Emotional Optimism: Living in The Silver Lining Podcast
132 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 44 ratingsEmotional Optimism: Living in The Silver Lining Podcast - A collection of exploratory thoughts and conversations to help tap into emotional optimism and heart leadership. Think of this podcast as your personal prescription of leadership tips, empathetic food for thought and courageous and real conovs!
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Episodes
E103: Culture Fit
March 12, 2024 08:00 - 1 minute - 2.72 MBDoes your workplace truly celebrate diversity, or do they pressure people to conform? Today, we delve into a topic that affects us all – how to build a truly inclusive workplace where everyone can feel a sense of belonging. Get ready for an eye-opening look at why fitting in should never come at the cost of fitting in. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: The trouble with culture fit The power of belonging Our differences make us strong. Episode Highlights: [00:0...
E102: Finding Your People
February 13, 2024 09:00 - 1 minute - 3.33 MBComing out can be an incredibly challenging experience for many people, often resulting in being estranged from loved ones who have difficulty accepting their sexuality or gender identity. When I came out, I faced rejection from my mother who didn't understand at first. The isolation of that period was incredibly difficult to go through alone. However, moving to a new city where I could be myself without judgment was truly transformative. In San Francisco, I instantly found a community of L...
Finding Your People
February 13, 2024 09:00 - 1 minute - 3.33 MBComing out can be an incredibly challenging experience for many people, often resulting in being estranged from loved ones who have difficulty accepting their sexuality or gender identity. When I came out, I faced rejection from my mother who didn't understand at first. The isolation of that period was incredibly difficult to go through alone. However, moving to a new city where I could be myself without judgment was truly transformative. In San Francisco, I instantly found a community of L...
E101: The Capacity to Love is at the Core of our Success
January 02, 2024 09:00 - 3 minutes - 8.25 MBWhat kind of leader do you aspire to be? In our new podcast episode, we discuss the power of leading with love. Leaders who embody love not only inspire their teams but also foster environments of trust and respect. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: Embracing love as a leadership quality The way we love others is the way we were loved The power of community Episode Highlights: [00:13] Embracing Love as a Leadership Quality Leaders who embody love, who consisten...
E100: Rooting Culture in Kind Candor
December 28, 2023 17:58 - 3 minutes - 6.92 MBIn today's episode, we delve into the concept of "kind candor" and its pivotal role in fostering a positive organizational culture. It’s an innovative approach that combines honesty with kindness when giving feedback to employees. By providing clear, specific, current, and actionable feedback, we enable employees to improve without feeling undermined. The ultimate objective of kind candor is to cultivate an environment of trust where employees are receptive to feedback, seeing it as an opp...
E99: Don’t be Afraid to Give Yourself an F
December 20, 2023 19:58 - 2 minutes - 4.88 MBEver graded your own performance? In our new episode, we shed light on a unique exercise assigned by Gary that had us all doing just that. We're sharing a fascinating leadership lesson: the power of self-graded performance. Hear how our team faced their weaknesses head-on to drive growth and collaboration. Discover how this transparency is steering us towards becoming the greatest organization in history. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: Gary sets homework to self-...
E98: Emotional Efficiency
December 13, 2023 21:57 - 1 minute - 2.53 MBIn a world where effective teamwork is essential for success, understanding the importance of emotional efficiency can revolutionize the way teams operate. In this episode, we delve into the realm of emotional intelligence and how it enables teams to have productive discussions and make quick decisions. By cultivating trust and fostering genuine connections among team members, emotional efficiency becomes the foundation for creating an environment where everyone feels safe to express their i...
E97: Vulnerability is Key for Growth
November 30, 2023 15:58 - 2 minutes - 5.95 MBGrowth can be elusive when we're in the midst of it. But it is only truly realized when we emerge from the depths. It's a unique journey for each person, and to authentically discuss growth, we must acknowledge the vulnerable moments that shaped us. In this episode, learn how vulnerability allows us to shed our armor and authentically connect with ourselves and those around us. When you learn how to strengthen your relationships, foster growth, and become a more effective leader – new hori...
E96: What is the Honey Empire?
November 21, 2023 09:00 - 2 minutes - 6.25 MBIntroducing the Honey Empire philosophy where “honey” comprises 51% and the “empire” claims the remaining 49%. But here's the intriguing part, that seemingly small 1% holds immense significance. It represents our approach to treating people, our behavior, and our role as Vayner citizens. Behind every great business is great leadership. Hear how Gary Vaynerchuk and his team at The Honey Empire prioritize emotional intelligence and necessary life skills to build a top talent culture. Here are...
E95: Trust First
November 07, 2023 15:31 - 1 minute - 2.97 MBThis week, we delve into the unique culture of our company and the critical role of trust within it. Our discussion today offers key insights into how we empower new hires by immediately placing trust in them, recognizing their value from day one, and eliminating the need for initial proof of worth. We also shed light on the importance we place on active listening and inquiry for new employees, and how understanding the dynamics of our company can lead to effective contributions. Here's a gl...
E94: Creating a Safe Workplace for EVERYONE
October 24, 2023 08:00 - 3 minutes - 9.12 MBA safe workplace for all - that's the goal of today’s conversation. Listen in as we discuss how we, as leaders, can create an environment where people feel they belong and can be their authentic selves. We share insights on building trust and connections so that anyone who suffers in silence feels comfortable speaking up. Most importantly, they promise to support each other through options and solutions, not answers, and ensure no one has to go through challenges alone. Here are some power...
E93: Ask Yourself, "What Do I Need?"
October 11, 2023 08:00 - 2 minutes - 4.66 MBAs leaders, there are certainly tough days when we don't feel our best. In this insightful discussion, learn about the importance of self-compassion in leadership and why asking yourself "What do I need?" on those difficult days can help you refocus on self-care. I’m also sharing the challenges and loneliness of leadership, and why going easy on yourself is very important in self-care. Tune in for relatable advice on balancing empathy for others with empathy for yourself - even on your wo...
E92: Defining Empathetic Leadership
October 03, 2023 22:00 - 3 minutes - 8.08 MBEver heard of the term “empathetic leadership”? But what does that really mean? In this episode, learn how empathy leads to kindness and compassion through our actions – rather than just emotions. Together, let’s explore how assuming others may be going through something and greeting them with care, tenderness, and support can positively impact others. This episode is a great reminder of the importance of focusing on how we make others feel! Here are some power takeaways from today’s conver...
E91: My Nonlinear Path
September 26, 2023 08:00 - 5 minutes - 13.6 MBMy path wasn't always clear - I struggled in school with dyslexia but found my strengths in sports and connecting with others. After some exploring and setbacks, I discovered a passion for human behavior that led me to a career in advertising. My story shows that success takes twists and turns. Have faith that every experience, even the hard times, contributes to who you are meant to become. Tune in to hear how I kept learning from life and following my interests, which allowed opportunities...
E90: Sharing is Caring
September 19, 2023 08:00 - 2 minutes - 5.97 MBDiscover the power of relational intelligence and unlock the key to building meaningful connections. Tune in to this episode as I delve into the importance of authentic communication, self-awareness, and nurturing relationships. I’m also sharing some insights on why younger employees may try to get all their needs met at work and some perspective on how to widen your lens. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: The importance of relational intelligence Navigating the m...
E89: The Balance of Emotional Regulation
September 05, 2023 16:48 - 1 minute - 4.11 MBOur ability to handle feelings develops over time, that’s why it's so important to have strategies for sharing or containing emotions appropriately at your job. As leaders, we play a key role in supporting staff through challenging times by providing guidance – not isolation. Today, let's talk about navigating emotional boundaries in the workplace and embracing emotional support in the professional setting. By creating a supportive environment where emotional well-being is prioritized, we ...
E88: The Future is Now
August 15, 2023 08:00 - 2 minutes - 5.98 MBIn the workplace, emotions are contagious. The energy we bring not only affects ourselves but also influences those around us. In this episode, I talk about how we can make a conscious effort to create a positive and supportive atmosphere where everyone's emotions are respected and acknowledged. Together, we can build a thriving work culture! Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: How Gen Z workers want more openness and transparency in the workplace The balance between ...
E87: My Journey to Chief Heart Officer
August 01, 2023 08:00 - 2 minutes - 6.47 MBJoin me as I take you on an incredible journey of growth within VaynerMedia. From my humble beginnings – to now overseeing the cultural aspect – I've witnessed the company's remarkable expansion from 289 employees to a global workforce of 2,000 in just 9 years! Let's dive into how I helped foster a thriving company culture and the power of long-lasting bonds among our amazing team. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: A successful career in advertising as a strategist ...
E86: Leading By Example
July 19, 2023 16:00 - 1 minute - 3.77 MBCreating a positive and compassionate working environment starts with leading by example. In this episode, we discuss the importance of leading with our hearts in a working environment. Leading by example is crucial to enabling and empowering others to do the same. The world in which we live can present triggers that affect our behavior, but consistency in how we show up is crucial. Learn how to create a positive working environment that enables everyone to lead with their hearts. Here are ...
E85: Teams That Stick Like Glue
July 07, 2023 08:00 - 4 minutes - 9.52 MBAt VaynerMedia, it feels like you just arrived and also like you've been around forever. I've been here for nine years myself, but some days it feels like only two and others feel like 18. The secret to feeling at home is having a team that sticks together like glue! Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: Why working at VaynerMedia feels timeless The lack of intimacy in tech Becoming a part of the glue in a team Finding the momentum that works for you and your team T...
E84: Denying Good and Finding Your People
June 23, 2023 20:16 - 1 minute - 1.45 MBToday, we focus on the power of asking for help from those closest to us, the importance of understanding and connecting with the human experience, and what we truly deserve in life. In this episode, we highlight how we can all strive for a more fulfilling life and support one another in our journeys. Join us as we explore these universal themes and gain insights that can help us navigate the ups and downs of life. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: The power of askin...
E83: What Does it Actually Mean to "Connect?"
June 12, 2023 15:42 - 3 minutes - 8.63 MBIn this podcast episode, we explore one of the most fundamental human needs - connection. We delve into the origin of the word "connection" and what it truly means for us as individuals living in a society. As humans, we seek to bind ourselves together, to connect with others in a way that allows us to become one. We discuss how the need for connection is wired into us from birth, how it shapes our work relationships, and why it's essential to belong. Join us as we explore the power of con...
E82: The Small Things are the Big Things
May 26, 2023 15:43 - 1 minute - 3.4 MBIn a world that constantly demands our attention, it's easy to overlook the little things that make all the difference. We don't need grand gestures or flashy demonstrations of affection to feel valued. Instead, it's the small moments - the validation in a conversation, the effort to check in on someone, the willingness to truly listen - that hold real meaning. Join us today as we discuss how these little things can create a big impact on our relationships. Unfortunately, in our busy lives,...
E81: Change Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself
May 16, 2023 08:00 - 1 minute - 2.87 MBGiving feedback to employees is an essential part of leadership and an essential part of a person's growth. However, it can be challenging to deliver feedback that doesn't come across as cold, biased or too personal. I have the honor of giving people my “subjective” feedback daily, and what I have learned in these years, is before I speak, it's important to ensure I am coming from a neutral place, my feedback will be clear and specific and it will also be kind and actionable. Coming from a n...
E81: Feedback with Heart
May 16, 2023 08:00 - 1 minute - 2.87 MBGiving feedback to employees is an essential part of leadership and an essential part of a person's growth. However, it can be challenging to deliver feedback that doesn't come across as cold, biased or too personal. I have the honor of giving people my “subjective” feedback daily, and what I have learned in these years, is before I speak, it's important to ensure I am coming from a neutral place, my feedback will be clear and specific and it will also be kind and actionable. Coming from a n...
E81: Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself
May 16, 2023 08:00 - 1 minute - 2.87 MBGiving feedback to employees is an essential part of leadership and an essential part of a person's growth. However, it can be challenging to deliver feedback that doesn't come across as cold, biased or too personal. I have the honor of giving people my “subjective” feedback daily, and what I have learned in these years, is before I speak, it's important to ensure I am coming from a neutral place, my feedback will be clear and specific and it will also be kind and actionable. Coming from a n...
E80: Vulnerability is a Superpower
May 15, 2023 13:59 - 1 minute - 3.63 MBAt times, being vulnerable can be uncomfortable and scary, particularly in the workplace where there is an emphasis on projecting strength and professionalism. However, it is this vulnerability that often brings us closer to our colleagues and allows us to connect on a personal level. In this episode, we’re going to dive into how you can leverage vulnerability and turn it into a superpower. Let's break the stigma surrounding vulnerability. It takes courage to be vulnerable, and we want to ...
E79: Navigating Pivots
April 25, 2023 16:14 - 1 minute - 4.47 MBWhether in business or personal life, a pivot happens in a person’s life, usually, when there is a certain rumbling or hunger inside for more or for something different. This feeling of restlessness or dissatisfaction is often our nudge that we probably need to explore new opportunities, take on new challenges, or pursue different goals. In today’s episode, I’m sharing how I pivoted from my role as a client service strategist to now, in service of the people. That rumbling started six years...
E78: You Carry Your Culture With You
April 20, 2023 14:43 - 2 minutes - 6.71 MBWho wouldn’t want to be working for a company with the type of culture that’s kind and collaborative? If you are nodding your head, then you most likely relate to the vibes of that company - and you have that culture inside of you. You will then carry that with you, no matter where you go. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: Figuring out different company cultures Culture is everyone’s responsibility Carrying culture with you Episode Highlights: [01:12] Identifyin...
E77: Fixing People is Not the Fix
April 15, 2023 15:38 - 7 minutes - 6.48 MBSo many of us have a deep desire to “fix” people. We often feel so fulfilled when we think we are helping out, thinking we are the wise ol’ owls who have the answers. However there actually is no need to fix people, because we can’t. We can’t change anyone, only ourselves. In today’s episode, we talk about how you can get over this desire to “fix” people, the power of checking in with yourself, and the beauty of allowing certain things to take their time. Here are some power takeaways from ...
E76: Three Steps to Combat Imposter Syndrome
April 05, 2023 17:13 - 6 minutes - 6.09 MBIt takes a village to run and grow a business. You have to become committed and consistent to show up in the right community and for the right community. And even when you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, you will still have to show up for you every day. Our imposter syndrome is a close cousin to our limiting beliefs. These are both false narratives. They're a negative talk track, which isn’t true, but we have to outsmart it. And the only way to outsmart it is to get rational. Here a...
E76: Combatting Imposter Syndrome
April 05, 2023 17:13 - 6 minutes - 6.09 MBIt takes a village to run and grow a business. You have to become committed and consistent to show up in the right community and for the right community. And even when you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, you will still have to show up for you every day. Our imposter syndrome is a close cousin to our limiting beliefs. These are both false narratives. They're a negative talk track, which isn’t true, but we have to outsmart it. And the only way to outsmart it is to get rational. Here a...
E75: Choosing Positivity
March 31, 2023 00:00 - 3 minutes - 7.43 MBWhy is it easier to be negative? Well, it's not really easy. But it's a choice people make to see the world. But what happens if you refuse to see the world as half-empty, and instead, see it as half-full? Positivity is a choice as much as happiness is a choice. Unfortunately, a lot of people tend to only focus on the negative side of things and refuse to see the other side of it. What will you choose? Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: Choose to see the world half-f...
E74: Life Lessons From the Heart
November 30, 2022 12:00 - 4 minutes - 11 MBToday Nov 21st, marks the 15-year anniversary of my cousin Dayn taking his life. We had adopted Dayn as our brother. A phenomenal, gorgeous, handsome, funny, and grateful human being, Dayn was a light in this world and his light went out. In this episode, I’m sharing some things I’ve learned over the years that I would have told Dayn today – although he might be listening to me right now as well. So I’m sending all of these thoughts out into the universe today. Here are some power takeaway...
E73: Self-Sabotage and The Yearning to Belong
October 25, 2022 11:00 - 5 minutes - 13.6 MBWe can really never truly feel a sense of belonging if we are constantly betraying ourselves. You might have heard of the term self-sabotage and wondered what that even means. Well, it’s actually the same thing as betraying yourself. And part of that self-sabotage is having that feeling that you’re not worthy of anything. You’re not worthy of being loved or worthy of loving yourself. You can mask the pain with all the substances and relationships you have, but that will never go away unles...
E72: The Leadership of a Jedi with Colonel J. Scot Heathman
October 04, 2022 16:14 - 53 minutes - 122 MBGone are the days of leadership when leaders would never show an ounce of weakness. Vulnerability used to be seen as a flaw, .but it can actually be a superpower in the toolbox of anyone on their own hero journey. In this conversation, Colonel J. Scot Heathman, a retired Air Mobility Wing Commander, shares his love of Star Wars, skills he learned and developed in the Air Force, and the power of spreading positivity in leadership. Whether it’s getting involved in the community or serving hi...
E71: Trust Your Intuition When Prepping for Leadership Conversations
September 23, 2022 17:22 - 2 minutes - 6.6 MBIt’s not about winging your answers to the questions thrown at you. The point is – if you’re a great leader, your leadership skills are not something you need to read about before any conversation. It’s all common sense. And so, the next time you’re asked to be interviewed, you can tell the interviewer to save their questions. Besides, there’s nothing better than having a natural and spontaneous conversation about something that is so intuitive to you. Here are some power takeaways from to...
E70: Claude’s thoughts on Leading with a Heart
August 16, 2022 16:46 - 40 minutes - 92.2 MBIn this episode, I’m switching chairs with my good friend, Andrea Wetherald, as she interviews me. We go in-depth about starting life over again at 40, leading people, and walking together on this journey. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: Claude’s dream at 9yr old to be a movie director Finding your creative outlets Starting life again at 40 Everyone’s responsibility to cultivate the culture in your workplace Making people seen and heard Dealing with burnout E...
E69: In her full voice: Deepa Purushothaman on Leadership, Diversity, Inclusion and Equity
May 18, 2022 11:00 - 43 minutes - 98.5 MBIn the wake of the Great Resignation, there's this real desire to make "work" work for everybody. And so, we have to unpack what that means and what that looks like. In this episode, Deepa Purushothaman shares her journey as a woman of color who, although an ultra-achiever in corporate America, made the decision to walk away and serve a deeper purpose. Growing up, Deepa had a lot of questions about identity as one of the five students of color in her school. Her mother and her sister were v...
1 minute on Pleasing Others vs. Pleasing Yourself
May 05, 2022 20:55 - 1 minute - 973 KBSo often, we are literally using a ruler to measure our worth based on what someone else thinks of us, or here's a real crazy part. What we think they think of us what we think they think of us. Remember what you think of yourself how you walk into the room, the energy you carry, that is what matters because it matters to you first and foremost.
E68: Take Time to Read Your Own Mind
April 06, 2022 17:39 - 40 minutes - 92.3 MBDo you have FOMO (fear of missing out)? Or are you just a voracious reader or avid learner who wants to constantly learn new, different things? At some point, you just have to learn to pause, take the time to read your mind, and ultimately realize that you don’t need anything else – because you are enough! In this episode, sales and business growth coach and consultant, Martin Stellar, shares his insights into the power of reading your own mind as well as how to change your perspective in d...
E67: The Heart Says "Give It A Try" - The New Face of Leadership
March 15, 2022 11:00 - 4 minutes - 10.3 MB“It’s impossible,” said Pride. “It’s risky,” said Experience. “It’s pointless,” said Reason. “Give it a try,” whispered the Heart. This popular quote is a perfect depiction of this new era of leadership in the future of work. Leadership used to be something that just came from the top. People were bound by the confines of an organizational hierarchy that lead with fear and at times held them back from growing and flourishing. But we’re now ushering into this new space of leadership wher...
E66: Forgiveness is the Most Important Leadership Skill
March 11, 2022 12:00 - 42 minutes - 97.3 MBForgiveness is the most important skill you can have as a leader because it takes courage to take accountability and to allow yourself to be vulnerable. In this discussion, Andrea Flack-Wetherald talks about how you can use forgiveness as a superpower in leading so you can find joy in your life and your work. Author of the book, The Funny Thing About Forgiveness, Andrea highlights lessons from improvised comedy and mindfulness practice, teaching leaders how to master the art of forgiveness ...
E65: Labels Belong On Cans, Not People.
March 01, 2022 12:00 - 4 minutes - 10.1 MBThe word "mental" is often thrown around, and it does make sense considering how the term is often associated with academic fields like psychology and psychiatry. However, the mere use of the term somehow ignites this stigma, which has been used by society for many years to signify crazy, deranged, or out of mind. Mental health, mental fitness, mental issues – these are words that are still creating some stigma. And so, people who are going through something feel like they don’t have a safe...
E64: The Economy of Kindness with Linda Cohen
February 10, 2022 12:00 - 28 minutes - 64.6 MBHow do you create a culture of kindness in the workplace? In today’s episode, Linda Cohen talks about the power of doing intentional acts of kindness and the ripple effect that can transform your life and your business. After her father died, Linda started a 1,000-Mitzvah (act of kindness) project in his memory. Five years later, she translated her project into how it affects businesses and organizations and how leaders can bring kindness in the workplace. In her book, The Economy of Kindn...
E63: Exceptional Doing & Inspired Action with Bart Berkey
February 03, 2022 12:00 - 32 minutes - 74 MBWhat differentiates luxury service from ordinary service is that it’s not transactional – it’s relationship-driven. But how do you communicate in a real, authentic manner that grabs on to the hearts and souls of your customers? With 32 years of experience in hospitality, Bart Berkey, former Ritz-Carlton Global Executive, shares some best practices in exceptional customer experience. Bart is the author of Most People Don't (and Why You Should) where he shares inspiring ideas about exceptiona...
E62: Tapping into the Untethered Creative Realm with Matthew Zaremba
December 30, 2021 12:00 - 42 minutes - 98.2 MBMatthew Zaremba is a multidisciplinary artist best known for his minimalist illustrations examining the human condition and the intricacies of the head and the heart. Boston-based and internationally recognized, Zaremba is a published visual storyteller whose work spans a myriad of mediums from print to paintings to public murals. Fashion brand 2006 Bodega has been curating the finest selection of footwear, apparel, and accessories for men and women from over 100 brands. Here are some powe...
E062: Tapping into the Untethered Creative Realm with Matthew Zaremba
December 30, 2021 12:00 - 42 minutes - 98.2 MBMatthew Zaremba is a multidisciplinary artist best known for his minimalist illustrations examining the human condition and the intricacies of the head and the heart. Boston-based and internationally recognized, Zaremba is a published visual storyteller whose work spans a myriad of mediums from print to paintings to public murals. Fashion brand 2006 Bodega has been curating the finest selection of footwear, apparel, and accessories for men and women from over 100 brands. Here are some powe...
E61: Leaning On Your Squad And Being A Student Anytime, Anywhere
December 16, 2021 16:49 - 3 minutes - 7.49 MBOne of the things I love so much about life is you can learn anything from anyone at any time. Today, I’m sharing with you this 15-minute conversation I had with a media resident out of our West Coast office. He specifically asked me about this quote that you’re a product of the five people you surround yourself with. As humans and social beings, we want to feel we belong, not just comfortable. We want to feel safe enough to become learners, students, and teachers, and feel safe even when w...
E60: The Heart of Writing with Chris Ferreiras
December 07, 2021 12:00 - 42 minutes - 96.3 MBChris Ferreiras, also known as @ItChris on Instagram, is an author and poet, who calls himself observant, but really, he's a sage. Chris is also a teacher, which for him was an inherent calling. Not only a student of the game but a student of life and his craft, Chris constantly finds a way to do that, mostly through writing and just letting the words come to him – and the way he does it is just amazing and soulful. Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: Who is Chris Ferr...