SummaryIn this inspiring episode of the Spark Konnect, John Register shares his incredible journey from Olympic athlete to Paralympic medalist and keynote speaker. He discusses the importance of rebuilding yourself through hardship, building stamina, and focusing on what truly matters to elevate your life and career. John has lived many different lives and has so much life experience to draw from - you won’t want to miss this!John’s Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnregister/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnfregister/Kassy’s Links:Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/Chapters00:00 Introduction to John Register03:15 The Journey of an Athlete and Amputee07:13 Comparison and Embracing Authenticity12:42 From Athlete to Paralympic Champion18:15 Amputate to Elevate: A New Perspective on Growth20:09 The Intersection of Athletics and Speaking22:55 Engaging the Audience: Techniques and Tools25:44 The Importance of Stamina in Speaking30:28 Planning for Recovery and BalanceTakeaways- Stamina is more of a mental than physical skill- Rest and recovery is a fundamental key to achieving your goals- Find out what matters most in your life and work and zero in on itJohn Register, Paralympic athlete, keynote speaker, amputate to elevate, personal development, motivation, resilience, leadership, success stories

Summary In this week's episode of the Spark Konnect Tracy Solarek, an emotional intelligence expert and singer, shares her journey from classical singing to keynote speaking. She emphasizes the importance of integrating artistry into professional life, and keeping the light in your every day life. Discover insights on vocal techniques, the power of authentic recognition, and practical tips for self-care and performance enhancement from both Kassy and Tracy. Don't miss this one!Tracy's Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracysolarek/Kassy’s Links:Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Tracy Solarek12:07 Transition to Speaking Career and Emotional Intelligence23:49 The Importance of Mentorship and Recognition24:06 The Smile Challenge and Its Impact27:28 Incorporating Artistry into Professionalism31:15 Physicality and Performance in Speaking34:27 Centering Techniques for Focus35:17 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership and Team Dynamics37:26 Embracing Our Unique SelvesTakeaways- Everyone needs recognition, and it takes nothing to give- Use your unique talents to enhance parts of your life and work where it might surprise you- How you show up in every day life is a reflection of your commitment to your profession or artistryEmotional Intelligence, Public Speaking, Vocal Techniques, Self-Care, Leadership, Artistry in Business

SummaryJoin Kassy and a panel of some previous guests on the show alongside new faces in this very special LIVE edition of the Spark Konnect! This episode is a little different than the regular show but that's what makes it even more exciting - with such a great panel, this is an episode you definitely don't want to miss. Join Kassy and the crew and immerse yourself in the energy of a live recording to learn about presenting at conferences, plus some really powerful insights from a diverse cast of inspiring professionals.Mike BondiMike Bondi, a magician and corporate trainer. Mike shares his journey from a shy child to a confident performer, emphasizing the importance of empathy, engagement, and storytelling in effective training. He demonstrates how magic tricks can enhance learning experiences, making complex topics more relatable and memorable.Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bondi/ Jacquilyn DavisJacquilyn Davis, CDP® is currently the Director of Learning & Workforce Development at Mental Health Connecticut, Inc. She is a Certified Diversity Professional (CDP®), Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and Insights Discovery Client Practitioner. With nearly two decades of experience in the mental health field, Jacquilyn empowers individuals and organizations to foster safe, inclusive, and mentally healthy environments. As a coach, mentor, educator, and speaker, Jacquilyn partners with others on their personal and professional growth journeys through open dialogue, interactive workshops, and engaging presentations that promote safe, inclusive, and mentally healthy environments. Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquilyn-a-davis/ Elaina DallElaina has spent the past decade in learning and development and over 12 years in the financial industry. She is passionate about helping others grow and learn, and loves bringing creativity and an artistic perspective into her work to make development more engaging and meaningful.Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaina-dall-368023214/Karin RexKaren Rex, known as Geeky Girl Rex, exploring her journey as a musician and facilitator. They discuss the paradox of introversion in performance, the importance of silence in both music and facilitation, and the shared experience of stage fright. Karen shares how her musical background influences her facilitation style. Karen offers insights on infusing creativity into facilitation and memorable teaching techniques.Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karinrex/ Rusty ShieldsRusty Shields, a trained opera singer and learning & development consultant. Rusty shares his unique journey from music to training, discussing how his artistic background influences his approach to facilitation and teaching. The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, connection, and the importance of artistry in professional development.Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connectioncatalyst/The Podcast Lab Producer - Jeff Weaverhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreybweaver/Training Conferencehttps://www.trainingconference.com/

SummaryIn this brand new episode of the Spark Konnect with Kassy Laborie, Ashley Schneider shares her inspiring journey of running across America to raise MS awareness, the importance of movement, and how to build confidence through consistent effort and community support. Tune in to learn about her personal journey that has led her to the creation of a successful charity that’s raised over 4 million dollars to support MS research, and how Ashley maintains her mental and physical strength.Ashley’s Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleymschneiderInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashmschneider/Website: ashleymschneider.comMS Run Website: https://www.msruntheus.org/Kassy’s Links:Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ashley Schneider and MS Run the US04:17 The Journey of Running Across America06:48 America's Longest Relay Run Explained09:43 Building Community and Support for MS12:38 Personal Stories and the Impact of MS15:26 The Evolution of the Relay Run Experience18:25 The Importance of Support Teams in Endurance Events20:46 Expectations in Speaking and Training22:35 The Journey to Speaking Success27:07 Feedback and Growth in Speaking30:24 Building Confidence Through Routine32:35 30-Day Challenges for Personal Growth36:01 Final Thoughts and ResourcesTakeawaysConsistency in speaking or athletic practice builds confidenceCommunity support multiplies your strengthRepetition opens a path towards masteryMS awareness, relay run, athleticism, community, mental health, fitness, public speaking, resilience, nonprofit, endurance

Summary

In this week’s episode of the Spark Konnect with Kassy Laborie, Jon Giganti shares his journey from a high-level athlete to a leadership coach. He emphasizes vulnerability, authenticity, and the importance of embracing failure. Discover how his athletic background influences his approach to life and work, and learn practical insights on how to 'play on your front foot' and leverage 'choice moments' for growth.

Jon’s Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jongiganti/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jongiganti/

• X: https://www.x.com/jongiganti

• Website: www.gigantigroup.com

  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Intention-Uncommon-Unleashed-Influence-Fulfillment-ebook/dp/B0BHJMTY8G

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jon Giganti

07:48 The Journey of Vulnerability and Authenticity

15:12 The Impact of Sports on Identity

20:14 Overcoming Perfectionism in Public Speaking

21:17 Embracing Imperfection

24:44 The Power of Preparation

29:42 Flow State and Performance

34:13 Choice Moments and Intentionality

35:14 Outro

Takeaways

• Practice vulnerability and authenticity in daily interactions

• Use failure as a learning and growth tool

• Identify and leverage choice moments for better decision-making

• Develop a routine to prepare mentally and physically before speaking or leading

leadership, vulnerability, sports psychology, authenticity, coaching, personal development, flow state, failure, mental health, self-improvement

Summary

In this engaging interview, Adriana Muñoz, an ER nurse and endurance athlete, shares insights on navigating conflict, building resilience, and the parallels between athletic training and effective communication. Discover practical strategies for managing interpersonal conflict, embracing discomfort, and leveraging athletic principles to enhance professional and personal growth.

Adrianna’s Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriannamunozcoach/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ogdenpeak/

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/ogdenpeak/

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:46 Navigating Conflict in Healthcare

06:28 The Connection Between Athleticism and Professional Skills

09:25 Endurance Sports: A Personal Journey

11:57 The Importance of Vulnerability in Communication

14:59 Psychological Safety in Conflict

17:44 Building Resilience Through Conflict

20:29 Self-Forgiveness and Growth

22:59 The Role of Grace in Learning

24:32 Conclusion and Future Connections

Takeaways

• Conflict navigation is essential in healthcare and beyond

• There are direct parallels between athletic training and public speaking

• Building resilience and psychological safety is key

• The role of vulnerability and discomfort in growth is paramount

conflict management, resilience, endurance sports, public speaking, healthcare, athletic training, emotional safety, leadership, personal development

Summary

In this week’s episode, Peter Donnello, the Imaginatist, joins Kassy to share insights on how to ignite and strengthen imagination, creativity, and innovation. Peter sparks the imaginative process through magic, storytelling, and visualization techniques. Peter leverages his experience as a DJ and magician to explain just how important nurturing your imagination at any age can be. Discover practical methods to unlock your inner child, enhance collaboration, and harness AI tools for creative growth.

Peter’s Links:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imaginatist/

• Website: https://www.facebook.com/imaginatist/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Imaginatist1 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Imaginatist

04:14 The Journey of Becoming an Imaginatist

07:17 Techniques to Ignite Imagination

10:00 Understanding Visualization and Aphantasia

12:45 The Role of AI in Creativity

15:33 The Power of Daydreaming and Subconscious Mind

18:22 Reconnecting with Imagination

21:03 Collaboration and Teamwork in Imagination

23:22 Building Connections Through Communication

27:46 The Power of Shared Experiences

34:26 The Magic of Believing in the Impossible

36:17 Outro

Takeaways

• Reading stories with imagery fuels imagination.

• Daydreaming and repetitive exercise activate the subconscious mind.

• Collaboration turns individual minds into hive minds.

• AI is a valuable tool but should complement organic creativity.

• Connecting with childhood wonder reignites the belief in the impossible.

Imagination, Creativity, Innovation, Magic, Visualization, Collaboration, AI, Storytelling, Personal Development, Leadership

Summary

In this week’s episode of the Spark Konnect, claims adjuster-turned-training director and cosplay designer Guy Baker joins Kassy for an exciting conversation. Guy shares how creativity, role embodiment, and artistic resourcefulness can make training and professional development more engaging than ever. Guy and Kassy discuss the interrelatedness of cosplay and leadership training, and how authenticity is key to capturing an audience's attention and sparking creativity.Guy’s Links:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/guy-baker-33149611Instagram: www.instagram.com/gjbaker75

Kassy’s Links:Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/Chapters00:00 - Welcome and guest introduction – from attorney to cosplay artist01:23 - The spectrum of cosplay: screen accuracy, closet cosplay, and embodiment02:37 - Role play as a tool for learning and engagement in training and leadership03:52 - Embodying characters: learning mannerisms, inflections, and authenticity05:23 - Creative costuming on a budget: DIY props, recycling materials, and resourcefulness07:05 - Lessons from cosplay for overcoming setbacks and embracing imperfections in training09:53 - Personal journey into cosplay: childhood costumes, conventions, and collection hobbies15:34 - The importance of continuous learning and adapting skills like sewing18:44 - Practical sewing tips and the value of experimentation and persistence24:17 - The significance of storytelling and creativity in costume design25:12 - Creative costuming in pop culture mashups and the power of imagination27:25 - Final thoughts on the role of creativity, imperfections, and resourcefulness in training and leadership28:34 - OutroTakeaways- Internalize character traits for authentic leadership and presence.- Use limitations to drive innovation and resourcefulness.- Adopt character mindsets to enhance influence and engagement.- Design your persona to strategically influence perceptions.- Focus on overall impact rather than perfection in details.cosplay, embodiment, creativity, leadership, role play, innovation, persona, authenticity, resourcefulness, communication

Summary

Join Kassy LaBorie in a deep and engaging conversation with David Kolmer, an instructional designer with a rich background in theater, opera, and education. They explore creativity, learning, cultural experiences, and the intersection of art and instructional design. David brings his experience working and living in Thailand to the show, and his happy-go-lucky approach to all aspects of his life. Be sure to tune into this inspiring and uplifting episode of The Spark Konnect!

David’s Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kolmer/

Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/gamelayer/ https://open.spotify.com/show/2BPCMbVCqtoBuEhL8zG0KNBlog: https://improvementdave.com/

Website: https://www.davidkolmer.com/

Instagram: @kolmer5 @gamelayer.fm

Kassy’s Links:

Website: https://kassylaborie.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Colmer's Journey

04:27 The Intersection of Art and Education

07:12 Theater as Therapy and Personal Growth

10:03 Cultural Immersion and Language Learning

12:55 Empathy and Human Connection

15:56 E-Learning and Instructional Design

19:38 Theater's Influence on Learning and Development

22:33 Philosophy and Aesthetics in Learning

29:21 Navigating Focus and Creativity

33:01 Embracing Imperfection in Learning

Takeaways

- Creativity is foundational for David and influences all aspects of his work.

- Theater training enhances listening and emotional awareness in learning.

- Immersive experiences are key to language acquisition and cultural understanding.

- Authenticity and genuine aesthetics resonate more than manufactured appearances (but we still love some kitsch!)

Instructional Design, Creativity, Theater, Opera, Learning, Cultural Experience, Educational Technology, Personal Growth

Summary

In this brand new episode of the Spark Konnect, body language expert and former professional cyclist Traci L.  Brown shares insights on how to read what people are saying subliminally, the mental side of sports, confidence, and how athletic discipline translates into effective communication and personal growth. Tune in for an engaging discussion that challenges our perspective on self-confidence and growth.

Traci’s Links:

• Website: https://storymatterscompany.com/

• Newsletter Sign-up: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/o1s37fe/lying

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BodyLanguageSpeaker 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bodylanguageexpert1/ 

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bodylanguagetraci 

Kassy’s Links:

• Website: https://kassylaborie.com/ 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassylaborie/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tracy L. Brown

03:59 The Intersection of Body Language and Cycling

06:49 Hypnosis and Mental Training in Sports

09:32 The Power of Confidence and Public Speaking

12:15 Understanding and Detecting Lies

15:10 The Importance of Authenticity in Communication

17:54 Confidence: A Personal Journey

19:59 Embracing Vulnerability and Choice

21:58 Understanding Body Language and Deception

24:15 The Journey of Learning and Music

27:32 Translating Athletic Confidence to Life

32:12 Exciting Future Announcements

33:25 Outro

Takeaways

• Reading body language and detecting deception is an important skill for leaders

• There is a strong connection between athletic discipline and mental toughness

• Hypnosis and neuro-linguistic programming can be effectively used for personal development

• Confidence comes from within

body language, behavior analysis, cycling, confidence, mental toughness, hypnosis, communication, leadership, stress, deception