Career Dreams

In this episode, Michelle and Chase explore  three key behaviors  that anyone can prioritize to positively influence their career. In a world that's constantly evolving, where change feels faster every day and headlines are filled with talk of upskilling and reskilling, it's more important than ever to pause and reflect on how we show up with integrity, prioritize our development, and build relati...

In this episode, Michelle and Chase explore the world of corporate buzzwords, you know the ones found in the business vocabulary. Those overused phrases like "circle back," "ducks in a row," and "low hanging fruit." They break down the 10 most cringe-worthy expressions in business lingo and offer alternatives for clearer communication. This episode will help you speak with more impact and a little...

After a long workweek, it's tempting to unwind with passive activities, but what if there's a better way to truly recharge? In this episode, Michelle and Chase explore the concept of  leisure crafting , a research-backed approach to weekend well-being that boosts energy, mood, and even work performance. Learn how setting personal goals, building skills, and connecting with others through your favo...

In this episode, Michelle and Chase explore five powerful strategies for improving your conversations - at work and in life. Inspired by Celeste Headlee's TED Talk, they break down practical tips like avoiding multi-tasking, going with the flow, being brief, and truly listening. Tune in to learn how small shifts in how you communicate can lead to stronger connections and more meaningful dialogue....

Michelle & Chase celebrate 175 episodes of  Career Dreams by reflecting on a year of weekly wins, an idea sparked at last year's ATD Conference. In this milestone episode, they share three meaningful wins: one from the podcast, one from their careers, and one from their life. Plus, they highlight key takeaways from this year's ATD International Conference & Exposition. Got a question? Ask us! Do y...

Who's really in charge? You, or your thoughts? 🤔 In this short, punchy episode, Chase unpacks a powerful question inspired by psychologist and author Susan David:  "Who is in charge? The thinker or the thought?" Tune in for a fresh perspective that might just shift how you see yourself and how you navigate your inner dialogue. Post: Who Is In Charge? (LinkedIn) Got a question? Ask us! Do you have...

Michelle & Chase explore the hidden cost of uncertainty at work—drawing insights from an article by Dr. Teresa Peterson and the Noll Wilson Group. From stress to stalled performance, they unpack why clarity is key to thriving teams. Noll Wilson Group: The Cost of Uncertainty in the Workplace Got a question? Ask us! Do you have a question you'd like to hear answered on Career Dreams? You can  submi...

In this bite-sized episode, Michelle explores inspiration from the French parenting principle le pause and how it beautifully translates into professional wisdom. Whether you're navigating a career transition, leading a team, or simply developing your interpersonal skills, the power of an intentional pause can make all the difference. Article: Reclaiming the Pause in Conversation (Medium) Article:...

In this episode of Career Dreams, Dr. Teresa Peterson from the Noll Wilson Group joins Michelle and Chase to explore how we can better navigate change—both personally and professionally. From the power of pruning and unlearning to embracing a growth mindset, Dr. Peterson shares insights on why change often feels hard, how emotions like fear show up, and what leaders and teammates can do to support...

Michelle and Chase breakdown a recent leader gathering where FORUM's leaders explored the idea of unlocking potential during change with a growth mindset.  Got a question? Ask us! Do you have a question you'd like to hear answered on Career Dreams? You can  submit  an audio recording of your question to be featured on an upcoming episode!  Like it? Share it! If you're finding value in exploring yo...

Liesel Mertes joins the podcast to explore the power of empathy, emotional intelligence, and human-centered leadership at work. With a moving personal story that fuels her passion, Liesel challenges us to rethink what it means to truly support people - especially during life's most distruptive moments. She shares practical tools like Empathy Avatars and strategies for building self-awareness, offe...

Feeling stuck in your work routine? This episode will help you discover practical strategies to reignite your motivation and take control of your career growth. This episode explores how to leverage past performance reviews, seek challenging assignments, shadow colleagues, share your expertise, and celebrate small wins to help jumpstart your motivation and achieve your career dreams. Harvard Busin...

This episode explores John Maxwell's 7 growth gaps and explores the risks associated with limiting beliefs and lack of intentional growth. Michelle and Chase discuss practical ways to overcome these challenges and encourage you to reflect and take action. Tune in to hear practical ways you can work to overcome these challenges and work towards achieving your Career Dreams!  Career Dreams Podcast:...

Michelle and Chase have another hot take on this episode!  Psychological Safety  - it's not just a buzzword. In this episode, Michelle and Chase explore  Psychological Safety , its origins, and the crucial role it plays in creating high-performing teams and healthy, productive workplaces. Michelle shares three actionable steps you can implement today to start embracing Psychological Safety and sto...

Chase was inspired by a Simon Sinek podcast episode he listened to recently featuring Brené Brown and Adam Grant. Simon, Brené, and Adam talk about the importance of self-awareness and the power of situational awareness. Even in this short, 6-minute, episode you will be inspired and walk away with a tool to help improve your self-awareness and situational awareness! You can listen to the entire Bi...

In this episode of Career Dreams, Michelle and Chase take a moment to reflect on recent leader development gatherings at FORUM. This year, the focus is on navigating and leading through change. This episode is sure to inspire you to think about your relationship with change!  Got a question? Ask us! Do you have a question you'd like to hear answered on Career Dreams? You can  submit  an audio reco...

Michelle and Chase sit down with author and leadership expert Jim Carlough to discuss his book,  The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership . Jim shares the inspiration behind his book, emphasizes the importance of integrity and trust in leadership, and explores the power of reflection. About Jim Carlough:  Jim Carlough is a veteran leader, business mentor, and author known for transforming leadershi...

Join Michelle and Chase as they dive into the fascinating world of Adaptability Quotient (AQ) with expert Pete Van Overwalle. Discover how AQ, composed of Ability, Character, and Skill, is crucial in today's rapidly changing world. Pete explains why today's pace of change is the slowest we'll ever experience and emphasizes the importance of adaptability to stay ahead. Pete also shares some cool ti...

In this episode of Career Dreams, Michelle and Chase wrap up the 7-week series, "Mastering the 7 Habits: Your Path to Effectiveness." This episode explores the 7th habit from Stephen Covey's book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" -  Sharpen the Saw . This habit is the key to achieving success with the other six habits, as it emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and growth. Join...

Michelle and Chase dive into  Synergize , the 6th habit from Stephen Covey's book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People . As part of the 7-week series, "Mastering the 7 Habits: Your Path to Effectiveness," this episode reveals how combining strengths leads to extraordinary results. Be sure to tackle the challenge at the end of this episode. You can also find this challenge in the companion guid...

Mastering the 7 Habits: Your Path to Effectiveness What do you think of the Career Dreams Special Series, Mastering the 7 Habits? We hope you're finding value and actionable takeaways in each episode. In this episode, Michelle and Chase talk about Habit #5 - Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood. Spoiler alert - this is Michelle's favorite habit and most meaningful habit to her of the 7!...

Mastering the 7 Habits: Your Path to Effectiveness In this episode, Michelle and Chase explore Habit #4 from Stephen Covey's " The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People " – Think Win-Win . Discover how to seek mutually beneficial solutions in your interactions, fostering a mindset of abundance and collaboration. Learn practical ways to apply this habit in your career, from negotiations to teamwork,...

Mastering the 7 Habits: Your Path to Effectiveness Michelle and Chase explore Habit #3 from Stephen Covey's " The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People " – Put First Things First . Discover how prioritizing tasks and focusing on what's most important can help you manage your time effectively and align your actions with your goals. Learn about the prioritization matrix, similar to the Eisenhower Matr...

Mastering the 7 Habits: Your Path to Effectiveness In this episode, we dive into Habit #2 from Stephen Covey's " The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People " – Begin with the End in Mind . Join Michelle and Chase as they explore the importance of envisioning your goals and outcomes before starting any task. Learn how this habit can provide a clear roadmap for both your career and personal life. Plus,...

Michelle and Chase have something unique in store for the next several weeks. In this episode, they kick off a special seven-week series:  Mastering the 7 Habits: Your Path to Effectiveness . Each episode in this series will explore one of the 7 Habits from Stephen Covey's renowned book,  The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People . This episode starts with  Habit #1 - Be Proactive . Michelle and Cha...