The RIGHT Kind of Uncomfortable

Psychological safety isn’t about eliminating discomfort. It’s about creating the conditions where challenge and growth can thrive without fear of retaliation or exclusion. Dr. Ryan C. Warner joins James to explore how leaders at every level can balance safety with accountability, and why emotional intelligence is a critical skill for high-performing, inclusive teams. From feedback dynamics to work...

In this episode, we dig into leading through disruption and why culture sets the ceiling for results. We talk about finding common ground in uncertain times, creating safe spaces for honest conversation, and how people first decisions show up when it matters most. We also look at mergers and acquisitions, keeping brand identities intact, and what it takes to unite teams without flattening what mak...

What does it take to lead through discomfort, own your mistakes, and keep showing up? In this episode, John Bratsakis, President of the MD|DC Credit Union Association, joins James in the studio for an unfiltered conversation on leadership, accountability, and the quiet strength of consistency. They explore the professional lessons learned through failure, how presence outweighs perception, and why...

What happens when early childhood experiences shape your leadership presence as an adult? In this episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable , Emma Hayes, Chief Learning and Engagement Officer at State Employees’ Credit Union of North Carolina, shares how a painful moment in first grade set her on a path of self-protection, purpose, and ultimately, transformation. Emma opens up about the unseen we...

What do you do when your next big conference lands in a city that clashes with your values? In this episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable , Dr. James Pogue sits down with Dr. Elena Gersman, co-founder of Social Offset, to unpack a practical alternative to staying home.  They explore why in-person connection matters for business, how boycotts can unintentionally hurt local communities, and how...

In part 2 of this episode, Dr. James Pogue and Paul Carolan dive deeper into the principles of active, intentional leadership. Paul shares powerful stories about fostering inclusivity, balancing core values, and the importance of recognizing individuality in the workplace. From addressing gender and cultural differences to navigating faith in business settings, Paul provides actionable insights an...

In part one of this two-part episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable , Dr. James Pogue sits down with Paul Carolan, a former C-suite executive and current consultant and adjunct professor at Virginia Tech. From humble beginnings sweeping floors to leading companies like Bruegger's Bagels and Genghis Grill, Paul shares his journey through the highs and lows of leadership. Paul opens up abou...

In this episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable , Dr. James Pogue sits down with Eric Goldfeld, Senior Vice President of Sales and Distribution at DIRECTV. They explore the profound elements of leadership and connection, diving deep into the pivotal moments of Eric's career. From his beginnings at AT&T in customer service to his current executive role, Eric shares the evolution of his...

 In Episode 4 of "The Right Kind of Uncomfortable," host James speaks with Tarji Carter, founder of "That Franchise Player," an organization dedicated to bridging the gap in franchise ownership education for underrepresented communities. Tarji shares her mission to empower people, especially within the Black community, by providing insights into the franchise industry—a sector...

In this episode, Dr. James Pogue, CEO of JP Enterprises, and CeCe Cox, CEO of Resource Center, discuss LGBTQIA+ awareness, terminology, and inclusion. Cox elaborates on the meanings of LGBTQIA+ terms, emphasizing the importance of education and respectful communication to foster deeper connections. www.jamespogue.com

In this thought-provoking second episode of The Right Kind Of Uncomfortable, host James Pogue sits down with Kent Lugrand, CEO of InTouch Federal Credit Union. With decades of experience in the financial industry, Lugrand shares candid insights on leadership, diversity, and the challenges of connecting in today's business world. The conversation spans topics from trust and transparency in lea...

In this engaging episode of The Right Kind Of Uncomfortable , Dr. James Pogue sits down with Valentina Tudose, a relationship coach and clinical hypnotherapist, to discuss their recent Intimacy and Connection Master Class. The conversation spans various topics related to intimacy, connection, and the dynamics of masculine and feminine energy in relationships. www.jamespogue.com