wasn't about perfection but about embracing humanity? In this episode of the comfy chairs, Kate Johnson sits down with Mandee Bowsmith to explore a new vision for what it means to lead. Together, they take aim at outdated leadership models and champion an approach rooted in psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and authenticity.The conversation goes to the heart of what challenges leaders: how to foster trust, admit mistakes, and create safe environments for growth.The episode calls on organizations...2024-12-171h 18
Comfy ChairsNatural to the human mindNatural to the human mind: A conversation about fear.In this episode of the comfy chairs, Kate sits down with Utkarsh, a coach and consultant, to explore fear as both a challenge and a catalyst for growth. Together, they unpack how fear shapes leadership and personal growth, from navigating rejection and failure to embracing vulnerability with resilience.Utkarsh shares his journey of transforming fear into action and highlights the power of anchoring ourselves in personal values like growth and love. Kate reflects on the role of joy as a counterbalance to...2024-12-0359 min
Comfy ChairsComing in 2025: comfyHQ!Get ready for comfyHQ, a bite-sized series where your leadership and learning questions take center stage.Submit your hard questions for the comfy chairs here: https://www.one23ltd.com/comfyhqSubscribe to the comfy chairs today and get ready for comfyHQ.The work may be hard, but the chairs here are comfy. So, be on the lookout for the first comfyHQ answers, coming January 7th.2024-11-2101 min
Comfy ChairsIntended for funIntended for fun: A conversation about team-building.What does it really mean to build a high-performing team?Spoiler: it’s not about icebreakers or quick-fix trust exercises. In this episode of the comfy chairs, we tackle the art and architecture of team building with Jeremy LaDuke, owner of Epic Nine Marketing Outfitters. We dive into the essential mindsets and practices that help leaders create thriving teams, focusing on what truly matters: fostering one-on-one connections, celebrating successes, addressing unspoken tensions, and embracing vulnerability as leaders. Whether you’re inheriting a team with a co...2024-11-191h 13
Comfy ChairsA balance to strikeA balance to strike: A conversation about humor at workIn this episode of the comfy chairs, host Kate Johnson sits down with Kim Minnick, an HR leader with a knack for weaving humor into the sometimes-rigid landscape of human resources. They dive into the power of humor in the workplace, exploring how it can be a bridge for connection, resilience, and even creativity in day-to-day interactions. Kim shares stories of navigating the challenging dynamics of an inherited team with limited management skills, balancing her HR responsibilities while often being the “paperwork enforcer.” She believes, thou...2024-11-051h 06
Comfy ChairsOpening up opportunitiesOpening up opportunities: A conversation about advocacy and stories.In this episode, I am joined by Thomas Wilson, owner and CEO of R&H Creative Advocacy, to discuss the power of shared storytelling and its role in creating psychological safety and celebrating neurodiversity.Thomas shares his passion for using sensory-friendly settings and inclusive storytelling to empower underserved communities. We unpack the mission of R&H Creative Advocacy, which focuses on advocacy through shared narratives that embrace mental health and cultural acceptance. Our conversation explores practical steps organizations can take to design event spaces...2024-10-2252 min
Comfy ChairsYou don’t have to fake anythingYou don’t have to fake anything: A conversation about listening.Deepen your understanding and expand your language about what works best when it comes to listening. In this episode, we focus on how to learn more about the interplay of thoughts, actions, and emotions that occur when we speak and when we listen.With guest Bailey Massey.Connect with Bailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bailey-massey/Visit her website: https://baileymasseyglobal.com/Additional resources and information:What is active li...2024-10-081h 14
Comfy ChairsGreater than myselfGreater than myself: A conversation about purpose.Connect with Chase on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chase-friedman/Visit his website: https://vanquishmediagroup.com/Additional resources about overthinking and/or mentioned during our conversation:https://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/blog/how-managers-can-help-frontline-employees-connect-to-purposehttps://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/blog/purpose-at-work-predicts-if-employees-will-stay-or-quit-their-jobshttps://vanquishmediagroup.com/embracing-your-why-how-to-live-a-purpose-driven-life/https://vanquishmediagroup.com/the-purpose-driven-brand-advantage-why-your-why-matters-more-than-ever/www.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/2024-09-241h 12
Comfy ChairsIt’s your signatureIt’s your signature: A conversation about character.Connect with David on LinkedInVisit the Edge Leadership Academy websiteSubscribe to the Finish Friday newsletterAdditional resources mentioned during our conversation:How Are Character and Personality DifferentSoundtracks by John AcuffThe Wisdom of Psychopaths by Kevin DuttonThe Stanford Marshmallow Experiment: A description and a videoThe Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan HolidayEmotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberrywww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/Mu...2024-09-101h 16
Comfy ChairsHonoring your wordHonoring your word: A conversation about accountability and trust.Visit Wayne’s website: https://www.uglymugmarketing.com/Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fireyourself/Mentioned during our conversation:Information from Crucial Learning defining the fundamental attribution error: https://cruciallearning.com/glossary/#fundamental-attribution-errorwww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/2024-08-271h 13
Comfy ChairsIs it useful?Is it useful? A conversation about overthinking.Connect with Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-witten/Visit her website: https://www.witten.kim/Subscribe to her newsletter: https://www.witten.kim/subscribeAdditional resources about overthinking and/or mentioned during our conversation:“3 Types of Overthinking and How to Overcome Them” from The Harvard Business Review: https://hbr.org/2024/02/3-types-of-overthinking-and-how-to-overcome-themAtomic Habits by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits4,000 Weeks by Oliver Burkeman: https://www.amazon.com/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Management-Mortals/dp/0374159122www.one23ltd.com2024-08-131h 03
Comfy ChairsConnection that fulfillsConnection that fulfills: A conversation about belonging.Connect with Colleen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-saringer-phd/Visit her website: https://www.colleensaringer.com/Check out her bi-weekly program, We Built a Bridge, live on YouTube every other Thursday: https://www.youtube.com/@WeBuiltABridgeAdditional resources and information:Dr. Vivek Murthy, the US Surgeon General, discusses the public health impact of loneliness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSbxMkRYb6oAmerica has a loneliness epidemic. Here are 6 steps to address it: https://www.npr.org/2023/05/02/1173418268/loneliness-connection-mental-health-dementia-surgeon-generalOur...2024-07-301h 05
Comfy ChairsContinue to grow & changeContinue to grow & change: A conversation about self-assessment.Celebrate the Comfy Chairs podcast’s 1st birthday with us!Onetwentythree ltd is offering a complimentary Everything DiSC® assessment for one listener.Here’s how to enter:1) Leave a review of the podcast.2) Share your email at the onetwentythree ltd website.Everyone who completes these two steps between July 16 and August 13, 2024, will be entered in a drawing. The winner will be notified no later than August 23rd.Thank...2024-07-161h 10
Comfy ChairsEnergy in communicationEnergy in communication: A conversation about communication and anxiety.Connect with Grace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-cw-liu/Visit her website: https://gracesoulutions.com/GraceSOULutions on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraceSoulutionsAdditional resources mentioned during our conversation:How Anxiety Can Impair Communication: https://www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/impairs-communicationFor a simple explanation of the practice Grace mentioned called human design, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_Designwww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/2024-07-0252 min
Comfy ChairsConstantly narrating your environmentConstantly narrating your environment: A conversation about storytelling and company culture.Connect with Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimrohrer/Patchwork Portfolio: https://www.patchworkportfolio.com/Peak HR Learning: http://www.peakhrlearning.com/I Care Too Much on Substack: https://icaretoomuch.substack.com/Learn more about the personality and personal style assessments we discussed:CliftonStrengths®: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspxMyers-Briggs Type Indicator®: https://www.themyersbriggs.com/en-US/Everything DiSC®: https://www.everythingdisc.com/References and Resources:How stories shape our minds | The science of...2024-06-181h 05
Comfy ChairsWe all have one.We all have one.: A conversation about stories and identity.Content warning: Please be aware that this episode contains brief references to childhood experiences of abuse.Connect with Shama on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjukta-shams-71642b6/Visit her website: https://www.caseforsupportconsulting.com/Listen to her podcast, From Passion to Purpose: https://open.spotify.com/show/59p27tDIg2BqMTNL3lrQsSRead her memoir: https://shorturl.at/nD129Additional resources mentioned during our conversation:Visit Brené Brown’s websitehttps://brenebrown.com/Watch a s...2024-06-0445 min
Comfy ChairsThere is no perfect pathThere is no perfect path: A conversation about career journeys.Connect with Frank on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankesawyer731/ While I couldn’t find the 5 Whys video I mentioned, here’s a short introduction to this concept:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_56GhHgGU2Uwww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay2024-05-211h 03
Comfy ChairsI’m now leading myself.I’m now leading myself: A conversation about supporting managers.Connect with Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bwalch/Visit his company website: https://www.shiftfocus.com/Check out these articles, written by Brian:https://digital.akbizmag.com/issue/january-2024/aspirational-experiments/https://digital.akbizmag.com/issue/march-2024/create-inevitable-progress/https://digital.akbizmag.com/issue/november-2023/design-your-career/Reference these additional articles and reports:The Hidden Heroes: How To Empower Middle Management https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/04/15/the-hidden-heroes-how-to-empower-middle-management/Executives feel the strain of leading in the “new...2024-05-071h 01
Comfy ChairsIt’s cool to be you.It’s cool to be you.: A conversation about authenticityConnect with Ingafay:http://ingafay.com/https://facebook.com/ingafayunpluggedhttps://www.youtube.com/@ingafayunpluggedhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ingafay/Information about Julia Cameron and Morning Pages: https://juliacameronlive.com/basic-tools/morning-pages/ Read more about authenticity and emotional intelligence:https://www.inc.com/justin-bariso/emotional-intelligence-personality-big-5-how-to-be-authentic.htmlhttps://www.leadershum.com/video/emotional-intelligence-leads-to-authenticity?contentId=62ebbda916bd680a6fe7a50bhttps://www.academia.edu/47581998/Authenticity_Is_Correlated_With_Mindfulness_and_Emotional_Intelligenceww...2024-04-2339 min
Comfy ChairsIt's a very personal process. It's a very personal process. A conversation about workplace spirituality and purpose.Connect with Peggy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggy-mark-80358b24/Resources we referenced:Practicing Sacred Encounters: A Narrative Analysis of Relational, Spiritual, and Nursing Leadership https://aura.antioch.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1391&context=etdsWhat Makes Work Meaningful? https://hbr.org/2023/07/what-makes-work-meaningfulEmployees Seek Personal Value and Purpose at Work. Be Prepared to Deliver. https://www.gartner.com/en/articles/employees-seek-personal-value-and-purpose-at-work-be-prepared-to-deliverDr. Peter Vaill: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_VaillI and Thou, by Martin Buber: https://www...2024-04-091h 00
Comfy ChairsCreavity, Baby!Creativity, Baby!: A conversation about creativity.Find Thu on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd/Connect with her podcast, reels, and other content: https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmdwww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay2024-03-2759 min
Comfy ChairsThat person you can go to.That person you can go to: a conversation about friendships at work Here are the articles we referenced:https://www.gallup.com/workplace/397058/increasing-importance-best-friend-work.aspxhttps://www.gallup.com/workplace/285674/improve-employee-engagement-workplace.aspxhttps://www.inc.com/bill-murphy-jr/gallup-calls-this-8-word-question-its-most-controversial-ever-but-a-new-survey-of-2000-workers-shows-its-what-employees-care-about-most.html Check out the Adobe Creative Type self-assessment: https://mycreativetype.com/www.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/ Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay2024-03-1951 min
Comfy ChairsWe are wired to connect.A conversation about connections. You can connect with Josiah on LinkedIn here and visit his business website here.Read Josiah’s LinkedIn article I referenced, The Costly Impact of Sarcasm. And here are links to the various authors, books, resources, and thought leaders we mentioned during our conversation:Donald MillerTamara Myles The Arbinger InstituteJon AcuffBeginners by Tom VanderbiltTim Kight www.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/ Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay 2024-02-2754 min
Comfy ChairsFocus on what's right.Focus on what’s right: A conversation about strengths. Everyone is good at something. And leading is more fulfilling—and fun!—when you help people use their strengths.Connect with Stephanie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielemek/ https://linktr.ee/stephanielemekCliftonStrengths website:https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspxBooks we mentioned and recommend:Strengthsfinder 2.0 http://tinyurl.com/4kjxd8e8Strengths-based Leadership http://tinyurl.com/56xsa7wuThe Power of Two http://tinyurl.com/366u9nu6The Empathetic Workplace h...2024-02-121h 08
Comfy ChairsWe’re talking about change.A conversation about adaptability, Part 2Content warning: Please be aware that this episode contains conversation about the loss of a loved one due to cancer.Following her death, Melissa’s family established a scholarship to honor her passion for education. The Melissa Ortiz-Bebbington Memorial Scholarship is awarded to Wright State Latino Students who are involved in giving back to the Latino community and/or work with the disabled population.Learn more about Wright State’s Latino Center: https://www.wright.edu/inclusive-excellence/culture-and-identity-centers/latino-center/scholarshipsDonate to the scholarship fund: Fund ID...2024-01-3044 min
Comfy ChairsIt's a road that you take.A conversation about adaptability, Part 1: “It’s a road that you take.”Content warning: Please be aware that this episode contains conversation about the loss of a loved one due to cancer.Following her death, Melissa’s family established a scholarship to honor her passion for education. The Melissa Ortiz-Bebbington Memorial Scholarship is awarded to Wright State Latino Students who are involved in giving back to the Latino community and/or work with the disabled population.Learn more about Wright State’s Latino Center: https://www.wright.edu/inclus...2024-01-2352 min
Comfy Chairs1st impressions mean a lot.Let’s end the year with a super-sized episode of the Comfy Chairs!I’m joined by Maggie, my friend and fellow Xavier University alumnae, for a conversation that includes thoughts on the reality TV survival show “Alone,” red carpet appearances, and artificial intelligence. Which obviously means we are talking about how new employee onboarding drives engagement.Read the article, “Employee-Employer Relationships Are on Thin Ice"https://www.td.org/talent-development-leader/employee-employer-relationships-are-on-thin-iceSee a summary of the Gartner report, “Where HR Will Focus in 2024”https://www...2023-12-291h 05
Comfy ChairsContext Matters.Part 2 of 2 about clear communication for leaders.Erin’s Recommended Resources, in her own wordsStephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the CraftI think learning comes from all sorts of places. This book is about writing, not business communication. But there are a lot of great points about clear communication, about striving and even about not taking something too seriously. And, a great suggestion to read. If we want to communicate well, we have to read other people’s communication! Some of the better quotes:“The road to hell is paved...2023-12-2058 min
Comfy ChairsWords matter.Part 1 of 2 devoted to the topic of communication—specifically clear communication for leaders.Look for a list of resources with part 2!Find Erin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-omara1/www.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay2023-11-3056 min
Comfy ChairsEvent, Experience, and EffectFind Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielemek/Visit her website: https://linktr.ee/stephanielemekOther resources we discussed:https://hbr.org/2023/10/4-forces-that-are-fundamentally-changing-how-we-workhttps://katharinemanning.com/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/28/magazine/what-google-learned-from-its-quest-to-build-the-perfect-team.htmlwww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay2023-11-1659 min
Comfy ChairsPermission to not be perfectFind Kate on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecozart-med-pharmd-bcps-bcgp-bcacpVisit her website:https://www.theresilientpharmd.com/Check out Things I Wish I Knew for Kate’s chapter on taming the inner critic:https://shorturl.at/yFT19Other books and resources we discussed:https://www.amazon.com/Unlocking-Your-Authentic-Self-Self-confidence/dp/1734598808https://www.amazon.com/Soundtracks-Surprising-Overthinking-Jon-Acuff-ebook/dp/B08CJJ91JN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=33WN0Y1BE80L3&keywords=soundtracks&qid=1697554155&s=books&sprefix=soundtracks%2Cstripbooks%2C75&sr=1-1www.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/...2023-10-2341 min
Comfy ChairsAcknowledgement of the onionEpisode six wraps up the conversation about Bittersweet, by Susan Cain.Learn more about the book: https://susancain.net/book/bittersweet/Michele mentioned the Cleveland Clinic’s video about empathy.You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYhpxn81xusNever seen the Folger’s Christmas commercial we kept talking about?Here’s a link to check it out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFoZNKPpAoIThe versions of “Hallelujah” we mentioned:Leonard Coen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrLk4vdY28QKD Lang: https://www.youtube.com/watch...2023-10-0548 min
Comfy ChairsIt's the longing.In episode five, we continue the conversation about, Bittersweet, by Susan Cain.Learn more about the book: https://susancain.net/book/bittersweet/Want to show your love with lasagna? https://lasagnalove.org/And here’s the link to the Compassion Lab: https://www.compassionlab.com/www.one23ltd.comMusic by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay2023-09-2942 min
Comfy ChairsWhat exactly are we grieving?Episode four introduces the first in a 3-part series discussing the book, Bittersweet, by Susan Cain.Learn more about the book: https://susancain.net/book/bittersweet/We talked about Maslow’s Hierarchy. Here is an outline of this theory: https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.htmlGain more insight into the psychology of sadness in the movie, Inside Out with this article: Inside Out: Behind-the-Scenes Science with Dacher Keltner, PhD https://www.psichi.org/page/203EyeSpr16aCannon#.VudMTOnJvFI?platform=hootsuitewww.one23ltd.comMusic by Ge...2023-09-0629 min
Comfy ChairsThis is what a Millennial is?In episode three, we tackle questions about managing different generations in the workplace.Here are some handy reference links, including the articles we mention and an overview of the Eisenhower Matrix.https://fortune.com/2023/06/17/pew-research-gen-z-millennials-generational-framing/https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/gen-what-debunking-age-based-myths-about-worker-preferences https://www.eisenhower.me/eisenhower-matrix/https://www.amazon.com/Linchpin-Are-Indispensable-Seth-Godin-ebook/dp/B00354Y9ZU/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10CACLM7860FP&keywords=linchpin+by+seth+godin&qid=1692668305&sprefix=linchpin%2Caps%2C105&sr=8-1www.one23ltd.comMusic by Geoff...2023-08-2250 min
Comfy ChairsYou can't always win.In episode two, a very special guest joins me in the Comfy Chairs to talk about high-reliability organizations.Here are the links to reference articles, shows, and other topics we discussed. The article we mentioned, with the pillars and practices of high-reliability organizations: https://blog.kainexus.com/improvement-disciplines/hro/5-principlesA paper that delves into the relationship between submarine operations and high-reliability: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236624304_Culture_and_High_Reliability_Organizations_The_Case_of_the_Nuclear_SubmarineSome information about the USS Providence: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USS_Providence_(SSN-719)2023-08-0356 min
Comfy ChairsPlease don't take away my super hero cape!The first episode of Comfy Chairs covers key leadership topics, including responsibility, coaching, and delegation.Here's a link to the article we discussed: https://hbr.org/2019/09/coaching-for-changeCheck out more about the Conscious Leadership Group here: https://conscious.is/www.one23ltd.comMusic by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay2023-07-1651 min