Return on Empathy (ROE)

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

In this conversation, host Rebecca Dhrimaj and education and media literacy expert Kristin Hokanson explore the current challenges in education, emphasizing the importance of empathy, curiosity, and media literacy. They discuss the political landscape affecting education, the role of empathy in fostering resilience and trust, and the need for educators to engage all perspectives through active listening. Kristin introduces the 'notice and wonder' concept as a strategy to promote curiosity and deeper understanding among students. The conversation also highlights the significance of media literacy in navigating today's information landscape and the necessity for activism in education to ensure a positive future.

Sound Bites

• "Education is a human industry."

• "Empathy builds trust in education."

• "Curiosity is what's going to drive us."

• "We need to reflect on the why behind our actions."

• "What do you notice? What do you wonder?"

• "We have to stop admiring the problems."

• "Slow down and think before reacting."

• "Look for what's missing in the dialogue."

Chapters00:00 The Political Landscape of Education

06:00 Empathy as a Tool for Change

10:30 The Notice and Wonder Concept

18:00 Curiosity in Education and Beyond

24:54 Media Literacy and Its Importance

35:51 Activism and the Future of Education

Learn more about Kristin: https://mediaeducationlab.com/about/kristin-hokanson

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

In this conversation, host Rebecca Dhrimaj and Board Chair of TrailPath Workplace Solutions, Robert Martichenko, explore the importance of human-centric leadership and the creation of meaningful workplace environments. They discuss Robert's journey from supply chain management to consulting on meaningful employment, the development of the Meaningful Employment Environment framework, and the critical components of dignity and meaningful work. The dialogue also addresses the dynamics of the post-pandemic workforce, the need for organizations to adapt to changing employee attitudes, and the distinction between workplace culture and environment. Robert emphasizes the necessity of creating personalized work environments that cater to individual needs, ultimately leading to happier, more engaged employees.

Sound Bites

• "Dignity plus meaningful work equals thriving."

• "COVID exposed a lot of things that were already happening."

• "We have a shrinking workforce and struggling employees."

• "Organizations invest more in technology than in people."

• "People leave organizations because of the environment."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Human-Centric Leadership

02:58 Transitioning from Supply Chain to Meaningful Work

05:56 The Meaningful Employment Environment Framework

08:52 Dignity and Meaningful Work: The Core Components

12:08 Understanding Employee Status: Declining to Thriving

15:00 Post-Pandemic Workforce Dynamics

20:59 Bridging the Gap: Changing Mindsets in Organizations

23:46 The Importance of Environment Over Culture

30:04 Creating Personalized Work Environments

36:04 Conclusion and Future Outlook

Learn more about TrailPath Workplace Solutions: https://www.trailpathws.com/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

In this episode, guest Rashmi Airan shares her incredible journey from being an Ivy League educated attorney and Wall Street investment banker to facing legal challenges that led to her time in prison. She discusses the lessons learned from her experiences, the importance of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, and how her time in prison shaped her perspective on life and relationships. Rashmi emphasizes the significance of resilience, the development of tools to measure it, and the need for intentional leadership in today's rapidly changing world. The conversation concludes with Rashmi reflecting on her cultural roots and the importance of finding purpose in one's journey.

Learn more about Rashmi: https://rashmiairan.com/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

What if healing went beyond medicine? In this powerful episode, Janine Almeida shares how her battle with leukemia led her to discover hypnotherapy and the transformative power of the mind-body connection. From personal trauma to business leadership, Janine explores how empathy, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence can reshape not only individual health but entire workplace cultures. Her story is a compelling call for leaders to prioritize emotional well-being and resilience in building healthier, more human-centered organizations.

Learn more about Janine: https://the-lighthouse-project.com/Home/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

What does it take to turn adversity into purpose? In this inspiring episode, Janine Almeida shares her journey from surviving childhood leukemia to becoming a thriving entrepreneur and hypnotherapist. She reflects on the life lessons she gained from her love of horses, the power of the mind-body connection in healing, and how empathy, resilience, and lifelong learning have shaped her leadership style. Janine’s story is a powerful reminder that mindset is everything—both in business and in life.

Learn more about Janine: https://the-lighthouse-project.com/Home/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

How do shame, empathy, and leadership intersect in today’s workplace? In this candid and thought-provoking episode, host Rebecca Dhrimaj and psychotherapist Stephanie Jeans unpack the psychology of human behavior, from the complexities of sex addiction to the rising tide of anxiety among younger generations. Together, they explore how shame can hinder healing, why empathy is essential in leadership, and what it really takes to create a psychologically safe environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued in the workplace.

Learn more about Stephanie: https://stephaniejeans.co.uk/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

In this episode, host Rebecca Dhrimaj explores the power of self-leadership with author and LinkedIn Learning Instructor, Elizabeth Lotardo. Drawing from her book Leading Yourself, she shares how purpose-driven leadership and practical strategies can help individuals navigate toxic work environments, strengthen boss-employee dynamics, and take charge of their personal and professional growth. Whether you're facing burnout, questioning your career path, or simply seeking more meaning in your work, this conversation offers tools to help you embrace change and lead from within.

Buy Elizabeth's book: https://a.co/d/3FjZs6P

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

What happens when a leader rises from the depths of depression to become a powerful advocate for mental health at work? In this compelling episode, mental health and resilience keynote speaker, Graeme Cowan, shares his personal journey and explores how human connection, caring leadership, and a culture of empathy can transform workplaces. From battling the loneliness epidemic to introducing his VIP model for resilience—vitality, intimacy, and prosperity—Cowan offers practical insights on navigating psychosocial risks and leading with compassion. If you're passionate about employee well-being and building a supportive culture, this conversation is a must-listen.

Learn more about Graeme: https://graemecowan.com.au/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

In this empowering episode, host Rebecca Dhrimaj and SHATTR Co-Founder, MJ O’Leary, discuss real-world challenges women face on the path to leadership, from battling perfectionism and the "disease to please" to learning the art of self-advocacy. Centered around the mission of SHATTR and the book How Women Rise, their candid conversation unpacks the 12 habits that often hold womenback and offers actionable insights on how to build emotional intelligence, communicate with impact, and embrace personal growth. Whether you’re trying toshatter your own glass ceiling or simply looking to lead with more authenticity, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to own their power and lift others along the way.

Learn more about SHATTR: www.shattr.com

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com

Note: This episode was recorded as part of E3: Engage and Empower with Empathy, the original version of this podcast. It is now part of Return on Empathy (ROE)—a podcast series focused on the measurable impact of empathy in the workplace.

Discover how biofeedback can transform your approach to stress in this episode with host Rebecca Dhrimaj and retired pediatrician, Dr. Tom McCutchen. Through a live biofeedback therapy session and insightful discussion, learn how monitoring peripheral temperature and other physiological responses can help you better understand your emotional state, strengthen the mind-body connection, and master relaxation techniques. Whether you're navigating chronic anxiety or simply seeking better wellness, this episode offers practical tools to support your health journey.

Helpful resources:

- The Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback: https://aapb.org/

- Biofeedback Certification International Alliance: https://www.bcia.org/

- Info on biofeedback instrumentation: https://bio-medical.com

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: www.theempathycollective.com