Becoming Bridge Builders

Today, we’re diving into a conversation that’s as refreshing as an ice-cold lemonade on a hot summer day! We’re talking about fear-based leadership, and our amazing guest, Kate Lowry, has written the playbook on how to not just survive but thrive in these often chaotic environments. Kate shares her own experiences navigating the tricky waters of Silicon Valley, plus some golden nuggets of wisdom about how to build a solid relationship with yourself, because, let’s face it, you can’t lead others if you’re not leading yourself first! We chat about the common traits of fear-based leaders—spoiler alert: they’re more predictable than a cat chasing a laser pointer—and how to use that to your advantage. So, if you’re feeling like you’re tiptoeing through a minefield at work, fear not! This episode is packed with practical strategies to help you reclaim your power and keep your spirits high. Let’s get into it!

Takeaways:

• In today's episode, we explored how fear-based leadership can manifest in various settings, from corporate environments to personal relationships, highlighting the importance of understanding its dynamics.
• Kate emphasized the significance of building a relationship with oneself, encouraging listeners to listen to their inner voice and discover what energizes them.
• We learned that fear-based leaders often use chaos as a control tactic, making it crucial for employees to understand their strategies to protect their own well-being.
• Kate shared practical tools from her book, including the idea of negotiating in bad faith and framing requests in a way that aligns with the leader's motivations, ensuring your needs are met.
• The discussion delved into the emotional immaturity of fear-based leaders, who often lack empathy, making it vital for those in the workforce to develop their own resilience strategies.
• Finally, Kate's insights remind us that while fear-based leadership is prevalent, fostering kindness and collaboration can be powerful tools for navigating and transforming toxic environments.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Kate Lowry
• KateLowry.Substack.com
• Scaleheart Co.
• amazon.com
• barnesandnoble.com

Today’s chat is all about flipping the script on negative emotions! We’re diving into a fascinating conversation with Reverend Dr. Greg Stewart, who’s not only a telehealth counselor but also an executive coach with a treasure trove of experience in leadership and personal growth. His latest book, *I3 - Information, Interpretation, Intensity: Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions * challenges us to see our negative feelings not as roadblocks, but as powerful catalysts for growth. Picture this: instead of dodging those pesky emotions, we’re encouraged to embrace them and use that energy to propel us forward. With a unique blend of humor, insights, and practical advice, Greg shares how we can harness our inner rage to tackle life’s challenges head-on. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this enlightening and fun-filled episode!

Delving into the complexities of leadership and personal growth, Rev. Dr. Keith Haney engages with the insightful Reverend Dr. Greg Stewart in a conversation that sparks inspiration and reflection. Dr. Stewart, with his diverse background in pastoral ministry, organizational development, and executive coaching, introduces listeners to his transformative book, "*I3: A Rage of Negative Emotions Against the Obstacles of Becoming More." This isn’t just a title that grabs your attention; it’s a bold manifesto that redefines how we perceive our negative emotions. Rather than viewing them as burdens, Stewart argues that these emotions can be harnessed as tools for growth, helping us to navigate the complexities of our personal and professional lives.

Throughout their dialogue, Haney and Stewart explore the nuances of emotional intelligence, emphasizing that it’s not about avoiding negative emotions but embracing them to fuel our journey towards personal excellence. They discuss Stewart's unique framework, "I Cubed," which stands for Information, Interpretation, and Intensity, helping individuals process their emotions in a constructive way. As the conversation unfolds, listeners are invited to rethink their own emotional responses and consider how they can use their feelings—both positive and negative—as catalysts for meaningful change. Stewart's insights serve as a powerful reminder that the path to becoming more is often paved with the very emotions we tend to shy away from, encouraging us to unleash our inner potential with courage and clarity.

Takeaways:

• Today's episode dives into the powerful notion that negative emotions can actually be leveraged as tools for personal growth and leadership, flipping the script on how we traditionally view them.
• Dr. Greg Stewart emphasizes the importance of developing a personal mission statement, which he argues is crucial for aligning with one's values and purpose in life.
• The discussion highlights the significance of critical thinking in leadership, showcasing Bloom's taxonomy as a framework for enhancing decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace their emotional experiences, using techniques like the I³ model to process information, interpretation, and intensity effectively.
• The importance of proactive teachability is stressed, suggesting that leaders should actively seek feedback to identify and overcome their blind spots in personal and professional growth.
• Finally, the episode wraps up with insights on legacy, with Dr. Stewart sharing his personal mission to not only lead but to inspire future generations to pursue their calling with passion and integrity.

Links referenced in this episode:

• drgregstewart.com

We're diving deep into the heart of family healing today, tackling the big question of how to transform generational pain into divine purpose. Join me, Reverend Dr. Keith Haney, as I chat with the incredibly inspiring Northern Bishop Kevin Foreman, who’s all about breaking cycles and lifting spirits. We’ll explore how our past doesn’t have to dictate our future, and Bishop Foreman shares his own journey from the streets of Memphis to becoming a beacon of hope and change. With humor, honesty, and a sprinkle of Biblical wisdom, we’ll uncover actionable steps to heal those family wounds and embrace a brighter tomorrow. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get ready to turn pain into purpose!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive deep into the healing of generational pain and how it can be transformed into divine purpose, emphasizing that understanding our past can lead to a brighter future.
• Bishop Kevin Foreman shares his journey from a troubled upbringing in Orange Mound to becoming a respected leader, highlighting the importance of making choices that break negative cycles.
• Forgiveness is crucial in the healing process; it’s not about the other person's actions but about freeing ourselves from the chains of anger and resentment.
• To break generational curses, we must first recognize what needs healing, making the decision to change and then actively work on our individual healing journey.
• The conversation stresses that pain often precedes purpose; embracing and interrogating our pain can reveal our true calling and help transform ourselves and our families.
• As spiritual leaders, it's essential to normalize pain and the healing process, allowing individuals the freedom to express their struggles and walk with them on their journey.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bishopforman.com

Today, we’re diving into a heartfelt conversation that every parent, advocate, and entrepreneur should definitely tune into. We’ve got Reasa Selph with us, a fierce advocate for patient safety and an award-winning business strategist, sharing her personal journey after her son Nicholas faced a life-threatening battle with sepsis. Just days after being sent home from the ER without proper treatment, Nicholas collapsed and spent over a month in intensive care, a harrowing experience that left him with permanent injuries. Reasa's story isn’t just about survival; it’s a call to action for parents everywhere to trust their instincts and advocate fiercely when the healthcare system falls short. So, grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and let’s unpack this powerful tale of resilience, advocacy, and the urgent need for change in our medical systems.

A heartfelt journey unfolds as we hear from Reasa Selph, a passionate advocate for patient safety and a business strategist who found herself battling not only for her son's life but for systemic changes in healthcare. When 11-year-old Nicholas was sent home from the ER despite showing alarming signs of sepsis, Reza's instincts screamed that something was wrong. Just two days later, Nicholas collapsed into septic shock, leading to a grueling month in intensive care filled with surgeries and uncertainty. This episode dives deep into the moments of fear, helplessness, and eventual empowerment that Reza experienced as she navigated the healthcare system that failed her family. Reasa shares crucial warning signs every parent should recognize and emphasizes the importance of trusting one's gut feelings, especially when it comes to advocating for a child’s health. Her story is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in medical systems and the resilience required to push for change.

But it’s not just about the struggle; Reasa’s journey is also one of hope and determination. As she continues to run her marketing agency, she exemplifies how personal challenges can fuel professional growth. It’s this duality of personal tragedy and professional ambition that creates a powerful narrative of resilience, encouraging listeners to become advocates not just for their own families but for all families navigating similar challenges. Tune in for a candid discussion that reminds us of the importance of vigilance, advocacy, and the strength found in community support as we all fight our own battles against the healthcare system.

Takeaways:

1. In this episode, we explore the heartbreaking journey of Reasa Selph and her son Nicholas, who faced a life-threatening battle with sepsis after being sent home from the ER.
2. Reasa emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts as a parent, especially when it comes to your child's health and advocating for necessary medical attention.
3. We learned that sepsis can escalate rapidly, so recognizing warning signs like low blood pressure and confusion can be crucial for timely intervention.
4. Reasa's experience sheds light on the systemic issues within healthcare, highlighting the need for accountability and mandatory protocols to prevent similar tragedies from happening to other families.

Today, we’re diving deep into the world of foster care education with the incredible Sharon Dunlevy, an educational advocate who’s truly making waves in this often-overlooked area. Sharon’s mission is crystal clear: she’s all about bringing the needs of children in foster care to the forefront of educational policy and practice. She’s not just a trainer for foster parents; she’s a passionate speaker and influencer who recently snagged the fan favorite title in a speaking competition, proving that her voice is one that resonates. Together, we’ll explore the unique challenges these kids face in the education system, from trauma-induced learning barriers to the importance of building supportive teams around them. So, grab a comfy seat and get ready to be inspired as we uncover how we can all play a part in ensuring these children not only survive but thrive!

A heartwarming and enlightening chat unfolds as we dive into the intricacies of advocating for children in foster care with our remarkable guest, Sharon Dunlevy. With a mission that's as noble as it is necessary, Sharon opens up about her journey from special education teacher to educational advocate dedicated to ensuring that the voices of foster children are heard and their educational rights are upheld. We explore the challenges these kids face, often overlooked by society, especially concerning their schooling. Sharon emphasizes that many foster children deal with a unique set of traumas that affect their ability to learn and thrive in educational environments. She highlights the importance of understanding trauma-informed practices in education and how these can make a monumental difference in a child's learning experience.

Throughout our conversation, Sharon shares her insights into the laws designed to protect these children and how foster parents can be empowered to advocate for their educational needs. From the Every Student Succeeds Act to individualized education plans (IEPs), we discuss the tools available to foster parents and educators to help foster children succeed academically. Sharon's passion shines as she recounts her experiences training foster parents, explaining how their knowledge of these laws can lead to better outcomes for their children. The episode is filled with anecdotes and practical advice for anyone involved in the foster care system, making it clear that we all have a role to play in supporting these vulnerable kids.

As we wrap up, Sharon encourages listeners to develop empathy and understanding towards those around them, especially when it comes to invisible struggles. She leaves us with a powerful reminder that every child deserves a champion, urging us all to take action and advocate for the rights of foster children. This episode is not just a call to awareness; it's a rallying cry for compassion and informed advocacy, making it a must-listen for foster parents, educators, and anyone interested in making a positive impact in their community.

Takeaways:

1. Sharon Dunlevy is an educational advocate dedicated to improving outcomes for children in foster care, focusing on their educational rights and needs.
2. The Every Student Succeeds Act mandates that foster children stay in their school even if they change homes, ensuring stability in their education.
3. Foster children often face unique challenges due to trauma that affect their learning and behavior, requiring trauma-informed practices in schools.
4. Educators and foster parents must work collaboratively to create supportive environments for foster kids, keeping the child's needs at the center of discussions.
5. It’s crucial for foster kids to be aware of their rights and available resources, especially as they transition into adulthood.
6. Anyone can help foster children without becoming a foster parent by mentoring, tutoring, or donating essential supplies to support foster care agencies.

Mention in the episode:

• https://sharondunlevy.com/
• https://www.youtube.com/@fostercaretrainingtoday
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharondunlevy
• https://www.facebook.com/groups/fosteradoptivefamilies
• https://www.facebook.com/fostercaretrainingtoday
• https://www.becomingbridgebuilders.org/podcast

Jenna Udenberg is a powerhouse of advocacy and inspiration, and today, we dive deep into her incredible journey of courage and creativity. Living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis since the age of eight, Jenna has transformed her challenges into a platform for promoting accessibility and inclusion through her nonprofit, Above and Beyond With You. She’s not just about breaking down barriers; she’s about building bridges across communities, and boy, does she do it with heart! Alongside her advocacy, we chat about her memoir, "Within My A Tapestry of Pain, Growth, and Freedom," where she shares not just her struggles but also the lessons she’s learned, proving that vulnerability can lead to empowerment. So grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and join us as we explore how Jenna is making the world a more inclusive place one story at a time!

Takeaways:

1. Jenna Udenberg, a fierce advocate for accessibility, shares her journey with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, highlighting the importance of lived experiences in advocacy.
2. The challenge of accessibility is real, as Jenna discusses her struggles with finding accessible spaces in Minnesota, even years after the ADA was enacted.
3. Through her memoir and nonprofit, Jenna emphasizes that disability is just one aspect of a person, and we should strive to see the whole individual.
4. Humor and grace play vital roles in addressing uncomfortable questions about disability, as Jenna encourages open conversations rather than assumptions.

Mentioned in the episode:

1. http://www.aboveandbeyondwithu.org
2. https://www.facebook.com/people/Above-Beyond-With-U/100091881005060/
3. https://www.linkedin.com/company/91173822/admin/dashboard/
4. https://www.becomingbridgebuilders.org/podcast

Today's guest is Shellee Howard, the brilliant founder and CEO of College Ready, a global college consulting firm that’s all about helping students find their academic soulmate! With over a decade of experience under her belt, Shellee has made it her mission to transform how families approach the college search, and she’s got the stories to prove it. We’re diving deep into her unique approach, which emphasizes understanding each student’s individual gifts and passions before even thinking about their college applications. Whether your kiddo dreams of an Ivy League or wants to fit in at a cozy local college, Shellee believes that no two students are alike, and neither should their college plans be. So, buckle up as we explore the ins and outs of navigating this wild ride we call college admissions, all while keeping it fun and stress-free!

Takeaways:

• Today's episode features Shellee Howard, a college consulting expert who helps families navigate the complex world of college admissions and financial aid.
• Shellee emphasizes the importance of personalized college strategies, believing that every student has unique gifts and needs that should shape their college experience.
• One major takeaway is that families should start preparing for college much earlier than senior year—ideally in middle school — to ensure the best opportunities.
• Shellee shares her belief that college is not just about getting a degree, but about helping students discover their passions and prepare for adulthood without incurring massive debt.
• Understanding the college admissions process is crucial, and Shelly highlights that many families overlook key factors that can significantly impact their choices and outcomes.
• Finally, Shellee advocates for a proactive approach to financial planning for college, encouraging families to explore scholarships and financial aid options long before applications are submitted.

Links referenced in this episode:

• collegereadyplan.com/checklist
• collegeradyplan.info

Get ready to dive into an inspiring conversation with Christian Ray Flores, a man whose life story reads like the ultimate adventure novel! Born in a communist dictatorship and raised across continents, Christian is now a powerhouse of positive change as the founder of Exponential Life Coaching and author of the uplifting book, *The Little Book of Big Reasons to Love America*. In our chat, we explore the deep-rooted values of freedom, entrepreneurship, and faith that make America unique and worth celebrating. Christian brings a fresh perspective, especially as he reflects on the cultural shifts that challenge our understanding of identity and purpose. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and join us as we uncover how gratitude and perspective can pave the way for unity and healing in these divided times!

In this vibrant episode of Becoming Bridge Builders, we sit down with Christian Ray Flores, an inspiring figure who defied the odds and found purpose in his journey from a communist regime to becoming a celebrated author and life coach. Christian's tale is one of profound transformation, as he shares the trials he faced growing up and how they catalyzed his mission to help others discover their true potential. His book, 'A Little Book of Big Reasons to Love America,' serves as a testament to his appreciation for the freedoms and opportunities this country provides, especially from the unique perspective of an immigrant. We delve into the themes of freedom, entrepreneurship, and the moral framework that drives success in America. Christian challenges us to confront the self-loathing that can sometimes dominate our national discourse and instead embrace a narrative of hope and gratitude. With humor and candor, he invites us to join him in celebrating the strengths of our nation while also recognizing the challenges we face, urging a return to the core values that foster prosperity and innovation. This episode is a call to action, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own contributions to society and to strive for a life that matters.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Christian Ray Flores, who embodies resilience and purpose, having transitioned from a life in a communist regime to becoming a beacon of hope and leadership.
• Christian emphasizes the importance of deciding where to give before seeking personal gain, suggesting that planning our contributions can lead to a more fulfilling and aligned life.
• He believes America offers unparalleled freedom and opportunities for entrepreneurship, which he considers essential to prosperity and personal growth.
• The discussion touches on the cultural challenges America faces, highlighting the dangers of self-loathing versus healthy self-criticism in national discourse, especially for immigrants.

Links referenced in this episode:

• ChristianRayFlores.com
• ExponentialLife
• https://www.becomingbridgebuilders.org/podcast

Building strong organizations isn’t just about profits; it’s about the people who make it all happen! Today, we’re chatting with Faith Clarke, an expert in organizational health and teamwork, who’s got the inside scoop on how teamwork, inclusion, and purpose-driven leadership can really make or break a company. Faith shares her journey from engineering to becoming a powerhouse in helping businesses create diverse teams that not only thrive but also deliver social impact. We dive into the nitty-gritty of how organizational health is rooted in the well-being of individuals and the community, emphasizing that it's not just about the numbers but about nurturing a culture where everyone can flourish. So, grab your favorite snack and settle in as we explore how to build teams that are as strong as they are compassionate!

In this episode of Becoming Bridge Builders, we unpack the treasure trove of insights shared by Faith Clarke, an expert in organizational health and teamwork. As we sat down with her, the conversation flowed like a smooth jazz melody, touching on the intricacies of fostering an inclusive work environment. Faith’s background is fascinating; she transitioned from dreams of medicine to engineering, and now, she’s shaping the future of organizations by focusing on their internal dynamics. One of the standout moments was her take on organizational health — she defines it not by metrics alone but by the people who make up the organization. Faith passionately argues that when we truly care for our teams, we see not just an uptick in morale but also in productivity and innovation. Throughout our discussion, we explore the concept of ‘team cognition’ and how it plays a crucial role in how teams operate, especially during times of change, like the pandemic. Faith’s research dives into how people come together, forming bonds akin to family, which is vital for collaboration. This episode isn’t just a talk about theory; it’s packed with actionable advice on how leaders can enhance their organizations by prioritizing trust, inclusion, and genuine connection among team members. If you’re looking to transform your workplace into a thriving community, this episode is your goldmine.

Takeaways:

• Organizational health is about nurturing people, not just metrics; it's all about creating environments where individuals can thrive and connect meaningfully with each other.
• Inclusion is key: organizations need to design their onboarding processes to connect new members to the heart and mission of the team, ensuring they feel valued from the get-go.
• Effective teamwork is built on trust; if trust is compromised, even the best plans can fall apart, so investing in trust-building is essential for sustainable success.
• Leaders must treat themselves as the first priority; if they're not taking care of their own well-being, they can't expect their teams to thrive either.
• Building a culture of care means everyone in the organization, not just HR, should be involved in welcoming and supporting new team members to foster connection and engagement.
• True organizational change requires a commitment to nurturing the human element in work; when people feel valued, productivity and creativity naturally increase.

Links referenced in this episode:

• faithclark.com

We’re diving into the creative world of faith-based filmmaking with the incredible duo, Nathan and D'Lytha Myers! These two have been busy crafting stories that resonate deeply, proving that faith and creativity can go hand in hand. Nathan is not just an award-winning creator—he’s the mastermind behind Grafted Studios and the co-founder of Fort Worth Actors Studio. Meanwhile, D'Lytha shines as a talented actress and producer of the upcoming film *Aria Appleton Shines*, which is a family affair unlike any other. Together, they share their journey of storytelling that matters, highlighting the importance of authenticity in faith-based content and how they navigate the challenges of the industry. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s explore their inspiring insights and creative processes!

A delightful conversation unfolds as we welcome Nathan and D'Lytha Myers, a creative couple making waves in the world of faith-based film and theater! With Nathan's impressive background as an award-winning creator, actor, and director, and D'Lytha's rich experience as a stage and screen actress, they share insights into their artistic journey and the importance of storytelling that resonates with audiences. They dive into their current project, 'Aria Appleton Shines,' a musical comedy that aims to inspire and entertain while highlighting values that matter to them—all with a sprinkle of humor and heartfelt anecdotes. Together, they discuss the challenges and triumphs of working in the industry and how their faith plays a pivotal role in their creative process. Get ready for some laughs as they share their experiences, including the hilarity of working together as a married couple and navigating the storytelling landscape in a way that feels authentic and relevant to today's audience. Grab a snack and settle in for a fun ride through their creative minds, where passion meets purpose!

Takeaways:

1. The Myers duo are passionate storytellers in the faith-based film industry, leaving a creative mark on projects that inspire.
2. Nathan's diverse background includes acting, directing, and producing, showcasing his love for collaborative storytelling in film.
3. D'Lytha's journey highlights her commitment to creating relatable content for families, emphasizing the importance of faith in everyday life.
4. Their film 'Aria Appleton Shines' reflects personal experiences, aiming to resonate with young audiences through humor and heart.
5. The couple emphasizes the significance of authenticity in faith-based storytelling, steering clear of formulaic narratives that often stifle creativity.
6. Throughout their filmmaking process, they recognize God's hand guiding their journey, illustrating the importance of trust and faith in creative endeavors.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. ariappleton.com
2. primevideo.com
3. https://www.ariaappleton.com/grafted-studios-inc/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Great American Preflix
2. Grafted Studios
3. Fort Worth Actors Studio
4. Capernaum Studios
5. Rosa's Cafe
6. Amazon Music
7. iTunes