By Florine Mark
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The podcast currently has 170 episodes available.
With Tareq Azim, entrepreneur and author
What scares you? Is it a fear of illness or death? Are you afraid of heights or enclosed spaces? Or, does the fear of failure in business or personal relationships scare you? Perhaps it’s a fear of the unknown. Some people suffer from an extreme fear of simply “being” afraid. “Phobophobia” is a rare medical condition characterized by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations or difficulty breathing that might even require a need for medication.
Although most of us don’t suffer from phobophobia, we all have times in our life when we’re afraid of something. But how that feeling of fear affects us can vary from simple anxiety to intense trauma that disrupts our daily life and could distort our perception of reality.
Whatever it is that makes our palms sweat, our heart pound, and triggers our fight or flight response, we want to run far away from whatever provokes those uncomfortable feelings. However, running away isn’t the answer. Because what happens the next time you come up against that very same fear-causing situation? Those feelings will surface again and again until we learn to overcome our fear.
One of the keys to overcoming fear is knowing what the triggers are and understanding the underlying cause. Sometimes just talking through our fear and exploring what to do in the event of a worst-case scenario might be enough to loosen the hold that phobia has over us. The very act of imagining how we would respond might provide the confidence to know we’ll get through it.
Phobias such as the fear of swimming or being underwater might be addressed over time by learning to swim and increasing our comfort level in the water. But in the beginning, just knowing what to do when we are overcome with panic is a big part of managing our fear going forward. Getting to a quiet place, calming ourselves with deep breathing exercises or meditation, and focusing our thoughts on something comforting or empowering are all things we can do in the moment to work through that fear.
If you want to learn more about how we can stop letting fear rule our lives, then please listen to Florine’s interview with entrepreneur and author, Tareq Azim, whose book, Empower, Conquering the Disease of Fear, provides some wonderful strategies for learning how to overcome our fears.
Hi, I’m Florine Mark, and welcome to “Today’s Takeaway.” Have you ever been afraid to try something because you were convinced you would fail?
Sometimes anxiety and our fear of failure can paralyze us especially if we think we’ll let others down. We may even sabotage our efforts by giving up too easily. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? What if we could learn to control our fear rather than allow it to control us? What if the very thing we fear most, could actually motivate us to succeed? When we are faced with no other alternative, then perhaps fear could help us achieve something we might not otherwise try.
My guest today is Tareq Azim. A former college football star, entrepreneur, and author, Tareq grew up the son of Afghan refugees, who fled the Soviet invasion with their young family, in search of a better life in America. He is also the founder of Empower, a unique fitness training facility where he works with elite athletes such as NFL superstar, Marshawn Lynch. But in addition to training sports legends, Tareq also works with ordinary individuals who aren’t professional athletes. But regardless of who he is training, Tareq’s approach is the same; he doesn’t see himself as their coach, but rather, as their teammate. Tareq is helping his teammates achieve their dreams by overcoming their fears and strengthening their mind, body, and spirit. Recognizing that his unique training methods could work in a variety of ways, Tareq wrote a book called, Empower, Conquering the Disease of Fear. He’s here today
to share his philosophy and some of his training techniques with us to help us overcome our fears.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Tareq talks about how his family coming to the United States from Afghanistan influenced the shape of his entire life.
How did sports help Tareq feel accepted and valuable growing up, and what do they mean to him today?
Tareq’s desire to join the Navy Seals or Air Force Special Operations was motivated by a desire to overcome fear and utilize it for growth.
What led Tareq to play Division 1 football?
How did Tareq end up training elite athletes?
Why does Tareq call his fitness clients his “teammates”?
Why is fear the biggest driving force in our lives?
What can we learn from fear?
How did Tareq overcome his fear when he met with a Taliban warlord to open a women’s boxing gym in Afghanistan?
What did Tareq learn from visiting Afghanistan after 9/11?
Tareq talks more about his book, Empower.
Today’s Takeaway:
Fear can paralyze us. We might be so afraid to step outside of our comfort zone or do something different, that sometimes we don’t even try! But think of all the lost opportunities! All the life experiences we may have missed out on, the jobs or promotions we failed to apply for, or the chance to start a relationship with someone. We lose out simply because we allow our fears to control us. But if we change our mindset to overcome these fears, we might be able to change our lives for the better.
Tareq’s book, Empower gives some amazing examples of just how much can be accomplished once we learn to embrace our fear. By working through that fear rather than running to avoid it, we can go far beyond what we ever imagined might be possible. Sometimes to accomplish change, instead of focusing on our differences, why not focus on what we share in common? Tareq used the shared love of sports to inspire change in Afghanistan by establishing a Women’s Boxing Federation. To gain approval for this program, Tareq had to overcome his fear when meeting with Taliban warlords. His methods demonstrate how the most important and overlooked area in our body is our brain! By working to understand what we fear and overcoming our discomfort, we can accomplish amazing things! Remember that every single day is a gift and when we embrace fear as a gift rather than a burden, we can grow even stronger with that gift and unlock our true potential. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“Sports gave me freedom. Sports made me feel what I was seeking to feel, and what I still seek to feel as an adult, which is accepted, valuable, and relevant.” — Tareq [7:16]
“I realized that it was fear that was preventing our growth, and it was fear that was preventing our capability and our capacity.” — Tareq [8:31]
“I'm not necessarily fighting fear, but I’m embracing fear and utilizing it for why it exists.” — Tareq [8:51]
“I’m very, very proud of being an individual of Afghan having the American Opportunity.” — Tareq [13:11]
“We’ve been so embraced with open arms since the day we've come to this country.” — Tareq [13:43]
“I always believed that sport and physical activity is one of the most underutilized medications for mental and emotional health disorders.” — Tareq [14:26]
“My teammates, or my clients, actually do more for me than I do for them.” — Tareq [16:09]
“I’m obsessed with trying to find the biggest problems in the world that people haven’t been able to solve.” — Tareq [18:29]
“Fear is, in my perspective, actually designed to just make you conscious, and hold you accountable to your truths.” — Tareq [20:46]
“What sport gave me is this capability and this recognition of what a peace and reconciliation tool it could be for a being.” — Tareq [25:13]
“I learned the value of being and believing in destiny. I also learned about the power and the influence of intentionality and communication.” — Tareq [29:29]
Brought to You By:
Gardner White Furniture
Mentioned in This Episode:
Tareq on Instagram
Tareq Azim
Empower: Conquering the Disease of Fear
With Bonnie Burk, the Director of Recruitment at IntegriSource
Despite dire predictions based on labor strikes, global wars, and the reoccurring threats of inflation and recession, employment growth in the United States remained strong throughout 2023. But what lies ahead for 2024? What industries are hiring and what markets are downsizing their employee base? Where are the best job opportunities and how does the rising demand for Artificial Intelligence and other new emerging technologies impact the employment market?
As our population ages and skilled workers retire, that leaves a shortage of qualified talent to replace them. In the past, employers would automatically disqualify or dismiss candidates without a college degree, but from a recruitment standpoint today, they might need to focus less on degree-based hiring in favor of skill-based hiring. Companies that plan to hire additional staff should be prepared to match current market wages if they hope to remain competitive and recruit quality talent.
According to Bonnie Burk, the Director of Recruitment at IntegriSource, a staffing company that specializes in IT and Computer Engineering, service industries like healthcare, hospitality, and transportation continue to be plagued by labor shortages, while other industries such as the tech sector are aggressively reducing their headcount. While their core business staff may remain intact, these companies will continue to right-size their staffing needs by trimming other departments such as legal, accounting, and HR. Although the demand for Artificial Intelligence is growing rapidly, it can’t replace the need for a creative workforce or specially trained, skilled workers.
Even as employers prioritize onsite attendance, job seekers are pushing back against the “return to office” trend in favor of remote or hybrid opportunities that offer more flexibility and a better work-life balance. While it’s expected that wages will remain relatively flat, employers may focus instead on cost-of-living increases. Mature job seekers who have suddenly found themselves unemployed may want to remember the following when updating their resumes. Make sure that the resume length is no more than two pages in total. If you fear your age might work against you, it’s okay to leave out the dates of your education and the former employment periods. For more information on current employment trends and tips, please check out Florine’s 2022 interview with Bonnie.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
How did Bonnie get into recruiting?
How is the job market different today than in the past?
Why are employees changing jobs so frequently today?
How can companies afford to pay what job seekers are desiring and still make money?
What are some of the biggest challenges that employees currently have in finding qualified candidates?
What about workers such as administrative professionals or technicians?
How criminal background and driving records can often be an obstacle for those seeking employment.
What industries offer the greatest hiring opportunities in today’s job market?
Why are so many long-term employees deciding on early retirement?
The importance of leaving your current place of employment on a good note.
Bonnie shares her professional recommendations for companies facing a personnel shortage.
Today’s Takeaway:
One of the biggest concerns for employers in 2022 has been the difficulty in hiring and retaining qualified employees. The Department of Labor statistics indicate there are presently 11.3 million job openings which equates to 1.7 jobs available for every unemployed person. This would suggest that job seekers would have an easy time finding a job and yet, despite aggressive salary offers, companies have been unable to fill open positions. Although the desire to work remotely has definitely impacted the current job market, that’s not the only reason why there are so many job openings. The number of highly-skilled workers who voluntarily left the workforce since 2020 seeking early retirement is significantly higher than in recent years. Replacing these individuals with their unique skill sets or finding qualified individuals who meet specific job requirements is one of the biggest challenges for companies and recruiters. Although the job market might be filled with job-seeking individuals, they may lack the credentials and skill sets needed for a particular job posting. These positions can remain open and unfilled for months if not years while the employer waits for the ideal candidate to appear.
In addition, as we’ve heard, other factors may automatically disqualify candidates from certain jobs, such as people who can’t pass background checks due to their criminal background, education level, or immigration status. So what’s the answer? Should employers relax their strict employment requirements? Offer advanced schooling grants or on-the-job training? Should the government allocate funds for tax credits in exchange for continuing education or advanced degrees in specific fields? Employers may need to rethink their approach to talent acquisition to change how they address employee retention and staffing to keep their workforce competitive. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of having an enjoyable, fulfilling job that not only allows us to pay our bills but offers the chance for continuing education and advancement is truly a gift. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“The easiest way to get a bump in salary is to switch jobs.” — Bonnie [10:10]
“There is a huge skills mismatch with the people who are actively looking for a new role and the posted jobs there.” — Bonnie [12:15]
“Sometimes ageism comes into play. I see that more than any other diversity issue.” — Bonnie [17:59]
“I believe being a teacher is one of the greatest things you can do.” — Florine [19:24]
“There are so many people looking for a new role.” — Bonnie [23:48]
“For current employees, I really suggest that they (employers) upskill or cross-train and promote their internal employees. You want to hang on to the ones you already have.” — Bonnie [29:40]
“Growth doesn’t always mean a higher salary.” — Bonnie [31:58]
Brought to You By:
Gardner White Furniture
Mentioned in This Episode:
IntegriSource
With Jessica Golbus, Clinical Instructor in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine from the University of Michigan Medical School
Are you familiar with the term “wearable medical technology?” If not, perhaps you should be. One of the biggest advances in the field of medicine today has been the use of medical devices like smartwatches and home health monitoring equipment. Patients and medical professionals alike have noted significant benefits when using these devices to monitor and treat a variety of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The mainstream use of wearable health technology has become so popular that insurance companies and even employers are now willing to provide these devices free of charge. Health insurance companies recognize there’s a beneficial subscriber impact from a reduction in hospital visits, which translates to huge cost savings for the insurer. By providing the subscriber with a device, the patient can now play a role in monitoring their health and be aware of any changes before they reach a critical point that requires hospital admission. Some employers are also willing to provide these devices because a healthier employee is more reliable, which equates to a reduction in employee turnover and a more stable workforce.
To learn more about the various types of devices and the role they play in aiding patient health, we’re going to be speaking with Dr. Jessica Golbus, a Clinical Instructor in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School. Her research focuses on how digital health technology, like smartwatches, can improve the quality of care and treatment for patients with advanced heart disease.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
What are wearable medical devices?
Some examples of wearable devices, such as the Oura ring, the AFib History App on the Apple Watch, and FitBit.
What is the Kardia6L?
How do wearable devices transmit data, and what should we do with that data?
The benefits of wearable devices such as fitness trackers.
More about the type of patient that should wear a medical device.
Other types of home monitoring equipment that are popular today.
The innovations Jessica sees for medical devices in the future.
Jessica talks more about the research she is doing at the Wearables in Reducing Risk and Enhancing Daily Life-style (WIRED-L) Center.
What types of things can we do to improve our cardiovascular health?
Today’s Takeaway:
We’re so very fortunate to live during a time when medical science and innovation play such a critical role in improving the quality of life and perhaps even saving patient lives. As we’ve heard, wearable tech devices are improving the lives of cardiac patients who are now able to monitor their condition and be alerted in the event of an irregular heartbeat. Studies indicate that cardiac rehab patients benefit from using wearable devices in conjunction with exercise-based rehabilitation programs. The latest version of the Apple Watch can actually measure an EKG to detect A-Fib and the information can be shared with their treating physicians. Diabetic patients can wear medical devices that continuously monitor blood sugar levels to alert them of changes based on their food or activity levels. These CGMs can even be used with insulin pumps that deliver insulin directly into their body when needed. According to Business Insider Intelligence research, more than a quarter of the U.S. population will use wearable technology in 2024. The field of medical technology is only in its infancy. It’s only going to continue to grow and expand from here as we continue to learn and discover what these devices can do in terms of the quality of information and care they provide. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from using the wonderful monitoring tools and devices at our disposal is a gift that can literally save lives! I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“We typically think of wearable devices as capturing data passively. There are things that you’re most familiar with, such as step count, location, heart rate, sleep, which can also collect data actively.” — Jessica [5:18]
“One of the things that is interesting is you can bring together both actively and passively collected wearable devices to form kind of composite scores or to make inferences.” — Jessica [6:03]
“I think it's really important that readers understand that there is actually little ability right now for patients to share their data with their clinicians in any sort of automated fashion. It's really beholden upon them to take ownership over their wearable device data.” — Jessica [6:38]
“Not all data is created equal from a wearable device.” — Jessica [6:40]
“We can all benefit from increased physical activity. So if you think of it from that perspective, I think we could all benefit from owning a wearable device like a smartwatch.” — Jessica [10:38]
“When I think about what I'm excited about in the future, it’s about the application of this technology to improve health.” — Jessica [14:42]
“You can imagine how much more helpful it would be if I could see how somebody’s physical activity levels changed over time to get that longitudinal continuous view over their health, and so I think that that is going to be a really ripe area for research. Right now, we really don’t know how to interpret that data to make clinical decisions, and so I don’t think that the wearable device data is being used as effectively as it could be.” — Jessica [15:46]
Brought to You By:
Gardner White Furniture
Mentioned in This Episode:
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School
Jessica Golbus
With Cathy Russ, Director of The West Bloomfield Michigan Public Library
As the snow and cold weather arrive, there’s no better time to hunker down and catch up on our reading. But with so many newly released books, it’s hard even to know where to begin. Thankfully, your local librarian can offer some great recommendations. According to Cathy Russ, the Director of The West Bloomfield Michigan Public Library, celebrity autobiographies are extremely popular right now. In addition to number-one bestsellers by Matthew Perry and Britney Spears, recently published memoirs by Henry Winkler, Barbara Streisand, and Dolly Parton make great holiday gifts.
Or, if you prefer best-selling fiction novels, Cathy suggests, The Exchange, the sequel to John Grisham’s blockbuster novel, The Firm. If you’re looking for your next book club, check out Tom Lake, by Ann Patchett, an emotionally gripping family saga that takes place during the pandemic in Northern Michigan.
According to Cathy, the availability of digital streaming Apps like Hoopla and Kanopy makes lending libraries more accessible than ever before. In addition to eBooks and movies, you can borrow your favorite audiobook or download music to your phone. You can even take advantage of the library waiting list through the App and place a hold on a particular item. Best of all, instead of paying a monthly surcharge to your favorite music streaming service, the cost is free. Just think of the money you’ll save!
But did you know that many public libraries also offer a full range of business services? When was the last time you visited your local library? If it’s been a while, you might be surprised to learn all the amazing things the library provides these days. In addition to internet access, printing, scanning, and faxing, many libraries also have private meeting rooms available.
One of the advantages of “working” from a library is the convenient hours of operation. The majority of public libraries offer evening hours and are open seven days a week. If you need help researching a particular topic or perhaps studying industry trends for a new business venture, why not ask the librarian for help? You could even access the library database from the comfort of your own home. Finally, to keep up with all the latest offerings, you can follow your Library on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook to learn about upcoming events. Please listen to Florine’s 2021 interview with Cathy Russ.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
What happens at a book club?
How are book clubs organized, and who usually picks the book?
What happens if you don’t like the book you’re assigned to read?
Do themed book clubs exist?
How book clubs can help you expand your knowledge and even what you are interested in reading.
What are some of the most popular authors and books right now?
What are Book Group kits?
Cathy talks about a few of her favorite books that she’s read this year, including Firekeeper’s Daughter and The Thursday Murder Club.
What is the Best Seller’s Club and the Reader’s Advisory?
Some of the fun and fabulous events and programming at the West Bloomfield Public Library.
Cathy explains the benefits of two apps: Hoopla and Kanopy.
Today’s Takeaway:
Talking about a well-loved book is not only fun, but it can also enhance our understanding of others who have differing perspectives. By reading and learning about other races, cultures, or philosophies, we put ourselves into the mindset and emotions of others who think and live differently than we do. Discussing a particularly thought-provoking book with others can introduce unfamiliar concepts that may be foreign to our experience but might ultimately foster a greater sense of unity and actually bring people together or inspire compromise. Instead of observing from a distance, perhaps we may learn the reasons behind their beliefs or actions. And at a time when we are so divided as a nation and as a society, that can only be a good thing! In addition, public libraries offer many free resources and the opportunity to participate in fun community events. If you haven’t visited your public library in a while, what are you waiting for? There’s no better gift right now than treating yourself to your new favorite book and taking some much-needed “me time” to pause, read and reflect! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“Book clubs can be organized in whatever way suits the book club. Some people have a book club, but it's really a wine club where they occasionally talk about books. Some people really want to get right into the book and only talk about the book. So I think the important thing is however the club is organized is that it meets the needs of its members.” — Cathy [5:16]
“The key to the organization of book clubs is just to make sure everybody's on the same page, if you will, and that everybody understands what the purpose is.” — Cathy [5:55]
“That's the beauty of book clubs because it’s not one size fits all. And it really can be tailored to what you want it to be.” — Cathy [8:11]
“Some of the best book discussions come from when people don’t like the book.” — Cathy [8:40]
“You have a different take on it than I do, and we can have a cool discussion just about that.” — Cathy [12:19]
“Virtual book clubs grew in popularity, because it was a way for people to connect, and it was a way for people to talk about something other than the pandemic, and talk about stories and stay in touch and have discussions that weren't about politics necessarily, or about things that were dividing us, but things that were bringing us together.” — Cathy [13:04]
Brought to You By:
Florine Mark
Mentioned in This Episode:
West Bloomfield Public Library
West Bloomfield Public Library Facebook
West Bloomfield Public Library Instagram
Cathy Russ on LinkedIn
With Haley Cassar, professional makeup artist and skin care advocate
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a professional makeup artist working behind the scenes at a fashion show or photoshoot? Behind those beautiful, glamorous photos, the makeup artist is busy putting in days or even weeks of research and preparation ahead of the shoot to achieve the client’s theme and artistic vision.
While most of us don’t have the opportunity to appear in a designer fashion show, we can still book an appointment for a professional makeup application. And with the holidays right around the corner, there’s no better time to start planning our look for that special occasion. A good starting point is knowing what colors and techniques are trending right now. According to professional makeup artist and skin care advocate, Haley Cassar, big, bold statement lips paired with smokey eyes in bronze or brown shades are especially popular right now. Hair can be worn up or pulled back and accessorized with headbands and clips. Add a bit more blush and false lashes and you’re ready for your big night out!
Since having a professional makeup artist isn’t an everyday option for most of us, we asked Haley what are some of the biggest mistakes women make when applying their own makeup? Not surprisingly, she said that wearing too much makeup when we’re trying to cover up imperfections can actually backfire and draw more attention if it looks caked on. Keep in mind that not every new trend or technique is right for you. For example, if you have a very narrow face, contouring can make your features look harsh. When working with a new client, Haley says that the first step is to carefully evaluate their appearance and accentuate their natural beauty.
A professional makeup artist knows how to minimize a particular feature by covering up thin lips, large pores, or droopy eyelids. But the most important tip of all is to apply makeup in a way that will compliment your features and enhance your appearance. If you want to hear more skincare and makeup tips, please check out Florine’s interview with Haley Cassar.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
How Haley’s background as an artist helped her get into beauty and skin care.
Why is having a good skincare routine the first step in applying makeup?
What are the main steps for a good skincare routine?
What are retinol and hyaluronic acid, and what do they do?
The most important things to remember when applying makeup.
What is a tinted moisturizer, and why does Haley recommend them?
What is a “no makeup” makeup look?
Haley’s pick for her product to get that “no makeup makeup” look.
Why do women get stuck in a rut or a dated routine with their makeup application?
Tips for building a base before you put on makeup so that it lasts for the whole day.
How can we achieve that glamorous look?
Today’s Takeaway:
I know I look better when I take the time to put a touch of makeup on. From a mental health standpoint, doing something that makes us feel better about ourselves is a sign of a healthy sense of self and indicative of good self-care. For me, it’s part of my daily routine and when I’m getting dressed in the morning or applying a little makeup, I like to listen to music. It’s also a great time to listen to a podcast and just enjoy some soothing “me time.” Having a routine that is familiar and a constant in our lives can feel very comforting. Remember that every day is a gift and sometimes the simplest of things, such as routinely applying makeup, styling our hair, or doing those early morning stretches to make ourselves start the day with a smile can be the best gift of all. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“You want to have a really good skincare routine because you want your face to be like a smooth canvas.” — Haley [6:18]
“Always make sure you have built your layers with your skincare first. Always, always, always.” — Haley [10:38]
“The “no makeup makeup” is when you're using the least amount of things possible to make you feel comfortable to get out the door.” — Haley [12:46]
“If I had to pick one makeup to use the rest of my life as a “no makeup makeup” look, it would be mascara.” — Haley [13:21]
“It's really just what makes you feel comfortable and what gives you a little bit of alertness to your look.” — Haley [13:46]
“I use all different products from all different locations and I always use them on myself first before I use them on a client.” — Haley [16:28]
“I just think that switching up your routine will help you get kind of out of a rut. Small little tweaks make the biggest difference.” — Haley [16:50]
“I think if you're ever going to a special occasion… wear lashes. You can never go wrong with lashes.” — Haley [19:52]
Brought to You By:
Florine Mark
Mentioned in This Episode:
Haley Cassar
Haley Cassar on Linkedin
Dermologica
With Denise Ilitch, podcaster and President of Ilitch Enterprises
When you grow up in one of the most influential and successful families in the country, your family name and reputation precede you. People may feel they know you before you’ve even been introduced. While a family name can open doors and expose you to amazing opportunities, there is also the inherited weight of that family legacy.
Denise Ilitch recalls how her parents invested their life savings in a little pizza store in Garden City, Michigan. Although it was a big risk, that purchase eventually became the fastest-growing pizza franchise in America. It paved the way for what is now one of the most successful global enterprises in the world. Today, the Ilitch family empire includes two major league sports teams, several entertainment complexes, and extensive real estate holdings. Mike and Marian Ilitch never took their success for granted and believed in the importance of giving back to those less fortunate. They first opened the Little Caesars Love Kitchen in 1985 as a way to aid disaster victims and feed the hungry. To date, more than 6.5 million meals have been provided to those in need. Founded in 2000, the Ilitch Charities organization made it possible to do more and they’ve donated thousands of volunteer hours and $250 million to worthy causes in support of community programs.
From an early age, Denise was taught to prioritize hard work and the importance of giving back. When her father would ask, “What did you contribute to the world today?” there was never any doubt as to what was expected of her and Denise embraced that challenge fully. Today, Denise is considered one of the most influential businesswomen in America. Over the past 30 years, she has distinguished herself as a respected business leader, an advocate for women and children, an outspoken community leader, and a philanthropist. She’s also a mother and devoted Grandmother.
In addition to her duties as President of Ilitch Enterprises, LLC, Denise will launch her campaign for a third term as a University of Michigan Regent along with the next season of her podcast, “The Denise Ilitch Show.” Well-versed in politics, Denise is a frequent guest on the Sunday CBS News Morning roundtable, “Michigan Matters.” She recently appeared alongside Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan Barnett and CEO of Michigan Business Network, Chris Holman, touching on a wide range of topics from the UAW strike, the horrific terrorist attack in Israel, and the Detroit Lions. You won’t want to miss Florine’s interview with the very accomplished and inspirational, Denise Ilitch.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
What was it like for Denise growing up in a family of seven children, that also happened to be one of the most powerful families in the U.S.?
Why did Denise’s father and mother decide on pizza?
What was Little Caesars like from the beginning, before it became one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the country?
What lessons did Denise learn from both her very successful father and mother?
Denise’s parents were both different personalities, but they worked together perfectly.
Much to Florine’s delight, Denise’s mother, Marian, was the first guest on her “Remarkable Women” radio show.
The Ilitch family’s vital role in rebuilding the city of Detroit and renovating The Fox Theater.
Denise discusses Ilitch Charities and Little Caesars Love Kitchen.
What it was like for her father Mike to purchase the Detroit Tigers as a huge baseball lover. Fun fact — he was even drafted by the Tigers before buying them in 1992!
Denise’s tragic loss of a brother due to addiction, and the lesson it taught her about how important it is to reach out for help.
Denise talks about her role as a Regent at the University of Michigan.
What are the biggest issues facing women and children today?
What would we be surprised to learn about Denise?
Today’s Takeaway:
Being named one of Crain’s 100 Most Influential Women is a tremendous honor. Just as her mother was previously recognized for the very same award, Denise exemplifies what it means to be one of the city’s most influential women. She’s an outstanding businesswoman, community leader, and someone who advocates tirelessly on behalf of others. Denise inherited a family legacy that’s been credited with rebuilding a major American city. She was taught the importance of giving back to the community and guards her family legacy with grace and dignity. She continues to inspire and provide leadership in business, philanthropy, and education. Denise uses her podcast as a platform to motivate and inform others. Her guests are people she admires for their confidence, perseverance, and how they dealt with adversity. Every single day gives us gifts. My gift today is to talk to Denise and honor her for all the wonderful and amazing things that she has done in her life. She is truly an outstanding woman and role model! I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“Many people told them pizza was a trend, but of course, he proved it wasn’t.” — Denise [7:28]
“We all ended up at some point or another working in the family business because that’s what it was when we started from day one.” — Denise [8:18]
“There are so many lessons I’ve learned from [my father]. But, I would say probably the biggest lesson is to be kind to others, to be humble, and to give back to the community.” — Denise [9:02]
“What I admire about my mom and what I’ve seen her do in the business is that she perseveres. Failure is not an option.” — Denise [10:44]
“He bought the Tigers and for him, it was a dream come true. It was really like watching a passionate fan run the team.” — Denise [17:26]
“Reach out for help, as much as you can.” — Denise [18:08]
“I encourage people, not to allow that stigma to stand in the way of getting help for your loved one.” — Denise [19:32]
“It’s a family disease, not just the disease of one person.” — Denise [19:42]
“It's a privilege for me to be a regent at the University of Michigan. It's my alma mater. I love the University and I love the work that we do. It's very exciting and fun to be on the board because you can help students and you can help people.” — Denise [20:51]
Brought to You By:
Florine Mark
Mentioned in This Episode:
Denise Ilitch — The University of Michigan
Little Caesars
Ilitch Companies
Denise Ilitch Show
Detroit Tigers
With Sterling Hawkins, Motivational Speaker, Business Consultant and Author
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your life is falling apart and you feel like a total failure? Perhaps you’ve been laid off from your dream job or a long-standing relationship is suddenly over. You might feel as if your entire world has come crashing down.
When we’re at a low point in our lives, the obstacles in front of us may seem insurmountable. We know things will eventually get better, but how can we dig ourselves out of this hole and find the strength to go on? It’s hard to even know where to begin.
Perhaps the answer might be staring us right in the face. Maybe the very thing we fear most can become the pathway forward. According to business consultant, motivational speaker, and author,
Sterling Hawkins, fear shouldn’t paralyze us or be an excuse not to pursue our dreams. Sterling says we should actively seek out the source of our discomfort, and then face it head-on rather than run from it.
During an interview with Florine in September of 2022, Sterling spoke about his book, “Hunting Discomfort.” Sterling shares how he overcame his own deepest fear and how he was able to find success. If you want to learn more about his step-by-step plan to get past the fears that block you from achieving your dreams, please listen to Florine’s interview with Sterling Hawkins.
Please note: This episode was recorded prior to Florine’s death in October of 2023.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
How does discomfort negatively affect us?
Sterling describes “discomfort” from a business or corporate perspective.
Sterling’s fall from the top after thinking he was going to cash in selling his business. He found himself in his 30s, six figures in debt, living with his parents, and feeling inadequate.
Why is turning away discomfort so detrimental to us?
What if you are already uncomfortable and fear embracing even more discomfort?
What are our “discomfort defaults”?
How did Sterling overcome his fear of public speaking, even after his first presentation in Singapore when he felt as if he had failed?
The 5 Steps to Getting Through Discomfort.
What is a street gang?
Sterling gives a few inspirational success stories from clients and people he’s met along the way.
Today’s Takeaway:
Sterling’s book is called “Hunting Discomfort.” In his book, he provides a terrific five-step plan for how to overcome our biggest challenges. We don’t have to deny ourselves the career success or the personal achievements we dream of, simply because it hasn’t worked out in the past. Instead, think of today as a fresh start and a chance for a “do-over.” Are you willing to pursue your dream “No Matter What”? If so, then the first step is identifying the obstacles that have previously blocked you from reaching your goals. Allowing your past to control your future limits your true potential. It’s important to remember that the past is simply that, the past. It has little or no bearing on the present or the future unless we choose to let it. Don’t resign yourself and think this is just the way it is. It doesn’t have to be — not if you’re willing to do the hard work by facing your discomfort.
Start thinking of your belief system as a muscle that needs to be exercised. Remember the very first time you tried a physical fitness workout and you were convinced you’d never be able to do it? But over time and with repetition, you were successful. Do you remember how wonderful it felt? Despite your doubts, you pushed through the discomfort to get the desired result. It’s the same way with challenging our beliefs, we need to push past those thoughts that are crippling our progress.
Instead of accepting the status quo, dream bigger and reach higher! Challenge yourself! Stop letting those feelings of doubt and fear block you! Do something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Make that commitment! That new and different experience could be just what you need to jumpstart the future you dream of. Sterling teaches us that growth is only possible if we lean into the discomfort and face it head-on. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift of feeling that discomfort could lead to growth and ultimately, put you on the path to success. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“I went from this sure thing of success, we’re going to all go public and buy islands and crown ourselves the next Steve Jobs, to living in my parents' house in my 30s, which is quite a humbling experience, I have to say.” — Sterling [7:75]
“The only way out is through.” — Robert Frost [8:45]
“I said, okay, if the way out is through, I’m going to go after the things that scare me most.” — Sterling [10:00]
“Your greatest challenges are the doorways to what will become your greatest successes.” — Sterling [12:38]
“You’re not only the joy and the happiness and the good times. You’re equally and just as validly, the uncomfortable moments, the painful moments, the sorrowful moments, maybe even anger-filled moments.” — Sterling [13:37]
“If you want to build your resilience, your courage, your breakthrough results, you hunt the discomfort, no matter what form it’s in and no matter how it feels.” — Sterling [16:39]
Brought to You By:
Gardner White Furniture
Mentioned in This Episode:
Hunting Discomfort: How to Get Breakthrough Results in Life and Business No Matter What, by Sterling Hawkins
Sterling Hawkins
With Lisa Lapides Sawicki, Certified Life Coach and Motivational Speaker
We frequently hear the term “self-sabotage” but what does it mean? What is self-sabotage and how can it harm us? When we act, consciously or unconsciously, in a way that prevents us from achieving a long-desired goal, that is self-sabotage. Common examples of sabotaging behaviors might take the form of missing an important deadline at work, eating a tub of ice cream while on a diet to lose weight, self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, or abruptly ending a happy relationship, simply out of a fear of being hurt. In each of these examples, the person who self-sabotages does so out of an abundance of fear that they will ultimately fail. As a result, they quit before they can be seen as a failure by others. But quitting on their own initiative feels like the safer option because it gives them the control.
What causes us to self-sabotage? We all have unresolved issues. For example, if a person has a history of low self-esteem, a difficult childhood, or an emotionally abusive relationship, these are just a few of the issues that can lead to self-sabotaging behaviors. If you haven’t dealt with your personal demons and believe you’re not deserving or worthy of success, you may find yourself creating barriers that prevent it.
A person can spend their entire life being unwilling to “put themselves out there” because of their fear of failure. But the good news is that we can learn how to overcome our self-destructive tendencies. If you want to learn how to recognize this pattern, you’ll want to listen to Florine’s interview with Certified Life Coach and Motivational Speaker, Lisa Lapides Sawicki. Lisa’s workshops help uncover how our thoughts, feelings, and actions direct our lives and more importantly, how we can learn to change our behavior and overcome these destructive impulses.
Please note: This episode was recorded prior to Florine’s death in October of 2023.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Why do we self-sabotage?
What are some common ways that people sabotage themselves?
Examples of negative self-beliefs and habits that keep people stuck or sabotaging their dreams to stay safe.
Can self-sabotage be related to addiction?
People may respond negatively or in unkind ways when you set boundaries and stop self-sabotaging.
Is self-sabotage always connected to achieving a goal?
What does Lisa mean by the “monkey mind”?
How can we break through self-sabotage in a positive way?
How to deal with people who are jealous or insecure about your success or who try to sabotage your dreams.
How our background and childhood could affect how we think and talk to ourselves about what’s possible.
Why people sabotage themselves in romantic relationships.
What is cognitive dissonance?
How do we learn to stop sabotage?
Today’s Takeaway:
A fear of commitment, low self-esteem, or feeling that we don’t deserve to be happy or successful in life are just some of the reasons why we deliberately sabotage ourselves. If you’re always missing out on that dream job or if that happy long-term relationship is just out of reach, maybe it’s time to ask yourself if you are the obstacle. Are you getting in the way of achieving your hopes and dreams? There is nothing shameful in admitting we might be sabotaging ourselves. You may need help in overcoming those behaviors but think of it as an opportunity to learn and grow so you can finally be happy to live the life you desire.
Stop procrastinating. The future you dream of starts now! Set a realistic and attainable goal for yourself and go after it. Put together a “road map” outlining each of the steps along your journey to success. Instead of taking actions that undermine your progress, hold yourself accountable by sharing your progress with your support team at every stage of the journey. Celebrate every small victory and be proud of your accomplishment! If you do that consistently and enjoy each small step, you’ll be well on your way to realizing your dreams. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from changing our behavior to ensure we accomplish our goals is a gift that will keep on giving. You too can realize your dreams and build the life you always dreamed of for yourself. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“Self-sabotage is when we actively, passively or unconsciously think thoughts and take action (or no action) that absolutely sabotages our success, wants, goals, or desires.” — Lisa [4:45]
“For some people, they have really big regrets when they don’t accomplish something that they have continued to self-sabotage their whole life.” — Lisa [5:51]
“I think overwhelmingness can be self-sabotage. Pressure, not focusing, being too embarrassed to share with people some of their goals.” — Lisa [7:15]
“A lot of people have a fear of success, and they absolutely sabotage their opportunities when they come up.” — Lisa [7:26]
“If you make your custom design plan, it doesn't have to be anybody else's plan. It's your plan.” — Lisa [8:12]
“I think it’s about boundary setting with other people when you want to go through a desired goal or new behavior.” — Lisa [10:06]
“There’s a lot of ways besides our goals that we self-sabotage. It’s like that monkey mind that comes.” — Lisa [11:20]
“You only have one day. It’s today.” — Florine [14:03]
“It’s a realistic self-awareness and a realistic response to what’s happening. It’s not just asking for a pie-in-the-sky result, but really saying, ‘I can positively handle whatever happens.’” — Lisa [14:11]
“It’s not about the outside world. It’s about working with who you are and doing the big things you want to do, and not letting anyone stop how far you want to go.” — Lisa [14:33]
“It takes a really strong person to not fall prey to the criticisms and the judgments of other people.” — Lisa [16:43]
“It's been fairly recent, but it's been a process of self-evolving and self-awareness and self-coaching.” — Lisa [19:54]
“We are going to be imperfect and we need to accept that.” — Lisa [31:33]
Brought to You By:
Gardner White Furniture
Mentioned in This Episode:
Lisa Lapides Sawicki
Self Coach Now Website
IG: @mycoachlisa
With Dr. Kim Eagle, a cardiologist from the University of Michigan and the Director of the Frankel Cardiovascular Center.
Did you know that October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month? What is a sudden cardiac arrest and how does it differ from a heart attack? Although the two are thought to be similar, they are actually quite different. A heart attack occurs when there is an insufficient flow of blood to the heart. This is typically caused by a circulatory problem such as a blockage or an Aneurysm. But a sudden cardiac arrest results from “an electrical failure” where the heart malfunctions due to an irregular rhythm and suddenly stops beating. While a heart attack may be preceded by a history of warning symptoms, such as fatigue or shortness of breath, a sudden cardiac arrest or SCA usually occurs without warning, and in 95% of the cases, it will be fatal. Although an unexpected blow to the chest, such as the one suffered by the Buffalo Bills’ Damar Hamlin, could disrupt the heart’s electrical rhythm, an acute onset of emotional distress or anxiety could also trigger life-threatening arrhythmias. The signs of sudden cardiac arrest are a sudden collapse and the loss of consciousness. If a person has stopped breathing after collapsing, it is likely they’re experiencing an SCA. It is critical to act immediately by calling 911 and promptly administering CPR. The likelihood of survival may increase if you have access to a portable defibrillator, more commonly known as an AED. These devices are frequently found in public places such as sports stadiums and come equipped with voice-guided instructions for use by untrained individuals. Prior to her death in October of 2023, Florine recorded an interview with Dr. Kim Eagle, a renowned cardiologist from the University of Michigan and the Director of the Frankel Cardiovascular Center. If you want to learn more about the signs and symptoms of heart disease and the simple lifestyle changes that could lessen your risk of a heart attack, please listen to Florine’s interview with Dr. Eagle.
Please note: This episode was previously recorded prior to Florine’s death in October of 2023.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
How does heart disease impact other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity?
What type of screening occurs for cardiac health?
The importance of getting an annual physical.
How does the lack of resources affect those who get treated for cardiovascular disease?
What are four simple things we can do to improve our heart health today?
What foods should we avoid for heart disease, and which should we try to eat more of?
What about coffee or alcohol?
How regular exercise helps to extend our life span.
How Dr. Kim gets in his 10,000+ steps a day.
Today’s Takeaway:
I want to thank Dr. Kim Eagle for being my guest today. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Every 36 seconds, someone in the U.S. dies from cardiovascular disease. On an annual basis, every one in four deaths in the U.S. are caused by heart disease. Since 2014, the financial toll in the U.S. from heart-related deaths including medical services, prescription drugs, and loss of productivity due to death exceeds $219 billion per year. That’s $219 billion and this year's numbers might well exceed that figure due to the complications of COVID-19! Something’s got to change. If you want to ensure that you and your loved ones don’t become part of these statistics, Dr. Eagle has given us four simple changes that you can implement today. If you just follow his suggestions, you can lessen your risk of developing heart disease. I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
When we talk to patients about trying to understand their risk and prevent future events, the first thing is to start with understanding their numbers, and that requires them to work with a doctor.” — Dr. Eagle [4:52]
“It's very important to have an annual physical.” — Dr. Eagle [6:05]
“Cardiovascular disease and resources matter.” — Dr. Eagle [6:35]
“When there is a disparity of socio-economic status, this can then lead to a lack of access to medical care, preventive therapies, and so forth.” — Dr. Eagle [7:51]
“If you look at your plate, you want your plate to be rich in color, full of fruits and fresh vegetables.” — Dr. Eagle [12:07]
“A Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, where the protein is a healthy protein.” — Dr. Eagle [13:11]
“Any movement at all is incredibly healthy for cardiovascular health, and also mental health.” — Dr. Eagle [16:37]
Brought to You By:
Gardner White Furniture
Mentioned in This Episode:
Dr. Kim Eagle Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Health
With David Norec, author and activist
The rate of childhood or pediatric obesity has increased dramatically in the past few years with approximately one-third of children in the U.S. diagnosed as overweight or obese. While many people may dismiss childhood obesity as something they’ll eventually grow out of, more often than not, obese children become obese adults who risk developing any number of health-related issues. Sadly, these same health consequences might have been avoided if their obesity had been addressed in childhood. Being overweight significantly increases the likelihood of a child developing type 2 diabetes and other potential health consequences, such as high blood pressure and sleep apnea, that could result from childhood obesity. Pediatric diabetes also increases the likelihood of developing serious health complications later in life such as retinopathy, neuropathy, kidney, and cardiovascular disease. But the risk is not just limited to physical consequences. Childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes are also associated with an increased risk for psychological problems such as severe depression, binge eating, and an overall reduced quality of life. Today, we’re going to be speaking with David Norec, an author and activist who is drawing attention to the problem of childhood obesity through his books and combating it in a wonderfully creative manner.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
David talks about how diabetes has impacted his life and affected his family.
What was it like for David growing up in the most obese city in America?
How did David get diagnosed with diabetes, and how has he changed his life?
What is type 2 diabetes and how does it differ from type 1?
The importance of getting physical movement every day. For David, it’s his daily walks at the mall.
What inspired David to write a book and create an action plan to address the problems of childhood obesity and diabetes?
More about David’s book, Exo and Cy, and how it inspires both parents and children to win the battle against obesity.
What are Storybook Walks and Fit Lit parks that encourage families to get out in the world and move?
Why a healthy lifestyle can be an ingredient in academic success.
Today’s Takeaway:
Childhood obesity has become an epidemic in the U.S., particularly in socioeconomically deprived communities where children don’t have access to healthy, well-balanced meals. As we learned from David, for the past six years, McAllen, Texas has been named the fattest city in America. Over 40% of the population in the Rio Grande Valley is currently obese or diabetic. Studies indicate that being overweight as a child or adolescent is one of the biggest risks for type 2 diabetes, especially when combined with a family history of diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle. That’s truly frightening when you consider that more than 1.5 million deaths a year are directly attributed to diabetes. But as we’ve heard today, early intervention is the key. Educating children and their parents on the importance of proper nutrition and daily physical activity is the first step. Making sure that at-risk children, especially those with food insecurity issues, have access to healthy meal options and safe opportunities for daily physical fitness can go a long way toward reversing a family history of obesity. Remember that every day is a gift and the gift we get from giving children the tools to become their own best health advocate from a young age, is a gift that will keep on giving for a lifetime! I’m Florine Mark, and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
Quotes:
“Diabetes is my family member, which is ridiculous and sad, but that’s my life.” — David [3:20]
“It’s a sad and slow process and it’s very difficult to see your loved ones go through that.” — David [5:20]
“It has to be part of life, and not just for diabetes, but other obesity-related illnesses, to just do something rather than just sitting inside and not doing anything.” — David [8:21]
“It’s too late for my brothers and too late for my sister, but it’s not too late for the next generation.” — David [9:14]
Brought to You By:
Gardner White Furniture
Mentioned in This Episode:
The Adventures of Exo and Cy
David Norec: Instagram
David Norec: LinkedIn
David Norec: Website
The podcast currently has 170 episodes available.