Perch "The Thoughtful Pause Podcast"

Send us Fan Mail When did woke become such a controversial word? This episode unravels its powerful journey—from a symbol of awareness and social justice to a term used to spark division. Once rooted in the fight for fairness and equality, woke now carries layers of meaning that fuel debates across culture, politics, and workplaces. We explore how this transformation happened and what it says abou...

Send us Fan Mail At the year's close, I wrote The River of Transformation as a powerful reminder that change doesn’t have to wait. Rather than relying on fleeting New Year’s resolutions, transformation begins with one simple yet profound action: the power of your words. In just three minutes, this episode will challenge you to step into your own flow of change by acknowledging where you'...

Send us Fan Mail Why are food prices so high right now, and what’s causing it? From supply chain issues and rising fuel costs to the choices we make at the grocery store, this episode breaks down the hidden reasons behind skyrocketing food prices. We’ll explore how the food journey—from farms to warehouses to your table—is more complicated and costly than it seems. Learn why seasonal produce, impo...

Send us Fan Mail Religion shapes our identities, communities, and worldviews, but what happens when it becomes a rigid boundary instead of a bridge to understanding? If religion is considered a taboo subject, how can we ever develop a deeper connection with people who think and believe differently than we do? With over 4,000 religions worldwide, we explore whether the structure and community of fa...

Send us Fan Mail Workplace Loyalty: Is It Still Relevant in Today’s Shifting Culture? In a world where workplace loyalty often feels one-sided, can we still find meaning in being committed to employers who may not always return the favor? As modern work culture evolves, we’re faced with uncomfortable truths about what it means to dedicate ourselves to our jobs truly and whether doing so is even wo...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Counting the Cost of Loyalty , we uncover the high emotional cost of settling in love and the true meaning of loyalty in relationships that no longer uplift us. Hosts Tree and Toby explore why so many remain loyal out of fear of loneliness , societal pressures , and financial dependence —forces that often turn love into an “unbreakable saddle” rather than a sour...

Send us Fan Mail In the first episode of our four-part series, Counting the Cost of Loyalty , we ask some challenging questions: Is your loyalty to a political party truly an expression of your beliefs, or are you following a tradition that may no longer serve you? How often do we align with party lines instead of our values? As America’s political landscape becomes more crowded, diverse, and pola...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we share our unforgettable journey as an interracial couple traveling through France, from the lively streets of Paris to the peaceful charm of Strasbourg. As an African American woman from the west side of Chicago and my partner Toby, who grew up in New York’s Hudson Valley and lived in France during his early years, we experienced the country through unique and...

Send us Fan Mail Get ready to laugh, cry, and feel all the feels as this relatable journey through the highs and lows of a family reunion. Don't miss out on this heartwarming reminder to choose love over drama with your own family! #FamilyReunionReflections, #BelongingWithFamily, #FamiliesComeTogether, #BlendedFamilyLove, #ChooseLoveOverDrama, #FindingBelonging, #FamilyReunion, #BlendedFamili...

Send us Fan Mail In a world where your parents' traditional values and financial rules have shifted, the advice to work hard and stay loyal to an organization no longer guarantees success. We examine how the landscape has changed and question whether hard work still pays off in today's rule-free world. #Success, #HardWork, #ChangingValues, #GenerationalShift, #WorkCulture #FinancialFreed...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore hope's complex nature, examining its uplifting power and potential downsides. From the inspiring resilience of Olympic athletes to the unrealistic expectations that can lead to disappointment, we break down the pros and cons of hope in today's world. Join us as we delve into how hope can shape our lives for better or for worse. Remember, your...

Send us Fan Mail Real change starts from within; waiting for external factors to improve your life only leaves you feeling powerless. Empower yourself by taking control of your mindset and actions, and watch as you turn life's lemons into lemonade. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us Fan Mail Is homeownership out of reach for Gen Z? Discover the drastic shifts in housing affordability, generational wealth disparities, and how evolving ideologies around education and debt shape today's financial struggles, with a focus on systemic issues and the racial wealth gap. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore whether Generation Z is destined for a lower quality of life than previous generations. We discuss factors like income inequality, cultural shifts, and the rising cost of education. We also emphasize the importance of understanding, empathy, and generational respect while addressing evolving work dynamics and economic challenges. Remember, your Perch is...

Send us Fan Mail 🎬 New Video Podcast Episode: The Power of Empathy in Rule-Breaking 🎬 Exploring Gender Stereotypes in Risk-Taking and Career Progression In this illuminating episode, we explore the transformative role of empathy in challenging gender stereotypes and promoting bold career choices.  Inspired by the insightful words of Laurel Thatcher Ulrich, "Well-behaved women seldom make hi...

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever questioned what peace truly means to you or considered the sacrifices you're willing to make for it? In our latest episode, we embark on a profound journey to understand the elusive nature of tranquility and its intimate connection with happiness. Our spirited discussion peels back the layers of personal growth, self-awareness, and emotional load sharing. Rememb...

Send us Fan Mail Joining the Perch is Ken Blackman, a former Apple engineer turned international relationship and intimacy expert. Ken is in his 25th year of helping couples co-create a thriving partnership and an exquisite love life.   Ken's unique perspective on intimacy has caught the attention of major publications like Business Insider, Cosmopolitan, and Playboy. He's also been a pa...

Send us Fan Mail This episode tackles "fake news" and media "echo chambers," advocating for "fact-checking" and "media literacy" to discern "truth" in our "post-truth" era. Join the call for "transparency" and "critical thinking" in safeguarding the "integrity of truth." YOUTUBE LINK https://www.youtube.com/w...

Send us Fan Mail We open our hearts in this episode, delving deep into the timeless message of "We Are the World," a powerful testament to the unifying force of music, juxtaposed against the backdrop of today's fragmented society. As we navigate these turbulent waters, we confront the poignant irony of international aid amidst local homelessness, prompting a profound inquiry: Can we...

Send us Fan Mail Monica's return to our podcast couldn't be more timely, as we find ourselves delving into the transformative realms of spirituality, self-help, and the compelling force of accountability. Her journey, marked by both professional accolades and personal revelations, demonstrates how seizing control of our narrative can indeed bend the arc of our lives. Engage in our candid...

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt the unmistakable pull towards a destiny that differs from the path you're currently on? Monica Bey's life story is a vivid testament to this phenomenon, taking her from the high-pressure world of finance to the realms of metaphysical healing and spiritual teaching. Through her narrative, we uncover the courage required to transition from the visible la...

Send us Fan Mail Explore  HR challenges, company culture insights, and tips from  #TheHRLady Wendy's Sellers book 'The Asshole Whisperer'  How to deal with crappy leaders and jerks in the workplace. Dive into AI's impact on recruitment, crafting AI-friendly resumes, and the remote work revolution. Wendy's expertise offers authentic interview techniques and fair hiring prac...

Send us Fan Mail Meet The HR Lady, Wendy Sellers, an author, HR consultant, and management trainer. Join us as she disrupts conventional HR wisdom with insights from her books 'Suck it Up, Buttercup: Be a Leader People Will Follow' and 'The Asshole Whisperer: How to deal with crappy leaders and jerks at work.' Dive into Wendy's unconventional HR journey for a unique, enric...

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt like a greater purpose is calling you, but you're not quite sure how to answer it? Genevieve Piturro, the visionary behind the Pajama Program, joins us to unravel the mysteries of finding life's purpose, sharing an exercise that goes beyond standard goal-setting to unearth your true passions. Our heartfelt conversation reveals how this practice transfo...

Send us Fan Mail Join Genevieve Piturro, a former TV marketing executive turned philanthropist, as she shares her inspiring journey of finding purpose beyond conventional success. Explore the heartwarming mission of the Pajama Program, delve into leaving a legacy with the impactful story of the 'hugger,' and witness Genevieve's touching experiences gifting pajamas to children in nee...