In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Schembra sits down with Sophia Mullins, Founder and CEO of Wall Street Wellness. Recorded live at a UBS conference, this conversation strips away the corporate veneer to explore the "reactive" journey of entrepreneurship. Sophia opens up about the stress-induced autoimmune diagnosis that forced her to pivot from a decade in investment banking and venture capital toward a mission of service.

Together, Chris and Sophia dismantle the myth that you have to choose between a lucrative career and a vibrant life, arguing that the greatest bet you can ever make is the one you take on yourself.

10 Memorable Quotes:

1. "My life path was to use the things that brought me pain as a purpose of serving others."
2. "I really backed into the fact that I wanted to be an entrepreneur."
3. "Success is taking a bet on yourself."
4. "You have to choose the mission every day."
5. "My life would not be nearly as vibrant or fun or fulfilling without my support system."
6. "I want to distill my experiences into something helpful for other people."
7. "Balance the desire to serve with the practical nature of running a lucrative business."
8. "I came to the realization of my mission at age 30."
9. "It’s your world. Go explore."
10. "If the only thing holding you back is taking the bet on yourself, take the bet."

10 Key Takeaways:

1. The Reactive Entrepreneur: Understanding how personal crises—like a health diagnosis—can serve as the ultimate catalyst for a professional pivot.
2. The Daily Choice: Why mission-driven work isn't a "one-and-done" decision, but a commitment you must renew every morning.
3. Pain as a Compass: How the most difficult seasons of your career often contain the blueprint for your greatest service to others.
4. The "Bet on Yourself" Philosophy: Overcoming the fear of leaving a traditional "safe" path to build something authentic.
5. Vibrant Success: Redefining "high performance" to include physical health, emotional vibrancy, and genuine joy.
6. The Power of Support: Sophia’s tribute to her partner as the "rock" that makes her professional output possible.
7. Service vs. Scale: The delicate art of balancing a heart for service with the necessity of running a profitable consultancy.
8. The 30s Realization: Highlighting that finding your true calling and pivoting your career path at age 30 is right on time.
9. Science-Backed Resilience: How Sophia uses her finance background to create wellness frameworks that speak the language of high-performers.
10. The Human Heart in Business: A reminder that even in high-pressure financial environments, the most impactful work happens when we lead with humanity.

About our Guest:

Sophia Mullins is the Founder and CEO of Wall Street Wellness, a consultancy and community that empowers high performers to live healthy, vibrant lives. With nearly a decade of experience in investment banking, private equity, and venture capital, Sophia bridges the gap between fast-paced career demands and science-backed well-being. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, and PopSugar.

Connect with Sophia:

• Website & Substack: Wall Street Wellness
• Instagram: @wallstreetwellness
• LinkedIn: Sophia Mullins

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Schembra sits down with Christine Angles, a powerhouse Allstate agency owner and community builder from Gainesville, Virginia. While Christine is a leader in the insurance world, this conversation strips away the professional accolades to explore the raw, essential need for fun, wit, and "inconvenient" kindness.

Christine shares a vulnerable and celebratory look at her journey—from the legacy of her mother, Linda, to the intentional "grace" required to navigate a 12-year career gap. Together, Chris and Christine dismantle the myth that technology can replace presence, arguing that the "Business by Party" philosophy and the act of welcoming others into your sacred space are the only real antidotes to our modern epidemic of disconnection.

10 Memorable Quotes:

1. "I want work to be fun."
2. "I really do believe that self-care is a form of giving."
3. "Don’t be a wallflower. Make sure you participate."
4. "Life's not an 'or,' it’s an 'and.'"
5. "Business by party."
6. "You can do a boring job like insurance in a fun way."
7. "Give yourself some grace."
8. "I like you because I love you in spite of."
9. "Find extraordinary in the ordinary."
10. "If you’ve changed one person’s whole world, you've done enough."

10 Key Takeaways:

1. The Legacy of Linda: How a single mother working full-time on a school board provided the blueprint for a life of service and visibility.
2. Business by Party: Why integrating personal joy into professional networking creates deeper, more resilient business bonds.
3. The ROI of Community Deposits: Reflecting on how a lifetime of showing up for neighbors creates a safety net of support during personal health crises.
4. The Power of the 12-Year Gap: Validating the choice to prioritize family and proving that "success" doesn't have to happen all at once.
5. The Connection Venn Diagram: A breakdown of the three pillars of a great life: Fun (energy), Funny (wit), and Nice (kindness).
6. The "Inconvenient" Host: Why the effort of cleaning your house and buying food to invite people in is the most sacred act of connection.
7. The 3-Hour Pity Party: A practical lesson in emotional regulation—allowing yourself time to feel disappointment before choosing to celebrate others.
8. The Intentional "No": Learning to set boundaries so that when you say "yes" to a community project, you can be 100% present.
9. Anti-Optimization: Why we must trade "frictionless" digital interactions for the meaningful, sometimes messy friction of physical presence.
10. The "Good Person" Affirmation: Using simple visual cues to combat imposter syndrome and remember your inherent value.

About our Guest: Christine Angles is a dedicated entrepreneur and leader who runs a top-performing Allstate agency in Northern Virginia. Built on the "Business by Party" philosophy, her work proves that excellence is achieved through genuine human connection. A committed volunteer and "connector," Christine advocates for the power of "earned connection" and the vital necessity of leading with kindness and wit in the modern workplace.

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Schembra sits down with Aaron Hurst, the visionary CEO of the US Chamber of Connection and founder of the Taproot Foundation. While Aaron is a titan of the pro bono world, having catalyzed billions of dollars in social impact, this conversation strips away the professional accolades to explore the raw, essential need for friendship and community.

Aaron shares a vulnerable look at his own journey—from the "epiphany of 50" to navigating the profound grief of losing his mother, Bonnie. Together, Chris and Aaron dismantle the myth that technology can replace presence, arguing that the "low barrier to laughter" and the intentional act of welcoming others are the only real antidotes to our modern epidemic of isolation.

10 Memorable Quotes:

1. "Whatever it is you want most in the world right now is what you need to give."
2. "Humanity is what binds us. It's what we create together."
3. "I focus on connection, not conversion."
4. "The act of welcoming is a fundamental human right."
5. "Friendship isn't a luxury; it's the infrastructure of a healthy society."
6. "We have traded meaningful friction for frictionless isolation."
7. "You can’t scale belonging without shrinking the room."
8. "My mother had a 'low barrier to laughter,' and that was her greatest gift to the world."
9. "The modern world is designed for capital, not for people."

10 Key Takeaways:

1. The Reciprocity of Need: Aaron’s breakthrough realization that if you lack friendship, you must become a friend; if you lack grace, you must extend it.
2. The 1099 Connection Challenge: Much like the real estate world, building community in a "gig" economy requires creating environments where people choose to belong.
3. The "Epiphany of 50": A deep dive into Aaron’s personal turning point and how hitting a milestone age forced a re-evaluation of what "success" actually looks like.
4. Legacy of Service: Exploring Aaron’s family roots—from his grandfather’s blueprint for the Peace Corps to his mother’s spirit of care—and how legacy shapes our mission.
5. Diffusion of Innovation in Social Change: Why focusing on the "initiators" (the 15-20% who naturally build community) is more effective than trying to convert the cynical.
6. Low Barrier to Laughter (LBL): The importance of humor and play as tools for resilience, inspired by the life and memory of Bonnie Hurst.
7. Welcoming as a Design Principle: The philosophy behind the US Chamber of Connection—making "welcoming" a measurable and intentional act in every organization.
8. The Myth of Digital Community: Why a Zoom call can never replace the "meaningful friction" of physical presence and shared meals.
9. The Grief of Losing a North Star: Aaron reflects on the "hard time" of losing his mother and how her values continue to guide his work today.
10. Human-Centric Infrastructure: A call to action for leaders to prioritize social health over mere capital accumulation to ensure a sustainable future for the next generation.

About our Guest: Aaron Hurst, CEO & Founder Aaron Hurst is a social entrepreneur, author, and the visionary leader behind the US Chamber of Connection. As the founder of the Taproot Foundation, he is credited with creating the $15 billion pro bono service market, engaging tens of thousands of skilled volunteers to help nonprofits thrive. Aaron’s work is deeply influenced by his family’s legacy in the Peace Corps and the Aspen Institute, driving his lifelong commitment to civic infrastructure.

A sought-after speaker and executive coach, Aaron is the author of The Purpose Economy. He resides in a world where he continues to advocate for the power of "earned connection" and the vital necessity of prioritizing humanity in the modern workplace. He is a devoted advocate for the "initiators" of the world, helping them build the bridges that keep us all connected.

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Schembra sits down with Nick Schleckaway, the CEO and founder of Amherst Madison. While Nick is a titan of the real estate industry, this isn't a conversation about market trends or interest rates. This is a visceral exploration of "Earned Connection"—the intentional effort required to build a sense of belonging in a world that has traded physical presence for digital convenience.

Nick shares a vulnerable look at his own "hard week," discussing the weight of leadership when key team members move on and how he leans on the "lifeboat" of his family to stay afloat. Together, Chris and Nick dismantle the myth of hybrid culture, arguing that true innovation isn't found in a Zoom call, but in the friction of being together.

10 Memorable Quotes:

1. "Culture is how we treat each other when nobody's watching."
2. "My family is my lifeboat; when the professional waters get choppy, they keep me from sinking."
3. "Hybrid is not where you work. It’s how you work."
4. "Convenience is the enemy of connection."
5. "Culture doesn't happen in a recorded town hall; it happens in the unscripted moments."
6. "You can’t lead a 1099 workforce with a W2 mindset."
7. "The office isn't just a place to work; it’s where trust is traded."
8. "Leadership is defined by what you are willing to put up with."
9. "We are trading meaningful friction for frictionless isolation."
10. "If you want to scale belonging, you have to shrink the room."

10 Key Takeaways:

1. The 1099 Culture Challenge: Building culture for independent contractors is fundamentally different from employees; it requires creating an environment people choose to enter rather than one they are paid to stay in.
2. The Performance Gap: There is a direct correlation between physical office presence and professional success; agents who show up in person consistently outperform those who stay remote.
3. Convenience vs. Connection: Companies often mistake "easy" interactions (like virtual happy hours) for real culture. True belonging requires "earned connection," which often involves the effort of physical proximity.
4. The "Lifeboat" Strategy: During professional trials, leaders must identify their personal anchors—for Nick, it is his wife Megan and children Charlotte and Beau—to maintain perspective.
5. The Myth of Hybrid: Hybrid work should not be viewed as a location, but as a methodology. Without intentionality, hybrid often defaults to total disengagement.
6. Friction as a Tool: Meaningful relationships require "friction"—the effort of travel, the risk of face-to-face conversation, and the lack of a "mute" button—to develop depth.
7. Scaling via Intimacy: To impact a large organization, leaders should focus on frequent, intimate, small-group gatherings rather than infrequent, massive corporate events.
8. Trust as Currency: In high-stakes industries like real estate, trust is the primary currency. That trust is built faster through non-verbal cues and "hallway talk" than through digital screens.
9. Leading by Example: A leader's primary job in culture-building is modeling the behavior they want to see, especially when it comes to showing up and being present.
10. Human-Centric Real Estate: Despite the rise of AI and digital platforms, real estate remains a deeply human, referral-based business that relies on local community ties.

About our Guest: Nick Schleckaway Founder & CEO, Amherst Madison

Nick Schleckaway is an entrepreneur, executive coach, and the visionary leader behind Amherst Madison, Idaho’s top luxury real estate brokerage. A former firefighter and captain of the Boise State University football team, Nick brings a unique blend of "grit and grace" to the corporate world. Under his leadership, Amherst Madison has become one of the fastest-growing independent firms in the United States, known for its high standards and unique culture.

Nick’s perspective on resilience is shaped by his background in emergency services and his upcoming book on company culture. He is a devoted father and husband, residing in Boise, Idaho, where he continues to advocate for the power of physical presence and authentic human connection in the modern workplace.

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Shambra sits down with Jay Kiew, a world-renowned keynote speaker, author, and change strategist who has navigated the halls of power at firms like Deloitte and TELUS. But this isn't a conversation about corporate efficiency or digital roadmaps. This is a deep dive into "Change Fluency"—the adaptive capacity to translate life’s most difficult disruptions into our greatest opportunities.

Jay shares his raw and inspiring journey as a half-blind cancer survivor who "lost it all" before finding his true calling. We explore how change isn't something that happens to you, but something that can happen through you when you move from a mindset of survival to one of co-creation and possibility

10 Memorable Quotes:

1. "Stats drive scores, but stories stir souls."
2. "Change fluency is the individual's adaptive capacity to translate challenges into opportunities."
3. "Our greatest innovation isn't what we create, but how we create together."
4. "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." 
5. "The goal isn't to control change but to sit in it with fluidity."
6. "Transformation doesn't have to be scary or happen to you, but instead it can happen through you."
7. "The language of change is the only language that will matter in an era of AI."
8. "He held space for me when I couldn't hold space for myself."
9. "Shift your focus from what is present to what is possible."
10. "The world is going through a hard time, but you can write the playbook to get through it." 

10 Key Takeaways:

1. Defining Change Fluency: It is the "language of change" required as we head into the space of artificial intelligence.
2. The Four Change Mindsets: Your reaction to disruption depends on whether you view change as a threat or opportunity, and whether you are proactive or stuck.
3. Active Presence: True leadership requires leaning in to observe non-verbal cues and naming emotions rather than just being a passive observer.
4. The Power of Co-Creation: Based on the concept of Ubuntu, the episode explores why working together yields superior, more sustainable results despite the time and emotional complexity involved.
5. Strategic Foresight: To discover what is possible, leaders must combine scenario planning with "futurist thinking" to see threats and opportunities from different vantage points.
6. Strategy as Sacrifice: Design thinking requires the courage to say "no" and cut off current business units or emotional attachments to focus on one North Star.
7. The "What If?" Framework: Innovation begins with the ability to ask hypothetical questions that challenge current constraints, a skill Jay learned from his father during difficult times.
8. Relational Gratitude: Jay highlights the importance of individuals like Brian Chang, who provide empathetic space during "dark moments" without being deflective.
9. Sitting in the Tension: Change Fluency isn't about control, but the capacity to sit in complexity and uncertainty with fluidity.
10. Human-Centric Innovation: Digital disruption is a people opportunity; leaders must bridge the gap by helping team members find personal attachment to their mission.

About our Guest: Jay Kiew

Founder & CEO, Change Fluent

Jay Kiew is a multifaceted entrepreneur, keynote speaker, author, and expert in organizational and behavioral change. With 15 years of experience in organizational transformation and innovation strategy, he has driven over $2 billion in transformational impact across hundreds of organizations and top executives. He is the author of Change Fluency: Nine Principles to Navigate Uncertainty and Drive Innovation, which serves as the framework for his global consulting and keynote engagements.

Jay’s perspective on resilience and change is deeply rooted in his personal journey as a half-blind cancer survivor; diagnosed with retinoblastoma as an infant, he underwent the removal of his left eye. After immigrating to Canada from Asia and growing up in Vancouver, he became the world's youngest Distinguished Toastmaster at the age of 19. Today, he is a father of two daughters and lives in Brooklyn with his Shiba Inu, Brooklyn. Jay is renowned for his ability to help leaders move from a mindset of certainty to one of curiosity, teaching them to "speak the language of change" in an increasingly complex and uncertain world.

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Shambra sits down with Sandy Hogan—a powerhouse revenue leader who has held the helm at tech giants like Cisco, Rackspace, VMware, and LivePerson. But this isn't a conversation about go-to-market strategies or revenue multiples. This is a deep dive into the "Graceful Disruption" of the self.

Sandy shares her incredibly raw journey from a childhood as the daughter of Yugoslavian immigrants to a mid-career health crisis that forced her to "bet on herself." We explore how resilience isn't just a buzzword, but a protective layer formed in the fires of hard work and immigrant sacrifice.

10 Memorable Quotes:

"It’s a protective layer, not a punitive layer that’s unfolding."

"You can get through anything your heart and mind determines you truly can."

"Progress is the touchdown."

"Work ethic and your attitude. Everything falls into place, never perfectly, but those two are everything."

"I didn't control the circumstances around me, but I choose every day what I do about it."

"Trust is a little overused and undervalued. It has to be earned."

"Mindset leads, always—as a leader, as a human."

"I need you [Younger Sandy] as a partner to walk with me on the rest of my journey."

"What this world needs are... more emotionally regulated adults that aren't running around like little babies."

"I can be in pain physically or emotionally... but boy, I get back up very, very quickly."

10 Key Takeaways:

Reframing the Past: What we often label as "childhood wounds" can be reframed as a "protective layer" that builds the resilience needed for future leadership.

The "Elder" Gap: The modern world lacks "maternal/paternal" figures who provide emotional regulation. We need leaders who can say, "You're going to be okay," to calm the collective chaos.

Immigrant Work Ethic: Success isn't just about the title; it’s about bringing your best self and knowing you aren't taking shortcuts.

Self-Gratitude: We often thank our mentors and families, but rarely think to thank our "younger selves" for the grit they showed during hard times.

Moving from Sacrifice to Self: There comes a moment where you must stop working solely to honor the sacrifices of others and start working in honor of yourself.

Mindset Over Reactivity: "Graceful Disruption" is the shift from letting change happen to you, to having an intentional impact on the change.

Trust via Friction: Meaningful trust isn't built on convenience; it is earned through "inconvenient" moments of friction and accountability.

The Power of Intent: In an era of instant gratification, the most powerful tool a leader has is the ability to pause and ask, "Why the heck am I doing this?"

Radical Agency: While we cannot control external turbulence (like health crises or market shifts), we have absolute power over our choice of response.

Momentum Through Movement: Perfection is the enemy of progress. The goal is "momentum through movement," not waiting for the perfect conditions.

About our Guest: Sandy Hogan

Founder & CEO, BozQ

Sandy Hogan is a passionate, seasoned transformation architect and award-winning executive, renowned for orchestrating strategic go-to-market transformations, delivering more than $20 billion in revenue influence. With more than two decades at the helm of industry powerhouses like Cisco, VMware, Rackspace, and LivePerson, plus agile engagements with high-growth startups, Sandy has earned a reputation for turning hype into measurable results; building Customer for Life revenue engines that deliver tangible, lasting outcomes.

Her track record is underscored by multiple industry recognitions, including CRN’s “Top 100 Executives” and “Power 100 Women of the Channel,” as well as accolades for channel leadership and ecosystem innovation. She is known for pioneering frameworks such as the Customer-for-Life GTM model, the Digital Outcomes Approach, and orchestrating multi-billion-dollar ecosystems—initiatives that have been adopted as benchmarks by both Fortune 100s and ambitious startups alike.

Sandy’s philosophy centers on "Graceful Disruption," blending operational rigor with empathy to confront hard truths and drive transformation that sticks. Whether leading high-stakes 100-day turnarounds under private equity pressure or steering multi-year industry pivots that redefine entire market landscapes, she brings authentic honesty about the political, emotional, and organizational realities beneath large-scale change.

Teams and audiences praise Sandy for her combination of strategic clarity, pragmatic real-world perspective, and the ability to demystify the complexities of transformation through stories that inspire meaningful change. Her workshop sessions are ideal for conferences and forums seeking candid insights into navigating market disruption, cultivating high-impact partner ecosystems, and scaling sustainable Customer-for-Live growth systems that deliver lasting impact.

Sandy inspires leaders to tackle transformation with courage, clarity, and the operational discipline to move from vision to execution—and she does it with a grace that makes even the most uncomfortable change possible.

The conversation explores the internal shifts required to lead in a world being reshaped by AI. Chris discusses the transition from maternal energy—focused on empathy and nurturing—to a paternal energy that emphasizes resilience, agility, and the strength to face uncertainty. This episode is a deep dive into the friction of human connection, revealing why presence and intimacy are the most valuable currencies we have in an automated world.

Chris also shares his personal journey with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), offering a raw look at how behavioral skills can help us “go first” into vulnerability. It is a powerful reminder that while technology can provide answers, only human wisdom can provide meaning.

Explore more: This conversation builds on three prior Culture Changers episodes where Allison Hare interviewed Chris Schembra on Gratitude, Intimacy & Trust (BDSM and the Boardroom), and Therapeutic Healing (Ketamine Therapy).

10 Key Takeaways

The Shift to the Wisdom Era
As AI takes over the Knowledge Economy, human value will be defined by wisdom—the ability to make sense of lived experiences and apply them to future outcomes.

Earned Connection
Real connection isn’t a given; it is earned through the three pillars of Presence, Coherence, and Intimacy.

The Power of “Going First”
Presence is inconvenient and often creates friction. Leadership requires the willingness to be the first to step into vulnerability.

Maternal vs. Paternal Energy
While maternal energy provides comfort, paternal energy provides the resilience and backbone needed to navigate high-stakes uncertainty.

DBT as a Leadership Tool
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy isn’t just for crisis; its skills in distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness are essential for modern leadership.

The Friction of Intimacy
We often avoid deep connection because it is inconvenient. Overcoming this internal resistance is the key to psychological safety.

Moving Beyond the Cult of Trauma
Constant focus on past injustice can weaken our willpower muscle. Growth requires agility and forward motion.

Coherence in Contradiction
Success in the new era demands a both/and mindset—the ability to hold opposing truths at once.

Social Health as a Priority
In an era of isolation, prioritizing human connection is a necessary act of cultural and organizational healing.

The Value of Inconvenience
The most human acts—showing up, listening deeply, being present—don’t scale, and that’s exactly why they matter.

10 Key Quotes

• “The knowledge economy is dying… what human beings need next is the Wisdom Era.”
• “Wisdom is the ability to make sense of things and apply experience to future outcomes.”
• “Presence is inconvenient. It is the friction of the human experience.”
• “We’ve focused so much on empathy that we’ve lost our agility.”
• “Intimacy is the opposite of isolation, but it requires courage.”
• “DBT taught me how to make things go right, not just analyze what went wrong.”
• “Your answer matters less than your presence.”
• “You can’t automate wisdom.”
• “Social health is the great healing opportunity of our time.”
• “Tomorrow can be better than yesterday if you do it the right way.”

The conversation centers on human-centric leadership in an AI-driven world. Adam explains why technology should exist to elevate people, not replace them, and how a “giver” mindset, genuine curiosity, and gratitude have guided his success. Rather than chasing outcomes, he focuses on helping others thrive—trusting that success follows naturally.

Chris and Adam also explore what leadership looks like during times of crisis, including the responsibility to prioritize people over business when it matters most. Adam reflects on using gratitude as a tool for resilience and the importance of acknowledging the support systems—at work and at home—that make high-level leadership possible.

This episode is a powerful reminder that everyone matters. From mentors and teammates to the people we encounter every day, Adam reinforces that real impact comes from empathy, appreciation, and leading with humanity—no matter how advanced the technology becomes.

10 Key Takeaways

• Prioritize People Over Technology: While technology budgets often dwarf human-centric spending, the true value of automation is to empower humans to do more meaningful work.
• The Power of a "Giver" Mindset: Success often comes as a byproduct of helping others achieve their goals rather than pursuing success directly.
• Lead with Genuine Curiosity: To build strong relationships and align with others, one must be curious about what drives and motivates people.
• Gratitude for Support Systems: High-level success, such as running a company and serving on multiple boards, is only possible with a strong support system at home.
• Gratitude is a Tool for Resilience: Giving and expressing thanks can be used to improve a situation, rather than waiting for circumstances to improve before being grateful.
• Embrace Obstacles: Career and life paths are rarely straight lines; the ability to overcome challenges and objections is a primary thread of a meaningful life.
• The Importance of Human-Centric AI: Successful AI adoption involves giving technology human-like traits, such as names and personas, to help employees feel like it is part of the team.
• Caring for People in Crisis: Leadership means putting business on hold to ensure the safety and wellbeing of employees and their families during global conflicts.
• Acknowledge Mentors: Success is a journey where influential people—from coaches to business leaders—play critical roles in shaping an individual's path.
• Value Every Role: Every person, regardless of their job title—from a security guard to a CEO—plays an interesting role in your life and deserves appreciation.

10 Key Quotes

• "Smart people can smell BS a mile away."
• "Getting human every now and then is a good thing for us."
• "We talk too much about technology and not enough about the human."
• "Technology was always about automation... and enabling people to use their minds and doing things that really matter to them."
• "If you help enough people in this world get what they want, you will ultimately get what you want without of course looking for it."
• "Everybody is a person at the end of the day. They're all driven by something."
• "It's very easy to do good by others, even if it's just smiling and saying hi and thank you."
• "You don't have to wait for things to be good to give. You can use giving as a way of making things good."
• "Luck is when hard work meets opportunity."
• "There is no easy path, there's no easy buttoning... [it's] about overcoming major obstacles in career and life."

About the Guest: Adam Famularo

Adam Famularo is a veteran technology leader and entrepreneur with over 28 years of experience.

• Current Role: CEO of WorkFusion, a company focused on "ending boring work" by deploying AI digital workers to fight financial crime and money laundering.
• Previous Experience: Formerly the CEO of Erwin Inc. (acquired by Quest Software) and held executive roles at Verizon and CA Technologies.
• Background: A former elite Spartan racer who applies an endurance mindset to the boardroom. He is also a dedicated father, son, and friend who prioritizes people above all else

In this episode, Chris Schembra sits down with Jessica Weiss to unpack a radical but practical idea: happiness at work isn’t something you wait for in a distant future, it’s something you actively create, even in imperfect conditions. Drawing from Jessica’s book Happiness Works, the conversation reframes happiness not as a fleeting mood or a vague “choice,” but as a set of tangible, science-backed tools anyone can use right now. They explore why the single most powerful first step toward happiness is simply finding a friend at work, how resilience is a muscle built through small, confidence-building decisions, and why “good enough” choices often lead to more satisfaction than endless optimization. Together, they dismantle common myths about happiness, connect gratitude and joy to long-term resilience, and show how depersonalizing failure and using feedback as data can transform setbacks into progress. The episode culminates in Jessica’s five-part framework—connection, resilience, optimism, trust, and progress—offered not as a rigid sequence, but as a buffet of tools listeners can draw from as needed. At a moment defined by burnout, uncertainty, and rapid change, this conversation makes a compelling case that happiness isn’t fluffy or naïve; it’s a strategic advantage for individuals, teams, and organizations alike.

10 Quotes

1. “Happiness isn’t something you wait for in the future; it’s something you build, even in imperfect conditions.”
    
2. “The fastest way to improve your happiness at work is shockingly simple: find a friend.”
    
3. “Happiness is not the absence of unhappiness; it’s having tools you can rely on when things get hard.”
    
4. “Resilience isn’t a personality trait. It’s a muscle, and you build it through small decisions.”
    
5. “Good enough decisions often create more happiness than perfect ones that take forever.”
    
6. “Happiness isn’t a choice. It’s strategies, tactics, and habits you practice every day.”
    
7. “Failure is inevitable. The real skill is learning how to depersonalize it and extract the lesson.”
    
8. “Trust is the foundation of feedback—if you don’t trust the source, the message won’t land.”
    
9. “Gratitude and joy aren’t just reflections; they’re mindset-shifting tools that build resilience.”
    
10. “You don’t need to change your entire life to be happier—small, consistent actions change the trajectory.”
     

10 Takeways

1. Happiness is actionable.
   It’s not a vague feeling or personality trait—it’s built through repeatable tools and behaviors.
    
2. Connection comes first.
   Having even one genuine friend at work dramatically improves engagement, wellbeing, and performance.
    
3. Resilience is built in micro-moments.
   Small, quick decisions create confidence and momentum over time.
    
4. Perfection kills happiness.
   “Maximizers” suffer more than “satisficers.” Aim for progress, not perfection.
    
5. Tools beat willpower.
   Relying on “choosing happiness” isn’t sustainable. Systems and habits are.
    
6. Gratitude trains the brain.
   Practices like joy journaling rewire attention toward presence, meaning, and resilience.
    
7. Depersonalizing failure is a superpower.
   Treat setbacks as data, not identity, to grow faster and suffer less.
    
8. Trust enables honest feedback.
   Without psychological safety and trust, feedback becomes noise or threat.
    
9. Progress fuels motivation.
   Ending the day knowing you moved something forward is essential to long-term happiness.
    
10. Happiness scales across life stages.
    From basic security to meaning and purpose, happiness tools apply at every level of Maslow’s hierarchy.

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Schembra sits down with Brent Kenneway, National Group VP of Sales at UKG, for a conversation about the kind of relationships that aren’t transactional, the kind that actually nourish the soul. 

Brent opens with the gratitude question and doesn’t hesitate: he gives credit to his wife, Jenny, the person he says made his life and career possible by “holding down the fort” while he built his leadership path. From there, the conversation expands into parenting, identity, and leadership, especially Brent’s lived experience of managing “multiple personalities” at home with four kids and at work with diverse teams. The thread that ties it together is intentionality: Brent wants to be more present when he comes home, more human at work, and more consistent about building culture one interaction at a time.

Chris and Brent then go deep on a core leadership shift: moving from blame to radical accountability, and from problem-obsession to solution-finding. They talk about debriefing as a life skill (“What went well? What could have gone better? What will we do differently next time?”), and they challenge the cultural reflex to fix what’s wrong without first helping what’s already right go more right. Brent adds a key leadership balance: culture without systems breaks, and systems without culture underperform, you need both.

Finally, they tackle the future: AI, change, and uncertainty. Brent argues for People-First AI—AI as augmentation, not replacement, using the story of the handheld calculator as a reminder that tools can free humans to do more meaningful work. The takeaway is clear: the companies (and families) that win won’t be the ones that move fastest alone; they’ll be the ones who pair speed with depth—building trust, presence, and gratitude at scale.

10 key takeaways

1. Gratitude isn’t a “soft” thing—it’s a performance tool for leadership, retention, and resilience in hard moments.
    
2. Give credit to the people behind your success—Brent names Jenny as the foundation of his career and family stability.
    
3. Parenting and leadership are the same craft: multiple personalities, different motivations, one mission—learn what makes each person tick.
    
4. Presence is a transition skill: coming home from “business mode” requires intentional switching into family mode.
    
5. Radical accountability beats blame: the real shift isn’t “what did I do wrong?” but “how can I be better next time?”
    
6. Debriefs create growth without shame: “What went well / better / differently” builds learning loops that scale.
    
7. Culture + systems = results: positivity without structure fails; structure without humanity underperforms.
    
8. Leaders don’t hand answers—they develop thinkers: Brent mentors by asking, “What do you think we should do?”
    
9. Standardize first, operationalize second: clarity reduces confusion; consistent process multiplies performance.
    
10. People-First AI is the way forward: AI should remove the mundane and return time to relationships, creativity, and real human connection.

10 Quotes

1. “We’re here to talk about relationships and gratitude—but not the transactional type. The soul needs nourished.”
    
2. “I’m not at the position I am in my life without [Jenny’s] backing, her support, her guidance.”
    
3. “All four kids—completely different personalities. That’s the joy of parenting… and leadership.”
    
4. “If you’re present and recognizing the situation, it’s a lot easier to have that inward focus.”
    
5. “People are distracted… and that makes it harder to stay solution-oriented.”
    
6. “Culture without systems breaks—and systems without culture underperform.”
    
7. “I never give the answers. I ask: ‘What do you think you should do?’”
    
8. “We’re spending more time at work than we are with our families—so you might as well make it fun and human.”
    
9. “People-first AI… it’s augmentation. It speeds up the mundane so you can spend more time with people.”
    
10. “You can never connect the dots forward—only backwards.”

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Schembra welcomes back Julie Peck—a seasoned tech and growth executive and current CEO of Talent Neuron, a global leader in workforce intelligence. Returning after a powerful first conversation (“The Gift of the Curvy Path”), Julie brings both lived experience and a front-row seat to how AI is reshaping work, leadership, and the talent market.

The conversation opens with the show’s signature gratitude thread: Julie re-centers her enduring gratitude for her mother—an “anchor” figure defined by generosity, steadiness, and wisdom. From there, the episode expands into a bigger thesis: we’re moving from a knowledge economy (being paid to “know”) to a wisdom economy (being valued for discernment, context, ethics, and humanity), right as AI accelerates technical capability faster than society’s ability to govern it wisely.

Julie explains what she’s seeing in real time—from the lightning-fast evolution of “prompt engineering” (job → skill → everywhere) to the rise of AI agents, “managers of agents,” and even early signals around digital twins / digital clones. The discussion is both exciting and sobering: the future isn’t just humans using tools—it’s organizations learning to coordinate human employees + virtual workers while wrestling with ownership, ethics, and identity.

They land the plane with an antidote: in a world speeding up, the advantage is learning to reclaim your humanity—through presence, boundaries, real conversation, and the ancient technology of the dinner table. Chris frames it as “slow food and fast cars” (Emilia-Romagna) and the “AND, not OR” mindset: use AI to amplify impact and protect what makes life meaningful.

Key Takeaways

• We’re shifting from “knowing” to “discerning.” AI can produce answers; humans are needed for wisdom, ethics, and context.
   
• The pace is the story. Roles like “prompt engineer” moved from nonexistent → hot → embedded in everything in about a year.
   
• Soft skills are becoming the real differentiator. Adaptability, learning agility, collaboration, and communication are what survive a fluid world.
   
• Digital cloning raises ownership questions. If your work footprint trains a “you,” who owns it—you or your employer/platform?
   
• Reclaim humanity through designed friction. Put the phone down, limit your digital exhaust, and build anchor points (like dinners) where real presence returns.
   

Memorable Quotes

• Julie Peck: “I call that reclaiming your humanity.”
   
• Chris Schembra: “The dinner table is truly the last thing that AI can get to.”
   
• Julie Peck: “The technical capabilities of AI are evolving far faster than the world’s ability to be wise about how we build it and interact with it.”
   
• Julie Peck: “Put the phone down and talk to each other and actually look each other in the eyes.”
   
• Julie Peck: “If you’re standing at Lake Geneva and you’re looking at the Alps, don’t try and take a picture of it. Just look at it.”
   
• Chris Schembra: “We’re living through the collapse of the knowledge economy… What if we’ve been playing the wrong game all along?”
   
• Julie Peck: “We don’t understand the rules of the game… and we’re unprepared for it.”

Eric reflects on a 25-year career across some of the world’s most influential enterprise technology companies, but reframes success through a different lens. Rather than crediting restraint or perfection, he points to saying yes as the defining strategy of his life, yes to unfamiliar roles, yes to reinvention, yes to creativity, fatherhood, philanthropy, and Broadway. Along the way, he opens up about imposter syndrome, those quiet moments of doubt that surface even at the highest levels of leadership, and why authenticity—not certainty—is what ultimately creates trust and psychological safety for teams.

The conversation reaches back to Eric’s eighth-grade years, when he felt like an outsider searching for his people. Theater became the place where he learned that difference wasn’t something to hide, but something to bring forward, a lesson that continues to shape how he builds culture today. That theme of belonging becomes especially resonant in today’s age of fragmentation and loneliness, where many people feel disconnected not because they lack opportunity, but because they lack spaces where they can show up fully as themselves.

Midway through the episode, Eric answers the signature gratitude question, offering heartfelt thanks to his father, Mark, whose belief in living authentically influenced everything from Eric’s leadership philosophy to a Tony Award win on Father’s Day. The moment grounds the conversation in gratitude, not as sentiment, but as a force that shapes identity, values, and legacy across generations.

This episode is especially important now because it confronts a growing cultural tension: while AI can deliver answers at unprecedented speed, it cannot deliver wisdom, belonging, or meaning. Eric draws a clear distinction between systems of record and systems of engagement, arguing that the future belongs to leaders and organizations that pair data with instinct, scale with empathy, and efficiency with humanity. In an era where people are burning out not just from work, but from hiding who they are, this conversation offers a different model, one rooted in community, peer-driven recognition, and shared accountability rather than control.

Ultimately, The Power of Saying Yes is a reminder that culture cannot be engineered from the top down and growth cannot be achieved through optimization alone. Culture comes from community. Belonging comes from permission. And the most meaningful paths in life are rarely the safest ones. This episode invites listeners to slow down, embrace impermanence, and choose the more interesting path, not because it’s easy, but because it’s human.

10 Key Takeaways

1. Saying yes creates momentum.
   Progress, growth, and meaning often come from leaning in before you feel ready—not from waiting for certainty.
    
2. Authenticity is a leadership advantage, not a liability.
   When leaders model vulnerability, they unlock psychological safety and better performance across teams.
    
3. Imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear—it becomes a compass.
   Doubt is often a signal that you’re stretching into something meaningful.
    
4. Finding “your people” changes everything.
   Belonging fuels confidence, creativity, and resilience—whether in theater, business, or family.
    
5. Gratitude is a strategic tool, not a soft one.
   Recognizing people for their impact on others builds trust, loyalty, and culture at scale.
    
6. Culture cannot be built top-down.
   Leaders can only create the conditions; community does the building.
    
7. AI needs humans in the loop.
   Data delivers insight, but instinct and empathy deliver relevance.
    
8. Impermanence creates meaning.
   Moments matter more when we know they won’t last—whether on stage, at work, or around the dinner table.
    
9. Accountability is empowering when framed as ownership.
   We don’t work in isolation—we work in ecosystems where shared responsibility drives excellence.
    
10. The best life is an AND life, not an OR life.
    Passion and profit. Speed and care. Technology and humanity. Both can be true.

Eric Stine Bio

Eric Stine is the Chief Executive Officer of Sitecore, driving the company's vision and strategy to unlock business value for clients by empowering them to create compelling digital experiences. Eric was previously Chief Operating Officer, where he led all customer-facing functions.

Before Sitecore, Eric was Chief Executive Officer of Elemica. Previously, he was Chief Commercial Officer of Skillsoft and Chief Revenue Officer of Qualtrics. Eric has also held executive roles at companies such as SAP, Ciber, and Blackboard.

Eric earned a law degree at Boston University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts at Northwestern University, where he and his husband are the founders of the Eric and Neil Stine-Markman Scholarships. They are the first permanent endowments at either institution directing funds toward LGBTQ+ students.

He is based near New York City.

In this rich, sensory journey through the Eternal City, I sit down with food historian, author, and Rome expert Katie Parla, a woman whose love affair with Rome began at sixteen thanks to her mother’s quiet act of generosity. What started as a high school Latin club trip became a lifelong devotion to understanding the flavors, history, and soul of a city that was never meant to exist. Rome began as a malarial, snake-infested swamp, yet somehow became the beating heart of Western civilization.

Katie has written, edited, or contributed to more than twenty books and countless articles in publications like The New York Times, Vogue, and The Guardian. Her newest work, Rome: A Culinary History Cookbook and Field Guide to the Flavors That Built a City, is not just another recipe collection. It’s a layered love letter, part history book, part field guide, and part emotional map to the spirit of a city that has endured famine, fire, empire, and rebirth. Together, we explore what Rome can teach us about leadership, gratitude, and the art of being human in an age of acceleration.

We begin where all gratitude stories begin, at the table. Katie gives thanks to her mother, “Jojo,” who worked multiple jobs to make that first trip to Rome possible. Through her mother’s sacrifice, Katie learned the essence of perseverance, the same relentless spirit that built the city she now calls home. From there, we wander through the neighborhoods of Rome, from the ancient core to the medieval center, and finally to Testaccio, her favorite district, where modern graffiti meets ancient terracotta ruins. It’s there that Katie goes to meditate on impermanence and the balance between chaos and beauty.

As our conversation unfolds, history becomes a mirror for modern leadership. We talk about Rome’s “bread and circuses,” how the government once used food and entertainment to keep citizens loyal, and we draw parallels to today’s corporate perks and engagement programs. We explore the emperors of old and the executives of now, and what it means to “be a Caesar, not an Augustus,” a leader who serves with benevolence and dignity rather than domination and fear. We even touch on the city’s engineering genius, from the 2,700 nasoni fountains that keep Romans hydrated to the grain ships that once fed an empire. Every system, every aqueduct, every loaf of bread carried a lesson about sustaining people, not just power.

But Rome’s real brilliance lies in its contradictions, what I call the “and” mindset. It’s a city of war and peace, tragedy and triumph, speed and stillness. It forces us to hold two opposing truths at once: to hate what was violent and love what was beautiful, to accept the brokenness and still celebrate the feast. In our current age of AI and instant answers, Rome reminds us of the value of friction, imperfection, and effort.

We wander next into the Roman Forum, where citizens once gathered to argue, trade, eat, and bear witness. It was the original “third place” between home and work, the birthplace of civic belonging, a space for conversation and connection. Katie draws a line from the Forum to today’s trattorias and pizza-by-the-slice counters, where people stand shoulder to shoulder, talking to strangers, sipping espresso, or sharing a quick lunch of supplì or cacio e pepe. These are the modern temples of togetherness.

Then comes the food. Not just the postcard dishes of carbonara and amatriciana, but the soulful, often forgotten recipes of Rome’s working class: chicken gizzards with fettuccine, veal intestines simmered in tomato sauce, and involtini, rolled beef stuffed with prosciutto, carrots, and celery, cooked slowly until tender. Katie calls it “one pot, two dishes,” a metaphor for efficiency and abundance at once. Her approach to cooking, and to life, can be summed up in three simple words: just enough.

By the end of our conversation, one theme rises above all others: dignity. From her mother’s resilience to the humble Roman bakers who built an empire on grain, from the laborers who carved aqueducts to the chefs who open their kitchens to curious foreigners, Katie’s gratitude is for everyone who never gave up. “Leave so much time in Rome unplanned,” she says, “and dare to have an adventure.” It’s not just travel advice, it’s a philosophy for life.

Reflections and Takeaways

Rome, like gratitude, is a practice. It reminds us to slow down, to see the sacred in the mundane, and to find beauty in imperfection. Leadership, whether in the Senate or the boardroom, is about giving people both challenge and dignity. Progress and empathy are not opposites, they are partners.

Katie’s story reminds us that effort is its own art form. Whether you’re simmering a pot of cacciatore or steering a company through uncertainty, the recipe is the same: patience, precision, and a dash of love. The lesson of Rome is the lesson of humanity, that endurance, generosity, and curiosity will always outlast convenience.

Explore Further

Katie’s independently published masterpiece Rome: A Culinary History Cookbook and Field Guide to the Flavors That Built a City is available at shop.katieparla.com. You can find her Rome travel guides, restaurant recommendations, and food tours at katieparla.com, and follow her everyday adventures on Instagram at @katieparla.

To explore more stories of gratitude, connection, and leadership, visit 747club.org and join our growing community.

In this deeply personal episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down in person with Sandra Campos, a trailblazing CEO, board advisor, and serial entrepreneur whose story spans global fashion houses, digital transformation, and compassionate leadership.

From humble beginnings in her parents’ tortilla factory to leading billion-dollar brands like Diane von Furstenberg and PetMeds, Sandra’s journey is one of grit, grace, and reinvention. Sheopens up about her mother’s influence as an immigrant and lifelong learner, how that shaped her own discipline and drive, and why gratitude remains the throughline of every chapter in her life.

Together, Chris and Sandra unpack the difference between knowledge and wisdom, exploring how true leadership comes not from perfection but from experience, the kind earned through risk-taking, failure, and self-belief. Sandra shares how she’s learning to slow down, to truly listen to the sounds around her, from the birds on her rescue horse farm to the people who cross her path, and why presence might be the most powerful skill in business today.

They talk about the courage to show up before you’re ready, the importance of respect in partnerships, and how every ending can be the start of a new beginning if you meet it with optimism and curiosity. Sandra’s reflections on authenticity, self-authorship, and purpose offer timeless lessons for anyone navigating change or chasing meaning in modern leadership.

This episode is a reminder that you can’t teach wisdom — you live it. It’s a celebration of resilience, risk, and gratitude, and an invitation to believe that, no matter your age or stage, you’re always just beginning.

Themes & Highlights

●​ How Sandra’s immigrant mother instilled grit, gratitude, and lifelong learning 
●​ From “knowledge builds confidence” to “experience builds wisdom”

●​ Taking uncalculated risks — and learning to thrive through failure 
●​ The emotional intelligence behind leading through change 
●​ Presence as the ultimate leadership skill

●​  Why reinvention is not a restart, but a continuation of purpose​

Why Listen

At a time when leadership often feels defined by speed and perfection, Sandra reminds us that true wisdom comes from slowing down, showing up, and learning through experience. Her journey from small-town Texas to the global stage is proof that success built on gratitude, curiosity, and courage doesn’t just change careers...it transforms lives.

“Experience Builds Wisdom” is more than a conversation, it’s an invitation to see every risk, every chapter, and every quiet moment as a teacher.

In this deeply human and heartfelt conversation, Chris Schembra sits down with his longtime friend Kirti Naik, a powerhouse brand leader turned soulful storyteller, for an episode that moves beyond titles and accolades into the raw, unfiltered truth of a life well-lived. On this crisp New York City fall day, amid Yom Kippur reflections and the festive spirit of Diwali, Chris and Kirti explore the intertwined forces of fate, love, resilience, and identity.

Kirti opens up about her unexpected journey into motherhood and how her daughter, Kiran, became her North Star, pushing her to finish business school while pregnant, guiding her to build a better life, and teaching her lessons in forgiveness and courage. Together, Chris and Kirti unpack the subtle art of pausing in a world obsessed with speed: pausing before responding to an email, pausing to think, pausing to realign with who we are and who we want to become.

They delve into the heavy weight and quiet liberation of reputation, how cultural expectations and personal setbacks (like divorce) shape us, and how we can reclaim our own narrative even after painful turning points. Kirti shares how love and partnership with Greg have reshaped her family and her understanding of commitment — beyond paperwork and traditions — into something deeply chosen and resilient.

The conversation moves fluidly from practical life strategies (like managing anxiety, editing before you send, embracing imperfection) to profound reflections on destiny (or “amor fati”), legacy, and the humility that comes with decades of personal and professional growth. We hear about parenting in New York City, the courage to let go of perfectionism, and how success is measured not just by business milestones but by the depth of relationships we nurture along the way.

This is not a business episode,  it’s a blueprint for living with greater presence, courage, and gratitude. Whether you’re navigating big career decisions, untangling old expectations, or learning to pause before reacting, Kirti’s story is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and embrace the beautiful messiness of life.

10 Great Quotes

1. “Kids, don’t worry about people knowing you. Make yourself worth knowing.” — Chris (quoting Fiorello LaGuardia)
    
2. “She was my North Star — the reason I wanted to be a better person, to work harder, and to finish what I started.” — Kirti
    
3. “Progress comes from movement, not perfection.” — Chris
    
4. “I’ve shifted from people pleasing to teaching and communicating what I authentically think.” — Kirti
    
5. “Precision requires pause. Sometimes waiting 15 minutes changes everything.” — Chris
    
6. “Reputation is hard to rewrite — but it’s not impossible when you lead with honesty and vulnerability.” — Kirti
    
7. “Material things don’t really matter. We don’t actually need anything but each other and some Netflix.” — Kirti
    
8. “We have to rise above business success and find success in our personal lives — the world needs that.” — Chris
    
9. “Love doesn’t have to be defined by societal milestones. Commitment can be something deeply chosen.” — Kirti
    
10. “It’s humbling to realize we’re still learning — not about tools or tactics, but about ourselves.” — Kirti
     

10 Key Takeaways

1. Pause Before You React — Writing a draft and waiting before sending helps you edit, clarify, and prevent future missteps.
    
2. Redefine Reputation — Your past doesn’t have to define you; vulnerability and new actions can reshape how others see you.
    
3. Parenthood as Catalyst — Unexpected life events, like surprise motherhood, can bring purpose and resilience you didn’t know you had.
    
4. Move from People Pleasing to Authenticity — Stop avoiding conflict; respectfully communicate your needs and boundaries.
    
5. Love Beyond Paperwork — Lasting commitment isn’t about traditional milestones but about shared choice and partnership.
    
6. Cultural Expectations Can Be Rewritten — Even deeply ingrained norms can shift when you choose your own happiness and truth.
    
7. Imperfection Is Human — Let go of needing to be flawless; aim for 80–90% and move forward.
    
8. True Success Is Relational — The depth of mentorship, family bonds, and love defines life more than job titles.
    
9. Anxiety Can Be Managed with Pause — Small intentional habits — like stepping back before acting — can reduce fear and increase control.
    
10. Fate vs. Coincidence — Sometimes the unexpected (from your child’s name to life detours) is guiding you toward who you’re meant to become.
     

In this special episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes Drew Sullivan, a purpose-driven dealmaker, speaker advocate, and Senior Vice President at APB Speakers, for a raw and hope-filled conversation about the courage it takes to stop hiding and start living authentically.

Drew’s story is both ordinary and extraordinary. Growing up as a middle child with ADHD in a sports-obsessed town, he was labeled as “wrong” more often than he was encouraged to be curious. Teachers told him to be quiet, behavioral charts measured his worth, and well-intentioned parents and doctors tried their best but often focused on what he did rather than why he felt what he felt. Those early messages led to decades of self-doubt, addiction, and feeling “othered.”

But Drew’s life didn’t end there. Sobriety became his turning point, not just quitting substances but rebuilding identity from the inside out. He realized the same curiosity and big-heartedness he was punished for as a child had become his superpowers as an adult: the ability to connect deeply, ask better questions, and champion others’ voices.

Chris and Drew unpack big ideas that apply to everyone, whether you’re a parent trying to raise emotionally healthy kids, a leader navigating change with your team, or someone working on your own healing. Together, they talk about how to move beyond trauma without ignoring it, how to strengthen relationships through curiosity and vulnerability, and how connection isn’t just nice to have, it’s essential for growth.

They dive into practical tools and powerful frameworks:

• The Military-Style Debrief — After any event or risk, ask three questions: What went well? What could have gone better? What will we do differently next time?
   
• From What to Why — Lasting growth comes not from obsessing over what happened but from exploring why it happened and using that insight to break harmful cycles.
   
• Ubuntu Philosophy — “I am because we are.” Success is never a solo act. Long-term fulfillment comes from shared humanity and supporting each other’s growth.
   
• Inside-Out Living — Stop chasing outside validation (titles, applause, perfection) and build a life anchored in authenticity and personal truth.

This episode also wrestles with one of today’s cultural tensions: the “cult of trauma.” We live in a time where looking backward has become a primary mode of healing, therapy, revisiting wounds, and retelling past pain. That work is necessary but incomplete. Chris and Drew challenge listeners to balance reflection with forward momentum, to ask not just what went wrong, but how do we build what’s next?

Their conversation is deeply practical yet profoundly human. Drew shares intimate stories — from being excluded at eighth-grade basketball tryouts to the loneliness of early sobriety — and turns them into wisdom for anyone trying to live and lead differently. Chris opens up about his own childhood with ADHD and how empathy and gratitude saved his life and career. Together, they model what it looks like to have brave, healing, and hope-filled dialogue.

At its heart, this episode is a call to action: to show up for yourself and others with dignity, curiosity, and presence; to give gratitude in a way that lands; to stop letting shame and isolation write your story; and to embrace connection as the bridge between pain and growth.

Whether you’re a parent, an educator, a leader building culture, or someone just trying to live a more wholehearted life, you’ll leave with practical tools and renewed belief that storms don’t last forever, and that you’re not alone in the work of becoming.

10 Great Quotes

1. “Not all gratitude given is gratitude received. We have to give in the language others like to receive.” — Drew Sullivan
    
2. “Solutions are not found in the what; they’re found in the why.” — Drew Sullivan
    
3. “Every storm has to end at some point — the clouds have to clear.” — Drew Sullivan
    
4. “Don’t play hide and seek with yourself. Stop letting your thoughts hide.” — Drew Sullivan
    
5. “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — Chris Schembra quoting Ubuntu
    
6. “Without connection, there is no growth. It’s the water and fertilizer for real progress.” — Drew Sullivan
    
7. “We spend so much emotional energy reliving what went wrong that we forget to dream about what can go right.” — Chris Schembra
    
8. “Vulnerability 101: be honest about the truth of your life, not just where you are now but where you came from.” — Drew Sullivan
    
9. “The greatest present you can give is your presence.” — Chris Schembra
    
10. “When you know better, you do better — but only if you act on what you’ve learned.” — Drew Sullivan
     

10 Key Takeaways

1. Empathy must lead to action — Listening and understanding are powerful, but transformation only happens when you do something with what you’ve learned.
    
2. Reframe challenges into opportunities — Shift from “what went wrong” to “what can we do differently next time.”
    
3. Ask “why,” not just “what” — Understanding the why behind behaviors, decisions, and pain creates the foundation for healing and growth.
    
4. Connection is non-negotiable — Personal and professional growth withers without deep human relationships.
    
5. Redefine vulnerability — Sharing your real story — even messy parts — builds trust and invites connection.
    
6. Inside-out living beats outside-in validation — Chase alignment with values and purpose, not just achievements or appearances.
    
7. Parents and leaders shape futures — Taking one extra step to understand and affirm can change someone’s entire trajectory.
    
8. Reinvention is always possible — Like the Real Housewives metaphor, we all deserve new eras and second chances.
    
9. Don’t let your past pilot your future — Carry your “stone,” but build the strength to make it a co-pilot, not the driver.
    
10. Gratitude is a bridge — When expressed thoughtfully in someone’s love language, it deepens relationships and accelerates healing.

This episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times is about one of the most important and misunderstood challenges in business today, how to build workplaces where people truly thrive.

Host Chris Schembra welcomes Mark Rix, Group Managing Director of Wellbeing at Work, for an unfiltered conversation on belonging, resilience, and the human side of leadership. What makes this episode powerful isn’t just the frameworks and research Mark shares; it’s the raw, unexpected personal story that shaped his entire mission.

At 18 years old, Mark found himself alone in South Africa’s gold mines, working one and a half kilometers underground among hundreds of men who didn’t speak his language. In an early and unforgettable moment, he was literally punched in the face for unknowingly saying something offensive in Afrikaans, a humiliating and dangerous misunderstanding that forced him to confront the difference between “blending in” and truly belonging. It also sparked a lifelong obsession with empathy, psychological safety, and how humans treat one another at work.

Fast forward to today, and Mark leads a global movement to help organizations move wellbeing from a “nice-to-have” perk to a board-level strategy that drives engagement, innovation, and bottom-line results. His organization hosts summits on six continents, gathering thousands of leaders to explore the future of mental, social, and emotional wellbeing at work.

Throughout the conversation, Chris and Mark explore:

• Why the next era of corporate wellbeing will be about social health — helping employees feel seen, safe, and connected.
   
• How to equip managers (most of whom were promoted without training) to coach with empathy and curiosity instead of simply direct or command.
   
• The role of shared language in creating psychological safety, and why your team’s inside jokes, acronyms, and short codes matter more than you think.
   
• Why leaders don’t have to rewrite every policy or undo every mandate; often, culture change begins by simply changing how you show up in the next conversation.
   
• How investing in employee wellbeing isn’t just ethical but deeply strategic, the highest-performing companies in the world are proving that people-first drives profit.
   

This episode is as practical as it is inspiring. It reminds leaders that while technology and AI will keep reshaping the future of work, human connection remains our greatest competitive advantage.

If you’ve been struggling with disengagement, low morale, or the exhaustion of leading through uncertainty, this conversation will give you both a fresh perspective and simple actions to start right away, like carving out time to talk, listen, and ask better questions.

Above all, it’s a reminder that resilience and thriving cultures start with a choice: to lead with empathy and authenticity, one conversation at a time.

10 Memorable Quotes

1. “You can blend but not belong. To bond, you have to give something of yourself.” — Mark Rix
    
2. “Trust is built before it’s tested. If your people don’t feel safe, they won’t speak up when it matters.” — Chris Schembra
    
3. “I realized after being punched that day — this is not how work should be. No one should feel unsafe simply trying to belong.” — Mark Rix
    
4. “A shared language can literally save lives underground. In business, it can save culture.” — Chris Schembra
    
5. “Most managers are promoted without the skills — or the mindset — to coach. And it’s costing engagement.” — Mark Rix
    
6. “Empathy is listening to understand, then using that data to act differently tomorrow.” — Chris Schembra
    
7. “Wellbeing isn’t fluffy. Companies investing in their people outperform the market.” — Mark Rix
    
8. “You don’t have to change the policy to change the culture. Start by changing you.” — Chris Schembra
    
9. “Connection is still our greatest competitive advantage — AI can enhance it but never replace it.” — Mark Rix
    
10. “It doesn’t matter how hard you get punched; it’s about how well you get back up and keep leading with heart.” — Chris Schembra

10 Key Takeaways

1. Bonding > Blending — True belonging comes when people feel safe to bring their full selves, not just adapt to fit in.
    
2. Shared Language Matters — Developing clear, common language within teams builds trust and prevents miscommunication in high-stakes environments.
    
3. Empathy Is Action-Oriented — It’s not enough to “feel for” others; leaders must use what they learn to lead differently.
    
4. Managers Need Coaching Skills — Over half of managers aren’t prepared to lead; training them as coaches is one of the fastest ways to improve culture and engagement.
    
5. Human Connection Fuels ROI — The best-performing companies on the stock market are investing heavily in employee wellbeing.
    
6. Don’t Wait for Policy — Leaders can start culture change simply by slowing down, listening, and showing genuine interest.
    
7. Social Wellbeing Is the New Frontier — Loneliness is an epidemic; companies must look beyond physical and mental health to build deep social connection.
    
8. Technology Is a Tool, Not a Replacement — AI and data can measure and enhance wellbeing strategies but will never replace face-to-face connection.
    
9. Your Personal Story Shapes Leadership — Early, even painful experiences can become catalysts for empathy-driven leadership.
    
10. Resilience Is Built, Not Bought — Being “punched” — literally or figuratively — can teach leaders how to bounce back and guide others through adversity.

Sometimes the most remarkable leaders don’t arrive at the top by climbing a neatly planned ladder, they stumble, pivot, and rebuild along winding roads. In this deeply personal and unexpectedly funny episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra welcomes Julie Peck, a transformative CEO whose story proves that a “curvy path” is not a flaw, it’s a strength.

Julie’s life didn’t begin with obvious momentum. She grew up in a household that didn’t talk about feelings, in the shadow of a brilliant but stoic father and amid early self-doubt that left her with little sense of self-worth. By her twenties, she found herself adrift, unhappy, financially unstable, stuck in unfulfilling relationships, and ultimately failing out of college. She ended up living in a crumbling apartment above a record store, sleeping on a mattress she salvaged from a frat house dumpster. From the outside, it looked like failure; from the inside, it felt like rock bottom.

But Julie didn’t stay there. In this conversation, she shares the turning points that changed her trajectory: discovering the courage to face old wounds through therapy and 12-step recovery, deciding to rebuild her education while working full-time, and learning to measure her worth by more than just professional success. Along the way, she tapped into something profound, the ability to take one small action forward even when the long-term plan is unclear.

That perseverance reshaped her career. Julie went from customer service to HR innovator to creative director, learning to package her “pile of skills and behaviors” into new opportunities. She took smart risks, like organizing a union drive not to win but to force leadership to listen — and watched those risks lead to promotions and purpose. Ultimately, she rose into C-suite leadership and CEO roles, scaling tech companies, driving triple-digit growth, and building cultures where people thrive. But she never forgot the messy middle or the tools that helped her climb out.

Together, Chris and Julie go far beyond résumés and revenue. They unpack what resilience really looks like: the gritty inner work of building self-worth when no one hands it to you, the power of visualizing a future even if you don’t know how to get there, and the discipline of balancing the things you must do, should do, and want to do. They talk about how gratitude rewires imposter syndrome, how thanking those who invest in you is a way of saying, “I believe your belief in me.” They explore why everyone — even highly accomplished leaders — is “winging it” every day, and why that’s not weakness but reality.

For anyone navigating uncertainty, Julie’s journey is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose and mistakes into momentum. It’s a reminder that your story doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful, in fact, the curve is where character is forged.

This episode is a warm invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters: your own worth, the people who’ve lifted you along the way, and the belief that no setback is final. Whether you’re rebuilding after a career stumble, leading through change, or simply searching for hope in a hard season, Julie’s voice will feel like a steady hand on your shoulder.

Stay tuned for part two, where Chris and Julie will dive deeper into leadership in the age of AI, the behaviors that outlast fast-changing technical skills, and how curiosity and gratitude shape the future of work.

10 Standout Quotes

1. “I had to organically discover my own self-worth. That’s been a 35-year journey, and I’m not done.” — Julie Peck
    
2. “Everybody is unqualified for whatever is going to come on this day because they’ve never had this day before. We’re all winging it.” — Julie Peck
    
3. “Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater, even in the hardest seasons, you’re good at something. Start there.” — Julie Peck
    
4. “Imposter syndrome is basically telling the people who invested in you: ‘I don’t trust your judgment.’ Gratitude flips that script.” — Chris Schembra
    
5. “The impediment to action advances action; what stands in the way becomes the way.” — Marcus Aurelius (quoted by Chris)
    
6. “Progress comes from movement, not perfection. Just take one small step forward.” — Chris Schembra
    
7. “The curvy path is a gift, because every detour teaches you something you’ll need later.” — Julie Peck
    
8. “Skills expire faster than ever; behaviors like curiosity, resilience, and asking better questions endure.” — Chris Schembra
    
9. “Boundaries are self-worth in action. Saying no is a complete sentence.” — Julie Peck
    
10. “Connection is the opposite of feeling alone in the world, and it’s built one honest conversation at a time.” — Julie Peck
     

10 Key Takeaways

1. The “Curvy Path” Is Normal: Career and life rarely follow a straight line; detours and setbacks are often where resilience is forged.
    
2. Self-Worth Can Be Built: Therapy, reflection, and courageous action help rewire old narratives of “not enough.”
    
3. Everyone Feels Like an Imposter: High achievers quietly doubt themselves — knowing this is freeing and normalizing.
    
4. Gratitude Combats Self-Doubt: Thanking those who invest in you reframes fear and reinforces your value.
    
5. Skills Fade — Behaviors Last: Curiosity, learning agility, and empathy outlast technical know-how in an AI-driven workplace.
    
6. Visualize the Long Game: Thinking 15–20 years ahead helps shape better short-term decisions and career pivots.
    
7. Boundaries Are Essential: Healthy limits protect time, energy, and self-worth, enabling sustainable success.
    
8. Use Work as a Launchpad, Not an Escape: Achievements can build confidence but shouldn’t mask personal growth gaps.
    
9. Take Brave Micro-Steps: Big change starts with one small action; movement matters more than perfection.
    
10. Connection Breaks Isolation: Vulnerable storytelling, mentorship, and shared humanity turn loneliness into belonging.

This isn’t a conversation about pretending everything is fine. It’s a practical, science-backed exploration of how to keep moving forward when the world tries to convince you to freeze. Chris and Mattan unpack the psychology of negativity, including the brain’s nine-to-one negative memory bias, nostalgia’s hidden trap, and how media algorithms profit from fear, and then turn to the tools that can rewire us toward progress and resilience.

Along the way, they revisit some of Mattan’s most powerful ideas: the courage of “naive optimism” that makes founders start companies against impossible odds; serendipity bombs, small outward actions that quietly build networks and opportunity; and the truth that being wrong most of the time is the price of doing something original.

The conversation is both personal and practical. Chris shares stories of producing a two-man play in Beverly Hills under the threat of a record-breaking El Niño storm, and how standing in the room with committed collaborators fueled hope despite fear. Mattan reflects on early YouTube criticism that almost derailed him, and how understanding our negativity bias changed his response to rejection and failure.

Listeners will also hear how positive emotions aren’t just nice-to-have; they’re powerful mental technology. Chris cites Barbara Fredrickson’s “broaden-and-build” research, showing how gratitude, curiosity, and empathy expand our thought–action repertoire, unlock creativity, and make new solutions visible. Together they argue that optimism isn’t fluffy, it’s a survival skill in an age of AI disruption, social media outrage cycles, and cultural pessimism.

By the end of the episode, you’ll have practical habits to invite luck and possibility into your own life: connect generously, say yes early and often, ship ideas at 90% instead of chasing perfection, and create rooms where pessimism can’t dominate. Most importantly, you’ll be reminded that hope is not passive, it’s built one intentional step at a time.

10 Quotes

1. “Optimism isn’t blind faith that everything will be fine, it’s the conviction that progress is buildable.” — Mattan
2. “Our brains take in nine bits of negative information for every one bit of positive. That’s biology, not failure.” — Chris
3. “Nostalgia can be beautiful, but it’s often denial, an inability to process the present.” — Chris
4. “Systems are self-healing if we let them. The line of human progress trends up and to the right, even if it wobbles.” — Mattan
5. “Negativity sells. Each negative word in a headline can boost clicks by 2.3%, but positive words get ignored.” — Chris
6. “You have to be wrong most of the time to create something new. Error tolerance is optimism in action.” — Mattan
7. “The stupid way to be selfish is to seek happiness for yourself alone; the intelligent way is to work for the welfare of others.” — Dalai Lama (quoted by Chris)
8. “Say yes early and often because most conversations won’t go anywhere, but the one that does can change your life.” — Mattan
9. “Progress comes from movement, not perfection. Press go at 90%.” — Chris
10. “Positive emotions broaden your thought–action repertoire, gratitude and curiosity literally rewire your brain for resilience.” — Chris (referencing Barbara Fredrickson)

10 Big Takeaways

1. Optimism is a discipline, not a mood. It’s about choosing to believe in forward momentum despite uncertainty.
2. Understand your brain’s negativity bias. We’re wired to remember threats — knowing this can help us reframe and resist doomscrolling.
3. Question nostalgia. Looking back with rose-colored glasses can fuel pessimism about the present.
4. Negativity is profitable — be aware of media incentives. Don’t let clickbait headlines distort your worldview.
5. Design serendipity. Small, outward-focused actions (helping others, showing up, connecting dots) compound over time.
6. Practice error tolerance. Innovation and growth require being wrong most of the time; progress lives in mistakes.
7. Generosity drives returns. Investing in other people — time, knowledge, introductions — creates long-term opportunity and resilience.
8. Say yes more (strategically). Especially early in your journey, embrace exploration; one connection can transform everything.
9. Start before you’re ready. Perfectionism delays progress; ship at 90% and learn in motion.
10. Positive emotions fuel creativity. Simple acts of gratitude, kindness, and curiosity expand your capacity to see solutions and possibilities.

On Negativity Bias & Media Outrage

• Adam Mastroianni & Daniel Gilbert’s Nature paper — The illusion of moral decline
• Steven Pinker’s The Better Angels of Our Nature (book summary)
• Tobias Rose-Stockwell — The Outrage Machine
• Upworthy headline negativity study (Columbia Journalism Review)

On Positive Emotion & Optimism

• Barbara Fredrickson’s “Broaden-and-Build Theory” explainer
• Dalai Lama quote on “intelligent selfishness”
• Adam Grant’s Give and Take

On Startup Mindset & Serendipity

• Mattan Griffel’s Medium essay: “You Have to Be Wrong”
• Mattan Griffel on Designing Serendipity (Forbes)
• How to Build Serendipity in Your Career (Harvard Business Review)

On Connection & Generosity

• Chris Schembra’s Rolling Stone column archive
• Ikigai framework explainer
• PwC research on ROI of well-being programs

In this special episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with Swapnil Shinde, a three-time entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Zeni, the AI-powered finance platform transforming how startups manage their financial operations.

Swapnil’s journey is a story of resilience, risk-taking, and relentless alignment with purpose. He shares how his very first startup—an early Bollywood music streaming service—nearly broke him as he faced late-night calls from music label executives, endless licensing negotiations, and the weight of operating in an industry he barely understood. Instead of giving up, those painful years became his greatest teacher, showing him how to manage stress, build courage, and navigate uncertainty. That experience laid the foundation for his second company, Mezi, an AI travel assistant acquired by American Express, and now his third, Zeni, which is reshaping the future of startup finance.

But what makes Swapnil stand out is not just his entrepreneurial track record. It’s his deep conviction that true success begins on the inside. He describes gratitude as “strength training for your heart” and insists that life must feel good internally before it can ever look good externally. Meditation, mindfulness, and intentional daily rituals are cornerstones of his leadership. He blocks time every morning to ground himself—through Ayurvedic practices, breathwork, and meditation—before leading his team and scaling a company in hypergrowth.

Throughout the conversation, Chris and Swapnil explore how slowing down can actually accelerate growth, why trusting your team and delegating is essential for visionary leadership, and how to separate vanity metrics from what really matters in building sustainable businesses. They also reflect on the dangers of “I’ll be happy when…” thinking, and the freedom that comes when you align with your life’s mission in the present moment.

In a deeply moving section of the episode, Swapnil pays tribute to his late mother, Chaya, an artist who taught him and his twin brother to paint from the age of three. Those lessons in creativity and imagination, he says, were really lessons in how to dream and how to create—skills that became the backbone of his entrepreneurial journey. Speaking in front of one of her paintings during the interview, Swapnil shares how her influence continues to shape his life and leadership.

This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every startup success story is a human being navigating hard times, rewiring through gratitude, and finding strength in stillness. Whether you’re a founder, leader, or simply someone searching for deeper alignment in your own life, Swapnil’s insights will inspire you to pause, reflect, and take bold steps toward building not just a business, but a meaningful legacy.

10 Key Quotes

1. “Gratitude is like strength training for your heart.” – Swapnil Shinde
2. “Slowing down is the best way to run fast.” – Swapnil Shinde
3. “The absence of knowledge teaches you to take risks you’d never take if you knew the pitfalls.” – Swapnil Shinde
4. “If you don’t follow your gut, you will always feel incomplete.” – Swapnil Shinde
5. “Life needs to look good from the inside before it can look good from the outside.” – Swapnil Shinde
6. “The fewer things you have to do, the more time you have to think. The more you think, the more strategic you become.” – Swapnil Shinde
7. “Are you aligned with your life’s mission? If you are, work feels like a hobby.” – Swapnil Shinde
8. “Building sustainable long-term businesses is more important than growth at all costs.” – Swapnil Shinde
9. “My mother taught me to paint at age three—and unknowingly, she taught me how to dream and create.” – Swapnil Shinde
10. “Gratitude journaling and affirmations are a game changer. They rewire your brain toward health and optimism.” – Swapnil Shinde

10 Key Takeaways

1. Hard times can be teachers – painful entrepreneurial experiences build resilience and stress tolerance.
2. Ignorance can be an advantage – not knowing all the risks can free you to take bold leaps.
3. Gut as compass – true alignment comes from following intuition supported by meditation and reflection.
4. Slowing down accelerates progress – stillness, meditation, and focus create clarity and expand time.
5. Morning rituals matter – Swapnil’s daily turmeric-honey-lemon drink, breathwork, and meditation ground his leadership.
6. Delegate and trust your team – great CEOs keep their to-do lists short by empowering 10x leaders.
7. Measure what matters, not vanity metrics – focus on revenue, margins, and automation rates, not money raised or employee count.
8. Sustainable businesses > growth at all costs – the startup landscape has shifted away from reckless scaling.
9. Gratitude is proactive power – journaling and expressing thanks outwardly rewires perspective and culture.
10. Legacy of love – Swapnil’s late mother, Chaya, instilled creativity and resilience that continues to guide his entrepreneurial mission.

Guest Bio

Swapnil Shinde is the co-founder and CEO of Zeni, an AI-powered finance platform that automates bookkeeping, bill pay, reimbursements, and CFO-level insights in real time. A three-time entrepreneur, Swapnil co-founded Mezi, an AI-driven travel assistant acquired by American Express, and Dhingana, a Bollywood music streaming service acquired by Rdio. Alongside his identical twin brother Snehal, he has built a reputation as a visionary founder, angel investor, and advisor to AI startups.

When he’s not scaling companies, Swapnil is passionate about Bollywood music, painting, meditation, and empowering entrepreneurs to align their work with their life’s mission.

Learn more about Swapnil and Zeni:

• Zeni Official Website
   
• Swapnil Shinde on LinkedIn
   
• Follow Zeni on LinkedIn

What does it mean to live a life worth talking about?

In this deeply moving and soul-stirring episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra invites us into an extraordinary conversation with Seth Dechtman, a man whose journey has been defined not by fame or fanfare, but by grit, love, listening, and legacy.

The story begins with a question Chris has asked to thousands of people: Who is one person you’ve never thought to thank? Seth doesn’t hesitate, he honors his mother, Lenore, a woman who raised four children alone after the sudden passing of her husband. In Seth’s words, her life was a masterclass in grace, humility, and strength. Her resilience wasn’t loud, it was deliberate. Her courage wasn’t showy, it was sacred. That tribute sets the tone for everything that follows.

From there, we follow Seth’s winding journey from a paperboy in New Jersey to an international basketball coach in Venezuela, from assisting coaching legends to curating keynotes for some of the biggest brands in the world. Along the way, we hear about the founding of Planet Basketball, how it was never meant to be a business, but rather an invitation to create joy, connection, and opportunity through sport.

But this episode isn’t about basketball. It’s about what it takes to create something from nothing. It’s about choosing to see life as a blank canvas every single day, even when the world hands you a palette of pain. It’s about knowing that every person you meet, every speaker you book, every player you coach, every child you raise, is a chance to serve, elevate, and love.

Seth shares a refreshing vulnerability rarely heard from someone in the world of high-stakes events and corporate keynotes. He admits that wisdom doesn’t come from reading books or attending conferences. It comes from falling off the bike. From saying the wrong thing. From getting back up, and listening harder the next time.

Chris and Seth explore what it means to build a winning mindset, not the kind that craves podiums or applause, but the kind that recognizes victory in perseverance, curiosity, and meaningful connection. They dive into the power of words, how to unlearn ego, and the responsibility we all have to acknowledge those who have shaped us.

The stories are rich. The lessons are layered. And the message is clear: You didn’t get here alone. And there is a village, a legacy, and a lineage of love standing behind your every success.

Whether you're a parent, a coach, an entrepreneur, or someone simply trying to make sense of your next chapter. This episode is a reminder that life is an adventure, and every day is a new chance to choose love, gratitude, and growth.

10 Key Takeaways

1. Gratitude is Transformational: Seth’s tribute to his mother, Lenore, reminds us that gratitude isn’t just a mindset, it’s a guiding compass through life’s toughest moments.
2. Create from the Blank Canvas: Each day is a fresh opportunity to create something meaningful. You don’t need to be perfect, you just need to begin.
3. Adversity Builds Legacy: From losing his father as a teen to rebuilding life in Denver, Seth’s story exemplifies how adversity can become the soil where resilience grows.
4. Winning Is the Journey: It’s not about the podium, it’s about the process, the teammates, and the heart you put into every step of the climb.
5. Words Hold Power: The words we use can either uplift or damage. Seth urges us to speak with intention, because “if you're casual with your words, you cause casualties.”
6. Leadership Is Love in Action: Whether booking a speaker or raising a child, Seth’s ethos is simple: lead with love, and the results will follow.
7. Life Imitates Sport: Lessons from the basketball court—discipline, coaching, failure, teamwork—show up in business and life in powerful ways.
8. Legacy Is Found in Service: The most successful people Seth works with are those who serve others first. Greatness is built in the agency of others.
9. Wisdom Comes from Doing: You can’t read your way into experience. You must live it. Bite the apple. Fall off the bike. Get back up.
10. Give It All Away: In a world full of secrets and ego, Seth lives by the philosophy of radical generosity. “Give everything. That’s where the magic lives.”

10 Memorable Quotes  

“Life is a work of art, but you don’t have to be a Picasso.”  

“If you’re casual with your words, you cause casualties.”  

“Her inner strength was grace, humility, and the ability to show weakness.”  

“Sales doesn’t solve everything. Wisdom does.”  

“You wake up every day with a blank canvas, what you paint is up to you.”  

“Love is the only virtue that has no extreme.” - Felipe Gomez  

“The greatness in your life is in the agency of others.”  

“There’s no losing, only learning. There’s no failing, only growth.”  

“Bite the apple and fall off your bike. That’s how you know you’re alive.”  

“The world gives you data. Wisdom is choosing what to do with it.” 

Guest Bio: Seth Dechtman  

Seth Dechtman is the founder of The Keynote Curators, a keynote speaker agency dedicated  to matching world-class speakers with world-class events. With over 17 years of experience in  the speaking industry, Seth has worked with iconic brands like Apple, Microsoft, Ford,  Coca-Cola, and more.  

Seth’s approach isn’t just about finding speakers, it’s about curating transformational experiences. Whether rescuing a last-minute event or crafting VIP magic, his work is grounded in trust, wisdom, and results.  

Contact: info@thekeynotecurators.com

Call to Action  

If this episode moved you, take a moment to thank someone who’s helped shape your journey.  Reflect on the people behind your success and let them know their impact matters.  

Share this episode with a friend, mentor, coach, or parent.  

Subscribe to Gratitude Through Hard Times for more raw, real, and remarkable stories.

In this powerful, emotionally resonant episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with one of the world’s most respected thought leaders on human-centered performance: Ryan Estis.

Ryan isn't just a keynote speaker or former Fortune 500 Chief Revenue Officer. He’s a guide for leaders navigating complexity, a man who’s lived the tension between growth and burnout, performance and peace, ambition and alignment. Through stories both deeply personal and professionally profound, Ryan takes us behind the curtain of a life built on momentum through harmony—and how choosing wellness, wisdom, and worth have shaped his impact. 

From founding ImpactEleven (which achieved a 500% growth rate, 1300% increase in shareholder value, and 90% client retention in just two years), to standing ovations across global stages, Ryan’s track record is undeniable. But what makes this episode different is what’s unsaid—the inner work of reclaiming health, reconnecting to truth, and redefining success not by how far we go, but by how deeply we live. 

Together, Chris and Ryan explore: 

• the meaning of legacy and how wisdom passed down from a father becomes a compass,
• the role of weak ties and long-held partnerships like Lynn in a world obsessed with speed,
• the power of surrender and how BDSM culture taught Chris to drop into presence and care,and the hard-earned truth that we must unlearn external validation to live our truth.

This episode is part mentorship session, part love letter to resilience, and part rallying cry for those who feel like they’re achieving outwardly, yet quietly burning out inside.

10 Memorable Quotes

1. “Success without fulfillment and feeling good is failure.” – Ryan Estis
2. “You have to borrow someone else’s belief in you until your own catches up.” –Ryan Estis
3. “Don’t wreck the product. You’re the product.” – Ryan Estis
4. “Risk more than others think is safe. Care more than others think is wise. Dream more than others think is practical.” – Words of Wisdom from Ryan’s father
5. “To connect in service, you must first live from your center.” – Ryan Estis
6. “Gratitude isn’t just for the good times. It’s best practiced through the hard times.”– Chris Schembra
7. “The world will define you—if you let it.” – Ryan Estis
8. “Every person has the wisdom they need. It was put there for them.” – Ryan Estis
9. “Live your truth. It’s the kindest thing you can do for yourself—and for others.” – Ryan Estis
10. “You’re not the first person with a message on their heart who’s blown the moment.” – Adam “Smiley” Poswolsky, as quoted by Chris

10 Key Takeaways

1. The Journey Isn’t Linear—But It’s Worth It.
Chris’s lowest speaking moment led him directly to Ryan, proof that our darkest hours often plant the seeds of the brightest chapters.

2. Don’t Just Grow Fast. Grow From Your Center.
Ryan’s success wasn’t a straight hustle; it required slowing down, getting healthy, and aligning with values like momentum through harmony.

3. Your Legacy May Live in a Wooden Box.
A literal box of quotes from Ryan’s dad revealed the timeless wisdom that now shapes how he leads, speaks, and lives. These quotes became mantras.

4. The Quiet People Beside You Are Often the Most Powerful.
Ryan’s long-standing partnership with Lynn, his business manager since his first job out of college, is a testament to loyalty, presence, and consistency.

5. Define Success On Your Terms—Then Redefine It Again.
Whether it’s writing a book with his brother or shifting his health trajectory, Ryan models how to evolve your definition of winning.

6. Unlearning Is Just As Important As Learning.
Ryan had to unlearn the compulsion to respond to every piece of feedback and external pressure. His current work is about choosing inner authority.

7. Your Best Work Comes From Alignment.
From Ryan’s gesture of heart → head → hands, we learn that when your beliefs, mindset, and actions align, magic happens.

8. Weak Ties Are Stronger Than You Think.
Inspired by Granovetter’s 1973 study, the episode celebrates the strength of those people we see occasionally but who shape us profoundly.

9. There’s Power in Personal Rituals.
Whether it’s opening the wisdom box or walking back through difficult memories, grounding rituals help us stay human in a fast-paced world.

10. Human Be-ing > Human Doing.
Ryan and Chris both remind us: Your presence is your power. Stop outsourcing your identity. Show up fully. Live from your center.

Links & Resources

• Prepare for Impact by Ryan Estis
• Learn More About ImpactEleven
• Barbara Fredrickson’s Broaden-and-Build Theory of Positive Emotion
• Mark Granovetter’s Study: The Strength of Weak Ties
• More on Functional Medicine

In this electrifying episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, Chris Schembra sits down with transformational speaker, coach, and author Juan Bendana, whose new book Confident by Choice is poised to reshape how we think about courage, action, and self-belief.

This conversation dives deep into a liberating truth: confidence isn’t a fixed trait—it's a daily decision. Together, Chris and Juan unpack the Confidence Cycle, a four-part science-backed framework (Micro Energy → Micro Courage → Micro Action → Micro Proof) designed to help everyday people break through fear and build an inspired life—one step at a time.

But this episode is more than a framework. It’s a heart-to-heart about mentorship, identity, failure, and the beauty of baby steps. Juan opens up about battling binge eating, hitting rock bottom, and how a good friend’s invitation to California helped him reset his entire life. From the weight of imposter syndrome to the surprising science behind confidence and Olympic achievement, Juan reminds us that we are all capable of change—especially when we stop trying to get it perfect and start moving with purpose.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, scared, or unsure where to begin, this episode is your signal to start. Listen in, take a breath, borrow some belief, and get ready to build the life you know is waiting for you.

10 Quotes from the Episode:

1. “Confidence is not the absence of self-doubt. It’s the willingness to act anyway.” – Juan Bendana
    
2. “The way out is through. And the way through is trust.” – Chris Schembra
    
3. “Confident people spend more time with self-doubt than less confident people. They just have a better relationship with it.” – Juan Bendana
    
4. “When something bad happens, most people ask, ‘What’s wrong with me?’ Confident people ask, ‘What do I do next?’” – Juan Bendana
    
5. “Energy is the spark. Courage is the ignition. Action is the engine. Proof is the fuel.” – Chris Schembra
    
6. “You can borrow someone else’s confidence. Just try on their life like it’s a fresh pair of Jordans.” – Juan Bendana
    
7. “You wouldn’t worry so much about what others think of you if you realized how seldom they do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt (quoted by Juan)
    
8. “The people in your life need you more than you think. Build your confidence, then give it away.” – Juan Bendana
    
9. “Olympians aren’t born more confident. They just commit to small steps over time.” – Chris Schembra
    
10. “I’m not there… yet. That single word creates space for growth, grace, and transformation.” – Juan Bendana
     

10 Key Takeaways:

1. Confidence is a process, not a personality trait. It’s something we build through micro decisions, not something we’re born with or without.
    
2. Micro Energy is the foundation. Whether it’s rest, excitement, curiosity, or joy—building momentum starts with finding even the smallest spark.
    
3. Micro Courage means choosing discomfort on purpose. Confidence grows when we lean into fear, not when we avoid it.
    
4. Micro Action is where transformation begins. Even walking to the gym without going inside can be a powerful first step.
    
5. Micro Proof is confidence in motion. Success and failure both offer evidence that we’re capable of growth.
    
6. You don’t have to do it alone. Mentorship, community, and borrowed belief are part of the journey.
    
7. Failure builds confidence when it’s reframed. Trying and failing proves you had the courage to show up, and that’s enough.
    
8. Imposter syndrome is a sign of growth. It shows you're operating at your edge, where confidence can be forged.
    
9. Language matters. Swapping “I can’t” for “I can’t… yet” changes fixed mindsets into growth mindsets.
    
10. Confidence creates identity shifts. When you accumulate enough proof, you don’t just act differently—you become someone new.
     

Suggested Follow-Up Actions for Listeners:

1. Pre-order Juan’s book Confident by Choice (link in show notes)—and send it to someone who needs a boost of belief.
    
2. Do one micro action today toward a goal you’ve been putting off—send the email, take the walk, make the ask.
    
3. Reflect and journal: Where in your life are you telling yourself "I'm not enough"? Rewrite that story with "...yet."
    
4. Send a voice note to a friend or team member with words of confidence. “You’re amazing. I’m glad you’re here.”
    
5. Reach out to Juan on LinkedIn and say “You’re welcome”—as a callback to the moment he thanked all the strivers listening.
    

Episode Links:

• 📚 Pre-Order Confident by Choice by Juan Bendana
• 🌐 Follow Juan on LinkedIn
• 📨 Contact Juan directly via email in the show notes
  
   

🎧 Subscribe to 

Gratitude Through Hard Times

 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app

In this riveting and deeply personal conversation, Chris Schembra sits down with Grace Smith — one of the world’s most respected hypnotherapists and the founder of the #1 hypnotherapy brand in the world — to explore how hypnosis can unlock peak performance, emotional clarity, and authentic leadership in the modern workplace.

Chris opens the episode by recounting how Grace helped him through a dark moment in 2021, using hypnotherapy to reconnect him to purpose, possibility, and a record-breaking year in business. From there, the conversation expands to cover Grace’s origin story, her groundbreaking work with high-achieving CEOs, and why hypnosis is less about “fixing” and more about revealing the strength already inside us.

Grace shares stunning stories from her early career — including how she helped a paralyzed man regain movement in a single session, a man who would later become her father-in-law. Together, they explore how the subconscious governs behavior, how leaders can reprogram outdated belief systems, and why gratitude often lives just beneath stress, waiting to be uncovered.

This episode is a masterclass in neuroscience, personal growth, and emotional intelligence for anyone looking to lead with clarity and courage in a world of chaos.

Key Themes

• Subconscious blocks and business growth
• The science of theta brainwave states and peak performance
• How trauma and stress quietly shape executive decision-making
• Why hypnosis helps leaders find clarity, confidence, and intuition
• The power of gratitude as a renewable energy source
• How to lead with presence in a world of distraction

Notable Quotes

• “When the subconscious is working against you, you’ll never reach your true potential.” – Grace Smith
• “Gratitude is there—it’s just buried beneath stress. Hypnosis helps you feel what’s already been inside you.” – Grace Smith
• “You’re not fixing broken people—you’re polishing the gem that was always there.” – Chris Schembra
• “Hypnosis gave me the pause I needed to take action toward healing. One week later, I bought a ticket to Italy.” – Chris Schembra
• “The brain doesn’t just change overnight because your circumstances improve. You have to rewire it—consciously.” – Grace Smith
• “I work with people whose decisions shift tectonic plates. When their subconscious is clear, the world moves with more grace.” – Grace Smith
• “Every subconscious breakthrough is followed by what I call a bonus miracle—change you didn’t even expect.” – Grace Smith
• “When you’re in theta, you bypass the ego. That’s where the intuition lives. That’s where the clarity begins.” – Grace Smith
• “We’re not adding anything. We’re removing what’s in the way of who you already are.” – Grace Smith
• “Hypnosis isn’t mind control. It’s mindset liberation.” – Grace Smith
• “Grace didn’t just help me recover—she helped me remember who I was before the noise.” – Chris Schembra
• “You can read every business book in the world. But if your subconscious is working against you, you’re building on sand.” – Chris Schembra
• “She’s not giving you a new mind—she’s handing you the keys to the one you forgot you had.” – Chris Schembra
  “Sometimes the only way forward is to pause long enough to hear the voice underneath the fear.” – Chris Schembra

Featured Stories

• Grace’s first hypnotherapy session helped her quit smoking — and changed the course of her life
• How a United Nations peacekeeper paralyzed from a stroke moved his hand again in a single session
• Chris’s vulnerable account of his 2021 mental health crisis and the role Grace played in his recovery
• Why CEOs with billion-dollar companies are turning to hypnotherapy for their next breakthrough
• The neuroscience of flow, intuition, and decision-making under pressure

Resources and Links

• Grace App: Hypnotherapy on-demand for stress, sleep, success, and more
• Learn more about 1:1 executive coaching with Grace

Sara shares her unexpected journey into this world of relational marketing—how a nudge from her college roommate and a single Google search led her to John’s work, and how her bold outreach blossomed into a mentorship, a career, and a calling. Chris and Sara reflect on how the principles of Beyond Gift•ology are not just business strategies—they’re spiritual frameworks for living well, loving deeply, and leading with purpose.

The episode pays tribute to John Ruhlin, a father, husband, and business visionary who turned gifting into an art form and relationship-building into an enterprise. John passed away in 2024, but his wisdom—"Relationships can take you places marketing can’t"—lives on in the systems, stories, and spirit that Sara now helps shepherd to the world.

Together, Chris and Sara unpack practical strategies from Beyond Gift•ology: how to build a business based on Return on Relationship (ROR), how to gift without branding or ego, and how to become what Adam Grant calls a “strategic giver”—someone who gives generously and wisely without burning out.

They explore the nuances between swag and soul, between a gift that gathers dust and a gift that transforms a relationship, and between a one-off act of kindness and a lifestyle of sustained generosity. Sara also speaks vulnerably about her faith journey, how her relationship with God guides her every decision, and how grief, gratitude, and giving are all connected.

Chris draws parallels between his own work at the dinner table and John’s commitment to elevating relationships through thoughtful gestures. They explore how tiny, consistent acts—handwritten notes, engraved knives, warm introductions—create ripple effects that build not just revenue, but legacy.

Whether you're a founder, a sales leader, a service-based professional, or simply someone who wants to live more intentionally in your relationships, this episode offers a generous mix of soul and strategy. It’s a reminder that business doesn’t have to be cold, marketing doesn’t have to be manipulative, and giving—when done well—can be your greatest competitive edge.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

➤ A Powerful Opening Tribute
Chris opens with a personal story of how a 20-minute call with John Ruhlin in 2017 changed his life. That call turned into a two-and-a-half-hour conversation, a lasting mentorship, and the permission to go “all-in” on human connection.

➤ Sara’s Origin Story: From College Gifting Club to Gift•ology Leader
You’ll hear how Sara’s best friend Chloe encouraged her to Google “gift giving company”—a search that led to John Ruhlin’s work and, eventually, to Sara founding the internet’s largest gifting community while still in college.

➤ The Long Game of Generosity: ROR > ROI
Sara and Chris dive deep into the difference between Return on Investment (ROI) and Return on Relationships (ROR). Sara explains why short-term thinking in business keeps us stuck—and how giving first, without expecting anything in return, can actually become your greatest long-term growth engine.

➤ Gifting as Strategy, Not Swag
Sara outlines the key rules of strategic gifting:

• It’s not about you—it’s about the recipient.
   
• No logos, ever. Personalize for their life, not your brand.
   
• Love on the inner circle—spouses, kids, even the family dog.
   
• Focus on “practical luxuries” that create 5,475+ moments of thoughtfulness over time.

➤ The Rise of the Rich Relationship Society
Sara introduces the R.I.C.H. framework:

• Reciprocal
   
• Influential
   
• Connected
   
• Humble

She shares how this system is designed to help entrepreneurs and service-based professionals build referral-based businesses rooted in trust, warmth, and mutual growth.

➤ Jesus, Dinner Parties, and the Divine Power of a Knife
In one of the most personal moments, Sara credits her faith—and specifically, her renewed relationship with Jesus—as the compass guiding her work. They connect the dots between Jesus’ Last Supper, dinner tables as sacred community spaces, and how something as simple as a personalized kitchen knife can become a legacy of love.

➤ Beyond the Business Tactic: Legacy as the Ultimate ROI
The episode closes with a powerful reminder: while gifting is a strategy, true generosity is a posture of the heart. Sara shares that she’s not just playing for business success—she’s playing for eternity.

Key Takeaways

• Generosity isn’t a transaction—it’s a transformation. Strategic gifting isn’t about getting something back immediately. It’s about creating meaningful moments that compound over time.
• Your swag isn’t a gift—it’s a billboard. The most powerful gifts are useful, personal, and logo-free.
• Business is human-to-human. In a world overrun with AI, algorithms, and advertising, it’s the relationships built at your dinner table—not your Instagram grid—that truly move the needle.
• Legacy is built in the little things. A handwritten note. A kitchen knife. A prayer. A hug. These are the moments people remember.
   

Links & Resources

Beyond Gift•ology by John Ruhlin – Buy the book
Learn more about the Rich Relationship Society – giftologygroup.com
Contact Sara Hardwick – sara@giftologygroup.com
Connect with Sara on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/sarahardwick
Giftology (Original Book) – Buy here

On today’s soul-shifting episode, Chris Schembra sits down with licensed clinician and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Britt Frank to explore the untapped potential of your internal world. Britt’s new book, Align Your Mind, blends Internal Family Systems (IFS), neuroscience, trauma therapy, and radical compassion into a user manual for becoming a better leader—by leading yourself first.

In this raw, riveting, and often funny dialogue, Britt shares the ALIGN framework: a five-step method to transform the swirl of internal chaos into clarity, confidence, and calm leadership. You’ll walk away with tools to stop spinning, drop shame, and start collaborating—with all the voices in your head.

Chris and Britt explore:

• How circus training helped Britt tame her mind and discover flow
   
• Why shadow parts aren’t saboteurs—they’re secret allies
   
• The real difference between solitude and loneliness
   
• How to negotiate with your inner critic like it’s your toughest client
   
• Why authentic leadership doesn’t mean “bring all your parts to work”
   
• A powerful reframe: Your brain isn’t broken—it’s brilliant
  
   

Whether you’re a CEO, a team leader, or just trying to keep your head above water, this episode offers both practical tools and deep encouragement for navigating inner and outer leadership challenges.

Key Moments

• [00:08] Chris’ poetic New York City intro + welcoming new and loyal listeners
   
• [02:27] Britt’s dynamic background: therapist, speaker, author… and circus performer
   
• [05:47] The Gratitude Question: Britt thanks her first circus coach for raising her standards
   
• [07:36] Defining flow as alignment—not perfection
   
• [10:38] Intro to Parts Work and why leaders must embrace their inner multiplicity
   
• [12:38] What “shadow work” really means: turning inner tension into innovation
   
• [15:15] The ALIGN Framework:
  
  
  • Acknowledge
     
  • Listen
     
  • Investigate
     
  • Give Gratitude (to your brain!)
     
  • Negotiate
     
• [22:42] From loneliness to solitude: why inner gratitude is the first step to connection
   
• [25:32] Why some stress is good stress: shifting mental gears instead of stalling
   
• [28:57] Britt’s take on DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and how it saved her life
   
• [31:35] Busting three myths of the workplace:
  
  
  • Don’t bring every part of yourself to work
     
  • Workplaces aren’t families—they’re teams
     
  • Positivity isn’t the same as leadership
     
• [36:53] Britt’s backstory: addiction, cults, hiding IFS books inside cult literature, and the breakthrough that changed her life
   
• [39:28] Final takeaway: your inner critic isn’t a bully—it’s your most loyal bodyguard
   
• [40:16] Chris’ signoff + why Align Your Mind is essential reading for anyone leading a team in 2025
  
   

Memorable Quotes

“Flow is not the absence of thought. It’s movement in the presence of noise.” – Britt Frank

“Every part of you has value. You don’t need to silence them—you need to negotiate.” – Britt Frank

“The solution to loneliness is solitude—but only if your inner world isn’t at war with itself.” – Chris Schembra

“Your brain isn’t wired for success. It’s wired for survival. Say thanks, and lead anyway.” – Britt Frank

“Leadership is not about being positive all the time. It’s about being real—with curiosity and compassion.” – Britt Frank

About the Book

Align Your Mind is Britt Frank’s empowering new guide to taming anxiety, healing trauma, and overcoming self-doubt using Parts Work. Combining practical exercises, storytelling, and cutting-edge neuroscience, Britt introduces readers to their internal cast of characters—from the anxious controller to the tired inner child—and shows how to bring them into harmony.

With Britt’s warm and witty voice, readers learn how to:

• Reframe the inner critic as a coach
   
• Move from chaos to clarity with the ALIGN method
   
• Use curiosity as an antidote to burnout and self-sabotage
   
• Stop waiting to feel motivated and start getting things done
   

Whether you’re a leader or simply a human navigating complexity, this book gives you the tools to realign and rise.

Order now: Penguin Random House

 

About Britt Frank

Britt Frank, LSCSW, is a licensed clinician, author, and speaker specializing in trauma, Parts Work, and mental health. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, NPR, Forbes, Esquire, and New York Magazine. She is the author of The Science of Stuck, The Getting Unstuck Workbook, and now Align Your Mind.

Based in Kansas City
brittfrank.com
Instagram: @BrittFrank

About Your Host

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of 

Gratitude Through Hard Times

 and founder of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™, which has impacted hundreds of thousands through the power of meaningful connection. He’s been featured in Rolling Stone, USA Today, Forbes, and beyond—and hosts this podcast as a space for leaders to explore the intersection of hardship, hope, and human potential.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How a simple shoulder tap can change the course of a career
• The importance of mentorship and building reciprocal relationships
• Lessons from Governor Gary Carruthers on leadership and respect across differences
• Why celebrating the success of others (Mudita) is key to fulfillment
• The Platinum Rule: Treating others the way they want to be treated
• How small, cumulative actions can create meaningful change
• Practical ways to express gratitude, even to those who are no longer with us

Guest Bio: Dr. Steve Elias is an experienced and approachable leader who knows how to bring people together and create positive change. As the Dean of the Katz School of Business at Fort Lewis College, he has worked hard to improve teamwork, build partnerships, and develop strategies that make a real difference for students, staff, faculty members, and the community. Steve is known for being down-to-earth and easy to talk to, with a leadership style based on open communication, fairness, and collaboration. With a background in applied social psychology and years of experience at Minority Serving Institutions, he understands people’s needs and makes them feel included and supported. Steve has a gift for inspiring others, building strong relationships, and finding creative ways to help organizations grow and succeed.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:03:15] Chris introduces Dr. Steve Elias and the story of how they met in Durango, Colorado.
• [00:07:45] Steve shares his gratitude for Governor Gary Carruthers and the pivotal moment he was "tapped on the shoulder."
• [00:14:30] The Platinum Rule in leadership: why treating people how they want to be treated matters.
• [00:21:10] Finding joy in the success of others - the power of Mudita.
• [00:28:50] Overcoming the challenge of appreciating personal accomplishments without feeling egotistical.
• [00:35:20] Chris and Steve reflect on the impact of small, everyday acts of gratitude.
• [00:42:10] Exploring the legacy of Bob Graetz and his contributions to the civil rights movement.
• [00:49:00] Practical advice for leaders on building a culture of recognition and gratitude in the workplace.

Resources Mentioned:

• ResearchGate profile of Dr. Steve Elias
• Deviant and Criminal Behavior in the Workplace by Dr. Steve Elias
• Maria’s Bookshop in Durango, Colorado
• The Platinum Rule concept
• Harvard Study on Adult Development by Dr. Robert Waldinger
• A&E Biography of Bob Graetz

Key Takeaways:

• Celebrate the success of others and recognize the role you’ve played in their journey.
• Small gestures, like lighting a candle or sending a kind message, have a profound impact.
• Gratitude should be practiced daily and can help overcome regret and guilt.
• Leaders should focus on relationship-building and understanding their team’s unique needs.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Gratitude Through Hard Times and share it with someone who could use a little inspiration today. Have thoughts or questions about this episode? We'd love to hear from you! 

Felipe’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From his early days learning piano under a patient and dedicated teacher to delivering over 1,000 electrifying performances on global stages, Felipe’s life is a testament to the power of passion and purpose. As a speaker, he combines ancient philosophies, modern leadership principles, and his prodigious musical talent to create experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. In this episode, Felipe and Chris unpack timeless lessons on gratitude, love, learning, and leadership, offering listeners a playbook for transformational living.

Chris kicks off the episode with his signature warmth, reminding us all of the magic of small moments and the power of shared experiences. Felipe’s reflections on his first piano teacher, Clara Lucia Sanchez, lay the foundation for a conversation that seamlessly weaves personal stories with actionable insights. Together, Chris and Felipe explore themes like the tension and release of life, the science of gratitude, and the profound impact of small, intentional choices.

Felipe’s philosophy is rooted in Aristotle’s golden mean—the balance between excess and deficiency—and he brings this ancient wisdom to life with practical examples and heartfelt anecdotes. He also highlights the transformative power of listening, encouraging leaders to embrace questions like “Tell me more” and “How can I help?” to build trust, empathy, and connection. Throughout the episode, Felipe and Chris demonstrate how gratitude, music, and human connection can serve as antidotes to a world often consumed by division and distraction.

As they close out the conversation, Chris and Felipe share their vision for a live event series that combines their passions—food, music, and leadership—to inspire and unite communities. This episode is a masterclass in finding beauty in the everyday, cultivating resilience, and making the choice to live with gratitude and purpose.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Felipe reflects on the life-changing impact of his first piano teacher and how her dedication inspired his lifelong love of music.
• Chris and Felipe explore the golden mean, Aristotle’s philosophy of balance, and how it applies to modern leadership and life.
• The importance of listening as a leadership skill is unpacked, with Felipe urging listeners to ask powerful questions like “Tell me more.”
• Chris shares the science of gratitude, detailing how it improves physical health, mental resilience, and overall happiness.
• Felipe draws a parallel between life and music, emphasizing the rhythm of tension and release as essential for growth and harmony.
• Together, they discuss how small, daily choices to learn, love, and explore can lead to a more meaningful and joyful life.

Notable Quotes:

• "Gratitude is the bridge between where we are and where we want to be." – Chris Schembra
• "We are designed to learn, to explore, and to love—every day is a chance to do all three." – Felipe Gómez
• "The most profound moments of joy come when we serve others, not ourselves." – Felipe Gómez
• "Ingratitude is the seed of all wickedness—it’s time we turn it into gratitude and growth." – Chris Schembra
• "Listening is an act of love, and it opens the door to empathy, understanding, and trust." – Felipe Gómez
• "Tension is part of life, but release is where growth happens. Don’t dwell in the tension." – Chris Schembra
• "Love, in its truest form, is the ultimate virtue—it has no limits, only power to transform." – Felipe Gómez
• "If you want to live a life of gratitude, don’t wait for the big moments. Start with the small ones." – Chris Schembra
• "In every conversation, the most important thing isn’t what’s said—it’s what remains unsaid." – Felipe Gómez
• "Virtue is found in the balance—between excess and deficiency lies the path to greatness." – Felipe Gómez
• "The greatest civilizations crumbled when gratitude disappeared. Let’s not repeat history." – Chris Schembra
• "To become virtuous, you have to act virtuously. Justice requires acts of justice, love requires acts of love." – Felipe Gómez
• "Gratitude is more than a feeling—it’s a tool for healing, hope, and humanity." – Chris Schembra
• "Ask two questions every day: 'Tell me more' and 'How can I help?' These will change your life." – Felipe Gómez
• "You don’t need permission or privilege to make the choice to learn, explore, and love. It’s yours to claim every day." – Chris Schembra

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Gratitude fuels growth: It fosters healing, connection, and personal transformation.
2. The power of small choices: Everyday acts of learning, exploring, and loving lead to a meaningful life.
3. Listen to lead: Effective listening builds trust, empathy, and innovation in leadership and life.
4. Tension and release: Life’s challenges are part of a rhythm—embrace the tension and find moments of release to thrive.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Felipe Gómez is a globally renowned speaker, virtuoso pianist, and thought leader whose work bridges the worlds of music, leadership, and personal transformation. With over 1,000 captivating performances delivered in 33 countries and 111 cities, Felipe has earned standing ovations from audiences around the world. His unique ability to blend classical music with practical leadership insights makes him one of the most sought-after keynote speakers today.

Felipe’s success is built on his extensive experience as an entrepreneur, business leader, and artist. He has delivered his message at some of the world’s most prestigious management and leadership forums, including the Global Peter Drucker Forum, the Oslo Business Forum, and the World Business Forum in New York, Madrid, Milan, and Sydney.

In his keynote presentations, Felipe uses a grand piano on stage to create a deeply interactive and transformative experience. Through music, he teaches profound lessons on leadership, trust, innovation, and teamwork, inspiring individuals and organizations to achieve greatness. His philosophy is rooted in the teachings of Aristotle and the concept of the “golden mean,” which he applies to modern challenges in life and business.

Felipe is also a celebrated author. His best-selling book, Attitude-E, offers practical frameworks for living with an entrepreneurial mindset, while his upcoming release, Virtuoso, explores the art of living and leading with excellence. Felipe hosts Pensando en Voz Alta, a weekly interview program where he engages with global leaders on topics of creativity, resilience, and transformation.

Born in Colombia, Felipe holds an MBA from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland, where he also completed a program on Leading Digital Business Transformation. He combines his global perspective with the sensibility of an artist, delivering a message that resonates across cultures and industries.

Whether he’s inspiring corporate executives, performing on stage, or engaging with audiences through his 42-Day Listening Challenge, Felipe’s mission is clear: to help people orchestrate transformational change in their personal and professional lives.

Connect with Felipe Gómez:

• Website: Learn more about Felipe's work and upcoming events.
  Felipe Gomez
• LinkedIn: Connect with Felipe on LinkedIn.

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Felipe’s 42-Day Listening Program: Subscribe for a daily dose of classical music and reflection.
• Chris Schembra’s Book: Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hour.
• Adam Grant’s Book: Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success.
• Barbara Fredrickson’s Research: Learn about the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions.

Josh dives deep into the principles behind his latest book, Big Little Breakthroughs: How Small Everyday Innovations Drive Oversized Results. He explains how small, consistent acts of creativity—not risky moonshots—are the key to driving transformational outcomes in business and life. Together, Josh and Chris unpack the importance of mindset, the power of gratitude in unleashing creative potential, and why celebrating others' success (a concept known as Mudita) can bring unparalleled fulfillment.

This episode is packed with actionable insights, including Josh’s “Two-Minute Creativity Ritual” for daily innovation and his revolutionary approach to brainstorming—“Role Storming”—that encourages you to think outside the box by stepping into a new persona. Josh also shares vulnerable stories of overcoming self-doubt, from learning to sing in his 50s to embracing mistakes as vital stepping stones to greatness.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking fresh ideas, a leader looking to inspire your team, or simply someone striving for a more creative and fulfilling life, this conversation offers a roadmap to transform fear into curiosity, inaction into experimentation, and stagnation into growth. Prepare to be inspired to awaken your inner artist and embrace the small, deliberate acts of creativity that can lead to life-changing results.

Grab a notebook, settle in, and get ready to tap into the power of gratitude, belief, and everyday innovation to create a life filled with purpose and possibility.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The Power of Gratitude: How gratitude opens the door to creativity, minimizes fear, and enhances problem-solving.
• Big Little Breakthroughs: Why small, incremental innovations often outperform giant moonshots in driving success.
• The Two-Minute Creativity Ritual: A simple daily practice to cultivate creative thinking in just two minutes.
• Role Storming vs. Brainstorming: A fun and effective technique for generating bold ideas by stepping into a character or role.
• Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: How Josh shattered his own self-imposed limits by learning to sing at 50—and how you can tackle your own doubts.
• Mudita: The joy of celebrating others’ success and its transformative impact on personal and professional growth.

Notable Quotes:

• "Gratitude is the antidote to fear and suffering. It helps us plug into our creative potential and see the world through a lens of abundance." — Josh Linkner
• "Instead of ‘I’ll believe it when I see it,’ shift to ‘I’ll see it when I believe it.’ Belief is the starting point for innovation." — Josh Linkner
• "We’re all artists. Whether you’re a chef, a trial lawyer, or a parent, creativity is about challenging norms and creating something new." — Josh Linkner
• "The riskiest move is often inaction. Small creative experiments allow us to de-risk and learn as we go." — Josh Linkner
• "Gratitude doesn’t just shift perspective; it opens the door to innovation and creates space for others to succeed alongside us." — Chris Schembra

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Try the Two-Minute Creativity Workout: Spend one minute immersing yourself in another’s creativity (e.g., music, art, poetry) and one minute brainstorming solutions to an unrelated problem.
2. Challenge a Limiting Belief: Identify something you’ve told yourself you “can’t do,” and take one small step to prove yourself wrong.
3. Practice Role Storming: At your next team meeting, role-play as someone like Lady Gaga, Yoda, or an alien to generate bold ideas without fear of judgment.
4. Reflect on Gratitude: Answer the question, “Who’s one person you’ve never thanked, but whose impact on your life deserves recognition?” Take action to express that gratitude.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Josh Linkner— a New York Times bestselling author — is a rare blend of business, art, and science. On the business front, he’s been the founder and CEO of five tech companies, which created over 10,000 jobs and sold for a combined value of over $200 million. He’s the co-founder and Managing Partner of Muditā (moo-DEE-tah) Venture Partners - an early-stage venture capital firm investing in groundbreaking technologies. Over the last 30 years, he’s helped over 100 startups launch and scale, creating over $1 billion in investor returns. He’s twice been named the EY Entrepreneur of The Year and is the recipient of the United States Presidential Champion of Change Award. While proud of his business success, his roots are in the dangerous world of jazz music. He’s been playing guitar in smoky jazz clubs for 40 years, studied at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, and has performed over 1000 concerts around the world. His experiences in both business and music led him to become one of the world’s foremost experts on innovation. Josh is the co-founder and Chairman of Platypus Labs, a global research, training, and consulting firm. Today, he’s on a mission to help leaders Find A WayTM through creative problem-solving, inventive thinking, and ingenuity.

FOLLOW JOSH:

• Website:joshlinkner.com
• LinkedIn:Josh Linkner
• Instagram:@joshlinkner
• Twitter:@JoshLinkner

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Josh Linkner’s Latest Book: Big Little Breakthroughs: How Small Everyday Innovations Drive Oversized Results
• Mudita Venture Partners: Website
• Platypus Labs: Website
• Felipe Gomez’s Art of Listening: Subscribe

David, who is passionate about making work more sustainable, fulfilling, and inclusive for everyone, shares how his career transition was sparked by a desire to escape stagnation and create a more meaningful life. After 20 years at Goldman Sachs, David now dedicates his time to supporting visionary founders, investors, and innovators who are redefining what it means to thrive in the workplace.

Through his work, David:

1. Advises some of the world’s most innovative HR tech startups and venture capitalists.
2. Builds communities of CHROs and HR executives passionate about giving back.
3. Shares his knowledge with the next generation of HR leaders.

In the episode, David introduces “The Long Exhale,” a framework for rediscovering joy and purpose. He shares actionable steps for leaders to break free from burnout, foster gratitude, and create lasting impact—both in their personal and professional lives.

This conversation is filled with practical insights, including how to:

• Take small actions to get unstuck.
• Shift from an inward to an outward mindset.
• Adopt an abundance mindset and embrace joy over achievement.

David’s guiding principle is clear: When we lift others up, we can all succeed. This episode is a call to action for leaders and changemakers to co-create a better future of work together, fueled by empathy, gratitude, and human connection.

Key Discussion Points:

• David’s Journey from Corporate Executive to Joyful Living
• Signs of Feeling Stuck
• The Long Exhale Framework
• The Role of Gratitude in Leadership and Life
• Redefining Success
• Nature as a Tool for Perspective and Renewal
• Challenges of Transitioning to a New Way of Being
• Practical Actions for Leaders and Individuals
• David’s Vision for the Future of Work
• The Call to Rediscover Joy

Notable Quotes:

• David Landman:
  “I’m working for joy now, and it’s so freaking amazing.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Misery is optional. Let’s rediscover joy and wake up to the beauties of life.”
• David Landman:
  “The Long Exhale is about relaxing into the moment, finding gratitude, and following the things that bring you purpose and joy.”
• David Landman:
  “When we lift others up, we can all succeed. Let’s co-create a better future of work together.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Just because you find your purpose doesn’t mean the journey will be all sunshine, rainbows, and unicorns. But it will be worth it.”
• David Landman:
  “I was stuck, not because I didn’t know what to do next, but because I was afraid to take that first step. Small actions are the key to big transformations.”
• David Landman:
  “I spent 20 years climbing the corporate ladder, and now I’ve discovered the joy of walking the forest trail.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Adopting an outward mindset opens the door to connection, gratitude, and rediscovering joy.”
• David Landman:
  “Life doesn’t have to be about rigid plans or fixed destinations. It’s about following the breadcrumbs of what brings you joy and meaning.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a practice that can transform your relationships, your leadership, and your life.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

David Landman is a seasoned Human Resources executive with a distinguished career, primarily spent at Goldman Sachs where he served for over 20 years. As the Global Head of Talent Development and a member of the Human Capital Management Executive Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping the firm's talent strategy and implementing strategic initiatives that drove business performance and enhanced diversity. Renowned for his expertise in talent practices, Landman's work has been featured in notable publications such as Forbes. Following his tenure at Goldman Sachs, he has dedicated his time to supporting visionary companies and innovators, serving as an advisor to HR technology companies and leading the CHRO community at PeopleTech Enterprise. An active speaker at institutions like Columbia University and a participant in various conferences and podcasts, Landman emphasizes the importance of feedback in personal and professional growth. He recently joined Loupe's Advisory Board, where he promotes employee development and feedback as key business priorities, advocating for a humane, connected, and fulfilling work environment.

Connect with David Landman:

LinkedIn:David Landman

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
• Practice: Japanese Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku)

Mitch introduces the concept of self-deception as the tendency to see ourselves inaccurately, often with a biased or distorted lens, which leads us to misjudge others as obstacles or tools rather than as people with legitimate needs and perspectives. This inward mindset results from what Arbinger terms self-betrayal, a failure to act on our internal sense of how we should treat others. Mitch emphasizes that self-deception is not just a personal issue but a core problem in organizations, affecting everything from team collaboration to leadership effectiveness. He explains how leaders unwittingly create and sustain the very conflicts they seek to resolve by failing to see their own role in the challenges they face.

The discussion shifts to Arbinger’s proposed solution: shifting from an inward mindset to an outward mindset. Mitch explains that an inward mindset centers on self-justification, blame, and defensiveness, where others are seen merely as obstacles or means to achieve personal goals. By contrast, an outward mindset recognizes others as individuals with needs, goals, and aspirations as real as our own. Mitch discusses how adopting an outward mindset can transform workplaces, leading to stronger relationships, better communication, higher accountability, and improved results.

One of the most powerful concepts discussed is the idea of collusion—a cycle of conflict where two or more people reinforce each other’s negative behaviors. Mitch describes how this dynamic is fueled by self-deception, as individuals are more focused on defending their own views than understanding others’ perspectives. Collusion often manifests as blame, resentment, and resistance, creating silos and perpetuating dysfunction in teams. Mitch explains that breaking the cycle of collusion requires leaders to first recognize their own part in the conflict, shifting their focus from changing others to changing themselves.

Mitch also offers insights into the updated 4th edition of Leadership and Self-Deception, which features modernized examples, diverse characters, and new scenarios that address contemporary workplace challenges. The new edition incorporates practical tools and study guides to help readers apply Arbinger’s principles in both personal and professional contexts. Mitch outlines some of these tools, such as identifying moments of self-betrayal, practicing active curiosity about others, and implementing feedback loops that promote transparency and accountability.

The episode concludes with a discussion of why these concepts are particularly relevant today. Mitch emphasizes that in a world marked by uncertainty, division, and rapid change, the ability to see others clearly and adopt an outward mindset is more urgent than ever. He explains how leaders who embrace these principles can create workplaces that are more inclusive, resilient, and adaptable. By fostering cultures where people are genuinely seen and valued, organizations can enhance performance, improve retention, and unlock greater potential at every level.

Why You Should Listen:

If you’re a leader, manager, or someone interested in personal development, this episode offers a practical framework for understanding how mindset shapes behavior, relationships, and organizational outcomes. Mitch Warner presents Arbinger’s concepts with clarity, making complex psychological principles accessible and actionable. Whether you're facing communication breakdowns, conflict, or disengagement within your team, the concepts of self-deception, collusion, and outward mindset will provide you with new ways to diagnose and address root problems. By applying these principles, you can transform not only your leadership but also your everyday interactions, creating deeper connections and achieving sustainable results.

Key Discussion Points:

• Self-Deception as a Barrier to Leadership.
• The Inward vs. Outward Mindset.
• Collusion: A Cycle of Blame and Justification.
• Self-Betrayal as the Root of Dysfunction.
• Practical Tools for Mindset Shift.

Notable Quotes:

• “Self-deception isn't about the other person—it's about us and the stories we create to justify our behavior.” — Mitch Warner
• “To change others, leaders must first change themselves. It starts by seeing our own contributions to the problems we face.” — Mitch Warner
• “When leaders have the courage to recognize how they contribute to problems, they open the door to transformational change—not just for themselves, but for their entire organizations.” — Mitch Warner
• “Imagine a workplace where no one has an image to protect—where people are fully open to feedback and focused solely on the mission.” — Mitch Warner
• “We often create the very conflicts we seek to resolve by failing to see others clearly and acting from a place of self-deception.” — Mitch Warner
• “Gratitude is one of the tools that can shift us from an inward to an outward mindset, helping us to acknowledge the humanity and value of others.” — Chris Schembra

Action Items:

1. Subscribe: If this conversation resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe for more heart-centered discussions on leadership, empathy, and gratitude.
2. Share: Send this episode to someone who could use inspiration and a reminder to practice gratitude.
3. Reflect: Who in your life deserves a thank you? Take a moment today to reach out and express your gratitude.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Mitch Warner is a bestselling author and Arbinger managing partner with a background in healthcare and organizational turnaround. Mitch is the co-author of Arbinger’s latest bestseller, The Outward Mindset. He writes frequently on the practical effects of mindset at the individual and organizational levels as well as the role of leadership in transforming organizational culture and results. He is an expert on mindset and culture change, leadership, strategy, performance management, organizational turnaround, and conflict resolution. 

Mitch is a sought-after speaker to organizations across a range of industries, bringing his practical experience to bear for leaders of corporations, governments, and organizations across the globe. Specific clients include NASA, Citrix, Aflac, the U.S. Army and Air Force, the Treasury Executive Institute, and Intermountain Healthcare. Mitch carries his first-hand perspective as a proven leader into his speeches and facilitation, dynamically bringing Arbinger’s concepts and tools to life through his powerful stories and hands-on experience. His audiences leave inspired to improve and equipped with a practical roadmap to effect immediate change. 

In his role as managing partner, Mitch directs the development of Arbinger’s intellectual property, training and consulting programs, and highly customized largescale organizational change initiatives. He has been instrumental in Arbinger’s rapid growth, including its expanding international presence in nearly 30 countries. Mitch received his B.A. in philosophy and is a licensed nursing administrator. Trained in fine art at the Art Students League and the National Academy, he spends much of his free time painting. His work hangs in organizations nationwide.

FOLLOW MITCH:

• Leadership and Self-Deception (4th Edition):Amazon Link
• The Arbinger Institute:Website
• Follow Mitch Warner on LinkedIn:LinkedIn Profile
• Follow the Arbinger Institute on Twitter:@ArbingerInst

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

This episode focuses on the themes of gratitude, humility, and spirituality, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the personal beliefs and life lessons that have shaped Sandeep's journey. He reflects on his upbringing in a small village in India, where his parents made enormous sacrifices to provide him with the opportunity to pursue education—a theme that resonates deeply throughout the episode. Sandeep’s father, a schoolteacher who walked 15 kilometers to work to save money for his children's tuition, and his mother, a primary school teacher, instilled in him values of hard work, humility, and gratitude that continue to guide him today.

Sandeep's personal philosophy centers on the belief that gratitude is the cornerstone of success, both in life and leadership. He speaks candidly about the importance of acknowledging the people who have supported us along the way—whether they are still with us or not—and how expressing gratitude strengthens both personal and professional relationships. Throughout the conversation, Sandeep delves into his spiritual beliefs, sharing his thoughts on karma, incarnation, and the interconnectedness of life, drawing on influences from both Eastern philosophy and scientific thought, such as Einstein’s reflections on the nature of reality.

Listeners are invited to consider three essential questions: Who am I? Why am I here? How can I help others? These questions form the foundation of Sandeep’s life philosophy, one that calls us to live with purpose, to give selflessly, and to remain humble regardless of external achievements.

The episode is not just a reflection on leadership in business, but also on the leadership of the heart—how empathy, kindness, and serving others can lead to both personal fulfillment and professional success. Sandeep shares stories from his career in global IT leadership, highlighting the ways in which gratitude and humility have not only helped him navigate challenges but have also allowed him to build high-performing teams, implement transformative technology projects, and align corporate objectives with human values.

Chris and Sandeep also explore the power of giving without expectation—a recurring theme that underscores the entire conversation. In a world that often values material success and self-promotion, Sandeep reminds us that true fulfillment comes from giving generously, whether through acts of kindness, mentorship, or simply acknowledging the contributions of others.

By the end of the episode, listeners will walk away with not just actionable leadership advice, but a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of how gratitude can enrich both their personal and professional lives. Sandeep’s wisdom reminds us that the journey of giving, whether to our families, our communities, or even to strangers, is a difficult but immensely rewarding one—one that ultimately defines our legacy.

Whether you’re an executive, a leader, or simply someone seeking more meaning in life, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can all lead with humility, harness the power of gratitude, and create a more compassionate, connected world.

Key Discussion Points:

• Sandeep’s Humble Beginnings: Growing up in a small village in India, with parents who sacrificed everything to ensure their children received a quality education.
• Gratitude for Life’s Guides: Sandeep reflects on the people who shaped his journey, including his parents, teachers, and his wife, who supported him through difficult decisions.
• Living with Gratitude and Humility: The importance of giving thanks and remaining humble, no matter where life takes you.
• Spiritual Reflections: How spirituality and karma play a significant role in Sandeep’s approach to life, including his belief in reincarnation and universal connection.
• Leadership through Service: Sandeep shares the idea that true leadership is about serving others selflessly, and how that has been the foundation of his career.
• Applying Gratitude to Everyday Life: Simple yet profound questions everyone should ask themselves: "Who am I?" and "How can I help?"

Notable Quotes:

• Sandeep Angra: "If you want to attract good, you must be good. What you give to the world is what you will get in return. That is the law of karma."
• Chris Schembra: "To do something without expecting anything in return is the most difficult journey a human being will take."
• Sandeep Angra: "You cannot give to the world what you don’t have. If you have anger, that’s what you’ll give. If you have kindness, that’s what you’ll give."

Action Items:

1. Subscribe: If this conversation resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe for more heart-centered discussions on leadership, empathy, and gratitude.
2. Share: Send this episode to someone who could use inspiration and a reminder to practice gratitude.
3. Reflect: Who in your life deserves a thank you? Take a moment today to reach out and express your gratitude.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Sandeep Angra is the Chief Information and Technology Officer (CIO/CTO) for the largest airport ground handling company, which operates across more than 250 airports in Europe and North America. With over 30 years of experience in IT leadership, Sandeep has worked in industries including Big4 consulting, travel and logistics, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and consumer goods. He has led a range of digital transformation projects, such as ERP implementation, Cloud Adoption, AI/ML integration, and Automation, managing budgets up to $250 million. These projects have contributed to business growth, improved customer value, increased productivity, and cost reductions. Sandeep is experienced in building teams, developing IT strategies, and aligning technology initiatives with business objectives.

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

Michael explains the significance of focusing on strengths through appreciative inquiry—shifting attention from solving problems to amplifying what works well. He introduces his coaching model based on five key questions that help leaders foster growth and resilience in their teams. They discuss how mindset plays a crucial role in shaping outcomes, drawing on Barbara Fredrickson’s Broaden and Build Theory to highlight how positive emotions drive innovation and productivity.

The conversation also touches on the parallels between leadership and parenting, emphasizing the importance of helping others grow independently. Michael reflects on the power of gratitude in overcoming adversity and building resilient teams. They discuss the negativity bias, which makes it easier to focus on problems, and how cultivating a mindset of gratitude can break this cycle, leading to greater fulfillment.

The episode closes with an exploration of whether kindness is on the rise or decline, with both Chris and Michael asserting that while negativity captures our attention, acts of kindness are more prevalent than we think. This episode is packed with valuable insights for leaders and anyone looking to bring more joy, purpose, and positivity into their work and life.

Key Discussion Points:

From Problem Solving to Possibility Thinking:

• Michael’s BluePrint Toolset helps leaders unlock their teams’ potential through positive psychology and mindset shifts.
• Focus on what’s working and build on that through appreciative inquiry.

The Importance of Joy in Work:

• Instead of striving for happiness, aim for joy and flow in work. When people find joy in their work, productivity and fulfillment follow.
• Michael highlights that joy can be as rewarding in the workplace as it is in personal hobbies.

Leadership & Parenting Parallels:

• Michael draws a parallel between leadership and parenting, stressing that great leaders inspire and develop others, much like a good parent fosters growth in their children.
• He encourages leaders to focus on the long-term development of their teams and help them see how their efforts make a difference.

Gratitude & Growth in the Face of Adversity:

• Gratitude plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth. Adversity, if reframed positively, can lead to resilience and transformative change.
• Referencing research, both Michael and Chris discuss how mindset and gratitude can create an upward spiral of growth and fulfillment.

Shifting from Negativity to Opportunity:

• The human brain has a natural bias towards negativity, but by shifting focus to positive experiences and possibilities, leaders can create a more optimistic, resilient, and productive culture.

Notable Quotes:

• “To go from average to amazing requires appreciative inquiry. It’s about focusing on what’s working and finding ways to do more of it.” – Michael J. O'Brien
• “Joy in work leads to happiness, not the other way around.” – Michael J. O'Brien
• “Gratitude shifts our perspective, which shifts our beliefs, our actions, and ultimately our reality.” – Chris Schembra

Action Items:

1. Take the Blueprint Toolset® Assessment: Unlock your organization’s potential and enhance your team’s leadership abilities.
2. Practice Appreciative Inquiry: Begin asking your team members about their recent successes and how you can help them grow. Implement Michael’s five questions for regular one-on-one check-ins.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Michael J. O’Brien is the visionary founder of The BluePrint Toolset®, Inc., a platform that transforms intangible cultural insights into actionable strategies for organizations, leaders, and teams. With a diverse background in finance, economics, and human behavior, Michael has been guiding organizations to success for over 35 years. He has personally coached over 5,000 senior executives across six continents and co-authored ThinkBanking & Corporate Webbing — 50 Secrets to Success in the Digital Age. Michael currently resides in Houston, Texas, with his wife Angela and their dogs, Luna and Daisy.

DOWNLOAD MICHAEL’S NEWEST BOOK

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

Dr. Nader shares his journey from his early life in Lebanon to his academic pursuits at MIT and Harvard Medical School, and ultimately to his role as a global leader in the TM movement. He explains the core idea that consciousness is the foundation of reality, challenging the traditional belief that the material world is the primary source of existence. The discussion dives into the four states of consciousness—sleeping, dreaming, waking, and transcendental consciousness—and how TM uniquely allows access to a deeper, more restful state that enhances creativity, peace, and fulfillment.

Listeners will also learn about the higher states of consciousness—cosmic, God, and unity consciousness—and how they can be achieved through the practice of TM. Dr. Nader emphasizes the practical benefits of regular meditation, including improved health, increased productivity, and a profound sense of inner peace.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the deeper aspects of consciousness and how it can transform their life. Whether you’re new to meditation or an experienced practitioner, Dr. Nader’s insights offer valuable guidance on living a more meaningful and connected life.

Key Discussion Points:

Core Philosophy of Consciousness:

• Dr. Nader introduces the central thesis of his book Consciousness Is All There Is, proposing that consciousness is the fundamental reality that shapes everything in existence.
• He challenges the traditional materialistic worldview that prioritizes physical reality as the basis of life, instead arguing that consciousness is primary and material reality emerges from it.
• This paradigm shift encourages listeners to reconsider their understanding of reality and their place within it, highlighting the transformative potential of expanded consciousness.

The Four States of Consciousness:

• The episode dives into the four major states of consciousness: sleeping, dreaming, waking, and transcendental consciousness.
• Dr. Nader explains how TM uniquely facilitates access to transcendental consciousness, a state of restful alertness where the mind is deeply quiet yet fully awake.
• This fourth state of consciousness is described as a gateway to profound inner peace, heightened creativity, and a deeper sense of fulfillment, distinguishing it from the other three states.

Higher States of Consciousness:

• The discussion expands to the higher states of consciousness: cosmic consciousness, God consciousness, and unity consciousness.
• Dr. Nader explains that these states represent increasingly refined levels of awareness, where one begins to perceive the interconnectedness of all things and experiences a profound sense of unity with the universe.
• These advanced states are attainable through consistent practice of TM and contribute to a deeper spiritual awakening, where the individual self merges with the universal self.

Practical Benefits of Transcendental Meditation:

• TM is presented as a simple yet powerful practice that, when done for 20 minutes twice a day, can have significant impacts on both mental and physical health.
• Dr. Nader outlines the practical benefits, including reduced stress, improved focus, enhanced creativity, and greater emotional resilience.
• TM is also linked to better sleep, lower blood pressure, and a more balanced nervous system, making it a highly effective tool for overall well-being.

Meditate America Initiative:

• Dr. Nader introduces the Meditate America program, set to launch on September 12th, with participation from celebrities like Hugh Jackman and public figures like the U.S. Surgeon General.
• The initiative aims to bring the benefits of TM to a broader audience, particularly in America, to address societal challenges such as stress, crime, and public health.
• The program highlights the potential for TM to not only transform individual lives but also to create positive shifts in collective consciousness, leading to a more peaceful and harmonious society.

The Role of Gratitude and Inner Awareness:

• Chris Schembra and Dr. Nader explore how gratitude plays a crucial role in expanding consciousness by focusing on the sources of our blessings, not just the material outcomes.
• They discuss the importance of appreciating the creator behind every creation, encouraging listeners to shift their perspective from the external to the internal.
• The combination of gratitude and meditation is presented as a powerful practice for deepening one’s connection to the self and the world, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Notable Quotes:

Dr. Tony Nader:

• "Consciousness is not just another aspect of life; it is the very foundation of reality itself."
• "When we dive deep into our consciousness, we discover that we are not just individual waves in the ocean, but the entire ocean itself."
• "True happiness and fulfillment come not from acquiring more, but from realizing and being more—expanding our awareness to its fullest potential."
• "The beauty of Transcendental Meditation is that it allows you to connect with the deepest part of yourself, that infinite reservoir of creativity and peace."
• "In the stillness of transcendence, we find the clarity to see the world as it truly is—not as we think it should be."

Chris Schembra:

• "Meditation is a way to retire within yourself, to find peace in a world that often feels overwhelming."
• "We often look outside for fulfillment, but the truth is, everything we need is already within us—if we take the time to access it."
• "By giving ourselves the gift of meditation, we’re not just investing in our own well-being, but in the well-being of everyone we interact with."
• "Dr. Nader’s work teaches us that the most profound changes in our lives come from within, from the simple act of being present with our true selves."
• "Gratitude isn’t just about acknowledging what we have; it’s about appreciating the source of all that we are and can be."

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Dr. Nader is a medical doctor trained at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Ph.D. in neuroscience). He was a Clinical and Research Fellow in Neurology at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and the Assistant Director of the MIT Clinical Research Center. He has conducted research in neurochemistry and neuroendocrinology; the relationship between diet, age, behavior, mood, seasonal influences, and hormonal activity; and the role of neurotransmitter precursors in medicine. 

As founder and editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Mathematics and Consciousness, Dr. Nader also offered a mathematical model for how the multiplicity of matter arises from a fundamental “singularity” of Transcendental Consciousness. For decades, Dr. Nader worked closely with TM Founder Maharishi Mahesh Yogi on the science of consciousness, which integrates modern research with the broad-based areas of knowledge stemming from the ancient Vedic tradition, including landmark studies in peer-reviewed journals establishing Transcendental Consciousness as a fourth major state of consciousness and expanding the scientific understanding of enlightenment. Today Dr. Nader directs the international organizations that teach the Transcendental Meditation program in over 100 countries and is the definitive authority on the TM technique.

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

Chris and Ash dive into the importance of human connection in leadership, emphasizing the value of truly listening to understand rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. Drawing on lessons from Ross Perot Sr., Ash discusses how vulnerability, empathy, and the courage to make mistakes are crucial for effective leadership. They also explore the challenges of the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, highlighting the need for proactive pauses—moments to step back, prioritize, and move forward with purpose.

In addition to his professional insights, Ash reflects on how the principles he applies as a father—understanding, listening, and unconditional love—inform his approach to leading a large healthcare organization. Whether you're in healthcare, business, or simply looking to lead a more connected and purposeful life, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of empathy, adaptability, and human connection.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Philosophy of Water: Ash discusses how a TED Talk on the adaptability of water profoundly influenced his approach to leadership and life. He explains that water’s qualities of being adaptable, humble, and harmonious have become central to his personal and professional philosophy (06:42:305).
• A Life-Altering Health Scare: Ash recounts a near-death experience in 2017 that reshaped his perspective on healthcare delivery and leadership. This moment of vulnerability emphasized the importance of empathy and the human connection in healthcare, leading Ash to re-evaluate the systems he once helped build (08:37:537).
• Leadership Lessons from Ross Perot Sr.: Ash shares valuable insights learned from working at Perot Systems under Ross Perot Sr. He emphasizes the importance of listening to understand rather than just waiting for a pause to speak, a lesson that has deeply impacted his leadership style (19:56:654).
• The Power of Human Connection: Reflecting on a dinner party where they first met, Chris and Ash discuss the significance of understanding and connecting with people at a human level. Ash notes that despite the differences in professional roles, we are more alike than different, and it’s these shared experiences that bind us together (22:28:042).
• Navigating Healthcare Challenges: Ash talks about the complexities of the healthcare industry and the importance of taking proactive pauses to evaluate and prioritize initiatives. He shares how sometimes taking two steps back is necessary to move forward with greater clarity and purpose (30:57:397).
• Closing Thoughts on Fatherhood and Leadership: Although not deeply explored in this episode, Ash’s principles of fatherhood—seeking to understand, listening without always solving, remembering childhood complexities, and loving unconditionally—are touched upon as part of his broader leadership and life philosophy (36:28:833).

Notable Quotes:

• "Technology is irrelevant without the human connection, the ability to listen, to support, to understand, to connect." — Chris Schembra
• "Water is silently successful; it adapts to its environment and grows, nourishes, and feeds. That’s how I strive to live my life." — Ash Shehata
• "Some of the most thought-provoking conversations I've had were during those 47 days in the hospital, where I learned the true power of empathy from the nurses who cared for me." — Ash Shehata
• "The biggest mistake in leadership today is listening for the pause instead of listening to truly understand the person in front of you." — Chris Schembra
• "You don't have to be everything to everyone. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is pause, listen, and then respond with intention." — Ash Shehata
• "Human connection is the foundation of great leadership. We are more alike than different, and it's those shared experiences that bind us together." — Ash Shehata
• "The unavoidable pause is where growth happens. It's where you step back, evaluate, and decide how to move forward with purpose." — Chris Schembra

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Ash Shehata is the Chief Information Officer of AHMC Healthcare System, one of California's largest healthcare providers. With over two decades of experience in the healthcare industry, Ash is known for his innovative approach to technology and leadership. He has played a pivotal role in transforming healthcare delivery by integrating cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care, overseeing a system that serves over 200,000 patients annually.

Ash’s leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in adaptability, humility, and empathy, principles that were significantly shaped by a life-altering health crisis in 2017. This experience gave him a unique perspective on the importance of human connection and the critical role of empathy in healthcare. Beyond his professional achievements, Ash is a dedicated father and husband, drawing on his personal life to inform his approach to leadership. He is passionate about fostering environments where teams can thrive by prioritizing human connection, understanding, and the courage to make mistakes.

Ash’s career has also been influenced by his time at Perot Systems, where he worked under Ross Perot Sr., learning valuable lessons about the importance of listening, understanding, and leading with integrity. Today, Ash continues to advocate for a patient-centered approach to healthcare, combining the latest technological advancements with the timeless values of empathy and human connection.

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

**WEBSITE |INSTAGRAM |LINKEDIN |BOOKS**

Francesco discusses the concept of a "portfolio career," emphasizing the importance of diverse experiences, continuous learning, and adaptability. He shares his strategy for balancing short-term business results with long-term personal and professional growth, using a blend of strategic focus and the Pareto principle (80% execution, 20% learning).

The conversation delves into the significance of soft skills in leadership, with Francesco stressing the importance of humility, vulnerability, and communication. He shares his approach to inspiring his team, especially those early in their careers, to invest in their long-term growth.

A key takeaway from Francesco's leadership philosophy is the importance of creating space for failure and learning. He highlights how AI can facilitate rapid testing and learning, enabling leaders to fail fast and small, which ultimately drives innovation and growth.

Chris and Francesco discuss the role of gratitude in leadership, with Francesco expressing his deep gratitude for his wife, Paola, and how her support has been crucial throughout his career. This moment underscores the personal side of leadership and the power of acknowledging those who support us.

In closing, Francesco shares a powerful quote about treating people as they could be, not just as they are, emphasizing the impact of a future-focused leadership approach. Chris echoes this sentiment, reflecting on how envisioning and supporting people's growth can lead to remarkable business outcomes.

Join Chris and Francesco in this insightful conversation on leadership, growth, and the power of gratitude.

Quotes:

1. "If you treat an individual as he is, he will remain how he is. But if you treat him as if he were what he ought to be and could be, he will become what he ought to be and could be." – Francesco Pastore
2. "Live as if you were going to die tomorrow, learn as if you were going to live forever." – Francesco Pastore's LinkedIn header
3. "When you have space, you can fail more." – Francesco Pastore
4. "Strategy is the ability to say no." – Francesco Pastore
5. "Leadership is not a framework. Leadership is adaptable and you have to programmatically deliver your style of leadership based on what the person needs in the moment." – Francesco Pastore
6. "Soft skills are crucial in this new world of work." – Francesco Pastore
7. "AI helps us fail in a much more healthy way." – Francesco Pastore
8. "You need to test more things. Otherwise, you will just copycat the other and doing marginally better. You want to be much, much better than the other." – Francesco Pastore
9. "You can't chase two rabbits at the same time; they'll both get away. Focus equals growth." – Chris Schembra quoting Dave Lindsey
10. "It's important to fail fast and fail small on a continual basis to achieve the long-term growth in the future." – Chris Schembra
11. "For me, a portfolio career has two directions: one is the core experiences you have had, and the other is the balance between soft skills and hard skills." – Francesco Pastore
12. "Learning agility is the key to navigating different roles, companies, and cultures successfully." – Francesco Pastore
13. "The ability to say no is linked to clear strategy and prioritization. Without this, everything becomes equally important, which means nothing is important." – Francesco Pastore
14. "To me, failure is not the devil. Failure is learning." – Francesco Pastore
15. "A good strategy means building the organization and building the business. You need to know how to build both for long-term success." – Francesco Pastore
16. "Theory seems easy, but execution is what brings the theory to life." – Francesco Pastore
17. "Connecting the dots backwards is easy, but doing it forward requires adaptability and a focus on continuous improvement." – Francesco Pastore
18. "Communication and visioning are essential to help people understand that there's more beyond short-term results." – Francesco Pastore
19. "In any job, always secure 20% of your time for learning or growing as a person and leader." – Francesco Pastore
20. "Leadership is about being humble and honest, showing vulnerability, and leading by example." – Francesco Pastore

5 Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Importance of a Portfolio Career:
2. Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals:
3. Significance of Soft Skills in Leadership:
4. Embracing Failure for Growth:
5. Gratitude in Leadership:

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Francesco Pastore is a seasoned and dynamic leader, holding a degree in Economics from Pisa, earned in 1996. His portfolio career journey began at Procter & Gamble, where he honed his fundamental skills in sales and marketing. After departing from P&G in 2004 in Geneva, Francesco continued to cultivate his international career, initially at Bain & Company, and later at leading consumer goods companies such as Coca-Cola and Coty.

In 2019, Francesco took on a pivotal role at Sofidel, where he oversees the European market as the Chief Marketing & Sales Officer. Since December, he has also assumed the role of Corporate Communication Director, showcasing his versatility and ability to manage diverse business areas.

With a longstanding passion for digital, his expertise lies in general management, sales, and consulting. Thanks to Sofidel, he has gained significant experience in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) issues.

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

Steve shares his experience of hitting rock bottom after being passed up for a promotion and losing his marriage. These events became catalysts for a profound transformation, leading him to embrace gratitude and vulnerability as core principles in his leadership. Steve introduces the concept of "return on rock bottom," highlighting how the lowest points in life can lead to significant personal growth and renewed purpose.

Throughout the episode, Steve and Chris explore the importance of empathy, communication, and creating a safe space for connection within teams. They discuss how leaders can turn failures into learning opportunities and persist through adversity with purpose and vision. Steve emphasizes the value of serving his team and finding joy in the service of others, contrasting this with the fleeting happiness derived from material success.

This episode is a testament to the enduring power of gratitude and the importance of empathy and human connection in achieving lasting success and fulfillment. It offers listeners practical insights and strategies to navigate life's challenges with resilience and a mindset geared toward continuous improvement.

Key Takeaways

1. Embracing failure as a valuable learning opportunity.

2. The importance of vulnerability in leadership.

3. Gratitude can ground us amidst chaos and stress.

4. Persistence with purpose can turn adversity into growth.

5. The concept of "return on rock bottom" as a measure of personal growth.

6. Shifting from a competitive mindset to a service-oriented approach.

7. The role of empathy and human connection in effective leadership.

8. How resilience and optimism can transform challenging situations.

9. The impact of gratitude on personal and professional fulfillment.

10. Strategies for leading teams with purpose, vision, and resilience.

Quotes

1. "Gratitude grounds us all and gives us a different perspective."

2. "Rock bottom was not the end; it was the beginning of my biggest growth."

3. "You succeed because of adversity, not in spite of it."

4. "Failure is not the end; it’s just the beginning of something greater."

5. "Return on rock bottom measures the growth from our toughest times."

6. "Leaders eat last, serving their teams to drive collective success."

7. "Empathy, communication, and closeness are key to impactful leadership."

8. "Finding meaning and purpose in service brings lasting joy."

9. "Adversity and failure are the greatest teachers."

10. "Every day is a learning experience; there’s always room for growth."

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Steve Tcherchian is a visionary cybersecurity executive with over 20 years of experience in the industry. In this role as Chief Product Officer and CISO, Steve leads global sales, technology, product direction, and go-to-market strategy for XYPRO’s cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions that fortify the digital backbone of economies worldwide.

Based on his unique leadership, strategic vision, deep cybersecurity experience and penchant for relationship building with customers and partners, Steve has helped transform XYPRO into a top tier cybersecurity provider evidenced by record growth and accelerated adoption of XYPRO’s threat detection and compliance solutions across diverse sectors.

As a passionate advocate for cybersecurity, Steve is dedicated to demystifying the complexities of the industry, sharing invaluable insights and experiences across global stages as a sought-after speaker at events and conferences.

His contributions extend beyond the podium; as a former member of the ISSA CISO Advisory Council, the X9 Security Standards Committee, the Forbes Tech Council, and a patent holder, he has influenced pivotal cybersecurity standards and innovations.

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours," he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

Takeaways:

1. Gratitude in Leadership: Integrating gratitude into leadership can foster a positive and resilient work culture.

2. Servant Leadership: Effective leadership involves removing obstacles to help team members perform their best.

3. Importance of Onboarding: A smooth onboarding process is crucial for setting employees up for success.

4. Performance Management: Regular feedback and clear communication are essential for maintaining employee engagement.

5. Systems Theory: Addressing systemic issues can help prevent employee burnout and enhance productivity.

6. Personalized Leadership: Tailoring leadership styles to individual needs can strengthen manager-employee relationships.

7. Role of Optimism: Maintaining a positive outlook can significantly impact personal and organizational success.

Quotes:

1. "Gratitude is an expression of love. It's the heartbeat of a thriving work culture, fueling our connections and lifting our spirits."

2. "People inherently want to do well; we just need to create systems that empower them to unleash their full potential."

3. "Slow down to speed up. In the rush of daily life, taking a moment to breathe and reflect can propel us forward with greater clarity and purpose."

4. "Servant leadership is about removing obstacles so your team can shine. It's about putting others first and fostering an environment where everyone can succeed."

5. "Mindfulness and self-care are not just nice-to-haves; they're essential for well-being. They are the anchors that keep us grounded in the stormy seas of life."

6. "Leadership is about inspiration and helping others find their best selves. It's about lighting the path so others can walk confidently and boldly."

7. "Invest in your people proactively to prevent burnout and attrition. A thriving team is the backbone of any successful organization."

8. "Start with why: It brings clarity and motivation. When we understand our purpose, we are unstoppable."

9. "Optimism is a great predictor of success. Believing in positive outcomes can create a self-fulfilling prophecy of achievement."

10. "In the face of adversity, ask yourself: What is this challenge teaching me? Every struggle is an opportunity for growth and learning."

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Elaine Knight, MBA, SPHR, is a transformative and engaging HR executive with over fifteen years of expertise in human capital strategy and execution. As the Chief People Officer at Behavioral Health Link, Elaine has crafted unparalleled employee experiences through well-planned and data-driven business strategies, specializing in environments where high performers thrive and drive optimal business results.

Elaine’s distinguished career includes a proven track record in revitalizing performance management initiatives and ensuring legal compliance across multiple states. She excels in supporting rapidly growing organizations with a unique blend of corporate and consulting experience. Elaine’s credentials include a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification and a Master’s in Business Administration from Georgia State University.

At Behavioral Health Link, Elaine has implemented organizational strategies, HR system infrastructures, and programs to drive operational excellence and employee engagement. Her leadership has been instrumental in streamlining contract workflows, launching a new talent acquisition strategy, and overhauling the performance management system. She has also played a key role in supporting the organization’s growth across 26 states, improving retention, and reducing turnover.

Elaine’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), wellness, employee relations, and engagement is reflected in her past achievements, including the creation of employee resource groups and fostering a companywide culture of inclusion. Her service-oriented mindset and team-oriented approach have made her a strong communicator and collaborator, providing executive teams with invaluable HR insights.

Elaine is deeply passionate about mindfulness, gratitude, empathy, and self-care She believes that nurturing these qualities within workplace cultures is essential for building resilience and fostering a supportive environment. Her personal interests include enjoying nature walks by the Chattahoochee River, practicing yoga, and exploring new cultures and cuisines through international travel.

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours," he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

Enrico talks about Peroni's efforts to translate the Italian lifestyle into a global success, focusing on rugby and Ferrari as partnerships that embody the brand's values. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in leadership and shares his personal journey of becoming more empathic. Enrico's purpose is to leave a better place for future generations and to give his children the opportunity to be happy. The conversation highlights the power of authenticity, simplicity, and connection in leadership.

Support Enrico’s New Book HERE

https://www.store.rubbettinoeditore.it/catalogo/per-i-prossimi-175-anni/

Takeaways

• Leaders need to be adaptable and learn from both successes and failures.
• Creating a culture of connection and psychological safety is crucial for fostering innovation and engagement.
• Investing in a premium experience and building a brand that evokes emotions and experiences can differentiate a product from a brand.
• The world is moving towards premiumization, where people are willing to spend more for products and brands that offer value and a sense of accomplishment.
• Success in the long run requires investing in people's well-being and creating a culture that attracts and grows talent.
• Empathy is a crucial trait for leaders, and being intentional about connecting with people in an empathic way can have a significant impact.
• Enrico's purpose is to leave a better place for future generations and to give his children the opportunity to be happy.
• Authenticity, simplicity, and connection are key elements of effective leadership.
• Success and happiness come from being true to oneself and serving others.
• Taking small steps, such as asking people how they feel instead of how they are, can lead to more meaningful connections and better understanding in the workplace.
• Leaders should strive to be consistent in their awareness of who they are and be open to learning and growing.
• Changing one person's whole world is a powerful way to make a positive impact.
• The Italian culture embodies a commitment to tradition and innovation, honoring history while dreaming of the future.

Sound Bites

1. "Sometimes you also need to be looking at the positives even when something doesn't go well. Everybody can be somebody you can learn from."
2. "Peroni is a historical icon, but every icon has to be relevant in the moment. To be relevant in the moment, it has to look at the future to ensure that when the moment comes, it is ready."
3. "When you look back too much, it becomes a form of nostalgia. It's not something you actually look for to find your strengths."
4. "We are here for a legacy. We always need to think what the new people of Peroni and the new Italians and consumers worldwide will think of us in 20 years, in 25 years."
5. "Successes of the past can be a fuel for future success, or they can be a weight that should hold you back."
6. "Excellence is something that changes every year. Whatever helped you have success yesterday, probably it's not going to be enough."
7. "You need to learn from your failures, but also from your successes because there is always an inch that you can gain and be faster in what you do."
8. "In an organization, the ability to deliver a plan, to build a strategy cannot be of one person. Whatever strategy you are building is going to be old tomorrow."
9. "You need people that don't feel like they have a hierarchical barrier in front of them or they need to feel like they have the courage to actually talk and express what they think."
10. "The more you realize that with the impact you can do good, then you can be much more intentional in doing good at being empathic with people."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Earthquake

01:10 Welcoming Repeat and New Listeners

03:36 Enrico's Book and Peroni's History

04:15 Expressing Gratitude to Enrico's Father

07:18 Remembering Challenging and Great Moments in Peroni's History

10:15 Understanding the Present Moment and Building the Future

12:25 Learning from Successes and Failures

13:24 Managing Ambiguity and Elevating Excellence

15:35 Creating a Culture of Connection and Horizontal Leadership

19:10 Avoiding Excuses and Investing in People

21:22 Investing in a Premium Experience and Building a Brand

23:25 The Shift Towards Premiumization

25:18 Investing in People's Well-being and Talent

25:45 Translating the Italian Lifestyle into Global Success

26:42 The Power of Rugby and Ferrari in Peroni's Brand

31:36 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership

41:24 Leaving a Better Place for Future Generations

45:34 Authenticity, Simplicity, and Connection in Leadership

Currently, Lisa serves as the Head of Innovation at JP Morgan Chase Operations. In her role, she collaborates with startups and leverages emerging technologies to address complex challenges within the world's leading financial institution. Before this, she was the Managing Director at Expa VC, a venture fund and startup studio with a $350M investment focus ranging from pre-seed to series A startups.

Lisa's entrepreneurial spirit was sparked as the Founder and CEO of Startup Buenos Aires, an accelerator program designed to nurture and connect startups across Latin America. Her influence and insights have been recognized by NBC, Bloomberg TV, Reuters, Entrepreneur Magazine, Forbes, and CNN, and she's shared her knowledge through guest lectures at prestigious institutions like NYU, MIT, Northwestern, Harvard, Berkeley, and the University of Pennsylvania.

Aside from her professional accolades, Lisa shares her personal journey to Everest Base Camp in this episode. She delves into the essence of mountaineering versus hiking, the value of setting finite goals, and the emotional rollercoaster of nights spent on the mountain. Lisa's story is a testament to the power of living in the moment, embracing challenges, and the profound impact of pursuing meaningful goals.

Takeaways

• Mountaineering offers a unique sense of completion and achievement, unlike many other pursuits.
• Embracing the present and the journey itself is key to personal fulfillment and happiness.
• Success in reaching challenging goals demands perseverance, effort, and an open mindset.
• The investment in meaningful experiences yields lasting benefits.

Chapters

00:00 The Dream of Everest

03:20 Mountaineering as a Finite Goal

05:22 Atelic Activities

06:22 Finding Calm in the Midst of a Daunting Goal

08:57 The Moving Goalpost of Success

11:21 The Challenges of Nights on the Mountain

13:41 Type 1 Fun vs Type 2 Fun

15:42 The Desire to Achieve

17:04 Living in the Present

19:44 Stepping Out of the Future and into the Present

22:02 The Positive Benefits of Bucket List Achievements

23:23 The Impatience of the Impulsive World

27:14 Investing Time for Energy

33:16 Feeling Nothing at the Destination

39:48 The Trainer Who Took a Chance

42:07 Closing Remarks

Lisa's multifaceted life—from her accolades in tech to her adventures in the great outdoors—inspires us to pursue our passions, tackle formidable goals, and cherish the moments of tranquility along the way.

Ready to read Erin’s new book? Click here to get your copy of "The Type A Trap: Five Mindset Shifts to Beat Burnout and Transform Your Life." Or click here to book a discovery call!

If you’d like to learn more about Chris and his 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience or subscribe to his newsletter, please visit this link.

Click hereto hear more fascinating conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs, professional athletes and entertainers who have shared their human stories on Gratitude Through Hard Times.

KEY TOPICS:

• If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don’t give enough credit or enough thanks to – that you’ve never thought to thank – who would that be? So many amazing people, but most importantly a high school math teacher, Randy Scott, who showed Erin respect and taught her to simplify hard things.
• The Trap: Why so many of us don’t realize the full-scale stress we’re under until a life-altering (often painful) experience opens our eyes to the toll “success” is taking.
• Type A Profile: What it looks like to define success based on ability to achieve and derive self-worth based on a scarcity mindset.
• Getting Off the Treadmill with Five Key Mindset Shifts:
• Decoding Your Flow: Realize that you don’t have to do it all. 
• Releasing the Reins: Focus on letting go, rather than grasping and controlling.
• Pivot Like a Pro: Be nimble and able to shift away from a singular goal.
• Slow Down to Speed Up: Be okay with doing a little less.
• Take that Victory Lap: Enjoy your wins before moving on to the next challenge.
• Stress Is Here to Stay: Why Erin believes there’s no silver bullet for curing (or avoiding) burn-out. It’s the small decisions we make and self-care we practice daily.
• Moving Towards Gratitude: How human connection is crucial in today’s world and finding like-minded people leads us deeper into our most authentic selves and self-acceptance.
• What’s Your Status? Why everyone can benefit from taking Erin’s self-assessment (featured in her book) to determine their place on the burn-out spectrum and set a course for inner balance.

QUOTABLE

• “The more simple you can make it, the more you actually understand the subject matter.” (Erin)

• “I think we live in a world that rewards stress, burnout and anxiety. We idolize people who are ‘doing it all.’ … but we don’t know the toll it is taking on their physical and mental health, relationships and spirituality.” (Erin)

• “You can have the big dream of things you want to accomplish AND you can take care of yourself and the people around you and do it in an efficient way. Both can be true at the same time.” (Chris)

• “Just because you’ve said you’re going to do something doesn’t mean that if it’s no longer interesting you can’t pivot. Move! Change. Be okay with cutting losses.” (Erin)

• “We have to make the mindset shift. We have to change ourselves, our thinking, our behavior, so that we don’t burn out again.” (Erin)

• “All you really need to make this full shift away from burn-out into well-being is yourself. You don’t have to rely on your external situation to make the change.” (Chris)

• “Burn-out will keep knocking on our door. It’s not going anywhere … but there are tools you can gather to get you out of that black hole.” (Erin)

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

• Find out more about Impact Eleven trainings at this link.
• Listen to this talk by Laura Gassner Otting to find out why “I’ll be happy when” are the four worst words in the English dictionary. 

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Erin Stafford is a marketing guru, burnout survivor and hyper-growth business leader. From working with the world’s highest achievers throughout her 20+ year career, being a Type A poster child herself and interviewing Olympians, start-up founders, Fortune 500 CEOs, leading researchers and celebrity coaches, Erin has seen firsthand how Type A personalities and constant over-achievement are coveted in the world of business, yet can lead to debilitating burnout. In addition to her current role as the head of marketing for the country’s largest healthcare staffing company, where she leads dozens of marketing professionals and has helped the organization grow by 9x in two years, Erin has made it her mission to help leaders, most recently with her book: "The Type A Trap: Five Mindset Shifts to Beat Burnout and Transform Your Life."

FOLLOW ERIN:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN | BOOK

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

Click here if you’d like to grab a copy of Kerry’s just-released book, "The Ownership Mindset: A Handbook for Transforming Your Life and Leadership."

Or check out her podcast, Reflect Forward: Conversations on Leadership, at this link.

If you’d like to learn more about Chris and his 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience or subscribe to our newsletter, please visit this link.

Click here to hear more fascinating conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs, professional athletes and entertainerswho have shared their human stories on Gratitude Through Hard Times.

KEY TOPICS:

• If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don’t give enough credit or enough thanks to – that you’ve never thought to thank – who would that be? So many people, but above all her first boss out of college, whom she “did wrong” and disappointed but who taught her so much nonetheless.
• It’s Never too Late: About the power of bringing shame out of the shadows.
• Why Now and Why This Book?
• For starters, Kerry loves to write!
• It provided a creative outlet and alternative to her day-to-day tasks as CEO.
• A compelling need to give back by sharing her personal story. 
• Changing One World at a Time: How Kerry’s journey – both personally and professionally – is a reflection of the “ownership mindset” she exemplifies.
• Defining “Ownership”: Why taking full responsibility for everything that happens in your life is transformational, empowering and foundational to leadership. 
• Leaning In: About what it looks like to take full accountability, even when the future is unclear and outcomes unpredictable.
• Building an Ownership Mindset Culture:
• Ensure everyone feels like part of something bigger than themselves.
• Cultivate engagement and self-motivation.
• Encourage an ethos of caring – for co-workers, customers and ourselves.
• How StoneAge Team Members Learn to Take Full Agency:
• Training in both how to give and receive feedback.
• Teaching strategies for collaborating with people who hold differing viewpoints.
• Making it easy for people to admit mistakes and learn from them.
• Infusing the workplace culture with a communal sense of purpose, commitment and accountability.
• Modeling behaviors that reinforce an “ownership mindset” across the enterprise.
• You Must Act: Why all the best intentions in the world will not make things happen.
• Three Key Components to an Ownership Mindset:
• Take ownership: 
• Lead yourself: 
• Lead others.
• Curiosity is Key: How a growth mindset depends on asking questions.
• Kerry’s Superpower: Giving people the space to open up and brainstorm valuable ideas!
• Best Advice for Leaders: Learn how to ask good questions!Then ask, ask, ask!
• Research Shows: Managers who demonstrate empathy by asking their direct reports questions are viewed by bosses as better performers in their jobs.
• Gratitude & Recognition: Why people excel and businesses thrive when leaders foster workplace cultures in which everyone feels seen, honored and empowered.
• Look Inward: How problem-solvers and champions can (and must!) come from up, down and across the corporate structure.
• Two Questions to Check Imposter Syndrome and Quiet Self-Doubt: 
• What’s the best things that can happen?
• What’s the worst thing that can happen?
• The Power of Reframing: What it looks like to move from a place of fear to a “posture of otherness” that focuses on bringing tools like empathy and gratitude to others.
• What’s Next for Kerry?
• She can’t wait to get started on her next book, about transformational change and the power of purpose in the workplace of today – tomorrow!
• Leveraging a culture of ownership, growth and innovation to create a thousand millionaires through StoneAge’s employee stock ownership plan.
• Speaking about and inspiring others to build an “ownership mindset.”

QUOTABLE

• “When you feel shame, regret or guilt, the action urge is usually to hide, avoid, withdraw, shy away, be meek and small and that doesn’t help. Then we just ruminate on the guilt and shame.” (Chris)

• “It was really important for me to get back in touch with the creative, free spirit that is within me. And writing is a way to do that!” (Kerry) 

• “If (my story) inspires even one person to overcome their own shame around choices they’ve made in life or show up differently as a leader and be the very best version of themselves … then I’ve done my job.” (Kerry)

• “(The ownership mindset) is the idea that things don’t happen to me, they happen because of me and I’m willing to lean into the responsibility of my choices, attitude and the way I show up.” (Kerry)

• “(The ownership mindset) is really a tool to help people feel like they’re more in control of their work, that they have autonomy and are trusted, that they’re cared about.” (Kerry)

• “The only way to own it is to act, but you have to create the safe space for people to act.” (Chris)

• “People want to share their stories, their opinions and ideas. So, if you ask really good questions, you can find out all kinds of information and get all kinds of new ideas.” (Kerry)

• “You learn so much and quickly get to the root of what’s really going on if you’re curious. So that’s my superpower: Questions.” (Kerry)

• “The economic potential of any successful team or organization lies not in the strength of individuals on your team but in your ability to help them connect, collaborate and champion a shared vision.” (Chris)

• “When we’re feeling Imposter Syndrome and fear, we’re really focused on ourselves ... (but) you can make it about somebody else and turn that negative self-doubt into a positive impact on someone else’s life.” (Kerry)

• “The power of questions, empathizing with those around you, giving gratitude around you – these are not just the soft skills that were once avoided in the boardroom. They’re the hard skills needed to instill an ownership mindset within your team.” (Chris)

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

• Learn more about “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss, at this link.
• Click here to find out about “the hero’s journey” and work of Joseph Campbell.
• More about the Gallup Organization’s survey work and CliftonStrengths here.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Kerry Siggins is the CEO of StoneAge, Inc., a global leader in designing and manufacturing high-pressure waterblasting and sewer cleaning tools and equipment used in the industrial cleaning industry. StoneAge sells and supports its products throughout the world and has over 170 dealers in 45 countries. She is also the Vice President of the Waterjet Technology Association (WJTA). Kerry joined StoneAge in January of 2007 as the Director of Operations. In 2009, she was named CEO by StoneAge’s Board of Directors and has since led the company in building a robust global presence resulting in double-digit growth year over year. She recently acquired Breadware, an Internet of Things (IoT) product development firm based in Reno, NV. 
 

FOLLOW KERRY:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN | BLOG

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

Interested in hearing more from Christina? She offers a treasure trove of interesting perspectives in more than 200 LinkedIn posts you can find at this link.

Check out this brand new website to learn about the keynote topics and workplace leadership trends that are top of mind for Chris these days! And if you’re interested in having a 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience or subscribing to our newsletter, please visit this link.

Click hereto hear more fascinating conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs, professional athletes and entertainerswho have shared their human stories on Gratitude Through Hard Times.

KEY TOPICS:

• If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don’t give enough credit or thanks to – that you’ve never thought to thank – who would that be and why? Although she’s always been very intentional about sharing her appreciation, she still feels she couldn’t possibly have thanked her parents – whom she so admires – enough.
• Using the Right Words: About the power of expressing gratitude in language that resonates with the recipient.
• Breaking Rules: How Christina reinvented herself at the age of 14, figuring out how to expand her world and thinking in ways that have served her well ever since. 
• Three Options for Managing Through a “Negative Autobiographical Experience”:
• Ignore it, pretend it didn’t happen and just move on.
• Talk it out with a therapist or by journaling and then move on.
• Specifically assign positive benefits that have occurred as a result and give thanks to it for becoming a beneficial part of your life story, a practice known as "grateful processing."
• Why Not Me? What Christina has come to understand about our ability to challenge our self-imposed limitations through humility, determination and drive.
• Breaking the Ceiling: How Christina figured out ways to leverage being the only woman in the room to break boundaries and elicit vulnerability in C-suites full of male entrepreneurs. A superpower!
• Buck the Statistics: Why it’s important not to get trapped by what is and surrender to a victim mentality rather than pushing the envelope and making change!
• Leading With Empathy: About the importance of understanding other people’s experiences and perspectives when navigating corporate culture and decision-making.
• Be the Change: When living with unresolved conflict impacts others with forms of entitlement and hearts at war.
• How Trauma Lands: Why every person’s threshold is different.
• Scaling With Soul: How to stay authentic under even the most stressful circumstances, like taking Rapid7 from being a startup with 75 employees to a publicly traded company with more than 2,000 global personnel.
• Christina’s World View: About the role of challenge and seeking while also keeping balance through life experiences that promote openness and awareness.
• Observing Versus Engaging; Empathy Versus Sympathy: It’s all in the perspective!
• Hope & Healing: How an attitude of gratitude – not found in comparison – yields very real mental, emotional and physical rewards. 
• 365 Days: About Christina’s decision to write – and post publicly – her thoughts and experiences by pretending no one was reading them! It was about seeking connection with others and by putting herself out there, she did exactly that.
• When In Rome: How pasta and all its associations creates magic for Chris and Christina!
• Three Things From the Conversation:
• The power of Mudita, the dharmic concept of joy that comes from delighting in other people’s well-being (as Christina experienced in her chemo encounter).
• Christina lives life in a dialectic posture, embracing black and white as well as the gray. She is able to hold things in tension.
• While she’s open to therapy, what Christina finds most helpful and healing is candid conversations like this one with Chris!
• Timing Is Everything: How, when and why Chris and Christina connected.
• Honor the Moose: About the concept of aligning individual and team collaboration as part of the core corporate ethic at Rapid7.
• The 3C Model of Collaborative Leadership: Connect, Collaborate and Champion.
• In Parting: What it was that inspired Christina to get in her car and drive 3.5 hours from Boston to NYC in order to connect and share meaningful conversation with Chris!
• Closing the Gratitude Loop: Christina’s message for her parents and daughters.
   

QUOTABLE

• “Life is about connections … For me what has made the work that I’ve done or my life interesting is the connections I’ve made with people. It makes my world expand.” (Christina)

• “There’s something beautiful about (not) turning your back on the past but looking for the positive benefits in it and keeping it as part of your life story.” (Chris)

• “Everything I have lived through is an opportunity. There are things that I’ve screwed up or am not proud of, but I don’t dwell on them. I look at what I can take away from that moment and do better.” (Christina)

• “If you work hard enough, there aren’t a lot of boundaries you can’t overcome. IF you’re committed and drive towards that!” (Christina)

• “Life is not about avoiding bad things happening to you. Life is about avoiding a negative mental attitude when those things occur.” (Chris)

• “Scaling with soul is about how you keep the essence of your value set and what you’re trying to be … You can still be a really great place!” (Christina)

• “You can observe or you can engage. And those are two really different things.” (Christina)

• “There’s good in everybody. You just have to be open to finding it and open-hearted to know that just because someone is different from you doesn’t make them better or worse. We’re all just humans.” (Christina)

• “Hard times don’t have to create loneliness. Hard times can create meaningful moments of connection.” (Chris)

• “All the best things in my life have happened when I’ve said ‘yes,’ versus ‘no.’ ” (Christina)

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

• Click here to learn more about “Taking Care of Business? Grateful Processing of Unpleasant Memories,” the study conducted by researchers at Eastern Washington University.
• "The Anatomy of Peace: Resolving the Heart of Conflict," by The Arbinger Institute.
• More about the many benefits of an attitude of gratitude available at this link.
• "No One Wins Alone," by Mark “the Moose” Messier.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Christina Luconi leads Rapid7’s strategic people initiatives as its Chief People Officer. She is responsible for the entire employee lifecycle, with critical focus on recruiting stellar talent, building and inspiring corporate culture, acquisition integration, and “scaling with soul.” Prior to joining Rapid7, Christina was the owner of People Innovations, an independent consulting firm focused on the creation of innovative people strategies for startups and high-growth companies, primarily in the high technology industry. Christina also served as Chief People Officer at @stake, a professional services security firm that she helped build from the launch through its acquisition by Symantec. She also played the role of Vice President of People Strategy at Sapient Corporation. Joining the company prior to its public offering, she was responsible for building the people-focused side of the company from the ground up, aligning business strategy with people needs. Christina also played a critical role as a member of the senior management team, focusing on the strategic and operational direction of the company as well as executing acquisitions, from due diligence through integration.

FOLLOW OUR GUEST:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN| BOOKS

Don’t miss the far-ranging and fascinating topics that Rich and his team tackle in the Victra Blog. You may also be interested in supporting Haven at Blue Creek, an amazing nonprofit run by Rich’s wife, Colleen, that provides residential support for women in recovery.

Check out this brand new website to learn about the keynote topics and workplace leadership trends that are top of mind for Chris these days! And if you’re interested in having a 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience or subscribing to our newsletter, please visit this link.

Click here to hear more fascinating conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs, professional athletes and entertainerswho have shared their human stories on Gratitude Through Hard Times.

KEY TOPICS:

• If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don’t give enough credit or thanks to – that you’ve never thought to thank – who would that be and why? Mom! Marlene is on the quieter side and not in the business, but she’s the heart of Rich’s family-oriented company!
• The Quiet One: How listening is a skill that Rich has cultivated (with assists from his mom and wife) as part of a bigger philanthropic mission to give back on a daily basis. 
• The Hitchhiker Rule: Why it’s important to recognize those who are trying to help themselves. It’s about giving a “hand up” not a “hand-out.”
• Critical Skill: How a desire to reach, give effort, try to do better shows up in outcomes.
• Big-Picture Education: About Rich’s belief that traditional four-year colleges aren’t for everyone and that trade schools are a great, financially viable alternative.
• An Entrepreneur is an Entrepreneur: Anyone who founds their own business – no matter its size – represents independence, innovation and opportunity.
• The Pursuit of Happiness: How challenging, meaningful work intertwines with and serves our sense of purpose, quality of life, mental, physical and emotional well-being.
• Renewable Resources: Why it’s important to cultivate practices and hobbies that nourish us and recharge our batteries so we can be of service to others.
• Brand Identity: How a sense of belonging is woven into the culture at Victra, where customers are considered “guests” and given the attention and help they deserve.
• Rich Cultivates Human Connection in the Workplace By: 
• Recognizing that humans need social interaction.
• Looking for ways to replicate things that work.
• Sharing notes about what works – and doesn’t!
• Promoting collaboration as the secret sauce!
• What Drives Victra's Success: A good model, a good team. It’s not just a J-O-B.
• What Excites Rich Most? Learning! And inspiring curiosity and drive among younger generations as well. (Also: catching fish – including a recent 500-pound blue marlin!)
• In Closing: We aren’t meant to be alone or isolated on our journeys – and we don’t have to be when we persevere, keep faith, seek connection and hold space for one another!

QUOTABLE

• “One of the goals of our giving has been to not tell people what we’re doing … because we’re not doing it to get credit.” (Rich)

• “When you can give, you do. When you can do, you do. And you’re not doing it because you need credit for it. You’re doing it because it’s the right thing and needs to be done.” (Rich)

• “There are some people out there who say they want help but don’t do anything about it.” (Rich)

• “I can’t make someone hungry – and I’m not talking about food but about wanting that next thing.” (Rich)

• “Not everyone needs to go to college. Not everyone needs a college degree … Kids need to be exposed to more than technology and books. Technology is very important but they need to be exposed to other opportunities.” (Rich)

• “Not everyone was designed for college and, by the way, in our work force we need tradespeople to keep the world moving forward day by day.” (Rich)

• “An entrepreneur is an entrepreneur. It doesn’t matter whether you’re running a huge company or a small company.” (Rich)

• “I’m in business to make money for both myself and my employees but we’re not going to just cram things down people’s throats.” (Rich)

• “If you get a really well-functioning group of people together, you can get way more out of them and they can accomplish much more than they would individually.” (Rich)

• “Your people are your secret sauce for human connection and that leads to outsized business results.” (Chris)

• “Do the hard stuff you need to do to get ahead in life, but celebrate it all thoroughly – with your family, amongst community. Do things that are good for the heart at the same time that you’re doing things that are good for others.” (Chris)

• “We are suffering under the agitation of uncertain times. But the good news is that we can get through these tough times if we go through it together. Don’t go through it alone!” (Chris)

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

• More about Ron Carson, Founder of Carson Wealth, at this link.
• To learn about Catholic Charities’ relief efforts, click here.
• Find out about the Ron Clark Academy charter school in Atlanta, Ga.
• Harness passion with Dwayne J. Clark and his E.P.I.C leadership offsite at this website.
• Learn more about the residential recovery work being done at Haven at Blue Creek.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Rich Balot is a serial entrepreneur with a demonstrated history of building successful teams and businesses. Skilled in Business Planning, he also provides coaching expertise in sales and retail strategy as well as how to build a winning culture.

FOLLOW OUR GUEST:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN| BOOKS

Whether you’re looking for dedicated consulting, group coaching, marketing management or a mastermind experience, 8 Figure Firm was created by lawyers for lawyers. Founded by Seth Bader and Luis Scott, based on practices developed in their tremendously successful practice, they offer the tools you need to grow the legal team you desire!

In other breaking news, please join us in inaugurating a new phase of 7:47’s quest to help amazing companies build strong, connected client and team relationships. With the launch of ChrisSchembra.com comes an exciting opportunity to explore the power of asking the right questions and framing the important conversations. Founder Chris Schembra, the bestselling author of "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours," offers compelling keynotes on topics such as how to elevate workplace engagement by fostering human connection and why it’s critical to cultivate client relationships that are transformational – not just transactional!

If you’d like to learn more about Chris and his 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience or subscribe to our newsletter, please visit this link.

Click hereto hear more fascinating conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs, professional athletes and entertainerswho have shared their human stories on Gratitude Through Hard Times.

KEY TOPICS:

• If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don’t give enough credit or thanks to – that you’ve never thought to thank – who would that be and why? Her brother, Pablo, whose empowering love has been an “instrumental” part of her life.
• Finding the Words: How Pablo’s acts of service and ability to express love set the stage for Valeria’s drive and commitment to “being there.”
• Making the Climb: Why it’s important to remember that leaders are made – not born – and it’s a process that requires grace along the journey.
• Valeria’s Leadership Learnings:
• Allow yourself to sit back and listen rather than speak.
• Ask – don’t assume.
• Don’t take things personally.
• Find ways to receive constructive feedback.
• Put yourself in a place to embrace the wisdom of others.
• Holding Space: How Valeria learned (through mentors as well as trial and error) to take a step back and open herself to lessons she needed to learn and hear.
• Listening vs. Solution Design: Chris shares a recent client breakthrough – realizing that leaders don’t necessarily have to have all the answers. Not at all!
• Teaching Leaders How to Listen:
• Know who you are talking to and how they can best be reached.
• Tailor your message in a way that your audience can hear it.
• Use the “mirroring technique” to shift motion and tone.
• Ask questions that reframe the communications dynamic.
• Use what, when, where, why and other questions to open conversation.
• Leveraging Your Personality Profile:
• Be self-aware and able to step back, observe.
• Know that there’s no such thing as perfection.
• Leverage personal tendencies to optimize potential.
• Valeria’s Formula for Strong Law Firm Leadership:
• Moving drive into discipline.
• Moving motivation into obsession.
• Having a drive to succeed and accomplish goals.
• Being all in!
• Passing on the Gratitude: Why thanks for things or people in the past can’t always be given, but the chance to pay it forward is always there!
• Getting Into the Flow: How a challenge to her mental health enabled Valeria to know and face fears that were holding her back from claiming an authentic life of self-awareness.
• Know Your Amygdala: How to manage “negative memory bias” by deliberately balancing "fight-or-flight" reflexes with gratitude, which invites positivity.
• Scaling Gratitude: Why Valeria invites participants in leadership trainings to offer something that’s going right! 
• Opening Doors: About recognizing the good in ourselves as a conduit to feeling similarly generous and open-hearted towards others. It creates community!
• Concentric Circles of Gratitude: 
• First: Find gratitude for yourself.
• Second: Find gratitude for your team.
• Third: Find gratitude for your customers.
• Fourth: Find gratitude for your communities and humanity as a whole.
• In Closing: Valeria asks, “Are you all in?” If not, it’s time to commit to locating your truest self and purpose!

QUOTABLE

• “I’ve learned to sit back and listen rather than speak; ask and not assume.” (Valeria)

• “The biggest lesson in asking a question is not asking just to ask it, but asking and waiting to listen to what has to be said.” (Valeria)

• “It’s about creating space for transformation – asking or sharing something that might shift a perspective on life. You need space to process that.” (Chris)

• “You’re going to touch people’s ego when you try to teach them something. You’re going to have doubt, fear, all these emotions that are very human and normal but that people don’t talk about.” (Valeria)

• “Not all successful people know everything. Not all successful people are without fear or doubt. All of us have it. It’s just how well can you manage it and move forward rather than stay stagnant and stuck?” (Valeria)

• “Not all gratitude given is gratitude heard. Gratitude … can sometimes come across as convenient, selfish or lazy.” (Chris)

• “The failures and bad moments can be a privilege to experience … (because) what you don’t know can start eating away at you.” (Valeria)

• “Gratitude is just really good for business and it’s really good for people. Because, at the end of the day, we aren’t profit-making monster machines. We are humans and every human deserves to be loved, heard and valued.” (Chris)

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

• More about Dr. Gary Chapman’s 5 Love Languages can be found here.
• Learn about mirroring and other communication techniques in Chris Voss’s book, "Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It."
• "The Art of Impossible: A Peak Performance Primer," by Steven Kotler.
• Learn about how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) works at this link.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Valeria Torres is the Director of Operations and Business Portfolio Consultant for 8 Figure Firm. She provides operations management methods to law entrepreneurs nationwide, helping them streamline their operations and strengthen their businesses’ portfolios. Using a specialized methodology, she fosters new ways of thinking and develops strategic opportunities and managing projects intended to enhance your law firm’s growth.

FOLLOW OUR GUEST:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN| BOOKS| SPEAKING

You can learn much more about what Patty is up to and the mentorship opportunities she hosts by clicking this link to follow her on Instagram and following #WeAllGrow and the many initiatives she supports.

Cultivating moments of meaningful connection is hard – and perhaps not a value central to our workplace cultures. But if we show up in vulnerability and truth, we erase poverty of the soul while building great businesses!

If you’d like to learn more about Chris and his 7:47 Virtual Gratitude Experience or subscribe to our newsletter, please visit this link.

Click hereto hear more fascinating conversations with Fortune 500 CEOs, professional athletes and entertainers who have shared their human stories on Gratitude Through Hard Times.

KEY TOPICS:

• If you could give credit or thanks to one person in your life that you don’t give enough credit or enough thanks to – that you’ve never thought to thank – who would that be? Her husband, Rick, who has committed his life to the project of building a life, business and family together.
• It All Takes Work: How her commitment to marriage mirrors the commitment Patty believes is required to establish and grow anything meaningful in life.
• Expressing Gratitude: Why it’s so important that we teach our children to appreciate and cultivate a sense of appreciation in the day to day.
• Consider This: Are you using fear or a lack of gratitude as a protection mechanism against pain or disappointment?
• Managing Fear:
• Look at life holistically as a full range of experiences, including adversity.
• Build self-awareness and spiritual strength into your framework.
• Prepare for hard times.
• Learn from setbacks (and how to stop repeating them!).
• Climbing Out of the Hole: How life’s hard times provide us a necessary invitation to growth and human connection.
• Being Blessed: How Patty’s commitment to doing the right thing combined with hard work and gratitude add up to “getting what I give.” It’s not luck!
• Dreams v. Manifestations: About being fully awake to the visions we want to work towards and building a solid infrastructure for what we want.
• Being in the People Business: Why the heart of Patty’s daily work is understanding, developing, mentoring and celebrating the people with whom she’s in business.
• Seeking Change and Practicing Radical Acceptance: How Patty pursues her goals and dreams while also tempering them through self-awareness and understanding the “why.”
• Questioning: The key to growth, purpose and recognizing what’s most important!
• Daily Impact: How Patty is using her experience and skill set to empower and support younger Latinx women embarking on their entrepreneurial paths.
• Closing Thoughts:
• The person Patty respects most on the planet is her husband, Rick, with whom she has built a committed and intentional life.
• Because of its positive nature, Patty felt good about visiting the GTHT pod.
• Promoting empathetic leaders in all their humanness is a core value and priority for Patty, who leads with her heart.
• The levels of despair among members of the American workforce – including among executive ranks – are troubling. You can push back by focusing on abundance, gratitude and human connection.

QUOTABLE

• “(My husband and I) see commitment as a daily event in our lives. Not just walking down the aisle and a piece of paper.” (Patty)

• “When I feel fear or am scared of making decisions, it’s in action that I’m able to move forward. I’m not complacent. I don’t hide. And I don’t complain.” (Patty)

• “If you look at a negative autobiographical experience that put you in a hole or a moment of adversity, the positive benefits far outweigh the negative. You can actually be grateful that that thing occurred.” (Chris)

• “Anything you intend to do to impact your life and make it better is creating blessings for yourself and putting in the work to create the life you want. That isn’t luck. That’s work!” (Patty)

• “I find myself getting a lot of satisfaction in helping others and creating happiness for others when they’re aligned with things that I’m doing.” (Patty)

• “If you’re competing with companies that are like yours, they have the same journey and struggles as you. When you’re around like-minded people in the same business as you, it’s really an ‘aha’ moment!” (Patty)

• “When you seek out and find your purpose, things will become clearer to you … I know my purpose is to impact others. It’s what I enjoy. I love the little wins.” (Patty)

• “Yes, cultivating meaningful moments is hard. It requires unyielding vulnerability and courage and deep trust and truth … but it erases the poverty of the soul. It’s the way to build a business that you’re proud of.” (Chris)

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

• Check out Gary Chapman’s book, "The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts."
• Find out more about the Hogan Personality Assessment.
• Click here to find out about Kurt Vonnegut’s “Man in the Hole” theory.
• About "Grateful Processing," a concept developed by Prof. Phillip Watkins of Eastern Washington University.
• Explore Mike Foster’s "Seven Primal Questions."
• Follow this link to learn about “Ubuntu” and how the South African philosophy triggered one of the biggest turnarounds in NBA history.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Patty is an award-winning entrepreneur and Co-Founder and CEO of New American Funding. A first-generation Hispanic, her path to mortgage industry began at age 16 with a hard-work ethic and an entry-level position at TransUnion Credit. From there, she landed a job at a prominent mortgage company, where she would rise through the ranks and learn the business from the ground up, eventually becoming branch manager and assistant vice president. In 2003, Patty and her husband, Rick Arvielo, launched their own mortgage company, New American Funding. In the years since, Patty has helped transform the company into one of the largest independent mortgage lenders in the United States today with a servicing portfolio of over 250,000 loans for $69 billion. She also oversaw the creation and expansion of the company’s retail lending operation, which grew a small local operation to a national powerhouse with more than 170 locations and thousands of employees across the country. Today, Patty oversees nearly 4,000 employees, 54% of whom are women and 41% who are minorities.

FOLLOW PATTY:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN| INSTAGRAM | #WeAllGrow

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is a philosopher, question asker and facilitator. He's a columnist at Rolling Stone magazine, USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru" and he's spent the last six years traveling around the world helping people connect in meaningful ways. As the offshoot of his #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling book, "Gratitude Through Hard Times: Finding Positive Benefits Through Our Darkest Hours,"he uses this podcast to blend ancient stoic philosophy and modern-day science to teach how the principles of gratitude can be used to help people get through their hard times.

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS