The C.K. Simms Show

Guest Name: Dr. Brett Cordes

https://theburnoutdoc.com/

Instagram & Facebook: the.burnoutdoc

SummaryIn this compelling episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, host C.K. Simms sits down with Dr. Brett Cordes, an ENT surgeon and cancer survivor whose journey through addiction and recovery led him to a new purpose—supporting physicians as a life coach. Dr. Cordes opens up about the intense pressures he faced from an early age, the life-altering impact of a cancer diagnosis at 19, and how his struggle with opioid addiction emerged from a place of pain and powerlessness. He speaks candidly about the stigma of addiction within the medical community and the crucial need for mental health support among healthcare professionals. His transformation into a life coach is driven by a powerful mission: to help others heal, grow, and reclaim purpose in their lives.

Takeaways

- Doctors often face immense pressure and expectations.

- Brett's childhood shaped his drive for success.

- Cancer diagnosis at 19 changed Brett's life trajectory.

- The experience of addiction can stem from feelings of powerlessness.

- Rehabilitation is a crucial step in recovery from addiction.

- Life coaching can provide support for physicians facing burnout.

- Brett's journey highlights the stigma surrounding addiction.

- Understanding the medical community's struggles is essential for support.

- Brett's transition to life coaching is a way to give back.

- Empathy and vulnerability are key in helping others.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Brett Cordes

02:07 Brett's Early Life and Family Background

05:42 The Cancer Diagnosis and Its Impact

10:26 Understanding Stem Cell Treatment

15:52 Choosing a Medical Specialty: The Path to ENT

17:47 The First Encounter with Opioids

19:29 The Descent into Addiction

29:14 The Moment of Realization and Consequences

32:24 The Weight of Labels and Stigma

34:48 Rehabilitation and the Journey to Recovery

38:13 Relapse and the Path Forward

42:36 Transitioning from Medicine to Life Coaching

48:48 Addressing Burnout in Physicians

55:23 Life After Recovery and Future Goals

Keywords

#addictionrecovery #burnoutsupport #cancersurvivor #doctorburnout #doctorhealing #doctorsmentalhealth #empowerment #entdoctor #healingjourney #healthcareheroes #inspirationalstories #lifeafteraddiction #lifecoachforphysicians #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulmedicine #opioidcrisis #overcomingaddiction #physicianburnout #physicianwellness #podcastforchange #podcastinterview #purposefulhealing #recoveryjourney #resilience #selfdiscovery #stigmasurroundingaddiction #survivorstories #traumarecovery #vulnerabilityisstrength #wellnessjourney

Guest Name: Paolo Gaudiano

https://www.aleria.tech

LinkedIn: pgaudiano

Summary

In this thought-provoking episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms sits down with Paolo Gaudiano, author of Measuring Inclusion: Higher Profits and Happier People without Guesswork or Backlash. Together, they unpack what it truly means to foster inclusion in the workplace. Gaudiano challenges traditional views, defining inclusion not as a feeling, but as measurable access and equitable experience. He shares how data-driven strategies can uncover exclusion, promote real meritocracy, and drive both social and economic value. The conversation highlights the importance of leadership accountability, the intersection of privilege and advocacy, and why DEI efforts must evolve to be more impactful and resilient.

Takeaways

- Measuring inclusion is essential for organizational success.

- Inclusion should be defined by access, not feelings.

- Workplace experiences are more important than individual feelings.

- Organizations must focus on the root causes of exclusion.

- Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering inclusion.

- Diversity will follow when inclusion is prioritized.

- Meritocracy must be measured to ensure fairness.

- The backlash against DEI initiatives is significant and must be addressed.

- Creating an inclusive environment benefits everyone, not just marginalized groups.

- Understanding and addressing biases is key to effective leadership.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Measuring Inclusion

01:42 The Title's Significance and Its Components

06:55 Redefining Inclusion: Access Over Feelings

14:27 Understanding Workplace Experiences

18:28 Leadership and Transparency in Inclusion

22:21 Paolo's Journey: From Science to Inclusion Advocacy

27:53 Leveraging Privilege for Inclusivity

29:27 The Four M's of Measuring Inclusion

34:46 Experiences Over Identities in Inclusion

37:02 Building Inclusion to Achieve Diversity

39:50 Modeling Inclusion in Media Spaces

43:01 Meritocracy and Bias in Promotions

45:06 Tools for Measuring Inclusion

48:43 The Importance of Understanding Inclusion

Keywords

#accountableleadership #businessinclusion #dei #diversityandinclusion #equityatwork #futureofwork #inclusivebusiness #inclusiveculture #inclusiveleadership #inclusionmatters #inclusionredefined #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipstrategy #measureinclusion #meritocracymatters #organizationalchange #paologaudiano #peoplefirst #podcastinterview #podcastseason #podcastingforchange #PodMatch #privilegeandpower #profitwithpurpose #redefininginclusion #strategicdei #unconsciousbias #workplacebias #workplaceculture #workplaceequity

Guest Name: Gretchen Schoser

https://schosersolutions.com/

https://goesoninourheads.net/

Instagram: @gschoser_aka_grex

Summary

In this powerful episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, host C.K. Simms sits down with Gretchen Schoser for an open and emotional conversation about identity, resilience, and the journey toward healing. Gretchen shares her life story—growing up in a loving and accepting family, yet still grappling with substance abuse as a coping mechanism for deeper struggles. The two discuss the importance of laughter, reclaiming painful memories like Valentine’s Day, and finding strength through community and kindness.

Together, they highlight how sharing personal stories can break the stigma around mental health, offering hope to others navigating similar paths. Gretchen also opens up about her podcast and her mission to normalize mental health conversations, especially in professional settings. From navigating grief to embracing authenticity, this episode is a moving reminder that kindness is powerful, healing is possible, and living your truth leads to joy.

Takeaways

- Gretchen grew up in a loving family that accepted her for who she is.

- She struggled with substance abuse as a way to cope with struggles.

- Laughter and connection are vital for mental health.

- Reclaiming significant days can lead to healing and empowerment.

- Mental health advocacy is crucial for community support.

- Kindness costs nothing and can make a significant impact.

- Sharing personal stories can unlock others' struggles and provide hope.

- Navigating change in the workplace requires understanding mental health.

- Gretchen's podcast aims to normalize conversations about mental health.

- Living authentically leads to personal fulfillment and joy.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:46 Growing Up and Early Life Challenges

06:03 Family Dynamics and Loss

12:39 Navigating Mental Health and Crisis

18:23 Reclaiming Valentine's Day and Finding Joy

26:35 The Impact of Life Changes and Loss

31:25 Authenticity and Sharing Experiences

37:39 The Importance of Kindness and Understanding

40:59 The Impact of Online Communication

43:09 Finding Joy Amidst Negativity

45:58 Sharing Personal Stories and Vulnerability

48:39 The Journey to Authenticity

51:33 The Power of Gratitude

55:14 Navigating Change and Mental Health

01:00:53 The Success of the Podcast

01:06:14 Future Aspirations and Business Goals

Keywords

#authenticliving #breakthestigma #communitysupport #emotionalhealing #empowerment #griefjourney #healingjourney #identitymatters #joythroughhealing #kindnessmatters #laughtertherapy #livedexperience #mentalhealth #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalwellness #normalizeconversation #openconversation #podcast #podcastlife #PodMatch #poddinmynoggin #reclaimingjoy #resilience #selfacceptance #sharingstories #strengthincommunity #substanceabuseawareness #talkaboutit #traumarecovery

Guest Name: Jim Tracy

https://thegrampion.com/

https://thejimtracy.com/

Instagram: @towerjim

Summary

In this engaging conversation, C.K. Simms interviews Jim Tracy, known as the Grampion, who shares his inspiring journey of overcoming a life-changing ski accident and his passion for mentorship across generations. Jim discusses the importance of building relationships, respect, and kindness in both personal and professional settings. He emphasizes the need for a culture that values employees and the impact of leadership on engagement. Jim also introduces his upcoming book, 'Building Men,' which aims to inspire others to invest in the lives of younger generations. The conversation highlights the significance of kindness, mentorship, and living a fulfilling life.

Takeaways

- Jim Tracy's nickname, 'Grampion,' originated from a playful moment with his grandson.

- A life-changing ski accident in 2018 led Jim to overcome significant physical challenges.

- Jim completed multiple 5k races after being told he would never walk right again.

- Mentorship is crucial for younger generations, who are seeking guidance from older generations.

- Generational harmony is essential; we have more in common than differences.

- Listening generously, building relationships, and showing respect are key to effective communication.

- Anger is a choice; we can choose kindness instead.

- Jim's work as a 'curator of culture' focuses on fostering positive workplace environments.

- The book 'Building Men' is a tribute to the influential figures in Jim's life.

- Kindness is the greatest currency and can change the world.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jim Tracy, the Grampion

02:08 The Life-Altering Ski Accident

05:11 Overcoming Adversity and Embracing Life

06:44 The Importance of Mentorship Across Generations

10:14 Building Generational Harmony

13:13 The Curator of Culture: Jim's Professional Journey

19:05 Creating a Culture of Care in Business

27:55 The Journey of Overcoming Challenges

30:17 The Influence of Mentorship

33:46 Building Men: The Book's Inspiration

36:31 Legacy and Kindness

40:27 The Importance of Communication

42:54 The Editing Process and Growth

44:10 Living an Audacious Life

48:44 Pursuing Passions at Any Age

50:42 Facing Fears and Inspiring Others

Keywords

#authenticleadership #buildingmen #changetheculture #choosekindness #communicationmatters #curatorofculture #employeeengagement #generationalharmony #grampion #inspirationalstories #intergenerationalmentorship #kindnessfirst #kindnessmatters #leadershipdevelopment #lifelessons #listeninggenerously #mentorshipmatters #motivationalspeaker #overcomingadversity #personalgrowth #positivityatwork #relationshipbuilding #respectandkindness #runningagainstodds #skiaccidentrecovery #storytellingwithimpact #upliftingjourneys #valuingemployees #wellbeingatwork#mentalhealth #podcast #PodMatch

Guest Name: Andrew Davie

https://andrew-davie.com/

Instagram: @adavieauthor

Summary

In this episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms speaks with Andrew Davie, who shares his life-changing experience of surviving a ruptured brain aneurysm. Andrew discusses the medical details of the condition, his symptoms, and the critical moments leading up to his surgery. He reflects on his recovery journey, including the physical and emotional challenges he faced, and how this traumatic experience reshaped his perspective on life. Andrew also shares his decision to pursue a career in mental health counseling, driven by a desire to help others who have faced similar adversities. The conversation highlights themes of resilience, personal growth, and the importance of support systems in overcoming life's challenges.

Takeaways

- A ruptured brain aneurysm can occur without warning.

- Most people with aneurysms are unaware until they rupture.

- Recovery from a brain injury involves both physical and emotional healing.

- Support from family is crucial during recovery.

- Finding new purpose can emerge from traumatic experiences.

- Emotional processing can change after a brain injury.

- Counseling can provide fulfillment and help others.

- Life perspectives often shift after facing mortality.

- Success can be redefined after trauma.

- The journey of healing is ongoing and unique for everyone.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andrew Davy and His Journey

01:14 Understanding Ruptured Brain Aneurysms

03:01 Symptoms and Initial Experience of the Aneurysm

05:50 Surgery and Immediate Recovery

09:37 Long-Term Recovery and Rehabilitation

13:49 Emotional Impact and Life Changes

16:38 Transitioning to Mental Health Counseling

21:39 Caring for Family and Finding Fulfillment

24:20 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

25:31 Processing Emotions Post-Aneurysm

28:16 Finding Fulfillment in Caregiving

30:50 The Journey to Silver Linings

33:54 Redefining Success and Fulfillment

37:22 Helping Others Through Adversity

40:34 Building a Counseling Career

44:37 Navigating Life After Caregiving

Keywords

#aneurysmsurvivor #brainaneurysm #braininjuryawareness #counselingjourney #emotionalhealing #familymatters #healingaftertrauma #inspirationalstories #lifeaftertrauma #mentalhealth #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthcounseling #mentalhealthjourney #neurosurvivor #overcomingadversity #personalresilience #personalgrowth #podcastconversation #podcastinterview #poddinmynoggin #PodMatch #posttraumaticgrowth #recoveryjourney #redefiningsuccess #resilience #selfdiscovery #survivorstories #traumarecovery #unbreakablespirit #wellbeingmatters

Guest Name: Dr. Cristina Leport

https://cristinaleport.com

Instagram: @cristinaleport

Summary

In this episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms interviews Dr. Cristina Leport, a cardiologist and author of the medical thriller 'Change of Heart.' Cristina shares her journey from a young girl in Italy aspiring to be a doctor to becoming a successful author. She discusses her transition to writing thrillers and the themes explored in her latest book. The conversation delves into character development, reader engagement, and the importance of persistence in achieving one's goals.

Takeaways

- Cristina decided that she wanted to become a doctor at age 12.

- She transitioned to writing thrillers after 20 years in medicine.

- Her medical background provides a unique perspective in her novels.

- Persistence is key in both medicine and writing.

- Her characters are crafted to be relatable and real.

- Cristina emphasizes the importance of reader feedback and reviews.

- She has plans for future books in the same series.

- Cristina's journey is an inspiration for aspiring writers and medical professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Cristina Leport

01:44 Journey to Medicine and Writing

05:27 The Power of Self-Reflection

09:26 Overcoming Challenges in Medicine

16:24 Transitioning to Authorship

20:46 Exploring 'Change of Heart'

27:49 Character Dynamics and Development

30:23 Engagement with the Story

34:14 The Core Mystery Unveiled

37:07 Themes of Family and Relationships

40:00 Future Works and Reader Engagement

Keywords

#author #authorinterview #authorlife #authormotivation #authorsofinstagram #bookdiscussion #bookloversunite #bookpodcast #bookrecommendations #bookseries #cardiologistturnedauthor #changeofheart #changeofheartbook #CKSimms #creativejourney #CristinaLeport #femaleauthors #medicineandwriting #medicalthriller #PoddinMyNoggin #podcastinterview #readerscommunity #thrillerauthor #thrillerbooks #writer #writerinspiration #writing #writingjourney #writingtips #womenauthors #womeninmedicine #podcast #PodMatch

Guest Name: Dr. Stephan Neff

https://neffinspiration.com/

Instagram, Facebook & YouTube: neffinspiration

LinkedIn: stephan-neff-author

Summary

In this episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms speaks with Dr. Stephan Neff, a retired anesthesiologist and functional medicine practitioner. They discuss Dr. Neff's journey through trauma, the impact of alcohol on his life, and the importance of emotional intelligence in relationships. Dr. Neff shares insights on post-traumatic growth, the significance of nutrition and mental health, and the power of creating positive habits. The conversation emphasizes resilience, self-compassion, and the potential for change in one's life.

Takeaways

- Dr. Neff emphasizes the importance of post-traumatic growth as a transformative experience.

- Alcohol can initially serve as a coping mechanism but may lead to negative consequences.

- Emotional intelligence is crucial for understanding and fulfilling relationship needs.

- Change is a constant in life, and embracing it can lead to personal growth.

- Functional medicine can significantly improve health and well-being through lifestyle changes.

- Nutrition plays a vital role in mental health and overall wellness.

- Surrounding oneself with positive influences is essential for maintaining mental peace.

- Creating manageable habits and celebrating small wins can boost self-esteem.

- Mindfulness and self-compassion are powerful tools for healing and growth.

- Trauma can serve as a catalyst for personal development and resilience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Stefan Neff

03:04 The Impact of Trauma and Post-Traumatic Growth

10:40 Navigating Alcoholism and Professional Life

14:34 The Journey of Recovery and Hypnotherapy

16:23 Embracing Change and Personal Growth

22:36 Cognitive Restructuring and Self-Reflection

30:06 Functional Medicine and Health Transformation

32:07 The Impact of Modern Technology on Health

33:58 Navigating Information Overload

36:19 The Gut-Brain Connection and Nutrition

38:33 The Importance of Positive Environments

40:31 Creating Achievable Goals and Celebrating Wins

43:33 Incorporating Movement into Daily Life

47:34 The Power of Self-Compassion and Healing

Keywords

#alcohol #alcoholrecovery #changeispossible #cksimms #emotionalgrowth #emotionalhealing #emotionalintelligence #emotionalresilience #functionalhealth #functionalmedicine #growthmindset #habitbuilding #habits #healingfromwithin #healingjourney #healthylifestyle #holistichealth #innerstrength #inspirationalstories #lifeaftertrauma #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalwellbeing #mindbodyconnection #mindfulness #nutrition #personaldevelopment #podcast #podmatch #poddinmynoggin #positivity #posttraumaticgrowth #recoveryjourney #resilience #selfawareness #selfcompassion #selfgrowth #selfhealing #trauma #traumarecovery #transformationaljourney #wellbeingpodcast #wellnessjourney #wellnesspodcast

Guest Name: Robert A. Lane

https://www.robertlanecoaching.com/

https://www.laneslaire.com/

Instagram: @robertlanecoaching & @laneslaire

Summary

In this episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms engages in a deep conversation with Robert A. Lane about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the importance of resilience and authenticity, and the journey of personal growth through coaching. They discuss the nuances of public speaking, the impact of stress on performance, and the significance of embracing one's unique voice. Robert shares his experiences in the corporate world and how they shaped his transition into coaching and music, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and the lessons learned along the way.

Takeaways

- Building a business from nothing is challenging.

- Resilience and tenacity are key to success.

- Authenticity is crucial in coaching and public speaking.

- Practice is essential for confidence in presentations.

- The journey of life is filled with lessons to learn.

- Embrace your unique voice and story.

- Corporate transitions can lead to fulfilling opportunities.

- Stress can be both good and bad; it's about perspective.

- Being the CEO of your life means making intentional decisions.

- Don't rush your creative projects; allow them to develop naturally.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Robert A. Lane

02:55 The Journey into Hollywood

07:01 The Reality of Working in Hollywood

09:47 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

12:44 Finding Purpose and Fulfillment

14:08 The Birth of Robert Lane Coaching

14:14 The Leap into Coaching

17:02 Navigating the Audiobook Landscape

19:48 The Power of Your Own Voice

23:03 Public Speaking: Embracing Nerves

25:48 Transforming Anxiety into Excitement

32:16 The Challenge of Entrepreneurship

35:04 Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety

38:02 Embracing Authenticity and Accountability

41:04 The Journey of Music and Artistic Expression

Keywords

#authenticleadership #authenticitymatters #audiobook #businesscoach #businesssuccess #careertransition #coachingjourney #coachinglife #confidencebuilding #confidencecoach #corporatetransition #creativejourney #creativeliving #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship #hollywoodlife #inspirationalstories #intentionalliving #lifecoaching #mindsetshift #motivationalpodcast #music #musician #overcomingfear #personalbranding #personalgrowth #podcast #podcastinterview #podmatch #publicspeakingtips #purposefulwork #resilience #robertalane #selfdiscovery #stressawareness #voicecoaching #voicepower

Guest Name: JackKammer

https://www.malefriendlymedia.com/

Summary

In this episode, C.K. Simms and Jack Kammer engage in a thought-provoking discussion about gender issues, focusing on the often-overlooked male perspective. They explore the societal expectations placed on men, the emotional struggles they face, and the need for a more inclusive dialogue around masculinity. The conversation delves into the contrasting power structures of male and female dynamics, the importance of emotional expression for men, and the potential for synergy in gender roles. Ultimately, they advocate for kindness, understanding, and a reevaluation of what it means to be a man in today's society.

Takeaways

- Jack identifies as a counter-feminist, not anti-feminist.

- Men's perspectives on gender issues are often marginalized.

- Societal messaging discourages emotional expression in boys.

- Men are not taught healthy coping mechanisms for emotions.

- The male power structure is visible, while the female power structure is more subtle.

- Access to emotional support is crucial for men's mental health.

- Women often have more access to the male power structure than vice versa.

- There is a backlash against men expressing emotions in society.

- Kindness and understanding are essential in male-female interactions.

- A real man is defined by his own standards, not societal expectations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Controversial Topics

01:18 Understanding Counter-Feminism

02:57 The Male Perspective in Gender Issues

06:07 Childhood Messages and Emotional Development

08:42 Power Structures: Male vs. Female

13:21 Access to Emotional Resources

17:10 The Need for Reciprocity in Gender Dynamics

22:52 Recap and Transition to Solutions

24:56 Men's Mental Health and Societal Perceptions

28:28 The Wasted Potential of Women

30:29 Men's Nurturing Abilities and Values

35:11 Defining a Real Man

40:43 Empowering Women to Impact Men's Lives

45:45 Flipping Traditional Gender Roles

Keywords

#genderissues #maleperspective #feminism #counterfeminism #emotionalhealth #societalexpectations #maleempowerment #mensrights #stereotypes #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #equality #relationships #genderdynamics #meninsociety #genderequality #men #women #menandwomen #breakingstereotypes #gendertalks #podcastdiscussion #redefiningmanhood #podcast #PodMatch

Guest Name: David Maeda

https://www.davidmaeda.com/

Instagram: @mrmaximoto

Summary

In this episode of Poddin' My Noggin, host C.K. Simms interviews David Maeda, a former elections official and author of the memoir 'This Is Not Who We Are.' They discuss David's journey through mental health struggles, the complexities of the election process, and the impact of racism and identity on personal experiences. David shares insights from his memoir, reflecting on the meaning of life and the importance of empathy in society. The conversation also touches on the challenges of recounts in elections, the effects of the pandemic on mental health, and David's aspirations for the future.

Takeaways

-David's memoir explores the intersection of personal identity and societal issues.

-The stress of election administration has increased significantly since 2020.

-Mental health struggles can stem from a search for meaning in life.

-Racism and identity play crucial roles in personal experiences.

-Empathy is essential for understanding and connecting with others.

-The pandemic has had a lasting impact on mental health and social interactions.

-Writing can be a powerful tool for processing emotions and experiences.

-David's journey into elections was accidental but ultimately fulfilling.

-Recounts in elections are complex and can be fraught with challenges.

-Living in the moment is a key aspect of managing anxiety and depression.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Maida

02:37 The Journey of an Election Official

05:09 The Stress of Election Administration

10:06 Accidental Career Path in Elections

22:52 Exploring the Memoir: This Is Not Who We Are

25:50 Living in the Moment and Mental Health

27:14 Embracing Self-Trust and Resilience

28:08 Struggles with Mental Health and Identity

29:10 The Impact of Race on Personal Experience

30:09 Finding Strength in Differences

33:22 Confronting Hate and Understanding Marginalization

38:33 The Search for Meaning and Coping with Depression

41:37 Defining Self-Worth and Purpose

47:17 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Writing Journey

Keywords

#CKSimms #DavidMaeda #ThisIsNotWhoWeAre #PoddinMyNoggin #memoir #writing #writer #author #elections #electionprocess #mentalhealthawareness #identity #racism #empathy #podcast #authorinterview #recounts #anxiety #depression #selfworth #resilience #pandemicimpact #socialissues #voting #politics #stressmanagement #mindfulness #healing #storytelling #livedexperience #marginalization #purpose #copingstrategies #podcastinterview #PodMatch