Episodes

  • 215. Jabari Whitehead - Better Us, Better Them

    215. Jabari Whitehead - Better Us, Better Them
    Jan 14 2025
    "One of the best decisions I've ever made as a leader is just getting out of the way of people doing the work and being more of a support." "But to go to a place where people allow you to be yourself and to grow with you is a great form of generosity that no leader should ever overlook." "The obstacle is the way. The obstacle is the way. Whatever you're trying to get through, the way you're trying to get to, the obstacle is the most direct route. Turning and facing the obstacle is the direct path to being better." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jabari Whitehead05:40 Generosity in the School Community13:11 The Value of Generosity22:01 Parenting and Leadership29:22 Courage and Vulnerability in Leadership35:37 Embracing Imperfection: Be Brave, Not Perfect40:52 Better Us, Better Them: Leading by Example50:30 The Power of Connection and Compassion Episode Summary: In this engaging conversation, Dr. Jabari Whitehead, principal of Chatham Park Elementary School, shares his journey in education, emphasizing the importance of generosity, connection, and discipline in both personal and professional life. He discusses the impact of community involvement, the value of daily habits, and the courage required in leadership. Dr. Whitehead advocates for a 'better us, better them' philosophy, encouraging self-improvement to foster a positive environment for students and families. He highlights the significance of vulnerability and the power of human connection in creating a supportive school culture. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: Dr. Whitehead emphasizes the importance of seeing humanity in everyone.Generosity in education builds trust and community.Daily habits and discipline are crucial for personal growth.Courage and vulnerability are essential traits for effective leadership.The 'better us, better them' philosophy promotes self-improvement for better outcomes.Connection with families enhances the school community.Being brave, not perfect, allows for growth and learning.Generosity leads to a more engaged and supportive environment.Daily practices can create a positive school culture.Connection is key to a fulfilling life. Guest Bio: Jabari Whitehead, Ed.D. is the Principal of Chatham Park Elementary School in the Haverford School District, a husband, a father of two teenagers (Avery & Evan) and an adjunct professor at Saint Joseph’s University of Philadelphia teaching doctoral and masters level courses in Educational Leadership. With over 20 years of experience as an educator in K-12 in Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania and with 17 years in school leadership, Dr. Whitehead has spent his career dedicated to the growth of his students and community. Dr. Whitehead received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Saint Joseph’s University, Class of 2017, with a focus on Transformational Leadership and the Socio-Cognitive Theory of Self-Efficacy. His prior education includes an M.S. in Educational Leadership from Saint Joseph’s, Class of 2005, and his B.A. in Elementary Education from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. Most recently Dr. Jabari Whitehead has lent his voice to the following… Saint Joseph’s University Unlimited Learning Webinar Series: The Role of Mental Health in Education and Leadership (9/18/2020) The Bridge Between YouTube Channel with Shannon Cassidy: Journey to Authentic Leadership (7/2/2020) The Bridge Between YouTube Channel with Shannon Cassidy: Managing the Fear of Returning to School (8/4/2020) WMMR Public Affairs Show- Discussion about Virtual Learning (9/6/2020) • Partnering with and speaking to police departments regarding policing practices in local municipalities Panelist Speaker-GESU School Symposium 11/18/21 Working Together to Manage Pandemic Stress in Our School Communities Contributing author to the educational leadership text, “Intersectionality and Leading Social Change in Education: Professional Learning to Transform Self, Others, and the Field” Additionally, Dr. Jabari Whitehead is an avid reader, journals, a “Crossfitter”, trail hiker, enjoys any time at the beach, and being his children’s biggest cheerleader on the sideline for their sports (lacrosse and soccer). The real truth, Dr. Whitehead refers to himself as a mess and a masterpiece constantly evolving and becoming. Along the way, he lives each day to add value to the lives of others through vulnerability and connection. Resources: Daily Stoic PodcastsIntersectionality and Leading Social Change in Education (Wang et. al, 2024)Rich Roll Podcast Rangan Chatterjee Feel Better Live More PodcastPrincipal Weekly Announcements (Jabari Whitehead Ed. D.)The Role of Mental Health in Education | SJU's Unlimited Learning SeriesLinkedIn postMarvin Snapp - Never Would Have Made ItMaxwell - FortunateJill Scott - Golden Where to find R.O.G. Podcast: R.O.G on YouTube R.O.G on Apple Podcasts R.O.G on Spotify How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index What is your Generosity ...
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    52 mins
  • 214. Jeff Benton & Brett Weinroth - From Chaos to Coherence

    214. Jeff Benton & Brett Weinroth - From Chaos to Coherence
    Jan 7 2025
    "We are the creators of our own lives." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Paragon Performance Evolution04:52 Personal Journeys and Inspirations09:55 The Impact of Stress and Mental Health15:01 Understanding Emotions and Thought Patterns20:06 Techniques for Coherence and Emotional Regulation25:09 The Science of Heart-Focused Breathing30:04 Generosity and Corporate Culture Transformation31:18 Navigating Stress in Leadership Teams33:08 The Cornell University Transformation Story38:34 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability41:32 Practical Techniques for Coherence47:05 Morning Intentions and Gratitude Practices Episode Summary: In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy speaks with Jeff Benton and Brett Weinroth from Paragon Performance Evolution about their journey in peak performance training. They discuss their personal backgrounds, the impact of stress and mental health, and the importance of emotional regulation. The conversation delves into techniques for achieving coherence through heart-focused breathing and the significance of understanding emotions in both personal and professional settings. They emphasize the need for a culture of generosity and emotional awareness in the workplace. In this conversation, Jeff Benton and Brett Weinroth discuss the impact of stress on leadership teams and the importance of creating safe spaces for vulnerability and authenticity. The discussion also covers practical tools for achieving coherence and the significance of morning intentions and gratitude practices in personal and professional growth. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: Personal experiences of trauma can lead to profound transformations.Stress impacts our emotional and physical well-being significantly.Awareness of thoughts and emotions is crucial for personal development.Heart-focused breathing can help regulate emotions and improve coherence.Negative thoughts are common, but we can rewire our brains.Mindfulness practices can help manage stress effectively.Creating safe spaces allows for authentic vulnerability.Gratitude practices can rewire team dynamics.Morning intentions set the tone for the day. Guest Bio: Jeff Benton and Brett Weinroth with Paragon Performance Evolution, focus on peak performance training through various aspects of personal and collective growth. By developing customized leadership and high-performance programs, Paragon’s focus is to create a significant impact on client organizations, ranging from FORTUNE 500 companies to Special Forces, professional athletes, leading academic institutions, Global First Ladies, and even astronauts. The core of Paragon's teachings revolves around achieving a coherent flow state through self-regulation and increased awareness of thoughts and emotions. By helping individuals attain this state of coherence, Paragon enables them to optimize key brain functions and improve overall physiology, leading to greater clarity, presence, joy and gratitude. This enables clients to achieve greater overall performance, and also deeper and more authentic relationships, at an individual, team and organizational level. The topics covered in Paragon's peak performance programs are diverse and essential for personal and professional growth. Leadership, resilience, conscious and heart-centered leadership, coherent communication, and emotional intelligence are all vital areas that are a focus on the Paragon programs. Overall, Paragon's approach is holistic, combining transformative methodologies with a deep understanding of human behavior to help individuals and organizations reach new heights of success and fulfillment. Resources: PerformanceParagon.comJeff Benton on LinkedIn (in/jeffrey-robert-benton-51240a4Brett Weinroth on LinkedIn (in/bweinroth) Where to find R.O.G. Podcast: R.O.G on YouTube R.O.G on Apple Podcasts R.O.G on Spotify How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index What is your Generosity Style? Generosity Quiz Credits: Jeff Benton and Brett Weinroth, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 215, Special Guest, Dr. Maureen Reusche.
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    48 mins
  • 213. What Small Shifts Will You Make in 2025? | Generous Leadership Coaching Tip

    213. What Small Shifts Will You Make in 2025? | Generous Leadership Coaching Tip
    Dec 31 2024

    “...And the reason for five degrees is that 5 % of our behavior is self-regulated willpower, which means 95 % is habit. The only way that we can create lasting change is through incremental steps.”

    Episode summary |

    In this final episode of 2024, Shannon Cassidy introduces the Five Degree Principle, a framework designed to facilitate meaningful change through small, incremental steps. She discusses the importance of sustainable change in leadership and announces the launch of her new online course, 'The Power of Five Degree Change,' which aims to provide actionable lessons for personal and professional transformation.

    R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

    • The Five Degree Principle helps leaders create meaningful change.
    • 95% of our behavior is driven by habit, not willpower.
    • Small intentional adjustments can lead to significant results.
    • The new online course offers a comprehensive learning experience.
    • Sustainable change is achievable through incremental steps.
    • Celebrating small changes can lead to a more impactful leadership journey.

    Host Bio |

    Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude.

    Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity.

    Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work.

    Resources:

    • Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index
    • Free Generosity Quiz
    • YouTube
    • Bridge Between, Inc.
    • The Five Degree Principle by Shannon Cassidy
    • V.I.B.E. by Shannon Cassidy
    • R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts
    • R.O.G. on Spotify

    Credits: Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

    Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 214, Special Guests, Jeff Benton and Brett Weinroth.
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    7 mins
  • 212. Brian Formato - Find Your Groove

    212. Brian Formato - Find Your Groove
    Dec 24 2024
    "...if we could put people in the water and teach them to surf, we'd actually have to force them to suck at something again...In business, you don't teach people to fail because failure is not an option. But our best learnings come from failure..." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Brian Formato and Groove Management06:31 Innovative Learning Approaches in Leadership Development15:01 Feedback and Impact of Leader Surf Program20:54 Patience and Intensity in Leadership27:04 Finding Your Groove35:27 Rapid Fire Insights Episode Summary: In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Brian Formato, founder of Groove Management and creator of Leader Surf. Brian shares his journey from a challenging corporate career to establishing a unique leadership development program that combines surfing with personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of selfless leadership, the need for innovative learning approaches, and the impact of generosity in creating a ripple effect in leadership. The discussion also explores the parallels between surfing and leadership, highlighting the significance of patience, intensity, and celebrating success. In this conversation, Brian Formato discusses the significance of creating a culture of generosity within leadership and organizations. He emphasizes the importance of feedback, self-awareness, and the impact of small gestures in leadership. The discussion also touches on the value of time as a resource and how it can be used to foster relationships and personal growth. Brian shares personal anecdotes and insights on thriving in both personal and professional life, culminating in a rapid-fire segment that reveals his thoughts on various topics. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: Groove Management focuses on what's right rather than what's wrong.Generosity in leadership creates a ripple effect that benefits others.Patience and intensity are crucial traits for effective leaders.Celebrating successes is vital for team morale and motivation.Learning to fail gracefully is an important part of growth.Finding one's groove is a personal and professional journey. Creating a culture of generosity starts with intentionality.Time is a valuable resource that should be invested in others.Vulnerability in leadership is a strength, not a weakness.Investing in relationships is key to living a fulfilling life. Guest Bio: Brian Formato is the founder of Groove Management, an executive coaching, strategic planning and human capital consulting firm, and the creator of LeaderSurf, an adventurous development program for business leaders of all backgrounds, industries and corners of the world who want to break old habits and create lasting change. Brian has 25+ years of experience developing leaders and organizational capabilities inside of companies in a variety of industries including financial services, software, digital marketing, telecommunications, industrials, construction equipment and publishing as well as non-profit organizations. He has served in diverse roles including HR management, leadership and organizational development, corporate communications, and digital marketing. He launched Groove Management in 2014 to help first time CEOs step into new and uncharted waters inherent with their unique roles. He is known for his work with executive teams, taking them outside of their four walls to address tough business challenges, and create new experiences that build trust and prompt change. His practice offers executive coaching, leadership effectiveness and development, organizational development, behavior-based leader branding, and alignment during change (early change company growth, post-merger integration and venture capital) services. Brian pairs appreciative inquiry with a balanced leadership approach rooted in science, service and self to help leaders find their groove, learn to fail in order to succeed and adopt leadership practices centered on service to others and oneself. He often “sees the simple” that we can’t see when we are too close, and turns the simple into actionable insights with questions like “Would I thrive working for me?” Brian coaches senior leaders and CEOs in a wide range of companies and industries. Coaching client organizations include Starbucks, Workday, Circle K, Electrolux, Propel, Toast, VisLink, Reltio, Databricks and several others. Brian earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Eckerd College and a master’s in organization development from American University. He is certified in REACH Quotient, Myers Briggs, Birkmann, TKI, Conflict Dynamics Profile, and Brand You. Resources: GrooveManagement.comwww.leadersurf.com Where to find R.O.G. Podcast: R.O.G on YouTube R.O.G on Apple Podcasts R.O.G on Spotify How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index What is your Generosity Style? Generosity Quiz Credits: Brian Formato, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, ...
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    41 mins
  • 211. Susan McPherson - The Lost Art of Connecting

    211. Susan McPherson - The Lost Art of Connecting
    Dec 17 2024
    “...if you listen carefully when people tell you these things, which is so hard because we have so many distractions, but if you listen carefully, you can find ways to be helpful, to be responsible, to be reliable, to be trustworthy, all the things that make us fully functioning and valuable humans.” Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Susan McPherson05:43 The Lost Art of Connecting12:25 The Importance of Quality Questions21:29 Pros and Cons of Social Media30:08 Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections Episode Summary: In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Susan McPherson, a social impact expert and author of 'The Lost Art of Connecting.' They discuss Susan's journey, the importance of meaningful connections, and her methodology for building relationships. Susan emphasizes the need for quality questions, active listening, and the role of social media in fostering connections. The conversation also touches on the significance of generosity in business and leadership, as well as practical tips for making impactful connections. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: Susan McPherson emphasizes the importance of human connections in a digital world.The Gather, Ask, Do methodology flips traditional networking on its head.Quality questions lead to deeper understanding and connections.Listening is a crucial skill that requires practice and intention.Generosity in business can lead to greater success and fulfillment.Social media can be a powerful tool for showcasing others and building connections.Intentionality in networking can create meaningful relationships.Self-reflection helps identify personal superpowers for better connections.Building diverse networks enriches personal and professional growth.Don't give up; persistence is key to success. Guest Bio: Susan McPherson is a serial connector, angel investor, and social impact expert. She is the founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies, a communications consultancy focused on the intersection of brands and social impact. She is the author of The Lost Art of Connecting (McGraw-Hill). Susan has 30+ years of experience in marketing, public relations, and sustainability communications, speaking regularly at industry events including Massachusetts Conference for Women, DLD, Worth Women and Techonomy, and contributing to the Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Forbes. She has appeared on NPR, CNN, USA Today, The New Yorker, New York Magazine and the Los Angeles Times. Susan is the recipient of Forbes magazine’s 50 over 50—Impact 2021 award and Worth Media’s Worthy100 award. She has also won numerous accolades for her voice on social media platforms from Fortune Magazine, Fast Company and Elle Magazine. Currently, Susan invests in and advises women-led start-ups, including: iFundWomen,Inc., The Meteor, Our Place, Spicewell, The June Group, Hint Water, The Helm, Apolitical, The Muse and has recently begun investing in women-led Broadway productions including Water for Elephants and SUFFS. She previously served on the boards of USA for UNHCR, Bpeace, The Lower Eastside Girls Club and presently serves on the 19th News board. She is on the advisory boards of the Apolitical Foundation, Lebec Consulting and Just Capital. Additionally, she is a member of the MIT Solve Women and Technology Leadership Group and serves as an adviser to several nonprofits including She’s The First and The OpEd Project. Susan is a Vital Voices global corporate ambassador and a member of the New York Women’s Forum and Extraordinary Women on Boards. She resides in Brooklyn. Resources: McPStrategies.comSusanMcP.comSusan McPherson on LinkedIn (in/susanmcpherson)Susan McPherson on Twitter/X (@susanmcp1)Susan McPherson on Instagram (@susanmcp1)Susan McPherson on Threads (@susanmcp1) Where to find R.O.G. Podcast: R.O.G on YouTube R.O.G on Apple Podcasts R.O.G on Spotify How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index What is your Generosity Style? Generosity Quiz Credits: Susan McPherson, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 212, Special Guest, Brian Formato.
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    30 mins
  • 189. Dr. Tonya Cornelius - Embracing Awe and Wonder for More Joy and Fulfillment

    189. Dr. Tonya Cornelius - Embracing Awe and Wonder for More Joy and Fulfillment
    Dec 12 2024
    Dr. Tonya Cornelius, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, The Walt Disney Company where she serves as an integral member of the enterprise Human Resources senior leadership team. Dr. Cornileus is responsible for learning and leadership development, talent and succession management, performance management, and career development. Dr. Cornileus joined The Walt Disney Company in 2009, serving for nearly 13 years at ESPN prior to moving into her current role. At ESPN, she led learning, talent management, organization development, diversity, equity and inclusion, and wellness. Prior to joining The Walt Disney Company, Dr. Cornileus served as director, executive development & organizational effectiveness for Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. from 2004 to 2009 and vice president, training & organizational development for Aegis Communications Group, Inc. from 1998 to 2004. She began her career as an educator. Dr. Cornileus is involved with several professional and civic organizations. She serves on the Advisory Board for Advanced Leadership Laboratory, Women in Sports and Events (WISE) National Board of Directors, the boards for the University of Florida Foundation and Empower Her Network. Dr. Cornileus is a past board member and officer for the University of Georgia College of Education Board of Visitors, for the Urban League of Greater Hartford, and the T. Howard Foundation. Dr. Cornileus has been recognized by various industry and professional organizations, including being selected to the distinguished list of Wonder Women by Multichannel News, CableFax’s Most Powerful Women Mentor of the Year and Most Influential Minorities in Cable, and Diversity Journal’s Women Worth Watching. She has also been profiled in the Chief Talent Development Officer Magazine, Savoy Magazine’s list of Most Influential Women in Corporate America, and Pivot Magazine’s Pivotal Women. Dr. Cornileus was honored with a Career Achievement Award by the New England Chapter of Women in Cable and Telecommunications and inducted into the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications Hall of Fame. Dr. Cornileus’ philanthropic endeavors focus primarily on promoting access to education. In 2022, she established the Harris Family Opportunity Scholarship at the University of Georgia and in 2019, she established the Tonya Harris Cornileus CJC Diversity in Communications Endowed Scholarship Fund at the University of Florida. She is a major donor to the Criterion’s Club Gwendolyn Pinkney Harris Scholarship in honor of her deceased mother. Dr. Cornileus mentors college students through the University of Georgia’s alumni mentor program and young professionals across various companies and industries. She has mentored high school students through the Hartford Consortium for Higher Education’s New Beginnings program, and actively supports several other community service organizations. Dr. Cornileus is a lifelong learner. She earned her Ph.D. and M.Ed. in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of Georgia and her bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Florida. Dr. Cornileus received the Senior Certified Professional designation by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-SCP) and the Professional Coaching certification by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC CPC). She is passionate about helping individuals and teams realize their full potential and regularly spends her time keynote speaking, writing, and reading on topics of personal and professional development. Quotes: “Avoid regret. Regret is perhaps one of the worst things you could do to avoid getting near the end or at any point of your life and living such a regretful experience is to go ahead and believe in yourself.” “I knew that I wanted to be a part of helping people realize their goals and dreams and believe in themselves.” “Believing in yourself and just taking one step forward toward it. And I believe the way starts to open up for us.” “Do it scared. Don't let fear be the reason you don't do something. Just do it scared.” Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Tonya Cornelius01:57 Tonya's Background and Passion for Helping Others10:15 The Importance of Belief in Oneself and Taking Leaps of Faith23:50 Finding Focus and Inspiration with a Word of the Year30:37 Embracing Awe and Wonder for More Joy and Fulfillment40:59 Takeaway Tips and Closing Remarks R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: Self-reflection and answering perennial questions about identity, values, and contribution are essential for personal growth. Who am I really? What do I value? What gifts and talents do I have? How do I want to contribute? Belief in oneself and taking leaps of faith are crucial for realizing one's full potential.Generosity and mentorship play a significant role in helping others reach their goals and dreams.Having a word of the year can provide focus and ...
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    46 mins
  • 210. Watch Your Language | Generous Leadership Coaching Tip

    210. Watch Your Language | Generous Leadership Coaching Tip
    Dec 10 2024

    "While letting out a curse or cuss word might feel harmless in the moment, it can leave unintended impressions and even disrupt the professional culture we work so hard to build. I am guilty and need this lesson more than anyone."

    Host Bio:

    Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude.

    Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity.

    Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work.

    R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

    Before swearing,

    1. Acknowledge your reaction and identify the emotion behind it.
    2. Get creative with substitute words.
    3. Use empowering phrases like, ‘Alright, let’s figure this out.’
    4. Pause before you react.

    Resources:

    • YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb
    • Bridge Between, Inc. https://bridgebetween.com
    • The Five Degree Principle by Shannon Cassidy
    • V.I.B.E. by Shannon Cassidy
    • R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492
    • R.O.G. on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3
    • Video of this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI
    • Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/
    • Free Generosity Quiz https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/

    Credits: Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

    Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 211, Special Guest, Susan McPherson.
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    5 mins
  • 209. Van Lai-DuMone - What If? The Power of Curiosity and Play

    209. Van Lai-DuMone - What If? The Power of Curiosity and Play
    Dec 3 2024
    “Pause and pay attention. When you hear that whisper or feel that tap on your shoulder of curiosity, it's an idea waiting for you to bring it to life. So pause and pay attention. We live in this world where we're always busy. We're so busy and we often are not pausing and paying attention to those curiosities.” Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Van Lai-DuMone and Her Work01:10 Van's Journey: From Refugee to Entrepreneur04:52 The Power of Creativity in the Workplace08:58 LEGO Serious Play: A Hands-On Approach12:22 Generosity in Creative Workshops14:35 The Importance of Small Steps17:15 Experiencing Generosity: A Personal Story21:44 The Ripple Effect of Generosity24:47 The Impact of Tippie and Humanitarian Efforts26:09 Transitioning Veterans: The Honor Foundation30:00 Creative Problem Solving in Veteran Transition33:56 Curiosity and Personal Growth38:50 Understanding the Immigrant Experience42:50 Encouragement to Embrace Curiosity Episode Summary: In this engaging conversation, Shannon Cassidy interviews Van Lai-DuMone, founder and CEO of WorkSmart Advantage. Van shares her inspiring journey from being a Vietnamese refugee to becoming a successful entrepreneur focused on creativity and leadership development in the workplace. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, small steps, and the power of generosity in fostering a positive company culture. The discussion also delves into the innovative LEGO Serious Play methodology, which encourages collaboration and creativity among teams. Van's personal stories highlight the impact of generosity in her life and the ripple effect it has created in her community. In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy and Van Lai-DuMone explore the profound impact of humanitarian efforts, particularly through the Honor Foundation, which aids veterans in their transition to civilian life. They discuss the importance of creative problem-solving and the role of curiosity in personal growth. Van shares insights on the immigrant experience, emphasizing the need for patience and generosity. The conversation concludes with practical advice on embracing curiosity and recognizing the potential of ideas waiting to be realized. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: Creativity is innate in everyone and can be harnessed in the workplace.Generosity plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth.Taking small steps can help bypass the brain's fear response.LEGO Serious Play is an effective tool for team collaboration.Curiosity drives innovation and problem-solving.Workshops can create environments where everyone feels safe to share ideas.The journey of entrepreneurship often begins with personal experiences.Generosity can lead to significant community impact.The power of asking 'What if?' can lead to transformative possibilities. Curiosity is essential for personal growth and exploration.Journaling can be a simple yet effective way to capture ideas.All ideas matter; there is no wrong idea in creative thinking.Ideas are living entities that need a human partner to manifest.Taking time to pause and pay attention to curiosities can lead to meaningful outcomes. Guest Bio: Van Lai-DuMone is the founder of worksmart Advantage, a progressive team and leadership development consultancy that utilizes creativity, play, and curiosity to evolve mindset, skill sets, and behaviors in the workplace. Her work is built on the foundation that we are all creative, good ideas can come from any level of an organization, and by cultivating idea sharing in the workplace, everyone has a chance to have their ideas heard. And when that happens - company culture, performance, and innovation can skyrocket! She shares her work in a TEDx Talk titled, ‘What if? The Life Changing Power of Curiosity’ and her book ‘What if Pigs Can Fly? A Practical Guide to Follow Your Curiosities to Achieve Impractical Possibilities’. Van studied Psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara and earned her MBA from Pepperdine University. With over 20 years of corporate and start-up experience, Van actively works to rewrite the way we apply creativity in the workplace, inviting clients to think with their hands and use creative tools like LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY to disrupt traditional training methods. Her clients include gamechangers such as Google, LinkedIn, and Pandora. Resources: Van's Free 3-Day Curiosity Journaling ChallengeVan's Book/Shop LinkWorkSmartAdvantage.comWhatIfPigsCanFly.comThe Honor FoundationVan Lai-DuMone on LinkedIn (in/vanlaidumone)Van Lai-DuMone on Instagram (@worksmartadvantage)Van Lai-DuMone on YouTube (@worksmartAdvantage) Where to find R.O.G. Podcast: R.O.G on YouTube R.O.G on Apple Podcasts R.O.G on Spotify How diverse is your network? N.D.I. Network Diversity Index What is your Generosity Style? Generosity Quiz Credits: Van Lai-DuMone, Sheep Jam Productions, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 210, Host, Shannon Cassidy.
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    45 mins