Tough Day Podcast

Ever felt like you're carrying everyone else’s stress at work? Today on Tough Day, we’re diving into the power (and pitfalls) of empathy in leadership and teamwork with Michael Ventura—founder, advisor, educator, and author of Applied Empathy. Michael shares how cognitive empathy (not just "being nice") can create high-performing teams, the seven archetypes of empathy, and why asking better questions might be the key to your next career breakthrough. In this episode, you will hear:When caring too much can hold you back—and how to set boundaries.The power of inquiry to unlock deeper connections.The seven empathy styles and how they shape leadership.Can technology help us perspective-take better?How emotional intelligence is the secret weapon in an increasingly divided world.Learn more about Michael Ventura:Website: https://www.michaelventura.co/Applied Empathy book: https://www.amazon.com/Applied-Empathy-New-Language-Leadership/dp/1501182854Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to shake up the way we work? In this episode, host KVJ sits down with leadership expert and bestselling author Keith Ferrazzi to explore the radical shift from leadership to teamship. They dive into the biggest workplace transformations, the power of collaboration, and why traditional management is on its way out. Keith shares strategies for fostering candor and building resilient teams.Tune in for a conversation packed with practical insights and bold ideas—because the future of work is here, and it’s all about working smarter, together.In this episode, you will hear:The shift from leadership to teamship and why it mattersHow workplace collaboration has evolved over the past 20 yearsHow to overcome conflict avoidance in an organizationThe importance of psychological safety in teamsPractical strategies for team resilience and shared accountabilityThe future of work: AI, self-managed teams, and networked organizationsWhy traditional management structures are becoming obsoleteHow to balance speed and collaboration in a fast-paced environmentLearn more about  Keith Ferrazzi | Ferrazzi GreenlightWebsite: https://www.keithferrazzi.com Website: https://www.connectedsuccess.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithferrazziLearn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you build resilience and stay ahead in today’s fast-changing work environment? In this episode, KVJ dives into the neuroscience of resilience with Sarah Baldeo, CEO of ID Quotient and a leading expert in AI and human behavior. Sarah breaks down how to rewire your brain for adaptability, navigate stress, and future-proof your career in an era of uncertainty. Plus, she tackles real-world challenges, from navigating layoffs and burnout to leading change without resistance.Tune in for this must-hear conversation—your go-to guide for mastering resilience and thriving in the face of change!In this episode, you will hear:Defining resilience and how it shapes success in a fast-changing workplace.Training your brain to stay calm, focused, and adaptable under pressure.The science behind stress and why it impacts decision-making.The power of accountability and how mindset shifts drive career success.AI and neurotechnology reshaping how we approach resilience.Small daily habits that help rewire your brain for resilience.How to navigate uncertainty and take control of your professional trajectory.Leading change effectively by giving teams ownership and reducing resistance.Why upskilling is the best strategy for staying competitive in evolving industries.Learn more about Sarah Baldeo | ID QuotientWebsite: https://sarahbaldeo.com/ Website (ID Quotient): https://www.idqinc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbaldeo/details/experience/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesarahbaldeo/ Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever feel like work is just an endless game of selling chocolate bars? (Spoiler: It kind of is.) In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ sits down with leadership expert Beata Lewis, Founder of Bridging Lives, LLC to talk about self-reflection, professional assessments, and why knowing your superpowers is the ultimate career hack. We’re diving into the good, the bad, and the cringeworthy sides of feedback—how to take it, how to use it, and why it’s not just about making yourself feel good. Plus, we tackle the big question: Are assessments a tool for growth or just a trap?In this episode, you will hear:Why self-reflection is your secret weapon in the workplace.The role of professional assessments: tool or trap?How to balance authenticity with adaptability.Feedback: how to give it, take it, and actually use it.The sales skills you never knew you had (and why they matter)What makes a great leader? (hint: it’s not just being the loudest in the room)Learn more about Beata Lewis | Bridging Lives, LLCLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatalewis/Website: https://bridginglives.com/index.htmlLearn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you take charge of your career and set yourself up for success? In this episode, KVJ dives into the power of self-leadership with Kelly Mooney, CEO of Equipt Women Co. and a champion for women’s career growth. Kelly breaks down what it really means to lead yourself, sharing strategies for standing out at work, breaking through career roadblocks, and mastering the mindset shifts that set top performers apart. Plus, she tackles situations on self-advocacy, team tension, and thriving in remote work.Tune in for this must-hear conversation—your go-to guide for taking control of your career and stepping into leadership with confidence!In this episode, you will hear:Defining self-leadership, the key to unlocking career growth.How to ask for visibility, high-impact projects, and mentorship.Navigating hierarchy while advocating for career advancement.The “unbossing” trend reshaping self-managed teams.How to thrive in remote and hybrid work environments.Effective ways to seek feedback and prove you’re a high performer.Handling micromanaging bosses while building trust and autonomy.How to track and communicate achievements without feeling like you're bragging.Learn more about Kelly Mooney | Equipt Women Co.Website: https://equiptwomen.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkmooney/ Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Work getting you down? Stuck in the grind and wondering if there's more to life than endless emails and meetings? In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ chats with bestselling author and workplace happiness expert Jenn Lim to uncover the secret to finding fulfillment—even in the most soul-sucking jobs. From redefining happiness to embracing the greenhouse model of self-growth, Jenn drops game-changing wisdom on how to create a work-life that actually works for you.In this episode, you will hear:Burnout 101: Why it happens and how to stop itThe difference between work-life balance vs. work-life alignmentHow to cultivate happiness at work—without faking itBurnout, boundaries, and why you’re exhausted (plus, how to fix it)AI, stress, and the fear of losing your job—how to stay aheadLearn more about Jenn Lim: Website: https://jennlim.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byjennlim/Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who knew? Curiosity isn’t just for cats—it’s the secret sauce for thriving leaders! In this episode, KVJ sits down with Mike O'Reilly—a former CFO turned executive coach—to explore how curiosity can fuel great leadership, create vibrant workplace cultures, and inspire personal growth. Mike dives into the transformative power of curiosity as both a value and a skill, sharing compelling stories, actionable insights, and practical advice for professionals at any stage of their career. With plenty of relatable moments and hands-on tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their leadership game!In this episode, you will hear:Defining curiosity as a value and a skill.The role of curiosity in building trust, empathy, and engagement.Strategies for fostering curiosity in yourself and others.Tools for leaders to balance curiosity with action and execution.Frameworks to measure curiosity within organizations.Using values assessments to align personal and professional goals.Encouraging leaders to build psychological safety and seek genuine feedback.Learn more about Mike O'Reilly: LinkedIn (Mike O’Reilly): https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-o-reilly-tu/Website (The Preston Associates): https://www.theprestonassociates.com/LinkedIn (The Preston Associates): https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-preston-associates/Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to decode the chaos of work in politically charged times? In this episode, host KVJ tackles the twists and turns of working through ever-changing political tides. Legal and workplace pros Benjamin Ebbink and Rick Grimaldi join the chat, unpacking upcoming shifts in workplace policies, labor relations, and the game-changing impact of AI on jobs. Plus, they dish out savvy strategies for navigating political divides in the office. Tune in for this essential discussion, your ultimate guide to thriving in any workplace, no matter how unpredictable it may be!In this episode, you will hear:Anticipated policy shifts under the Trump administration, such as labor laws and immigration reforms.The return-to-office push: cultural, legal, and practical implications.Balancing regulation and innovation in AI adoption.Do’s and Don’ts for leaders to adapt to policy and technological changes.How to prepare for workforce changes due to mergers, AI, and layoffs.Strategies for managers to foster respectful and collaborative environments.Learn more about  Rick Grimaldi & Ben Ebbink | Fisher PhillipsWebsite (Fisher Phillips): https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/index.htmlWebsite (Rick Grimaldi): https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/people/rick-grimaldi.html?tab=overviewWebsite ( Ben Ebbink): https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/people/benjamin-m-ebbink.html?tab=overviewLinkedIn (Ben Ebbink): https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminebbink/LinkedIn (Rick Grimaldi): https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickegrimaldi/Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Workplace woes got you feeling stuck? In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ chats with workplace wizard Brian Elliott, CEO of Work Forward and one of Forbes' Future of Work 50. Brian brings 25 years of experience as a startup CEO and exec at Google and Slack to the table. He’s also worked with Future Forum and BCG and is the bestselling author of ‘How the Future Works.’  Together, they’re diving into the highs and lows of flexible work, employee engagement, and tackling real-world workplace challenges—like navigating the awkward happy hour invite or overcoming the isolation of remote work. Whether you’re a leader, a team player, or just someone dreaming of a co-working stipend, this episode has something for you. Listen and join the conversation about the future of work that works for everyone!In this episode, you will hear:How distributed work shaped Brian’s leadership approach decades before it was a trend.Why employees crave flexibility and autonomy—and how leaders can meet them halfway.Busting myths about productivity in remote vs. hybrid setups.How to combat feelings of isolation as a remote worker.What to do when your office is more “cubicle island” than collaborative space.Tips for team leaders: Anchor days, quarterly meetups, and boosting engagement.Learn more about Brian Elliott | Work ForwardWebsite: https://www.work-forward.co/LinkedIn (Brian Elliott): https://www.linkedin.com/in/belliottLinkedIn: (Work Forward): https://www.linkedin.com/company/work-forward-co/Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description: KVJ chats with Jill Unikel, Head of Product Management at Sapta, about building strong corporate cultures, navigating workplace challenges, and creating environments where diverse teams thrive.In this episode of the Tough Day, KVJ chats with Jill Unikel, Head of Product Management at Sapta, about the ins and outs of building an awesome corporate culture. Jill shares her inspiring journey from starting out as a temp to leading top-notch teams, dishing out practical tips on defining company values, keeping employees engaged, and making culture a real part of everyday work.Discover practical strategies like empowering leaders, leveraging tech, and celebrating wins, while also tackling tricky topics like managing multicultural teams and handling tough workplace dynamics.In this episode, you will hear:The role of storytelling in showcasing company culture during the hiring process. How leaders can serve as culture champions and inspire employees. Impact of subcultures within teams on broader organizational goals. Practical steps for employees to influence and shift workplace culture. Tips for managing polarizing topics and fostering inclusivity in diverse teams. Value of defining core values to guide decision-making and employee behavior. Strategies for using data and technology to personalize employee experiences.How to measure the ROI of a strong corporate culture through engagement and retention metrics. Learn more about Jill Unikel | Sapta IncWebsite: https://www.sapta.io/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jillunikel Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.