Gratitude Through Hard Times

In this insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with Michael J. O'Brien, founder of The BluePrint Toolset®, Inc., to explore how leaders can ignite the joy of work and foster positive cultural transformation within organizations. With over 35 years of experience coaching executives and consulting across diverse industries, Michael shares his journey from finance to becoming a leader in behavioral economics and corporate culture.

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

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

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

Key Discussion Points:

From Problem Solving to Possibility Thinking:

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

The Importance of Joy in Work:

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

Leadership & Parenting Parallels:

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

Gratitude & Growth in the Face of Adversity:

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

Shifting from Negativity to Opportunity:

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

Notable Quotes:

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

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

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

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

DOWNLOAD MICHAEL’S NEWEST BOOK

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

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In this powerful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Dr. Tony Nader, a leading neuroscientist, global head of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) movement, and author of the groundbreaking book Consciousness Is All There Is. Together, they explore the profound impact of understanding and expanding consciousness on personal well-being and collective transformation.

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

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

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

Key Discussion Points:

Core Philosophy of Consciousness:

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

The Four States of Consciousness:

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

Higher States of Consciousness:

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

Practical Benefits of Transcendental Meditation:

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

Meditate America Initiative:

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

The Role of Gratitude and Inner Awareness:

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

Notable Quotes:

Dr. Tony Nader:

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

Chris Schembra:

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

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

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

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

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

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In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with Ash Shehata, Chief Information Officer of AHMC Healthcare System, to explore the intersection of leadership, adaptability, and human connection. Ash shares the story of a life-changing health crisis that transformed his perspective on healthcare and leadership, leading him to adopt a philosophy inspired by the adaptability and humility of water.

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

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

Key Discussion Points:

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

Notable Quotes:

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

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

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

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

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

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

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In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," host Chris Schembra welcomes Francesco Pastore, the Chief Marketing & Sales Officer and Corporate Communication Director of the global paper leader, Sofidel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," host Chris Schembra welcomes Steve Tcherchian, Chief Product Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at XY Pro, to discuss the profound impact of gratitude, resilience, and vulnerability in leadership. The conversation begins with Steve’s journey through the competitive cybersecurity industry, where he transitioned from a high-pressure, success-driven mindset to a gratitude-centered approach that transformed his personal and professional life.

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

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

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

Key Takeaways

1. Embracing failure as a valuable learning opportunity.

2. The importance of vulnerability in leadership.

3. Gratitude can ground us amidst chaos and stress.

4. Persistence with purpose can turn adversity into growth.

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

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

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

8. How resilience and optimism can transform challenging situations.

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

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

Quotes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

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

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

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

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

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

In this episode of "Gratitude Through Hard Times," Chris Schembra welcomes Elaine Knight, the Chief People Officer at Behavioral Health Link. Elaine shares her journey and insights on creating a positive and supportive work culture in the behavioral health sector. The conversation delves into the importance of gratitude, mindfulness, and empathy in leadership, and how these values can transform workplace dynamics. Elaine also discusses the challenges and rewards of crisis work, the significance of servant leadership, and the systems that support employee well-being and engagement. Join Chris and Elaine for a heartfelt discussion on leading with purpose and compassion.

Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quotes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

In this conversation, Chris Schembra interviews Enrico Galasso, the CEO of Peroni, an iconic Italian beer brand. They discuss Enrico's new book, “Per I Prossimi 175 Anni”, the importance of empathy and meaningful connections in leadership, and the challenges and opportunities of managing a brand with a long history. Enrico emphasizes the need for leaders to be adaptable, to learn from both successes and failures, and to create a culture of connection and psychological safety. They also explore the value of investing in a premium experience and the role of emotions and experiences in building a brand.

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

Support Enrico’s New Book HERE

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

Takeaways

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

Sound Bites

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

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Earthquake

01:10 Welcoming Repeat and New Listeners

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

04:15 Expressing Gratitude to Enrico's Father

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

10:15 Understanding the Present Moment and Building the Future

12:25 Learning from Successes and Failures

13:24 Managing Ambiguity and Elevating Excellence

15:35 Creating a Culture of Connection and Horizontal Leadership

19:10 Avoiding Excuses and Investing in People

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

23:25 The Shift Towards Premiumization

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

25:45 Translating the Italian Lifestyle into Global Success

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

31:36 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership

41:24 Leaving a Better Place for Future Generations

45:34 Authenticity, Simplicity, and Connection in Leadership

In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, we're thrilled to welcome Lisa Besserman, a luminary in both the technology and venture capital worlds. Lisa, the Founder of Startup Buenos Aires—which was successfully acquired—has made remarkable strides in the tech industry, earning her a spot among Business Insider's "Top 100 Most Influential Women in Tech," alongside notable figures like Sheryl Sandberg and Arianna Huffington. It's worth noting, with a humble chuckle, that she ranked #94 on this illustrious list.

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

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

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

Takeaways

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

Chapters

00:00 The Dream of Everest

03:20 Mountaineering as a Finite Goal

05:22 Atelic Activities

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

08:57 The Moving Goalpost of Success

11:21 The Challenges of Nights on the Mountain

13:41 Type 1 Fun vs Type 2 Fun

15:42 The Desire to Achieve

17:04 Living in the Present

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

22:02 The Positive Benefits of Bucket List Achievements

23:23 The Impatience of the Impulsive World

27:14 Investing Time for Energy

33:16 Feeling Nothing at the Destination

39:48 The Trainer Who Took a Chance

42:07 Closing Remarks

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

We’ve all experienced it: that feeling of being stuck on an endless treadmill. It can be soul-crushing, but our guest on this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times is a peak performance coach is here to help us change the narrative heading into 2024. Erin Stafford, author of "The Type A Trap: Five Mindset Shifts to Beat Burnout and Transform Your Life," explains to Host Chris Schembra the underpinnings for her five mindset shifts. Each of her valuable techniques is designed to check and challenge the assumptions that leave us stuck in overdrive. You’ll learn how to interrupt hyper-focused pursuits, be agile in the face of dead-ends, let go of counter-productive self-criticism and celebrate the wins that are often all too fleeting. “Burn-out will keep knocking on our door. It’s not going anywhere,” says Erin, who has herself been on the frontlines as marketing director for a healthcare brand undergoing exponential growth, “but there are tools you can gather to get you out of that black hole.” Find out about the tools this dynamic keynote speaker uses to help business leaders connect with and honor their highest selves with an attitude of gratitude all along the way!

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

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

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

KEY TOPICS:

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

QUOTABLE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

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

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

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

FOLLOW ERIN:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN | BOOK

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS

Nothing creates team buy-in more effectively than the “ownership mindset” espoused by our guest on this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times. What’s the secret sauce? Kerry Siggins, CEO at StoneAge Inc., shares with Host Chris Schembra her powerful building blocks for cultivating workplace cultures rooted in accountability. It’s about caring – for colleagues, customers and ourselves – and ensuring that everyone feels seen and heard as well as empowered to act. She explains how StoneAge, an employee-owned manufacturer of waterjet tools and equipment for industrial cleaning based in Colorado, instills a sense of community and the safety to fail among its 250 employees (all of whom Kerry hopes to see become millionaires one day, thanks to their Employee-Owned Stock Plan, or ESOP). You’ll also hear all about Kerry’s latest passion project, her recently released book, "The Ownership Mindset: A Handbook for Transforming Your Life and Leadership." In it, she highlights her personal “hero’s journey” as well as hard-won lessons about how to conceive and execute corporate strategy. The formula includes several ingredients, the most important of which is learning how to formulate the right questions. Then ask, ask, ask again! Says Kerry: “You learn so much and quickly get to the root of what’s really going on if you’re curious. So that’s my superpower: Questions!” Find out how to find and foster an “ownership mindset” in your workplace by prioritizing gratitude, empathy, agency and curiosity. The show wraps up with a reminder from Chris that in today’s business global environment, these aren’t just soft skills, “they’re the hard skills needed to instill an ownership mindset within your team!”

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

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

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

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

KEY TOPICS:

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

QUOTABLE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LINKS/FURTHER RESOURCES:

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

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

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

FOLLOW KERRY:

WEBSITE | LINKEDIN | BLOG

ABOUT OUR HOST:

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

FOLLOW CHRIS:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | BOOKS