The Smart Thinking Podcast

Episode 186: We Need To Talk (Reflection & Tool)

Right now there are too many people who do not know if they're making a difference. After a full year of not doing anything like we used to - -it is critical for you to find a way to collectively recognize the extraordinary efforts of those you serve. 
 
List the strategy you will employ to support your buffaloes and allow them to recognize their contributions.
Foreshadow what you think others will write on their prompts.
Describe how you can grow others by helping them recognize their ability to make a difference.
 

Episode 185: The End Is Near (Reflection & Strategy)

Do not celebrate with a countdown. Instead, take a listen to these suggestions to ensure you end the school year at a peak and you capture all the lessons learned from the weirdest year ever! 
 
An AAR is centered on four questions:
What was expected to happen?
What actually occurred?
What went well and why?
What can be improved and how?
 
List how you will create a peak moment to end the year.
Describe what you can do in an effort to capture all system experiences
List the strategy you will employ in order to empower those you serve at the end of the journey.

Episode 184: Nudge (Leadership and Reflection)

What is the strategy to get those around you to be their best? A nudge. Take a listen as we explore the power and influence you have when you make suggestions, are intentional about succession, and you support someone with reinforcement. 
List people in your life that have nudged you.
Describe how it feels when you realize success as a result of the encouragement of others.
List ways you can be intentional in nudging.

Episode 183: Spring into Break (Development)

Four books to read over break or in the coming weeks. All four will grow your inner buffalo, fuel your wisdom and energize your leadership. Must reads for Spring Break!
 
Positive Intelligence: Shirzad Chamine
Chatter: Ethan Kross
Think Again: Adam Grant
Lincoln’s Mentors: Michael Gerhardt

Episode 182: We Are “They” AND We Can Do This (Reflection and Tool)

Who are these mysterious people that everyone calls "they?" Take a listen this week as we explore how language can change culture and mindset by eliminating the words "THEY & BUT" and including the words "WE & AND."
Describe how you will shift the culture from “they” to “we.”
List ways you can support an AND culture.
Describe how you can support those you serve by employing a rapid contract when you have interactions with others.

Episode 181: H.O.P.E. -Post-Pandemic (Reflection)

As we near the potential end of the pandemic - are you increasing your intentionalness in life? Are you leading with hope and optimism. Take a listen as we review four ways to be better when this is all over. 
 
List ways you can renew your impact though your own humanity.
Describe how you can optimize every situation.
List how you will be purposeful and enrich your world.
 

Episode 180: Engage the Opposite (Tools & Reflection

Life is filled with opportunities to get to work with others. However, many times there is an underlying conflict that exists. Don't avoid it - -learn about it and engage people who are your opposite!
Describe your current cultures ability to confront each other in order to be excellent.
List your strengths or colors.
Describe one way you can support greater empathy

Episode: 179 A Conversation with Charlie Berens - more than just a minute!

Charlie Berens is a hilarious and fun person. He is famous for his genuine nature and the ways in which he presents the midwest. I got to sit down with him and have a discussion about his life and career as well as a few laughs. Was it fun? You betcha! 
 
Describe how you maintain optimism while chasing your vision and dreams.
Describe how you maintain your humility.
List your favorite refections from Charlie.

Episode 178: Coach to Confidence – The Rules of Bill Ross (Reflection)

When you view others for their assets - they rise to new levels. Especially, when they've grown to believe that what you see as an asset - is what they see within themselves - as a deficit.
Take a listen as I discuss the lessons learned from a legendary choral director. 
 
List strategies you employ to move forward when you error.
Describe how you can employ Bill Ross’s leadership lessons.
List people in your life that supported your leadership coaching.

Episode 177: Why Is It Hard Asking for Help? (Reflection)

This episode focuses on the science and behaviors of getting and giving support. In these stressful times we need to be willing to help and receive help. Take a listen and grow your own empathy on why it is so hard to ask for help. 
 
List what stops you from asking for help
Describe what you can do to support a culture of seeking and supporting help.
List times you’ve helped others without an expectation of reward