Ever wonder how a split-second decision could redefine safety in your life?

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, LaToya "Ladi Ammo" Workman joins Laurie to unravel the layers of personal security and empowerment, sharing her expertise in managing risk in the digital realm while advocating for physical safety. With her track record as a top-tier cybersecurity professional by day and a personal security instructor by night, LaToya offers unique strategies to fortify our daily lives, from wielding non-lethal self-defense tools to the assertive use of your voice.

Breaking barriers is second nature to LaToya, a trailblazer in IT and cybersecurity—an industry where diversity is scarce. Her story is not just about overcoming the odds as a Black woman in tech but about her relentless endeavor to mentor others following her path. Beyond her professional journey, LaToya's Woman with a Weapon initiative is revolutionizing how women approach firearms, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to safely and confidently handle a weapon, all while challenging societal assumptions.

As the conversation wraps up, LaToya and Laurie touch upon the essential conversations around responsible gun ownership and the parallels between cybersecurity and personal defense. LaToya's dedication to comprehensive education shines, advocating for readiness and responsibility over fear. Her insights extend to the importance of social media discretion and intuition to navigate potential threats, proving that knowledge is power in the quest to create safer communities.

Join us to gain an empowered perspective on personal safety that goes beyond the basics and into the heart of proactive self-defense.

In this episode, you will hear:

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If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Have you ever wondered if failure could be the secret ingredient to success?

On this episode of Punk Rock HR, join Laurie as she sits down with the brilliant Dr. Amy C. Edmondson, the Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School, and explore the essential role of failure in our professional and personal growth. Amy shares her expertise on psychological safety and how it serves as the foundation for innovation, drawing on insights from her new book, "Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing." This episode isn't just about reframing our relationship with failure; it's a roadmap for embracing the missteps that lead us to excellence.

With Amy's wealth of knowledge, we discuss the concept of intelligent failure from the scientific labs to the design studios of IDEO, revealing how setbacks can push us toward progress when we learn from them. Through her eyes, we re-examine the heart-wrenching lessons from the Space Shuttle Challenger and Columbia disasters while underscoring the value of listening to those with expertise and the proactive step of conducting pre-mortems in any project.

Laurie and Amy wrap up the conversation by examining the paradox of social media as both a platform for professional networking and a potential pitfall for personal productivity. Amy's keen preference for LinkedIn as a tool for professional connections demonstrates the power of digital networks in fostering meaningful exchanges.

Tune in to this discussion that will undoubtedly alter how you perceive risk-taking and the bountiful learning that lies within our failures.

In this episode, you will hear:

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

On this episode of Corporate Drinker, uncover the potential of ketamine therapy in treating alcohol use disorder and trauma.

Laurie’s conversation with Dr. Hani El-wafi, a board-certified psychiatrist and expert in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, promises to demystify the nature of cravings and addiction, shedding light on Buddhist concepts and exploring mindfulness and nutrition in fostering healing. You will also get a firsthand account of the often daunting world of psychiatric emergency rooms, providing an understanding of how people with addictions seek relief.

Feel the difference between a psychedelic and an empathogen as we break down what it's like to experience ketamine in a supportive environment. Dr. El-wafi elucidates the profound relaxation, warmth, and tingling that signifies transitioning from "doing mind" to "being mind." Discover how ketamine can be an instrument for cultivating self-love, acceptance, and trust, and understand the pivotal relationship between one's intention and substance use. Get a glimpse of the transformative healing when someone embarks on ketamine therapy at Transformance Health.

We'll explore how Dr. El-wafi's Corporate America experience has influenced his perception of addiction and healing. Together, we'll examine the neuroscience behind neural pathways and learn how to redirect away from harmful thought processes. The corporate drinking culture of New York City comes under scrutiny as we discuss how ketamine-assisted psychotherapy can alleviate underlying feelings of boredom, stress, and worry that often lead to alcohol misuse. We'll also delve into the paradox of using substances to reduce anxiety only to end up more anxious than before.

Don't miss this in-depth exploration of alcohol's impact on the brain and how ketamine therapy can be a game changer.

In this episode, you will hear:

Resources from this Episode

• Transformance Health website: www.transformancehealth.com

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Have you ever found yourself clutching a soda at a conference or corporate event, deflecting questions about your choice of beverage? Has anyone ever guessed if you're pregnant, in recovery, or part of the LDS church?

Mary Ellen Slayter, founder and CEO of Rep Cap, knows precisely how you feel. We journey alongside her through the maze of conference lingo, unraveling the intricate ties between work, culture, and alcohol. Together, we navigate the sometimes choppy waters of gender dynamics at these events, where professional boundaries often blur into social ones.

But there's more to corporate events than just drinks. We venture into the topic of inclusivity in corporate gatherings, brainstorming ways to accommodate dietary restrictions and promote accessibility. No one should feel left out at a corporate retreat or happy hour, and we're committed to finding solutions. Lastly, we probe the idea of renegotiating our relationship with alcohol, aiming to enhance everyone's experience at these events.

Tune in for a deep dive into how we can build cultures of inclusion and belonging in the workplace, alcohol or not.

In this episode, you will hear:

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Before juggling a demanding career and the joys of motherhood, Karina Monesson—a Senior Manager of Human Insights, Research, and Advisory at UKG—found herself spiraling into the abyss of addiction. 

In this episode of Corporate Drinker, Karina candidly recounts her entanglement with alcohol and subsequent recovery to paint a sobering picture of addiction's effects on both personal and professional life. We also tackle the often overlooked motherhood penalty in the workplace and the balancing act of career and family life.

As we uncork the bottle on corporate culture’s relationship with alcohol, we confront the challenge of identifying substance use disorders among us. The pandemic's influence on this issue is undeniable, with an alarming surge in alcohol consumption and substance-related deaths. Corporate America's pervading "work hard, play hard" ethos comes under the microscope as we propose ideas for healthier, balanced team-building experiences. We conclude the episode with a frank discussion about the stigma surrounding addiction, its presence in the workplace, and the crucial role of managers in supporting employees battling this silent demon.

Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us as we reveal the often-overlooked ties between work, alcohol, and addiction.

In this episode, you will hear:

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Join me as I welcome Dr. Ben Yerxa, the CEO of Opus Genetics, into our series on the intersection of alcohol and work culture. Dr. Yerxa brings his vast leadership experience to the table, giving us an invaluable perspective on cultivating a healthy work environment. We delve into the intricate dynamics of alcohol in professional settings, ranging from corporate board dinners to the daily operations of a biotech company, and discuss the importance of mindful drinking.

Get ready for a thrilling ride as we explore the complexities of work dynamics, stressful board dinners, and the increasing popularity of alcohol alternatives. Plus, we'll be peeking into Dr. Yerxa's tenure at Inspire where he experienced company culture molded by openness, trust, and timely coaching. This is one episode you don't want to miss - prepare to be both educated and entertained by our conversation with Dr. Ben Yerxa!

In this episode, you will hear:

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Dr. Yerxa’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-yerxa-35665a8 

Opus Genetics: https://opusgtx.com/ 

Follow and Review:

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

The very essence of work, culture, and leadership is in flux. Are you prepared to keep up?

Today, Laurie welcomes Daniel Chait, co-founder and CEO of Greenhouse Software, who guides us through this shifting landscape. Daniel uncovers the changing dynamic between employees and corporations in the modern age, emphasizing how remote work opportunities have boosted employee empowerment and self-actualization. He explains how this evolution has transformed the role of a CEO and how leaders can leverage these changes to cultivate a robust organizational culture.

As Laurie and Daniel delve deeper into the conversation, we pivot to the role of employee resource groups (ERGs) in shaping a trusting work environment. Daniel passionately asserts the importance of acknowledging ERGs' contributions and the necessity to balance diverse needs within a company. 

The conversation takes another turn as Laurie and Daniel venture into the contentious topic of alcohol consumption at Greenhouse. Daniel candidly shares his perspective on building meaningful work friendships amid professional boundaries and his personal journey navigating these intricate terrains. 

Tune in for an interesting conversation on the evolving norms of work, leadership, and organizational culture.

In this episode, you will hear:

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

On this episode of Corporate Drinker, step into the world of addiction and recovery with Laurie’s guest, Dr. Scott Kellogg, an acclaimed clinical psychologist specializing in addiction.

Laurie’s conversation with Dr. Kellogg delves into the fascinating intersection of work, culture, and alcohol, particularly in the current pandemic climate. You'll gain a fresh perspective on how addiction intertwines with identity and how crucial it is to meet people where they are. Dr. Kellogg brings a wealth of experience and understanding from his time as a psychotherapist in the mid-1980s, providing an eye-opening glimpse into the complexities of addiction. Dr. Kellogg offers his expert opinion on the role of identity in addiction recovery.

Have you ever wondered how forming a new identity could be the key to recovery? Or perhaps how broadening one's identity could act as a shield against addiction? This episode answers these questions and more, challenging the traditional views on addiction and spurring a thought-provoking conversation on identity transformation. We also tackle the corporate drinking culture and how one can juggle multiple identities.

Last but not least, we unravel the intricacies of therapy approaches for addiction. Explore the importance of building relationships, monitoring use, and creating a recovery plan that works. Hear about the somewhat controversial harm reduction dogma and the power of setting boundaries. We also discuss the stages of recovery and the need for an integrative approach.

Get ready for a conversation that sparks a new understanding of addiction and how to respond to it in ourselves and others.

In this episode, you will hear:

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Are you aware that your workplace dynamics are being subtly manipulated by alcohol? That's right: from happy hours to casual Fridays, incorporating alcohol into our work culture has profound impacts that we seldom consider. 

Join Laurie as she explores this topic with the brilliant Kate Bischoff, a Minneapolis-based employment attorney who offers her unique perspective on the complex relationship between work, culture, and alcohol. They delve into the roles of “optimal” and “sub-optimal” organizations, the power dynamics reinforced by alcohol, and their potential to disrupt inclusion and belonging.

Does the thought of handling alcohol consumption in your corporate environment seem complex and challenging? You're not alone. In this episode of Corporate Drinker, we explore the tough but necessary conversation about the expectations of professional behavior when it comes to incorporating alcohol at work. We discuss how HR can take a proactive stance against workplace misconduct and the importance of setting expectations around professional behavior. Drawing on Kate's expertise, we also uncover the impact of the billable-hour culture on employees' substance abuse and the challenges of bringing about a cultural shift. 

Tune in and equip yourself with insights and strategies to foster a secure, respectful, and inclusive work environment.

In this episode, you will hear:

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We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Have you ever wondered about the real cost of alcohol in the corporate world? 

Brace yourself for an enlightening conversation with Ken Makimsy Middleton, the author of Bamboozled. Laurie and Ken unravel the insidious dangers of alcohol, discussing how it keeps us in a cycle of mediocrity and threatens our professional growth. 

Ken opens up about his personal journey, sharing how alcohol, initially a false confidence booster, hindered his progress. They also tackle this complex relationship with alcohol, offering insight into navigating it and breaking free from its chains.

Ready to challenge what you think you know about corporate drinking? Laurie and Ken delve into the concept of alcohol consciousness, emphasizing the importance of understanding the trade-offs of drinking. Ken reveals corporations' role in fostering a sobriety culture instead of encouraging team-building activities centered around alcohol. Additionally, they explore the undeniable link between alcohol and sales professionals, uncovering the underlying reasons behind their heavier drinking habits and offering solutions. Ken introduces the MEDS approach (Mechanical Reengineering, Education, Substitutes, and Exercise Commitment), a comprehensive method to abstain from alcohol. 

This promises to be a game-changing conversation that will shift how you view alcohol in corporate culture.

In this episode, you will hear:

Resources from this Episode

Connect with Ken Makimsy Middleton on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/kenmmiddleton

Get a copy of Bamboozled: How Alcohol Makes Fools of Us All - www.amazon.com/Bamboozled-How-Alcohol-Makes-Fools/dp/1954437862

Ken’s website - thebamboozledbook.com/

Follow and Review:

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.