Productive Joy

Today on Productive Joy, Dr. Christie explores the concept of productive joy and shared examples of individuals who embody this principle through their work helping others and creating positive educational environments. She emphasizes the importance of finding and nurturing bright spots in chaos to create better outcomes, while encouraging listeners to define their own version of productive joy. Dr. Christie poses a challenge everyone to actively work towards their goals by the end of 2026, urging us to think differently and create tangible steps towards their desired future.Watch Dr. Christie’s recent TEDx talk on being a 'bold flavor' and consider how to implement intentionality in everyday decisions, from family interactions to workplace dynamics.I am a Bold Flavor | Dr. Christie McMullen | TEDxSouthlake

It’s almost here! Today Dr. Christie encourages us to take a breath and embrace intentionality as the year winds down. To reflect on the year's accomplishments and prepare for the next by setting purposeful actions. She shares personal insights, challenges everyone to plan intentionally for 2026, and discusses the importance of understanding yourself and others in both personal and professional relationships. Watch Dr. Christie’s recent TEDx talk on being a 'bold flavor' and consider how to implement intentionality in everyday decisions, from family interactions to workplace dynamics.I am a Bold Flavor | Dr. Christie McMullen | TEDxSouthlakeEpisode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:07 Taking a Moment to Breathe01:02 Reflecting on Intentionality01:46 Setting Intentional Goals for 202602:25 Understanding Yourself and Others03:08 Assessing and Utilizing Talents03:54 Embracing Intentionality Every Day05:08 Wrapping Up the Year with Fun and Intentionality

In this special Christmas episode of Productive Joy, we explore the concept of 'productive joy' for 2025. Dr. Christie, identifies 10 key pillars: purpose over busyness, intentional joy, human-centered interactions, growth and continuous improvement, balance with authenticity, resilience and emotional intelligence, the impact of joy on output, integrity, empowerment and self-worth, and avoiding burnout. The episode emphasizes that joy can be cultivated daily, leading to a more fulfilling and productive life. Merry Christmas and may your day be filled with joy and special moments.Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Welcome and Merry Christmas!00:24 Introducing the 10 Pillars of Productive Joy00:44 Pillars 1-3: Purpose, Joy, and Human Connection02:16 Pillars 4-6: Growth, Balance, and Resilience03:48 Pillars 7-9: Joyful Output, Authenticity, and Self-Worth05:18 Pillar 10: Avoiding Burnout05:42 Final Thoughts and Christmas Wishes

In this enlightening episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes M. Shannon Hernandez, founder of the Joyful Business Revolution, author, and joy advocate. M. Shannon shares her insights on the limitless nature of joy, explaining that joy is an inside job distinct from the fleeting nature of happiness. She emphasizes the importance of identifying and living by your values, integrating joy into daily practices, and rejecting external pressures that stifle true self-expression. M. Shannon also discusses her unique approach to messaging and marketing, advocating for kindness and clarity over pain-driven tactics. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy00:04 Meet Shannon Hernandez: Joy Advocate00:52 The Concept of Joy: No Ceilings01:35 Practical Joy: Beyond Meditation05:30 Joy vs. Happiness: An Inside Job06:51 Values Inventory: A Path to Joy09:11 Productive Joy: Intentional Fun16:49 Practical Tips for Practicing Joy18:43 Training for Mount Kilimanjaro21:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

In this recap of 'Productive Joy,' Dr. Christie talks about her amazing interviews with Karen Agrait and Karen Mayer Cunningham, and what lessons we can learn from their stories and experience. She focuses on identifying and leveraging personal gifts and talents and  emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating your unique abilities, suggesting a self-audit to list these skills. As the New Year approaches, the episode encourages listeners to make resolutions that play to their strengths and use their talents effectively. Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy00:05 Meet the Karens00:36 Weekly Wisdom and Takeaways01:54 Discover Your Unique Genius03:05 Self-Audit and New Year's Resolutions04:24 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons05:44 Final Challenge and Encouragement#ProductiveJoy#PodcastRecap#PersonalGrowthJourney#KnowYourStrengths#UniqueGenius#PurposeDrivenLife#LeadershipDevelopment#MindsetShift#SelfAudit#IntentionalLiving#DiversityOfThought#UseYourGifts#EndOfYearReflection#GrowthMindset#TurnJoyIntoAction

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes special education advocate and stand-up comedian Karen Mayer Cunningham. Karen shares her compelling story of becoming an advocate for special education driven by her son's autism diagnosis. She recounts her challenges with the educational system and her mission to help other parents, educators, and students navigate and succeed in special education. Karen emphasizes the importance of joy, effective advocacy, and productive teamwork between educators and parents. She also highlights the value of persistence and humor in overcoming life's obstacles. This episode is packed with inspiring advice for leaders on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment at work and in schools.Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:08 Meet Karen Meyer Cunningham01:25 Karen's Journey into Special Education02:36 Challenges and Advocacy08:30 The Epic IEP11:16 Special Education in the Workplace14:48 The Impact of Over-Celebration on Generations15:04 The True Value of Education15:21 Qualities of Effective Leaders17:16 Embracing Productive Joy19:01 Advice for Aspiring Leaders23:24 The Intersection of Comedy and Pain24:42 Rapid Fire Questions27:25 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways#SpecialEducationAdvocacy#AutismAcceptance#InclusiveLeadership#ParentAdvocate#NeurodiversityMatters#EducatorCommunity#AdvocacyWithJoy#InclusiveEducation#PurposeDrivenLeadership#CareerFulfillment#PersonalGrowthPodcast#ProfessionalDevelopment#CareerDevelopment#WorkLifePurpose#MeaningfulCareer#GrowthMindsetPodcast#LeadershipDevelopment#CareerHappiness#PurposeDrivenCareer

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Karen Agrait, a coach, learner, and personality expert. Karen shares her personal and professional journey, from her early interest in child welfare to her transition into coaching and training. She and Dr. Christie discuss her passion for learning, helping others, and navigating life's challenges. Karen also shares the pivotal moments that led her to focus on productive joy and offers practical advice on achieving it, both personally and within organizations. Listen to learn more on leveraging strengths, maintaining self-awareness, and fostering a fulfilling and balanced life.Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:03 Karen's Personal Journey and Background02:46 Career Path and Professional Growth06:10 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Challenges10:29 Creating Productive Joy18:22 Advice for Leaders and Final Thoughts21:28 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

It’s that time of year! A season of giving that can often leave us feeling a little depleted. Today Dr. Christie discusses the challenges of balancing holiday activities and personal well-being during this busy time. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing personal joy and taking time for yourself and offers practical tips for maintaining energy and mental health, such as reading, walking, and allowing yourself to say no to some things. Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:44 Managing Holiday Stress01:35 Prioritizing Self-Care01:53 Embracing the Season03:28 The Concept of Productive Joy04:25 Spreading Joy and Choosing Happiness

In this inspiring episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes the multifaceted Peter H. Reynolds, a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator, most notably known for his book 'The Dot.' Peter discusses his passion for storytelling, education, and creativity, emphasizing the importance of taking care of oneself to better inspire the next generation. He champions the idea of embracing imperfection through 'ish full thinking' and encourages everyone, especially educators, to explore their unique gifts. Peter shares personal stories, such as the impact of his family and his own experiences as a twin, and highlights the power of making even the smallest marks, like drawing a dot, to spark creativity and joy. Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:06 Message to Educators02:08 The Power of Picture Books02:57 Discovering Unique Gifts10:48 The Story of 'The Dot'15:55 Defining Productive Joy24:52 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

In this engaging episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie introduces Dr. Brandy Stamper, an accomplished mom, wife, author, and leadership development coach. Brandy shares her expertise on creating a life you love by understanding yourself deeply through the Enneagram system. She discusses the importance of having a personal blueprint that aligns with your true self rather than societal expectations. With a background in psychology and communications, Brandy reveals her own experiences of feeling unfulfilled despite outward success and explains how discovering her Enneagram type transformed her approach to life and work.Brandy also gives glimpses into her book, 'Bridging the Purpose Gap,' which provides actionable insights into integrating Enneagram principles into personal and professional life. Connect with Dr. Christie at: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Brandy Stamper01:44 Brandy's Journey: From Psychology to Enneagram03:27 Discovering the Enneagram and Personal Fulfillment05:46 Understanding the Enneagram: A Deep Dive09:02 Brandy's Book: Bridging the Purpose Gap12:39 Defining Productive Joy and Personal Insights17:16 The Fear of Failure and Self-Worth18:18 Understanding Enneagram Subtypes18:46 Self-Preservation, Social, and Sexual Subtypes21:16 The Importance of Accurate Typing23:00 Practical Applications of Enneagram Knowledge25:12 Rapid Fire Questions28:25 Final Thoughts and Takeaways