Lets Have This Conversation

Lets Have This Conversation

By Kevin McShanNewsDaily News
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Lets Have This Conversation episodes

  • Empowering People Leaders & Organizations to Elevate Their Cultures, Employer Brands

    For an increasing number of organizations, senior leadership

    is recognizing the importance of being dedicated to a cause or activity. This
    recognition signals a serious commitment to fostering an inclusive culture with
    minimal effort. Let's delve into the numbers that support this trend.

     

    - **Gallup**: 84% of Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs)

    report that their organization's investment in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
    (DEI) is increasing.

    - **Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Canada**: 81%

    of Canadian HR leaders believe that senior company leaders need to support DEI
    efforts.

    - **Workday**: 78% of global business leaders claim that DEI

    has become more important over the course of 2023.

     

    **Tiffany Castagno** is the CEO and Founder of CEPHR, LLC,

    bringing 17 years of progressive experience in Human Resources across various
    industries. Tiffany holds a Master's Degree in HR and Labor Relations, as well
    as a Bachelor's Degree in HR, Communications, and Adult Education and Training.
    Throughout her career, she has worked with both non-profit and for-profit
    organizations of all sizes, including Fortune 100 companies.

     

    Tiffany serves on the Board of Directors for two non-profit

    organizations and was honored with the prestigious Jefferson Award in 2022,
    recognizing her volunteerism, leadership, and service to the community. In
    2023, she received the Curio412 Powered by Purpose Award, which celebrates
    businesses that enhance the community through philanthropy and social
    enterprise. Most recently, in 2024, Tiffany was awarded the Top 20 Restorative
    Leaders to Watch Award.

     

    Understanding that collaboration is key, Tiffany believes

    that we achieve more together than alone. As a mentor, she enjoys volunteering
    her time in the community. CEPHR was founded on these principles, and Tiffany
    prioritizes understanding client needs and the business context before
    embarking on any project.

     

    Tiffany is also passionate about writing, considering words

    her love language. She co-authored a children’s book titled "Can a Zebra
    Change Its Stripes?" as part of the "Bruno’s Amazing Adventures"
    series, aimed at teaching children about embracing differences and changing the
    world, one child at a time. Her writing has also been featured in "The
    Trouble With Pink Wheelbarrows: Insight, Inspiration, and Ideas for Budding
    Entrepreneurs," and she is a collaborative author in "Own Your Story:
    Empower. Connect. Create Change."

     

    **LinkedIn**: @TiffanyCastagno

     

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    41 min
  • Addressing Executive Blind Spots Transforming HR into a Strategic Asset with: Yara Banks

    If you want to work on the frontlines of shaping

    organizational culture, consider a role in the human resources department. This
    position allows you to establish the principles that define the organization.
    As an HR professional, you will be responsible for evaluating the most
    important asset to the company’s viability: its people.

     

    This is arguably one of the most challenging yet rewarding

    times to be in HR. With many business issues driven by people, talent, and
    workforce dynamics, it is the perfect moment for HR to have a seat at the
    table.

     

    However, creating and sustaining a positive and productive

    work environment is not automatic. Five key shifts can help HR make a
    significant impact and thrive in their role.

     

    The good news is that 89% of CEOs believe HR should play a

    central role in the business, according to recent data from Accenture. The bad
    news is that only 45% of CEOs report that they are creating conditions for HR
    to effectively lead business growth.

     

    Accenture's data also found that high-performing Chief Human

    Resource Officers (CHROs) are four times more likely to cultivate strong
    relationships across the organization, particularly at the executive level.
    They tend to have mutually influential relationships with the CEO and senior
    leaders in finance, technology, and operations. Moreover, they typically
    possess strong overall leadership skills.

     

    Hi, I’m Yara Banks, author of "The Executive

    Blindspot." With over 20 years of experience in HR and business strategy,
    I have had the privilege of partnering with organizations of all sizes—from
    startups and family-owned businesses to nonprofits and large corporations. My
    passion lies in helping leaders identify hidden challenges and align their
    teams for success. I believe that every organization, regardless of its size,
    needs a solid foundation to thrive. I’m here to share practical insights that people
    can apply immediately to strengthen their leadership and operations.

     

    For more information, visit: https://bnxba.com/ 

    Follow me at: @BNXBusinessAdvisors

     

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    51 min
  • Virtual Training in Today's Most In Demand Skills for Individuals and Organizations

    How much do you invest in training your employees, and how
    much should you allocate? According to the Association for Talent Development's
    2023 State of the Industry report, organizations spent an average of $1,220 per
    employee on training, which is slightly less than the previous year.

     

    Some employees view training primarily as a reward and

    assess it based on their satisfaction rather than its impact on their
    performance or work output. Similarly, some managers treat training as a
    supplement or substitute for performance feedback and do not adequately
    evaluate its outcomes.

     

    In 2023, companies spent an average of $954 per learner on

    training, which includes methodologies like virtual reality (VR) and other
    technologies. The amount spent on training varies by company size; typically,
    small companies invest more while large companies spend less.

     

    Great leaders are not born; they are continuously evolving.

    They consistently work on improving themselves, their organizations, and their
    leadership skills.

     

    Damon Lembi, a two-time bestselling author, host of The

    Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit—a live learning platform that has
    upskilled over 2 million individuals—brings an athlete's perspective to
    leadership drawn from his background in baseball. Through his experiences,
    Damon has gained valuable insights into fostering organizational growth,
    effective leadership development, and the reasons learn-it-all companies
    consistently outshine their competitors. His experiences in baseball inform his
    informal mentoring of executives. He has consolidated these hard-earned
    insights into his bestselling book, "The Learn-It-All Leader: Mindset,
    Traits, and Tools," along with keynote speeches on leadership,
    entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning.

     

    When he's not working, Damon enjoys making memories with his

    family, reading, attending live music events, watching movies and baseball
    games, and walking in Sausalito with his companion, Pablo the Puggle.

     

    For more information: https://www.learnit.com/ 

    Check out the Podcast:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learn-it-all-podcast/id1714645917 

    LinkedIn: @DamonLembi 

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    37 min
  • Transform Your Life with The Yielding Warrior Path with: Jeff Patterson

    **Yielding Meditation: A New Approach to Mindfulness**

     

    Yielding meditation is a movement practice focused on

    letting go and surrendering to the present moment. It serves to reconnect with
    oneself and the world around us.

     

    Meditation has been gaining popularity in the United States,

    with an increasing number of adults and children practicing it.

     

    **Here are some key statistics about meditation in  America:**

     

    - In 2022, 17.3% of U.S. adults practiced meditation, more

    than double the rate from 2002.

    - Meditation was the most popular complementary health

    approach in 2022, surpassing yoga, chiropractic care, and other practices.

    - The prevalence of meditation varies by age, with 62% of

    adults aged 18–44 engaging in it in 2022.

    - Meditation is embraced across various religious groups,

    including Christians and those who are religiously unaffiliated.

     

    What sets Jeff Patterson apart from other meditation

    practitioners is his unique approach called the "Yielding Warrior
    Method." Jeff teaches the five fundamental principles essential to any
    meditative practice. He goes beyond traditional methods by incorporating
    ritual, active techniques, and philosophical insights, helping individuals
    create a personalized and evolving meditation program that fits seamlessly into
    their lifestyles.

     

    Jeff's expertise is showcased in his three published books,

    including his latest work, "The Yielding Warrior," and hundreds of
    instructional videos. With over 36 years of experience and having worked with
    thousands of students worldwide through The Yielding Warrior online program,
    Jeff offers a wealth of knowledge and insight.

     

    Jeff’s innovative approach integrates meditation into daily

    life, fostering holistic health and well-being. His insights can help others
    understand how to use meditation not just as a practice but as a transformative
    tool to enhance every aspect of their lives—mentally, physically, and
    emotionally.

     

    Jeff aims to provide a fresh and transformative perspective

    on meditation, making him an ideal addition to your search for information on
    this topic. His engaging style and practical advice will educate and inspire people
    to embrace meditation in an effective and sustainable way.

     

    For more information: https://www.theyieldingwarrior.com/

     

    Get the Book:

    https://book.theyieldingwarrior.com/free-plus-shipping

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    45 min
  • Navigating the Transition to Full Time Entrepreneurship with: David Little

    Many Americans aspire to leave the 9-to-5 grind and start

    their own businesses. A recent survey by GOBankingRates revealed that nearly
    59% of people would consider launching their own venture if given the
    opportunity. Additionally, just over 32% of respondents expressed a desire to
    start a business within the next 6 to 12 months. Interestingly, however, only
    6% of individuals in the United States are currently self-employed.

     

    Hi, I’m David Little, an entrepreneur and co-founder of

    Crown Capital Resources, which focuses on lending in the real estate market. I
    made the leap from a successful engineering career to pursue my side hustle
    full-time. For years, I dedicated my nights and weekends to building my
    business, carefully balancing the demands of a full-time job with my desire to
    create something of my own. Through persistence, strategic planning, and an
    unwavering work ethic, I grew my side hustle into a thriving business, allowing
    me to make a seamless transition to entrepreneurship.

     

     I offer relatable

    insights and actionable advice on various topics, including starting a business
    while employed, overcoming obstacles, and navigating the transition to
    full-time entrepreneurship. My goal is to inspire others to chase their
    passions and demonstrate that, with the right mindset and dedication, anything
    is possible.

     

    I am also a husband and father of two girls, and I would

    love to share my experiences as a young father while balancing work and family
    responsibilities.

     

    For more information:

    https://crowncapitalresources.com/ 

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    45 min
  • Equipping Leaders with Facilitation Skills to Thrive Today and Tomorrow with: Therese Miclot

    According to the 2024 Global Leadership Development Survey published by Harvard Business Publishing Corporate Learning, 70% of respondents believe it is important or very important for leaders to master a broader range of effective leadership behaviors to address current and future business needs. The primary message from business leaders is that the skills that have contributed to their past success will not be sufficient to propel them to the next level. It is essential for everyone to engage in self-reflection—not only about their strengths and weaknesses but also about the challenges they face—and to embrace the necessary changes.To prepare their leaders for the future, organizations are urgently seeking more effective approaches. The survey indicates that organizations are focusing on the following initiatives:- 50% are implementing automation and robotics projects.- 43% are incorporating generative AI and machine learning into their business practices.- 40% are strengthening their corporate culture.- 38% are building capacity for innovation.Therese Miclot is a dynamic leadership consultant and co-author of *The Facilitation Advantage*, a practical guide for leaders seeking to enhance their confidence, communication, and influence. Known for her warm and approachable style, Therese has spent over two decades helping organizations transform their leadership pipelines and equip their teams to navigate complex challenges with clarity and skill. With a master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology, she combines deep expertise with the ability to create simple, actionable solutions that deliver measurable impact. Passionate about empowering leaders at all levels, Therese has worked with global brands, partnering with them to accelerate leader readiness. Her skill-based approach, developed through years of hands-on experience, enables leaders not only to develop but to thrive—especially in industries where technical knowledge must translate into leadership capability.For more information: https://www.thefacilitationadvantage.com/ LinkedIn: @ThereseMiclot

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    44 min
  • Navigating a Future Where Human Connections Remain at the Heart of Innovation with: Mona Bavar

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is currently a hot topic, yet a

    survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that the technology has
    not been widely adopted by businesses. According to the latest Business Trends
    and Outlook Survey (BTOS), only 3.8% of businesses reported using AI to produce
    goods and services, although its use is more prevalent in certain industries
    like information and technology.

     

    Mona Bavar, a cultural innovator, merges ancient wisdom with

    cutting-edge AI to revolutionize storytelling and shape the future for
    businesses. Born in Iran and raised in America, Mona's multicultural background
    has instilled a deep passion for bridging different worlds and fostering
    meaningful connections. Through her company, BlueApples.ai, she empowers
    entrepreneurs to leverage AI as a tool for innovation and creativity while
    staying true to their authentic voices, helping them thrive in a rapidly evolving
    business landscape.

     

    Through her initiative, DLISH, she curates luxury gifting

    and multisensory experiences that connect people across cultures, redefining
    the art of meaningful exchange. By integrating archetypes, storytelling, and
    technology, Mona is leading the way in helping business leaders navigate a
    future where human connection remains central to innovation.

     

    Mona shares, "I grew up at the intersection of two

    worlds: Iran, where ancient traditions and storytelling are deeply embedded in
    the culture, and America, a land of innovation and limitless possibilities.
    This journey taught me the importance of bridging seemingly opposing
    concepts—wisdom and innovation, humanity and technology, creativity and
    strategy. As an entrepreneur, I’ve dedicated my life to connecting these
    ideas."

     

    At BlueApples.ai, she helps leaders and businesses view AI

    not merely as a cold tool but as a partner that enhances creativity,
    innovation, and authenticity. "It’s not just about staying ahead in a
    rapidly changing world; it’s about creating a future where technology serves
    humanity, not the other way around."

     

    With DLISH, Mona has transformed sensory storytelling into a

    business that forges connections across cultures through curated luxury
    gifting. "Whether it’s a gift box or a dinner, I believe every experience
    can tell a story and create meaningful connections."

     

    Mona aims to show her audience how they can blend their own

    stories, creativity, and vision with modern tools like AI to succeed in 2025
    and beyond. Her passion lies in helping others understand that the future of
    business is not about choosing between innovation and authenticity—it’s about
    integrating both to create something truly transformative.

     

    For more information: https://www.blueapples.ai/ 

    Discover More:

    https://dlish.us/?srsltid=AfmBOor_8KMdwagPRZZCs2mU2uOtuUMAvJmYXhpK_kV69mgLKQjseAAP

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    41 min
  • Redefining Wellness Through Innovation for Student Athletes with: Walker Ferguson

    According to a 2024 Psych News Alert article, 84% of adults

    who participate in sports believe that it benefits their mental health.
    However, athletes—like anyone else—can face mental health challenges and may be
    at a higher risk of developing mental health conditions. A 2019 study revealed
    that approximately 35% of elite athletes experience mental health issues,
    including feelings of burnout, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and
    stress.

     

    Despite these challenges, 85% of American adults agree that

    mental health should be prioritized as much as physical health for professional
    athletes.

     

    Walker Ferguson is a student-athlete and entrepreneur,

    excelling as a safety for Wake Forest University while also serving as the
    co-founder of Ascend, a meditation and wellness app that utilizes AI. His
    journey embodies leadership, innovation, and resilience as he balances the
    demands of athletics and business. Walker is dedicated to creating tools that
    promote personal growth and wellness, sharing his insights on teamwork, focus,
    and building impactful projects from the ground up.

     

    The Ascend mobile app allows users to quickly and easily

    create personalized meditations, meditation plans, and sleep stories. You take
    the initiative, and their app provides customized experiences designed to
    support your growth and desired changes.

     

    For more information: https://ascendmeditations.app/ 

    Follow: @ascendapp.ai 

    Call: (804) 201-5075 

     

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    45 min
  • Redefining the Tattoo Experience by Reconnecting Modern Society and the Ancient Wisdom of Tattooing

    Let's have a conversation about personal identity and the

    role that tattooing plays in this process.

     

    According to the Pew Research Center, the percentage of

    people with tattoos varies by country, age, and gender, but it is estimated to
    be between 10% and 20% worldwide:

    - **United States**: 30% of Americans have tattoos, with 40%

    of those under 35 years old.

    - **Italy**: 48% of the population has tattoos, the highest

    rate in the world.

    - **Europe**: At least 12% of Europeans have tattoos.

    - **Canada**: One-third of Canadians have tattoos, with

    women and Millennials being more likely to have them.

     

    In our increasingly secular and commercialized world, tattoo

    artist and guide Mark Nara offers a tattooing approach that is both spiritually
    meaningful and innovative. Many people spend countless hours seeking guidance
    on the nature of their inner selves, identity, and spiritual essence through
    books, podcasts, retreats, and various practices.

     

    This prompts several questions: Why do we exist? What is our

    true purpose? How can we better understand if there is a universal
    consciousness or some spiritual force? More importantly, how do we connect with
    it? Mark is eager to discuss these topics and provide practical ways for
    individuals to explore these questions for themselves.

     

    His message reframes the understanding of tattooing,

    positioning tattoos as significant tools in our pursuit of self-discovery. With
    over 15 years of tattoo experience, Mark has dedicated his career to redefining
    the tattoo experience by reconnecting modern society with the ancient wisdom of
    tattooing as a sacred and transformative practice.

     

    People often believe their tattoos hold meaning, but what

    does it truly mean to get tattooed? Our tattoos can serve as a powerful, yet
    often overlooked, means of navigating personal growth and self-development.
    Drawing from his own journey, which includes apprenticeships in both
    contemporary tattoo culture and traditional indigenous contexts, Mark
    integrates traditional wisdom into a modern framework, making it accessible to
    those outside of traditional cultures.

     

    Unlike the mainstream tattoo industry, which frequently

    focuses on aesthetics and individual artistry, Mark’s guidance is rooted in
    intentionality and a commitment to personal betterment. Through his platform,
    Tattoo Pathway, he teaches individuals how to approach tattooing as a form of
    self-refinement and personal evolution, offering insights and guidance that are
    unique within the industry.

     

    This perspective sets him apart as the go-to guide for

    individuals seeking to symbolize their transformative experiences.

     

    For more information: https://tattoopathway.com/ 

    Instagram: @themarkofnara 

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    1 hr 2 min
  • Forming Consistent High Value Connections in Business with: Devin Sizemore

    Here is the key point: If you are genuinely interested in

    driving business prosperity as a business owner or corporate leader, it all
    begins with building authentic and meaningful relationships. Strong business
    relationships are essential to your success. By prioritizing these connections,
    you can reap numerous benefits, including increased job opportunities, client
    referrals, and the ability to expand your network while learning from others.

     

    According to the Department of Professional Development at

    Harvard University:

     

    - **94% of employees say they are more productive when they

    feel connected to their colleagues.**

    - **Employee Satisfaction:** 96% of connected employees

    report being satisfied with their jobs, compared to just 60% of disconnected
    employees.

    - **Employee Retention:** 49% of connected employees expect

    to stay with their company for over five years, while only 34% of disconnected
    employees feel the same.

     

    Driven by a passion for meaningful experiences in both

    personal and professional realms, Devin Sizemore has dedicated his career to
    building businesses that align with his values. As a business consultant, he
    has accomplished a range of projects, from launching his first marketing agency
    right out of college to creating innovative consulting practices and even a cat
    café. His journey is characterized by a commitment to "adding value"
    and making a positive impact. A firm believer in the power of connections,
    Devin is committed to helping others succeed through the art of
    relationship-building. The next chapter of his life focuses on fostering a
    community where one million connections can create lasting, transformative
    change.

     

    For more information, visit: https://devinsizemore.com/ 

    Get the book:

    https://www.amazon.com/Connection-Expansion-Massive-Success-Business-ebook/dp/B0DHPRQFT6?ref_=ast_author_mpb 

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    52 min

About Lets Have This Conversation

From the publisher's feed

Multimedia Journalist and Motivational Speaker Kevin McShan brings you a multi-faceted and multi-dimensional YouTube Podcast called: “Let’s Have This Conversation. The intention is to provide a large…