Take the Elevator

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Ever had a conversation where you felt completely misunderstood despite your best efforts? Join us as we uncover the subtle art of effective communication. We kick things off with a personal anecdote about an encounter with a chatty individual who missed all our non-verbal signals—reminding us of the critical need to read and respond to social cues accurately. Promise: After listening, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of body language, verbal nuances, and how to avoid common communication pitfalls in both social and professional settings.

Get ready to discover actionable strategies that will help you balance talk time and keep conversations engaging. We'll share insights into reading emotional and verbal cues, ensuring you can foster stronger emotional connections and build trust. Learn how to handle brief responses without frustration and why timely, clear communication is essential, particularly in the workplace. We also emphasize the importance of active listening and emotional presence, recounting a poignant moment where silence allowed someone to share their true feelings. Through this, we highlight the significance of patience and compassion in honoring others' emotions.

Finally, we delve into the joy of celebrating others' successes and the profound impact of recognition in the workplace. Hear a story about how a leader's dismissive attitude can dampen team morale, and how small gestures of appreciation can uplift those around you. From understanding different languages of appreciation to the importance of matching excitement when celebrating achievements, this episode provides valuable insights into building positive communication and a supportive environment. Tune in to elevate your interactions and make every day an opportunity to connect meaningfully with those around you.

Look-up and let’s elevate!

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Meet Kirsten, affectionately known as KK, as she shares her incredible journey with us. From her early days in art following a personal loss to her current creative endeavors, Kirsten’s story is a testament to the transformative power of creativity. We start by bonding over our shared experiences with extreme heat and the unrelenting battle against faulty air conditioning, setting the stage for a warm and relatable conversation.

We then delve into the heart of KK’s artistic philosophy, exploring centering, grounding, and mindfulness themes. Drawing fascinating parallels between art and yoga, we discuss the profound impact of being present and reflective. KK opens up about the meaningful process behind tattoo artistry and the importance of choosing the right design and artist. Through the symbolic journey of confronting fears and the painting “Rebirth,” we uncover the healing power of art and its role in personal renewal.

Finally, KK takes us behind the scenes of her community art project in Redlands, California, where her beautifully designed bus bench has become a local sensation. She shares her creative process, the inspiration behind her work, and how you can experience her art firsthand. We wrap up with a heartfelt conversation with another inspiring artist, celebrating the unique connections and shared moments that art brings into our lives. Join us for this enriching and creative episode that promises to leave you inspired and connected to the artistic world around you.

Look up, and let's elevate!

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Let's share some adventurous stories throughout this episode on Take the Elevator with Gen and Kory. 

Authentic human connections can profoundly change lives. We explore how moving beyond mere "hellos" can foster genuine relationships that uplift and empower. Gen shares her inspiring purpose statement, "P.E.O.P.L.E.: placing everyone on positive levels every day," we talk about the challenges and responsibilities that come with this mission, especially during personal struggles. 

The magic of intentional interactions and embracing diversity comes alive through encounters with people like Sam and Simon from the UK and a touching conversation with a server named Christine. We build a more connected and purpose-driven world by fostering vulnerability and mutual support. This episode is a call to action—tap into your power sources, build strong community bonds, and let's elevate every day together. Tune in for a mix of travel tales, heartfelt conversations, and a reminder of the powerful impact we can have on each other's lives.

Look-up, and let's elevate!

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Are you ready to embrace the inevitable changes life throws at you?As the cooler weather offers a refreshing change after weeks of heat, we reflect on how to prepare for significant personal and professional changes. Kory shares his intuitive knack for staying prepared, while Gen delves into the importance of self-reflection and awareness. Together, we explore leveraging past experiences, recognizing strengths, and maintaining flexibility to navigate life's twists and turns.

Imagine seeing change not as a threat but as an opportunity for growth. We unpack the concept of embracing change, contrasting the resistance many feel with the benefits of welcoming it. Practical strategies like reframing thoughts and taking small risks can shift your mindset from fear to excitement. By staying curious and open-minded, you can foster a sense of discovery and engagement, helping you navigate the ongoing transformations in life with more ease and enthusiasm.

Lastly, we dive into our writing journey, especially Gen's newfound passion for co-authoring our books in The Fuzzy Furry Forest series.  From a passive supporter to an active writer, Gen shares her strategies for embracing this new role and connecting with readers through storytelling. We emphasize the importance of honoring oneself during times of change, setting intentional goals, and celebrating progress. Join us as we toast to change, personal growth, and staying true to ourselves while pursuing our passions and goals.

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Can mastering the art of coaching transform your life and career? Join us in this emotionally engaging episode of "Take the Elevator," where Gen and Kory take you behind the scenes of Gen's coaching journey. From the elation of acquiring new skills to the hurdles of stringent credentialing, Gen candidly shares her experiences. Kory adds a nuanced perspective, highlighting the emotional highs and lows that come with balancing the art of coaching and meeting grading standards. Together, they explore the delicate balance between coaching the 'what' and the 'who', shedding light on the subjective nature of evaluations and those hard-to-swallow moments of missed opportunities.

But we don’t stop there. The conversation shifts to the transformative power of vulnerability in marriage. Gen and Kory discuss how openly sharing your heart with your partner can lead to a deeply fulfilling relationship. They delve into personal stories, from navigating the challenges of menopause to recognizing fleeting emotions like sadness and anger. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted celebration of their anniversary, reflecting on their shared journey and expressing gratitude for each other's company. So, come along for a thought-provoking and joyful exploration of coaching, vulnerability, and the beauty of celebrating life's milestones together.

Look-up, and let's elevate!

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Ever wondered how the power of a single number can change the course of events? Get ready to uncover why August 8, 2024, holds numerological magic for us. From celebrating our 18th wedding anniversary to the exhilarating release of "Oswald," our latest book in the Fuzzy Furry Forest series, this month is packed with milestones. We also dive into surviving the sweltering heat of Southern California and the unexpected adventures of malfunctioning air conditioning, adding a hilarious twist to our daily lives. Feel the energy as we share the joys and hiccups of August, a month that's as challenging as it is memorable.

Join us as we reflect on the incredible journey of writing together, highlighting the rewarding experience of bringing "Oswald" to life. Learn about the collaborative magic that makes our stories resonate with messages of personal growth and societal values. We'll also touch on the pure delight of immersing ourselves in fiction, the back-to-school hustle, and the importance of strong routines. Whether you're commuting or sipping morning coffee, let our stories of laughter, wisdom, and timeless tales elevate your day. Tune in and connect with us on this incredible journey.

Look-up, and let's elevate!

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What happens when hope and creativity are your guiding lights during tough times? Join us, GentheBuilder and Kory, as we recount our personal stories of how the spark of creativity and unyielding hope kept our dreams alive. We celebrate the imminent release of "Oswald the Wise Old Owl," a tribute to all visionaries and dreamers, underscoring the transformative power of literature, poetry, and illustrations in connecting us with the shared human experience. 

Ever wonder how childhood experiences shape your creative spirit? Kory opens up about overcoming bullying, and together, we discuss the profound effect these moments have had on our work. We stress the importance of safe spaces for children and explore how love languages often reflect what was missing in our early years. Our book series comes to life through organic storytelling and constructive feedback, which we believe will leave a lasting impact on our readers.

What's the secret to a successful partnership in chasing dreams? We share insights from our journey, highlighting the magic of communication, shared values, and adaptability. Taking you behind the scenes of our collaborative process, we reveal the significance of calculated risks and embracing opportunities as they come. Plus, we dive into the symbolism of our writing, revealing the mystical significance of the number eight and the character Oswald, reminding us all that wisdom can appear when we least expect it. Don't miss this inspiring episode of Take the Elevator!

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How do you stay motivated when juggling multiple projects and deadlines? Corey joins us to explore this intricate balance as he opens up about his struggle to keep a productive mindset while racing against time to complete his upcoming book and manage its marketing. He also shares his frustration with the stagnant progress of his music band, shedding light on how this standstill impacts his overall drive. By examining Corey's definitions of movement and success, we uncover the critical role of visible progress and active engagement in maintaining momentum.

Facing ambitious goals often comes with a fear of failure and a sense of vulnerability. Corey recounts a personal experience of feeling stuck due to a traumatic work event, highlighting the challenge of overcoming self-doubt and uncertainty. We reflect on the necessity of resolving unresolved issues and recalibrating our approach to regain clarity. Together, we aim to find peace of mind and continue progressing toward our goals by addressing these lingering matters head-on.

Unexpected work responsibilities can take an emotional toll and derail focus from personal projects. Corey outlines his plan to step away from non-essential work activities to restore balance and concentrate on his literary and musical pursuits. We discuss the significance of seeking victories in smaller, manageable tasks to rebuild momentum and confidence. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes balancing commitment with joy and prioritizing tasks that bring a sense of euphoria and fulfillment, creating a more satisfying and sustainable work life.

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to bring a beloved character to life through illustration? Join us as we sit down with the incredibly talented Vanessa Montano, the artistic genius behind the enchanting character Ruffles. This episode takes a heartfelt look at trust and authenticity's vital role in creative collaborations, underscored by a cautionary tale about a previous experience with a fraudulent artist. Vanessa shares her journey and the significance of her social media presence, particularly on Instagram, in building her brand and launching her other creative venture, Lightning Bug Studios.

In a celebration of artistic passion, Vanessa takes us through her unique process of drawing visual inspiration from the world around her, whether it's the intricate details of nature or the awe-inspiring exhibits in natural history museums. Our admiration for her work shines through as we discuss how her illustrations transformed a children's book initially illustrated by our daughter, Makaila,  into a vivid and engaging story for young readers. Vanessa's story is a testament to the power of staying true to one's creative vision, even when faced with daunting risks, and the irreplaceable value of authenticity in art.

The episode wraps up with exploring the joy and fulfillment of pursuing artistic dreams as we reunite with beloved characters and embark on new creative projects. We share our enthusiasm for the character Ringo, highlighting his deeper, often overlooked backstory and the seamless teamwork that has marked our collaboration. With a look at future projects and a heartfelt message of gratitude, we encourage you to embrace the magic of storytelling and let it elevate your everyday experiences.

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Can friendships withstand time, change, and even seasonal shifts? Tune in as Gen and Kory navigate the enchanting Fuzzy Furry Forest to uncover profound insights about the importance of nurturing positive relationships. Discover how BJ and Ruffles' bond, inspired by Gen's childhood friendship, exemplifies the joy and loyalty of caring for one another during vulnerable times.

Have you ever experienced a friendship that only lasted a season but left an indelible mark on your heart? We dive into the emotional complexities of such seasonal friendships through the story of Ruffles and BJ, reflecting on the growth and lessons they bring. We'll explore how friends can offer emotional support, co-sign on risky ideas, and teach us the importance of setting boundaries and loyalty, as shown by BJ's efforts to keep Ruffles from leaving town. It's a testament to how friends help us navigate our highs and lows, offering resilience and support.

Are you curious about how newcomers find their place in a tight-knit community? Take a sneak peek into Ringo's challenging transition into the Fuzzy Flurry Forest. We draw parallels with real-life experiences of integrating into new environments and discuss the lessons children can learn about inclusion and belonging. Additionally, we provide parental guidance on engaging with children through the book, suggesting questions to spark meaningful conversations—a journey with us to uncover how these interactions foster more profound understanding and connection within our communities.

Look up, and let's elevate!

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