Grow Further

Feeling stuck in the grind or reacting on autopilot? In this episode of Grow Further, Chris and Mel explore awe, an often overlooked emotional state that can widen perspective, calm stress and help us respond more thoughtfully when life feels overwhelming. Blending research, personal stories and simple practices, they show how moments of wonder, big or small, can support resilience, connection and...

Chris and Mel discuss why achieving a long-chased goal, like a promotion or dream job, can feel surprisingly empty, and how this “that’s it?” moment is common even among elite athletes. They explain that dopamine surges more in anticipation and pursuit than in the reward itself, so it often drops after accomplishment.    Also in this episode: What Simone Biles, Abby Wambach and Michael Phelps say...

In this episode, Mel turns the spotlight on Grow Further host Chris Munoz, exploring her journey from her North Carolina roots to a purpose-driven career in healthcare leadership and resilience training. Chris shares how relationships shaped each major career move, the setback that transformed her leadership approach, and the origins of the Grow Further podcast. She also dives into the importance...

In this episode of Grow Further, Chris and Mel sit down with Lucille Accetta, Chief Pharmacy Officer and Senior Vice President at CVS Health, to discuss her inspiring career journey and the future of pharmacy. Lucille shares valuable insights into leadership, professional growth and the importance of trust and flexibility in the workplace.  Also in this episode:  Discover the pivotal moves in Luci...

In this episode of the 'Grow Further' podcast, hosts Chris and Mel discuss the common pitfalls of New Year's resolutions and how to make them more effective in 2026. They emphasize shifting from outcome-based goals to identity-based goals, which connect accomplishments to who you are rather than just what you do.    Also in this episode: The importance of process goals and habits  Why the only one...

Where does confidence really come from? In this end-of-year episode of Grow Further , Chris and Mel unpack this question while exploring the “December Paradox”- that tension between looking back at what you’ve achieved and planning for what’s next.  They explore the critical role confidence plays in achieving these goals, sharing personal experiences and practical tips for building and sustaining...

Feeling grateful today? Join Chris and Mel as they dive into the power of gratitude. This episode is packed with insights on how an attitude of gratitude can strengthen your relationships, boost your well-being, and even enhance your performance.   Also in this episode: Practical tips for making gratitude a daily habit What is negativity bias and how to counteract it Why you don’t just have to be...

In this episode of the Grow Further podcast, Mel and Chris dive into the whirlwind of change that we all face, both at work and at home. They challenge you to shift your mindset and become the CEO of Change, transforming discomfort into opportunity. Tune in for insights on how to lead yourself and others through the ever-evolving landscape of life!   Also in this episode: Discover the importance o...

Feeling drained as the year ramps up for holidays and other end-of-year activities? In this episode, Chris and Mel flip the script on resilience, revealing why intentional recovery—not just grit—separates the burnt out from the best. Join us for practical tips, relatable stories, and a fresh metaphor that’ll have you recharging smarter, not harder.   Also in this episode: Discover why elite athlet...

Time to take the fear out of feedback! Join Chris and her new co-host Melissa as they dive into the transformative power of continuous feedback! Discover how regular check-ins can boost performance, build trust, and keep everyone engaged—especially during times of change. Get ready to rethink feedback and learn a simple framework to make it a habit!   Also in this episode: Explore the SBII framewo...

In this episode, Mel Schreibstein returns to help Chris explore how meaningful appreciation can transform workplace culture. From a simple "thank you" to public recognition, they break down the science behind why showing gratitude matters and how you can make it a daily habit. Whether you're a leader or teammate, this episode will help you boost engagement, morale, and collaboration—one shout-out...

Is your “check engine light” on? In this episode of Grow Further , Angela Patterson, Chief Nursing Officer at CVS Health, returns to explore the critical importance of self-care for caregivers. From navigating burnout to recognizing your "check engine light," Angela shares practical advice and an incredible personal story.   Also in this episode: A prescription for good self-care hygiene from yoga...

On this episode of the Grow Further podcas t , Chris Muñoz welcomes Angela Patterson, Chief Nurse Officer for CVS Health and a trailblazer in nursing leadership. Angela shares how stepping out of her comfort zone and embracing transformational leadership shaped her 30+ year career in healthcare, inspiring others to "stop playing small" and unlock their full potential. Also in this episode: The Nel...

Are you a Know-It-All or a Learn-It-All? In this episode, the hosts dive into the concept of a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset, drawing on Carol Dweck's research. They define a growth mindset as the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort, while a fixed mindset views these traits as static.    Also in this episode: The importance of fostering a growth mindset f...

We’re on the final leg… of Francis Frei’s Trust Triangle, that is! In this episode, the hosts explore the concept of empathy. They define empathy within the context of personal and professional relationships and discuss its critical role in building trust.    Also in this episode: Why you should minimize distractions and be present in conversations.  Why high-achieving leaders often struggle with...

Are you being the True You? In this episode, the hosts revisit the concept of the Trust Triangle, specifically focusing on the element of authenticity. They discuss the challenges and complexities of being one's true self in different settings and the importance of authenticity in building trust.    Also in this episode: How evolutionary and social pressures make authenticity difficult Why Chris d...

You go to the gym to make your body strong, but how do you strengthen your logic? In this episode, we’re back in the Trust Triangle. This time, the hosts dive deep into logic, one of three drivers of trust. They discuss how trust can wobble due to issues in the quality of logic, communication of logic, and your track record.   Also in this episode: A recap of what the Trust Triangle is. Practical...

Where do you wobble?  In this episode, the hosts discuss the crucial topic of trust and its significance in professional and personal life. The hosts delve into the Trust Triangle concept by Harvard Professor Frances Frei. They explain the three core drivers of trust: authenticity, logic, and empathy, emphasizing the need for balance among them to avoid eroding trust.    Also in this episode: A li...

In this special episode of the Grow Further podcast, the hosts are joined by Eva and Jed, our behind-the-scenes members of the podcast crew, to share their favorite moments from the first 50 episodes. Listen in to celebrate the big 5-0 with us!   Listen to the full episodes mentioned: When in Self-Doubt, AIR it Out: https://share.transistor.fm/s/81578509 The Stories We Tell Ourselves: https://shar...

Grow Further is celebrating episode 5-0, and we’re bringing our authentic selves and hope you will, too!  In this longer-than-normal episode, the hosts discuss the wisdom of Brené Brown, unpacking the idea that true belonging means embracing your authentic self, not just fitting in.    Also in this episode: The struggle to fit in, in the age of social media Personal stories of navigating identity...

Do you strive for perfection or permanence? In this episode, the hosts challenge the notion of “practice makes perfect” and introduce a fresh perspective. Perfection is unattainable, but practice can help you grow further in many areas of your life.   Also in this episode: Where did “practice make perfect” come from How practicing habits can lead to lasting changes in your life Why you should prac...

Could making your bed be the key to a better day? In this episode of the Grow Further podcast, the hosts delve into the quote, "How you do anything is how you do everything." They explore its implications, drawing insights from Martha Beck and Admiral William McRaven, and emphasize the power of small wins in fostering motivation and success.   Additional topics covered: The significance of startin...

Are you ready to do the next right thing? How do you know if it's the right thing? Join the hosts as they dive into the age-old dilemma of choosing between the easy path and doing what's right. From Mark Twain to Frozen, they explore the complexities of decision-making and offer insights on how to navigate these challenging moments.   Also in this episode: Ways to make decisions by thinking about...

When is the last time you did something that really thrilled you? Join the hosts as they uncover the secret to managing energy: chasing goosebumps! Learn how to navigate your day to prioritize joy and recharge your batteries. Also in this episode: Identifying activities that energize versus drain you throughout the day. Finding joy in small, everyday moments, even in mundane tasks. The importance...