In this episode, organizational sociologist Dr. Noah Askin and relationship-building expert David Homan share how generosity and authenticity are the real foundations of meaningful relationships.

What started as Noah’s open office hours during the pandemic grew into hundreds of conversations and, ultimately, a powerful partnership with David. Together, they’ve discovered that connection isn’t something you pursue after success — it’s what sustains you on the way there.

They reveal why lasting networks are built on trust, not transactions, and how even the smallest acts of generosity can spark relationships that transform careers and communities.

You’ll learn why connection comes before achievement, how to build a network rooted in authenticity, and why showing up consistently for others pays off in the long run. 

LEARN MORE:

> > Orchestrating Connection: How to Build Purposeful Community in a Tribal World (https://orchestratedconnecting.com/book)

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

> > We’re trying out a shorter format for Motivational Mondays! Take our quick 2-minute survey to let us know what you think. (nsls.org/mm-survey)

In this episode, Melody Wilding—executive coach, professor of human behavior, and bestselling author—breaks down the surprising truth behind imposter syndrome and why it’s especially common among high-achievers.

Melody explains how even the most successful professionals can struggle to internalize their accomplishments, leading to constant self-doubt and the feeling of being a “fraud.” But imposter syndrome isn’t a flaw—it’s a pattern you can retrain.

She shares practical strategies like building a “brag file” to reinforce self-trust and explains why waiting to feel ready often keeps us stuck. Through real-world advice and mindset shifts, Melody offers tools to help you stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence.

You’ll learn why imposter syndrome affects driven people most, how to reframe self-doubt as a sign of growth, and why jumping in before you feel ready is the real key to success.

LEARN MORE:

> > MelodyWilding.com 

> > Trust Yourself: Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work (https://www.amazon.com/Trust-Yourself-Overthinking-Channel-Emotions-ebook/dp/B08WCJ72RX?&linkCode=sl1&tag=mewilm-20&linkId=c33425ad76126fb4706b301450dca2e9&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)

> > Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXLSH6Y6/?bestFormat=true&k=managing%20up&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_k0_1_11_de&crid=2U75CDMUSUNAK&sprefix=managing%20up)

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

> > We’re trying out a shorter format for Motivational Mondays! Take our quick 2-minute survey to let us know what you think (http://nsls.org/mm-survey)

In this episode, Zach Mercurio—researcher, speaker, and expert on purposeful leadership—shares why the most powerful leaders aren’t always the loudest or most visible. They’re the ones who help others feel seen, heard, and valued.

Zach introduces the concept of “mattering” as a core human need and explains how a lack of it is contributing to disconnection in our workplaces, schools, and communities. Through real-world insights and practical takeaways, he shows how anyone can practice the leadership skill of helping others feel like they truly matter.

You’ll learn why shifting from achievement to contribution can strengthen your purpose, how to build meaningful relationships that combat loneliness, and what it takes to create environments where people thrive.

LEARN MORE:

> > ZachMercurio.com 

The Invisible Leader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with the Power of Authentic Purpose (https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Leader-Transform-Organization-Authentic/dp/1599328518)

The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance (https://www.amazon.com/Power-Mattering-Leaders-Culture-Significance/dp/B0D8XMWCLJ)

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

> > We’re trying out a shorter format for Motivational Mondays! Take our quick 2-minute survey to let us know what you think. (http://nsls.org/mm-survey)

In this episode, Mary Beech, Chief Growth Officer at Thorne, shares how a personal health scare reshaped her approach to leadership, wellness, and purpose. With a background at globally recognized brands like Disney, Ralph Lauren, and Kate Spade, Mary now channels her experience into helping others live healthier, more intentional lives.

She introduces the “negative split” mindset — borrowed from marathon running — as a powerful metaphor for growth: the idea that your best work may still be ahead of you. Mary reflects on what it means to reinvent your career with clarity, lead with authenticity, and find fulfillment through purpose-driven work.

You’ll learn how aligning with wellness transformed Mary’s leadership journey, why embracing reinvention can fuel lasting impact, and how bringing your full self to the table creates meaningful connections in any role.

LEARN MORE: 

> > Thorne (https://www.thorne.com)

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

> > We’re trying out a shorter format for Motivational Mondays! Take our quick 2-minute survey to let us know what you think (https://thensls.typeform.com/to/liPNkUtg)

In this episode, Heather Stephens, a licensed clinical social worker at BetterHelp, shares how technology is transforming mental health care and breaking down long-standing barriers to support. With over two decades of experience, Heather discusses how online therapy can meet people exactly where they are, making mental wellness more accessible than ever.

Listen to this episode to learn about...

> > [05:30] The important process of finding the right therapist for you

> > [9:41] How online therapy can be just as effective as in-person

> > [22:26] How to know when it’s time to seek mental health support

From matching clients with therapists who align with their values and goals to creating safe, judgment-free spaces through virtual sessions, Heather explains how personalized care can empower anyone to take the first step toward healing, no matter how busy, overwhelmed, or uncertain they feel.

You’ll learn how BetterHelp’s intake process helps clients reflect on their needs, why online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions, and how small steps can lead to meaningful breakthroughs.

LEARN MORE:

> > NSLS members now receive 50% off at BetterHelp (http://betterhelp.com/nsls)

NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:

> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn Heather’s four essential maintenance tips to keep your mental health engine running at peak performance (https://members.nsls.org/audio/heather-stephens)

Mentioned in this episode:

NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/Better

BetterHelp

In this episode, Leon Logothetis — humanitarian, best-selling author, and host of Netflix’s The Kindness Diaries — returns to share the emotional journey behind his new film, The Kindness Within: A Journey to Freedom. Known for traveling the world on a vintage yellow motorbike, Leon has inspired many through radical acts of compassion.

Listen to this episode to learn about...

> > [08:42] How talking about pain helps with mental health challenges

> > [16:09] The message of inner peace that Leon gives in maximum security prisons

> > [31:31] The one simple trick Leon uses to release anger and anxiety

But his latest journey is inward. Leon opens up about his mental health challenges and how giving and receiving kindness can be a gateway to emotional freedom. From reflecting on his conversations with spiritual leaders to his own struggles with anxiety, this powerful episode is a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can start a ripple effect.

You’ll learn how to release negative emotions through a simple writing practice, the spiritual truth Leon shares at maximum-security prisons, and why there’s always someone willing to help if you’re brave enough to ask.

LEARN MORE:

> > The Kindness Within: A Journey to Freedom (http://www.thekindnesswithin.com)

> > Follow Leon on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube (https://www.instagram.com/thekindnessguy), (https://www.facebook.com/TheKindnessGuy), (https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonlogothetis), (https://www.youtube.com/user/leonlogothetis)

NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:

> > Hear the bonus episode for Leon’s advice on the one mindset shift that can help you reclaim control and lead with purpose (https://app.nsls.org/members/benefits/motivational-mondays/11504973)

Mentioned in this episode:

Get 20% Off at the NSLS Shop

Use code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.org

NSLS Shop

What does it look like when a business leads with heart, not just strategy? For Norman Wolfe, it starts with seeing organizations as living, breathing entities — not just systems to control. In this episode, the founder of Quantum Leaders, Inc. and creator of The Living Organization® framework offers a refreshing take on leadership that puts people and purpose first.

> > [1:10] The Living Organization® framework and why organizations should be treated as living beings

> > [18:08] The "strategic compass," consisting of purpose, impact, mission, and character

> > [21:06] The “learning paradox," and the importance of being open to failure

Norman challenges the conventional command-and-control model, showing why today’s most effective leaders don’t just manage — they inspire. Drawing from decades of experience guiding Fortune 500 companies and startups alike, he explains how setting context, fostering community, and embracing human potential unlocks real growth.

You’ll learn why seeing your organization as a “person” changes everything, how to use a “strategic compass” to guide your leadership decisions, and why failure is a launchpad for innovation.

LEARN MORE:

> > Quantum Leaders, Inc. (https://quantumleaders.com)

NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:

> > Listen to the bonus episode to hear Norman’s advice to his younger self, and the surprising mindset shift that can accelerate your personal and professional growth (https://members.nsls.org/audio/norman-wolfe)

What does it mean to live a life of true success? For Corey Ciocchetti, it has nothing to do with titles, money, or prestige—and everything to do with character. In this episode, the beloved University of Denver professor and author of Inspire Integrity shares how walking away from a lucrative legal career led him to a life of purpose, impact, and inner peace.

> > [1:22] How chasing a high-paying law career left Corey unfulfilled, and how a chance teaching role revealed his true calling

>> [9:16] The importance of discovering your “blue circle”—the foundational values that guide all major life decisions

>> [24:44] Why putting your job ahead of your family will never lead to happiness, no matter how successful you appear

Corey challenges us to stop chasing what looks good on a resume and start focusing on what actually feels good in our lives. With heartfelt stories, powerful truths, and a few laughs along the way, this episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck on a path that doesn’t align with their values.

You’ll learn how chasing a high-paying law career left Corey feeling unfulfilled, the importance of discovering your “blue circle,” and why putting your job ahead of your family will never lead to happiness.

LEARN MORE:

> > Inspire Integrity: Chase an Authentic Life

> > University of Denver Faculty Bio

> > Follow Corey on Instagram, X, and Facebook

> > Coreyspeaks.com

NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:

> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn what drives Corey to teach others how to live a more fulfilling life (https://members.nsls.org/audio/corey-ciocchetti)

Mentioned in this episode:

Get 20% Off at the NSLS Shop

Use code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.org

NSLS Shop

Polyglot and internationally recognized language expert Olly Richards, who has learned over 10 languages and founded the popular platform StoryLearning, shares his proven approach that leverages the power of storytelling to make language acquisition more natural and enjoyable. Whether you're a student juggling multiple responsibilities or a lifelong learner looking to sharpen your skills, Olly’s insights will help you embrace mistakes, build confidence, and stay consistent.

> > [1:22] Why making mistakes is essential to learning

> > [10:16] Why confidence trumps grammar drills

> > [20:55] The science behind how people naturally acquire language

Traditional language learning often relies on memorizing grammar rules and vocabulary lists, but Olly believes that approach misses the mark. Instead, he champions contextual learning through immersive storytelling.

By reading or listening to stories in your target language, you absorb grammar and vocabulary naturally—just like how children learn their first language. This method boosts memory retention and makes learning more fun and intuitive. Olly encourages language enthusiasts to not put it off, use his methods, and start learning a new language today!

This week you’ll learn why making mistakes is essential to learning, why confidence trumps grammar drills, and the science behind how people naturally acquire language.

LEARN MORE:

> > Olly's Website and Case Study: https://ollyrichards.co

> > StoryLearning: https://storylearning.com

> > Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrollyrichards

> > LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ollyrichards

> > IG: https://www.instagram.com/realollyrichards

> > YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBTz3Np62RSDc8XneG9avrA

NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:

> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn how to build internal confidence and stop relying on external validation—a must-hear for any student preparing to step into leadership (https://members.nsls.org/audio/olly-richards)

Mentioned in this episode:

Get 20% Off at the NSLS Shop

Use code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.org

NSLS Shop

Discover how one doctor is helping children and teens unlock their inner strength through the power of hypnosis. Dr. Ran Anbar, a board-certified pediatric pulmonologist and hypnosis expert, has used mind-body techniques to help thousands of young people manage everything from anxiety and depression to physical pain and chronic illness.

Listen to this episode to learn about...

> > [03:55] How hypnosis works as a natural tool for emotional and physical healing 

> > [08:40] Why teens are especially receptive to self-hypnosis techniques 

> > [17:15] What parents and mentors can do to help young people manage stress

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Anbar shares real stories of transformation and explains how hypnosis isn’t just a party trick—it’s a medically validated tool for healing. Whether you're a student navigating stress or a parent supporting a child, you’ll walk away with new insights on how mindset and visualization can lead to powerful breakthroughs.

You’ll learn how hypnosis works as a natural healing tool, why teens are especially receptive to it, and what parents, mentors, and educators can do to support youth mental health.

LEARN MORE:

> > CenterPoint Medicine (https://www.centerpointmedicine.com)

> > Dr. Anbar’s Book: Changing Children’s Lives with Hypnosis (https://www.amazon.com/Changing-Childrens-Lives-Hypnosis-Anbar/dp/1538185474/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0)

> > Follow Dr. Anbar on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ran-anbar-246b1829)

NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:

> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn the best advice Dr. Ran Anbar received in his teenage years (https://members.nsls.org/audio/dr-ran-anbar)

Mentioned in this episode:

Get 20% Off at the NSLS Shop

Use code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.org

NSLS Shop