Episode 14: Be Consistently "Not Stupid" - Embracing Uncertainty With Dr. Liz Krider Spark Something New podcast

42:46

Send us a text On this episode of the Spark Something New podcast, Katie chats with Dr. Pedro Rivera, the President of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology and former Pennsylvania State Secretary of Education. They discuss Dr. Rivera's journey as a lifelong learner, his passion for equitable education, and his five-step process for intentional learning. The conversation also delves into the impact of AI on education and the necessity of embracing new technologies. Dr. Rivera emphasizes the importance of taking risks, adjusting along the way, and finding your own unique learning path. Tune in to learn how to spark something new in your own approach to learning and growth. 00:31 Introducing Dr. Pedro Rivera 03:55 Pedro's Approach to Lifelong Learning 07:08 Embracing Failure and Taking Risks 10:14 Balancing Leadership and Personal Growth 21:15 Practical Steps for Intentional Learning 23:02 The Role of AI in Learning and Education 30:48 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth 39:00 Conventional Wisdom and Learning 40:33 Five Golden Nuggets of Wisdom EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Pedro on LinkedIn Learn more about Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 22: Living Into Your Authenticity for Healing and Power with Dr. Amber Sessoms 57:48

12 days ago57:48

57:48

Send us a text This episode kicks off Women's History Month with the incredible, Dr. Amber Sessoms, a professional speaker, facilitator, consultant, and school psychologist. We discuss the principles of living authentically, the importance of knowing oneself, and the steps needed to unlearn harmful narratives. Amber shares her insights on the need for curiosity, finding supportive communities, and setting boundaries. They also touch on how leaders can model authentic leadership in their organizations. This episode is filled with practical advice and heartfelt stories aimed at helping you embrace your true self and lead courageously. 00:30 Introducing Dr. Amber Sessoms 02:28 The Essence of Authenticity 07:25 Finding Your Mirror 10:35 Navigating Systems and Belonging 13:43 The Power of Curiosity and Discernment 16:46 Embracing Your True Self 20:48 Challenging Systems and Building Community 34:55 The Importance of Self-Care and Healing 37:07 Understanding and Setting Boundaries 42:29 The Role of Identity in Self-Worth 45:32 Authentic Leadership in Organizations 54:41 Finding Your Community and True Friends EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Amber on LinkedIn Learn more about Amber's work at Natural Inclination LLC Amber's Favorite List Amber's Substack + Podcast Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 21: Learning Through the Body with Dr. Libby Tisdell 34:42

19 days ago34:42

34:42

Send us a text On this week's episode, I have the pleasure for chatting with Dr. Elizabeth Tisdell, also known as Libby, a distinguished professor emerita in lifelong learning and adult education. Libby shares her vast knowledge on embodied learning, a concept that emphasizes the importance of learning and experiencing life through our bodies. She talks about her journey, from being a massage therapist and a campus minister to her academic achievements and spiritual practices. We delve into the significance of embodied learning, how our bodies can provide wisdom that our heads can't figure out, and explore practical ways like heart rhythm meditation, yoga, and even singing to connect more deeply with ourselves. Tune in to spark something new in how you think about learning through your body! 00:35 Meet Dr. Elizabeth (Libby) Tisdell 01:13 Libby's Academic and Professional Journey 03:47 Understanding Embodied Learning 05:50 Libby's Personal Experiences with Embodied Learning 12:18 Heart Rhythm Meditation and Its Benefits 29:15 Practical Tips for Embodied Learning 32:49 Conclusion and Reflections EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Libby on LinkedIn Learn more about Libby's research and extensive career Breath & Heart Meditation App Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 20: It's NOT in Your Head - Challenging Medical Gaslighting with Dr. E (Efrat Lamandre) 49:18

26 days ago49:18

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Send us a text On this episode, I chat with the incredible Dr. E (Efrat Lamandre, PhD, FNP-C), a medical disruptor known for her work against medical gaslighting. Dr. E shares her journey into functional and integrative medicine. We dive deep into why medical gaslighting predominantly impacts women and minority groups and how we can advocate for ourselves within the healthcare system. Dr. E explains the differences between conventional, functional, and integrative medicine while urging providers to be open-minded and collaborative. We also discuss the importance of listening to our bodies and not accepting dismissive diagnoses. Spoiler alert: there's a part two coming on how to thrive and prevent Alzheimer's. Can't wait for you to hear it! 00:32 Introducing Dr. Efrat Lamandre 03:00 Understanding Medical Gaslighting 03:29 Katie's Personal Experience with Anemia 06:07 Defining Medical Gaslighting 11:57 Dr. E's Journey to Functional Medicine 15:41 The Limitations of Evidence-Based Medicine 24:25 Understanding Pre-Disease States 24:54 Navigating the Healthcare System 27:24 The Role of Functional Medicine 30:23 Conventional vs. Functional Medicine 35:16 Identifying Trustworthy Providers 37:54 The Importance of Open Dialogue 47:14 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. E on LinkedIn Connect with Dr E. on Instagram Connect with Dr. on Facebook Connect with Dr. E on TikTok Follow Dr. E on YouTube Visit Dr. E's website: www.drefratlamandre.com Get Dr. E's Book: It's NOT In Your Head Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 19: Leading with Love and Purpose - An Insightful Conversation with Mark Maynard 41:56

5 weeks ago41:56

41:56

Send us a text On this episode, I chat with the incredible Mark Maynard. He's a consultant, leadership coach, keynote speaker, and author who transitioned from decades in the hospitality industry to the entrepreneurial world. Our conversation dives deep into leading with love and living with purpose. Mark shares his profound belief in combining purpose, strategy, and action in business, and how these principles help leaders and their teams thrive. We also discuss his personal and professional retreats for goal-setting and reflection, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, optimism, trust, and patience in leadership. Plus, we talk about creating and repairing bonds within teams. Mark's insights are sure to enrich your week and spark something new in you, whether you're in a management position or not. So join us, and let's light up your life and leadership journey together! 00:29 Meet Mark Maynard 02:05 Mark's Personal Retreat Experience 08:02 Building Bonds in Teams 18:05 Leading with Love: Generosity, Curiosity, Trust, and Patience 29:16 Purpose-Driven Leadership 38:14 Resources for Loving and Purposeful Leadership 41:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Mark Maynard on LinkedIn Learn more about Maynard Consulting Book Recommendations: Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans How to Know a Person by David Brooks The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle EPISODE GUEST: Mark Maynard is a hospitality consultant, leadership coach and keynote speaker who empowers leaders to narrow the gap between their goals and their organization’s ability to achieve them. His firm, Maynard Consulting, builds on decades of experience at Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, where Mark conceptualized, built, and operated businesses in different sectors of the service industry. In his time at USHG, he was a versatile leader known for using a holistic approach to develop teams, create new brands, and enable businesses to become and remain profitable. As a consultant, he helps entrepreneurs optimize three areas of performance – the customer journey, the employee experience, and financial performance. Mark is an Entrepreneur in Residence at the Pillsbury Institute for Hospitality Entrepreneurship at Cornell University and is a regular guest lecturer at Columbia Business School and NYU. In 2019, he co-authored The Next Frontier of Restaurant Management with Cornell’s Alex Susskind, and the authors explore how data can be leveraged to improve guest service and enhance the employee experience. Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 18: Becoming Your Best & Truest Self with Carrie Johnson 38:48

6 weeks ago38:48

38:48

Send us a text On this episode, I’m thrilled to chat with my dear friend Carrie Johnson, an entrepreneur and thought leader with 30 years of experience in business and organizational strategy, founder of Girls on the Run of Lancaster-Lebanon, and an inspiring community leader. We dive deep into what it means to discover and be your truest self in a world obsessed with perfection. Carrie shares her wisdom on finding true self-awareness and the importance of a supportive village. We also explore the metaphor of uncovering the 'diamond' within us and practical ways to reconnect with ourselves. Get ready for an enriching conversation that will help you reflect on your own journey and maybe spark something new in you! 00:31 Introducing Keri Johnson 02:42 Discovering Your Truest Self 07:23 The Power of Community 10:09 Practices for Self-Reflection 15:43 Dropping Below the Surface 30:01 Trusting Yourself and Others 35:58 Final Thoughts and Takeaways EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Carrie Johnson on LinkedIn Learn more about Drop Below the Surface Retreats Morning Pages Exercise by Julia Cameron Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 17: Getting Uncomfortable with A.J. Merlino 47:29

7 weeks ago47:29

47:29

Send us a text On this episode, I chat with the super cool Dr. A.J. Merlino, Executive Director of Learning Innovation & Workforce Solutions at Thinking Through AI. A.J.'s got an impressive background in professional music, endurance athletics, and higher education. We dive deep into getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. Need a blueprint? A.J.'s got you covered: reframe failure, don't take things personally, stay curious, appreciate your growth, and find your flow state. It's a fascinating convo about pushing limits and celebrating the messy journey of learning and growth. Tune in to discover actionable steps to thrive through discomfort and continuously spark something new in your life. 00:30 Meet A.J. Merlino 01:57 Embracing Uncomfortability 04:05 The Power of Community and Practice 07:02 Navigating Cultural Expectations 10:43 Addicted to Achievement or Challenge? 13:03 Learning from Failures 18:15 The Role of Social Media and Community 26:36 Embracing Curiosity and Individuality 27:07 Reflecting on Personal Growth 28:38 Reframing Failure and Embracing Challenges 32:37 Finding Your Flow State 41:41 The Importance of Wandering in Career Paths 46:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with A.J. Merlino on LinkedIn Learn more about Thinking Through AI Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 16: Choose Your Hard 24:57

8 weeks ago24:57

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Send us a text On this episode, we dive deep into why 2025 has been HARD for so many of us. It's been "brutiful" (both brutal and beautiful) in many ways. We explore the different types of hard and why THIS hard is different, yet essential to living a meaningful and fulfilling life. We also touch upon the concept of "grateful yearning" and why this calls us to choose our hard. Including how it conjures a fear that often keeps us stuck, much like a chained elephant. The only way to break free is to face the truth that is within us and untether ourselves from fear. I hope this episode inspires you to choose the hard that leads to freedom and joy. And know that you are not alone in this journey. Choose your hard. 00:53 Reflecting on a Challenging Year 01:46 Understanding Different Types of Hardships 03:45 The Struggle with Change 08:26 Choosing Your Hard 13:07 Facing Your Fears 19:02 The Power of Self-Realization 22:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 15: "What's Worth Wanting?" with Jonathan Fields 54:03

9 weeks ago54:03

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Send us a text Join me for a rich conversation with Jonathan Fields, a world-renowned thought leader and creator of the 'Good Life Project' and SPARKED body of work. Together, we explore profound themes such as the pursuit of a meaningful life, overcoming societal work norms, the importance of self-discovery, and finding joy through family and nature. Jonathan shares personal stories, the impact of pivotal life moments, insights on managing internal and external critics, and his innovative approach to life experiments aimed at continuous learning and growth. This episode is a deep dive into how to navigate life's uncertainties and cultivate a balanced, fulfilling life. 00:27 Introducing Jonathan Fields 02:07 Jonathan's Sources of Energy 04:31 Challenging Work Norms 08:42 The Importance of Self-Discovery 12:24 Jonathan's Journey and Wake-Up Calls 20:00 Running Life Experiments 26:08 Recommitting to Physical and Psychological Wellness 27:04 Balancing Work and Personal Relationships 29:18 A New Writing Challenge: Embracing Fiction 32:35 The Experimental Approach to Life 37:50 Managing Internal and External Critics 45:49 The Butterfly Effect: A Business Transformation 51:14 Closing Thoughts on Embracing Uncertainty EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Jonathan Fields on LinkedIn Explore the Good Life Project Access Jonathan's blog: Awake at the Wheel Explore the SPARKED body of work Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 14: Be Consistently "Not Stupid" - Embracing Uncertainty with Dr. Liz Krider 48:11

10 weeks ago48:11

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Send us a text We're back with Season 2 of the Spark Something New Podcast! And boy, do I have a great conversation for you to launch into this new year. I'm chatting with the fabulous Dr. Liz Krider, a PhD chemist, speaker, and founder of KSA Catalyst. Liz is on a mission to help students discover their purpose through experiential learning, projects, and internships. We dive into how embracing life's uncertainties can lead to discovering your purpose. Liz shares her journey of how her "experimental" and "experiential" approach to life, influenced by her Caltech background, can be applied to personal growth and community impact. We discuss inverted reasoning, tinkering with your life, and the importance of avoiding "what contributes to a miserable life" to find deeper fulfillment in your life and work. Whether you're a student or a career professional, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tips to inspire you to live with intention and purpose! 00:28 Meet Dr. Liz Kreider 03:48 Discovering Purpose Through Experience 05:54 Liz's Personal Journey and Insights 09:12 Empowering Students with Purpose 14:06 Embracing Uncertainty as a Catalyst 18:44 Real-Life Applications and Advocacy 24:29 Exploring Personal Solutions 24:42 Prototyping and Experimentation 25:08 Mindset Shift: Embracing Tinkering 27:03 Learning from Entrepreneurs 32:07 The Power of Inverted Reasoning 34:07 Applying Inverted Reasoning in Life 41:43 Finding Purpose Through Experimentation 47:04 Conclusion and Reflections EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with Dr. Liz Krider on LinkedIn Learn more about KSA Catalyst and Passion Projects Transcript of Charlie Munger's 1986 Harvard Commencement Speech: "How to Guarantee a Life of Misery" Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 13: The Power in Pause & Reclaiming Your Story with Francine Apy 44:25

13 weeks ago44:25

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Send us a text On this episode of the Spark Something New podcast, I welcome Francine Apy, an adoptive mother and former HR executive. Francine shares her journey of adoption, her advocacy work, and the founding of her organization, SoulFilling, which supports adoptive families in reframing their stories. The discussion delves into the power of reclaiming and reframing your story and how that leads you to healing, connection, and living out your purpose. Francine also emphasizes the need for quiet reflection to receive a SPARK that might ignite a fire within you. 00:28 Meet Francine Apy: Advocate and Author 03:27 Francine's Journey as an Adoptive Mother 06:43 The Evolution of Adoption 09:32 Celebrating Adoption and Changing the Narrative 16:45 The Power of Language in Adoption 23:22 Living with Purpose 37:05 Practical Advice for Reclaiming Your Story 43:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with Francine Apy on LinkedIn Learn more about SoulFilling Buy " Briana's Brave Day at School " Children's Book Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 12: Discovering Kokorozashi - Living Your Purpose with Kristin Popp 40:44

14 weeks ago40:44

40:44

Send us a text On this episode, I chat with Kristin Popp, Executive Vice President of Woodman's Food Market and President of the Women's Grocers of America. We dive deep into the concept of "kokorozashi", a Japanese term for personal mission, and explore how living with purpose can transform both your personal and professional life. Kristin shares her journey of discovering and living her purpose, balancing a successful career with her commitment to championing women in the grocery industry and making a significant impact in her community. Tune in for insights on finding your own kokorozashi and living a more intentional, fulfilling life. 00:29 Meet Kristin Popp 02:03 Discovering Your Kokorozashi 04:14 Kristin's Personal Mission Journey 08:45 Applying Purpose in the Workplace 11:08 Living Intentionally: Personal Reflections 24:25 Challenges and Evolution of Living with Purpose 31:44 Practical Steps to Find Your Personal Mission 38:54 Closing Thoughts and Resources EPISODE RESOURCES: Connect with Kristin Popp on LinkedIn Personal Strategy Screen Exercise (free download). Four Questions to Find Your Kokorozashi: Who is the person that I want to be? What is the life that I want to live? What is the one thing about the world I would change? What is my role in making that change happen? Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 11: The Emotional Side of Money 39:51

15 weeks ago39:51

39:51

Send us a text On this episode, I chat with Alex Langan, Chief Investment Officer at Langan Financial Group. Alex dishes on crucial money matters affecting everyone – from staggering statistics on how finances impact mental health to the fact that a majority of Americans lack adequate savings. He emphasizes seeing money as a tool rather than the end goal, destigmatizing financial struggles, and provides actionable tips like tracking expenses and understanding necessary vs. discretionary spending. We also dive into reducing financial arguments in relationships and small steps for building a healthier financial future. Join us as we spark new insights and better money habits together! 00:28 Meet Alex Langen: Financial Expert 01:36 The Importance of Money Conversations 02:07 Shocking Money Statistics 05:10 Understanding Money as a Tool 06:46 Practical Money Management Tips 08:31 Tracking Spending and Budgeting 18:22 Misconceptions About Money 21:10 Exploring Money Market Accounts 21:24 Misconceptions About Financial Security 21:39 Financial Disputes and Divorce 22:21 Approaching Financial Conversations with Your Spouse 25:37 Conventional Wisdom About Money 27:46 The Future of AI in Financial Planning 31:21 Transitioning from Law to Finance 33:26 Helping Others with Financial Planning 36:31 Resources for Financial Education 38:16 Final Thoughts and Takeaways EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with Alex Langan on LinkedIn Learn more about Langan Financial Book Recommendation: "Rick Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki Financial Management Tool Recommendation: Tiller More resources on the episode page . Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 10: Staying True to Yourself Through Purpose 40:31

16 weeks ago40:31

40:31

Send us a text In this episode, I chat with Haley Kunert, who shares her journey in finding purpose and how that transformed the way she views work and life. She also shares insights on how to SPARK young professionals (YPs) in the workplace. We discuss the Sparketype Assessment as a tool that helps identify the type of work that lights people up. It's a fun, informative discussion on how to live in ways authentically to you to avoid burning out. Tune in to be inspired and learn how to connect with YPs more deeply at work and in life! 00:27 Meet Haley Kunert 02:15 Misconceptions About Younger Generations 03:51 Understanding Individual Motivations 11:33 The Concept of Rock Stars and Superstars 14:03 Inspiring Young Professionals 23:26 The Role of Purpose in the Workplace 32:58 Advice for Young Professionals 38:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts EPISODE RESOURCES Connect with Haley Kunert on LinkedIn Access the FREE Sparketype Assessment Connect with Katie on LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram . You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.lightecho.co .…

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Episode 9: It's Okay to Be Totally Average 22:34

17 weeks ago22:34