Warriors at Work

This week we welcome Lynn Casey, a highly sought after thought leader, brand builder and futurist helping industry leading organizations make the biggest leaps possible. Lynn is known for her unique ability to spot patterns and connect the dots of emerging sociocultural, digital, economic, and behavioral trends and translate those into actionable strategies. She has a unique ability to unpack authentic human stories and use these for connection and creation that has earned her renown as a channel for innovation.  

Lynn has traveled the world to work with and guide companies as diverse as Mattel, Activision, Facebook, Instagram, Citibank, Estee Lauder, Shiseido, and StockX seeking a more connected and human world.  Lynn has keynoted Future Trends and Leadership conferences in Abu Dhabi, Oslo, Prague, San Francisco, and New York, shining a light on critical shifts in post-pandemic behavior and desire and pulling forward a new hunger for belonging.  Her work has led to rebrands, rebuilds, and regeneration for major household brands. She is credited with creating bold new thinking and inspiration for employee teams at YouTube, Twitter, Shiseido, Care.org, Dannon, Target, and more. Recently, she has led teams of executives from Fortune 100 companies into the field for embedded ethnographic work, creating new paths of understanding.  Current projects include building a youth-helmed portal for a major new Gen Alpha IP brand, deep rethinking and regeneration of a legacy non-profit institution, as well as mentoring young leaders for a number of institutions and organizations including USC Marshall’s School of Business, and the Marketing Academy.  

A sought-after master coach, lecturer, and thought leader, Lynn brings a unique perspective to the Warrior Community.

(3:16) Why is Lynn doing this work and why now?  
(12:12) What makes a brand decide to bring in someone with Lynn’s talents?  
(20:02) Lynn discusses the ‘Curiosity Quotient’, and shares a story about her dad saying “Spend one hour a day on ideas”.   
(25:48) Lynn explores how “an idea is a thought in motion” and if we don’t focus on the end result we can free ourselves to explore what is possible?   
(28:30) How does Lynn want to bring the Curiosity Quotient forward?  
(33:27) How has our society engaged in “optimization fatigue”?  
(36:01) What are some of Lynn’s favorite patterns that she sees in her work, that she wants to bring attention to?  
(44:38) How does Lynn see her future and the impact of her work?

Connect with Lisa Gralnek
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-casey-shinescout/    

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I am thrilled to welcome Lisa Gralnek, a go-to resource on values driven leadership to discuss the importance of being present of our current state, while always planning for and thinking about tomorrow. Lisa's expertise also brings a unique perspective to our conversation about future-forward initiatives around brand and design.  

Lisa Gralnek is a driving force in strategy, brand building and an influential business leader with a career spanning senior roles at adidas, Chobani, moo.com, The Boston Consulting Group, and Walmart. Currently the US Managing Director and Global Head of Sustainability & Impact at iF Design — the prestigious international design institution and host of the annual cross-disciplinary  iF DESIGN AWARD since 1953. Her independent consultancy LVG & Co. has pioneered future-forward growth initiatives since 2017, and is a corporate member of 1% for the Planet. 

Prior to pivoting into business innovation and transformation, she spent nearly a decade as a Photo Editor and Talent Agent in the global world of high fashion. A sought-after speaker, author, and thought leader on values-driven leadership, Lisa’s work has graced publications like The New York Times, Fast Company and Fortune, while her insightful contributions have been featured at global conferences, corporate workshops, and media summits on five continents. Her award-winning interview series FUTURE OF XYZ, now in its 7th season, is presented by iF Design and is a proud member of Sandow's SURROUND Podcast Network. Lisa holds a BA in Political Science and French from Bates College and an MBA in International Business from INSEAD.

(2:13) We start off learning about who Lisa Gralnek is in the world.
(3:05) Lisa shares how she sees nature and how it has impacted her life and career.
(4:56) How does Lisa reflect on her past experiences and how do they influence decisions today?
(8:51) Lisa delves into how she feels that “values drive a brand”.
(10:48) We learn more about one of Lisa’s strength  “Today + Tomorrow”
(13:10) How does “design” fit into everything?
(16:02) What are the patterns and thinking that Lisa is seeing in her work?
(20:20) How do we start having conversations to become more “human centered”?
(22:30) Who does Lisa follow, and where does she find her inspiration?
(25:30) What message does Lisa want to share with the Warrior Community?
(28:10) Over the next 5 years, what does Lisa see about the impact she has had?

Connect with Lisa Gralnek
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisagralnek/
https://ifdesign.com/en/ 

I am excited to share a powerful conversation with Leah Diteljan—retreat facilitator, and founder of Mindspa.

Mindspa retreats are redefining what it means to lead with heart. They’re creating a movement of open-hearted leaders committed to emotional awareness and true transformational growth.

Leah’s work with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and leaders worldwide stands out for one key reason: her ability to cultivate emotional depth and authentic connection. With experience spanning six continents and over 30 countries through the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, Leah brings a rare perspective. She’s witnessed the full spectrum of leadership—from multimillion-dollar triumphs to deeply personal struggles —and she knows how to guide high achievers through it all.

Her retreats and coaching experiences go beyond professional success; they invite leaders to build meaningful, lasting connections and embrace growth on every level. Her unwavering commitment to learning and evolving continues to inspire those around her to embark on their own transformative journeys.

Please join us again as we continue our Warriors At Work conversations to guide us in transforming our personal & professional lives.  

(4:07) Leah shares with us what the Mindspa movement is?  
(5:27) ‘Leading from Within’, what does that mean to Leah?   
7:01) She shares how our childhood has a profound impact on our adult lives.  
(8:06) How does Leah create the safe space to allow people to explore and learn from past traumas?  
(11:23) Leah shares her journey to coaching and transformative work and creating retreats.  
(15:06) ROH: Return of Heartbeats.  What does this mean and how does Leah use this in her work?  
(16:37) What are some of the emotional patterns that Leah sees with the people she works with?  
(19:07) What does ‘surrender’ mean to Leah?  
(20:15) How is nature infused into the work that Leah does?  
(22:41) How does Leah decide on what is going to be explored during the retreats she creates?  
(23:44) How does the retreat experience deal with the many fears people experience?  
(27:07) What was that moment or inspiration that set Leah on her current path?  
(28:52) Who are the thought leaders that Leah is following?   (
29:43) Looking a few years into the future, how does Leah want to see her impact in the world?  
(31:45) What is the difference between emotions and feelings?  
(32:25) What are the questions that Leah wonders about in her own life?

Connect with Leah Diteljan
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahditeljan/
https://mindspamovement.com/  

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I am sharing this conversation for our Summer Series with Kerry Connelly. She is an emerging voice in the world of progressive Christianity, sought after speaker, coach and author. Together, we de-construct spirituality. In our discussion, we explore the definition of spirituality, the divine and how leaning into "who we really are" will provide the answers to your life’s purpose. 

Whether you are seasoned spiritual warrior or new to the subject, this is a fascinating conversation that you don’t want to miss!

(2:15) Why did Kerry choose this career and path?

(4:33) What does Progressive Christianity mean?

(6:19) Who are some of the types of people she works with?

(13:48) How does Kerry define spirituality & the divine?

(23:54) How does Kerry approach and work with clients as a coach?

(32:04) How do you access your spirituality?  How does Kerry guide someone through this experience?

(43:36) Who are some of the thought leaders that Kerry follows?

(46:28) What path is Kerry on?  She shares some of the things she is working on in her life and career.

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Let’s kick off INTUITION by re-sharing my conversation with Wendy Warner MD. Dr. Warner has played a crucial role in my health and well-being for the past 5 years and I have been thrilled to share her wisdom with my Warrior nation!  In Dr. Wendy Warner’s holistic medical practice, she focuses on a functional integrative approach to health and healing, working alongside practitioners from many different backgrounds and offering a wide variety of therapeutic options.

Get your pen and paper ready for the ideas and wisdom from Dr. Warner’s world. It’s time to live optimally!   

After 14 years of conventional ob/gyn practice, Dr Warner founded a collaborative holistic medical practice in suburban Philadelphia.  There she focused on a functional integrative approach to health and healing, working alongside practitioners from many different backgrounds and offering a wide variety of therapeutic options. In the fall of 2022, she moved her practice to fully online, providing telemedicine exclusively. She is board certified in gynecology and holistic integrative medicine, is a certified Functional Medicine practitioner, an herbalist and a mesa carrier.  She is a nationally recognized speaker and educator, and is faculty for the Institute for Functional Medicine as well as David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies.  She authored a chapter in the current edition of Rakel’s Integrative Medicine textbook, and is the co-author of “Boosting Your Immunity for Dummies”.  She is a Past President of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine. 

(1:45) Dr. Warner shares her story, and her journey into Functional Medicine.  

(4:50) What is the difference between traditional, integrative and function medicine?  

(8:12) Dr. Warner shares her approach to helping people?  

(11:10) What are some of the common themes that Dr. Warner has experienced with patients?  

(14:50) How does stress impact our adrenal system and overall health?  

(19:30) What tools does she employ to help people with their overall health?  

(27:02) What is the future of Functional Medicine?  

(32:16) Who does Dr. Warner follow, that inspire and assist in her research for her field?  

(36:12) What does Dr. Warner do to help herself in her wellness routine?  

(39:03) What is Dr. Warner doing in 10 years?

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Our journey of Inspiration continues with a conversation with Courtney Lalotra, Founder and President of the nonprofit organization One Life to Love. For Courtney it all started with a trip to India that changed her life path and she brings us along the way. She shares personal stories, from her own life and the children around her, that shows how her organization strives to empower vulnerable people, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.

(1:42) Courtney shares her story on how a trip to India started her on the path to OLTL.

(6:03) Courtney shares with us about the support she had, from family, as she pursued a new life in India.

(8:49) What were the early days like for Courtney in India, and how she created the foundation for OLTL?

(14:17) What is an average day like for Courtney and OLTL?

(17:25) We learn the challenges that come with the work that she, and her organization, do every day.

(21:48) How did Covid impact the work that Courtney does?

(24:13) How has OLTL and their work expanded onto a national stage, with partnerships with the police and government in India?

(26:37) Courtney shares some of the long term goals for her organization.

(28:46) How do they bring people into this conversation and ask them to share their generosity?

(31:26) What should listeners remember most about Courtney and OLTL?
 
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Let’s kick off INSPIRATION by re-sharing my conversation with Sr. Marilyn Lacey, RSM, Founder of Mercy Beyond Borders. Get ready to be challenged, inspired and moved to tears! Mercy Beyond Borders is a global organization that is forging ways for women and girls in extreme poverty to learn, connect and lead. Sr. Marilyn shares incredible stories of courage, determination and divinity in this conversation. It was a priviledge to provide a platform for Sr. Marilyn to share her story and the stories of so many women who are changing their lives through education and advocacy.

Sr. MARILYN LACEY, a Sister of Mercy, is passionate about making the world a more welcoming place. She’s been working with displaced peoples since 1981. Although she holds a Master’s Degree in Social Welfare from UC Berkeley and 4 honorary doctorates, she insists that the poor have been her best teachers. In 2001 Marilyn was personally honored by the Dalai Lama as an “unsung hero of compassion.” For two decades Marilyn directed the refugee and immigration programs for Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, CA. She has also worked in refugee camps overseas.

(1:28) Sr. Marilyn shares her story with us and why she has chosen this work.

(8:40) We learn about actionable tools that Sr. Marilyn shares to educate people on the impact they can have in the world.

(12:00) Sr. Marilyn shares with us the experience(s) of little girls, from South Sudan, that illustrates the positive impact her organization is having on people.

(21:56) How did the system get set up that put her organization, Mercy Beyond Borders, on a path to make a difference in other countries?

(30:01) We learn more details about the infrastructure, and the relationship with local government(s), that allows MBB to be impactful.

(33:34) What is the importance of understanding that there is no “over there”? Helping others has an impact on us locally since we are so interconnected around the world.

(38:54) A discussion about the “wrap around services” that MBB offers to ensure the girls are safe and can continue to get the education in their local countries.

(50:13) Who in Sr. Marilyn’s life are sources of support and motivation as she continues her work?

(52:37). How does Sr. Marilyn see Mercy Beyond Borders making an impact in the future?

Connect with Sr. Marilyn Lacey, RSM
https://www.mercybeyondborders.org

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Dilan Gomih is a celebrated speaker, fitness specialist and Founder of Dilagence.  Dilan helps organizations and individuals achieve high-performance by showing busy professionals how to take control of their time and prioritize their well-being. She looks at all of the complex aspects in life, helps simplify them and find ways to integrate wellness. She brings energy and a contagious vitality to our conversation that will motivate us to find the proper work/life balance and bring about joy and happiness.

(1:37) Dilan shares her story and journey in life.  
(3:40) How does she define wellness, what does that mean to Dilan?  
(5:47) Dilan shares with our community what her philosophy and approach are to wellness.  
(9:58) What does she see that concerns her about trends and changes in our society?  
(10:53) Her philosophy is that you can make change incrementally, she shares some of these hacks that we can use ourselves.  
(20:11) What is Dilan seeing in the wellness arena, what is she excited and/or concerned about?  
(24:41)) Who is Dilan following, finds inspiration in and why?  
(26:23) We take a peek into Dilan’s life, her daily rituals and practices.  
(35:26) What is Dilan doing and how is she impacting others, as she looks a year into the future?

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In times of uncertainty there is an impulse to hide or freeze. It's our natural fight or fight instinct kicking in. And yet, these are precisely the moments we are called to lead in all aspects of our life. In this podcast, Executive Coach and business owner Sharon Lipovsky shares with us how we can tap into the power of visioning and unlock the courage, inspiration and hope you need to step forward and go beyond your current perspective. If you are interested in looking ahead with purpose, intention and possibility, this conversation is for you!

If you are interested in looking ahead with purpose, intention and insight, this conversation is for you!

(3:09) What is visioning according to Sharon?

(5:50) Why is visioning important, and why sometimes can it feel impossible to achieve?

(8:04) What does it look like to get started with visioning? What are the steps to start on that path? 

(15:20) Sharon shares how she helps leaders get started with visioning.

(18:22) How does Sharon help organizations with the process of visioning?

(21:49) What would be some of the questions that come up when an organization needs direction (similar to what was happening with COVID)?

(28:02) What is Sharon thinking of where most people are and what they are considering in their business cycle?

(37:54) What is Sharon’s message to the visionaries in our audience. What can they consider differently than they were before?

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We welcome Sonia Hounsell, Founder of Fletcher Road Capital and the CEO & Co-Founder of FunkkOFF!® Inc., to share her experiences taking risks on her path to entrepreneurship.  She shares her journey creating the innovative brand, FunkkOFF!,  her appearance on the TV show Shark Tank, and how we can navigate and learn from taking risks to embrace them and start on our own path of growth, evolution and transformation.  

Sonia Hounsell has deep professional experience in Management, Marketing, Branding & Entrepreneurship including C-suite leadership roles in Consumer Packaged Goods, Consumer Healthcare, McKinsey & Co., and Venture Capital. Sonia has been recognized with a number of awards including, a Gold Effie for the Stride® Gum Launch Advertising Campaign, named Advertising Age “Marketing 50” and was a Media Post (OMMA) Online Media, Marketing & Advertising) Winner for Advertising Creativity.  

Sonia is Founder of Fletcher Road Capital and the CEO & Co-Founder of FunkkOFF!® Inc.. FunkkOFF!® a lifestyle brand company that is disrupting the personal and oral care category with innovation. In July 2021, FunkkOFF! launched their flagship product FunkkOFF! TeethRefreshers® the 1st and only two-in-one toothbrush and toothpaste that’s reusable to keep your teeth white and fresh on-the-go. In February 2023, Sonia appeared on Shark Tank and received a deal from Robert Herjavec. FunkkOFF! has won a number of awards including the International Grand Prix Du Design Award for Consumer Products, a Gold Stevie® Award for Women in Business Start-up of the Year and a Silver Stevie® Award for International for Start-up of the Year. The brand has also been recognized for its unique innovation by leading press including NBC News, Travel & Leisure, Los Angeles Times, SHAPE, Real Simple and Essence, among others.  

Please join us again as we continue our Warriors At Work conversations to guide us in transforming our personal & professional lives.    
 (3:44) Sonia shares her journey to becoming an entrepreneur.  
(6:34) We learn more about FunkkOFF! and its early days, and what Sonia learned about herself along the way.  
(9:54) What are some of the ways Sonia manages risk?  What works for her?  
(10:59) What was the first year like, launching a brand new product and brand?  
(12:40) How did Shark Tank approach her team and what was the process like being on the show?  
(15:44) Sonia shares what she learned about herself, throughout the whole Shark Tank experience? 
(17:15) How did the business change after their appearance on Shark Tank?  
(18:35) What are some of the triumphs she has experienced throughout this journey?  
(20:51) What advice would Sonia share with new entrepreneur starting out?  
(22:24) How did Sonia deal with people who might have doubted the path she was taking?  
(23:50) How has Sonia changed from the beginning of her journey to now?  
(26:05) What inspires Sonia?  
(28:15) For anyone watching/listening, what does Sonia want you to remember?  
(29:51) For the students and upcoming entrepreneurs, what is Sonia excited to see from the next generation?    

Connect with SONIA HOUNSELL
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonia-hounsell-9185a32/

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