

Productive Joy
Dr. Christie McMullen
Welcome to Productive Joy with Dr. Christie. I'm your host, Christie McMullen, and together we are going to make sure we turn fun into action. How will we do that? By thoughtfully taking AIM. AIM stands for Analyze Improve Move. We're going to analyze the things that you're currently doing that you're like, I probably could find more joy in this. We're going to improve on those things by listening to experts and learning all kinds of new ways to do business. And then we're going to move. It is time to learn and grow together...let's do this.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 22, 2025 • 26min
Laughter Really Is The Best Medicine with Dr. Jaime Raygoza
In this episode of Productive Joy, the host welcomes Dr. Jaime Raygoza, a career and stress coach, outdoor enthusiast, and laughter yoga teacher. Dr. Raygoza discusses his personal transformation from stress and anxiety to finding joy and integrating laughter into his life and coaching practice. He and Dr. Christie delve into topics such as redefining success, the importance of authentic self-expression, and the benefits of laughter in your life. He emphasizes the value of joy in the workplace and offers insights on how leaders can foster a joyful environment.Find More About Dr. RaygozaDr. Christie McMullen is a best-selling author and 24-year educator turned entrepreneur who can help you make work fun! She has worked with thousands of adults in multiple industries at organizations like Aetna, ReMax, Solaris, and RISE to improve human interactions.With a master's and doctorate in Educational Leadership and two and a half decades of practical experience she is able to connect with CEOs, directors, educators, salespeople, and everyone in between. Check out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. Want to increase your visibility? A book establishes you as a leader in your field. Shine Press makes publishing seamless. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press..Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:35 Meet Dr. Jaime Reza01:37 The Journey to Joy03:28 Redefining Success05:18 Embracing Authenticity08:05 Laughter Yoga Explained10:03 Incorporating Joy in Life and Work17:58 Dr. Jaime's Coaching and Impact22:35 Rapid Fire and Key Takeaways24:55 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsKeywords:stress coachoutdoor enthusiastlaughter yogahalf marathonscat dadpersonal and professional growthstressorslife seriouslyrelaxationjoypleasurecareersuccessmotivationburnoutmental healthlaughter yogayogic breathingendorphinsserotoninsynthetic laughtergiggle meditationjoyinner childintentionsbeing yourselfauthentic selfmaskshow upempowerhappinesssphere of controlsphere of influencetraffic jamkaraokeworkshopcoachingteam motivationemployee turnoverretentionunicornhuman organizational psychologyBurnoutemployee turnoverretentionconfidenceself-worthauthentic selffungiving grace

Apr 19, 2025 • 10min
Aim for Growth, Communicate Value & More From Nejat Abdurahman and Scott Haug
Welcome to Productive Joy the Recap! Dr. Christie reviews valuable lessons from guests Nejat Abdurahman and Scott Haug. Nejat, an author and coach, emphasizes the importance of managing up and communicating one's value. Scott, known for his expertise in manifestation, shares how our thoughts shape our reality and introduces the concept of 'productive joy' as a blend of ambition and fulfillment. Christie also shares her own personal stories and encourages everyone to adopt practices such as keeping a 'good things' journal to cultivate joy and authenticity in their lives.Dr. Christie McMullen is a best-selling author and 24-year educator turned entrepreneur who can help you make work fun! She has worked with thousands of adults in multiple industries at organizations like Aetna, ReMax, Solaris, and RISE to improve human interactions.With a master's and doctorate in Educational Leadership and two and a half decades of practical experience she is able to connect with CEOs, directors, educators, salespeople, and everyone in between. Check out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy00:16 Meet the Guests: Nejat and Scott00:35 Nejat's Insights on Managing Up03:31 Scott's Take on Manifestation03:55 Personal Story: Overcoming Adversity05:49 Defining Productive Joy06:46 Engage with Your Own Definition08:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsKeywords:authorspeakercoachcorporate trainerleadersmanage upcommunicate valuejobfamilyassumptionsmomanalyzing systemsimproving systemsmoving towards changesetting targetpersonal goalfoodclear communicationreturn on investmentgood stuffYouTubeTikTokart of manifestationthoughtsdestinationschoicejournalgood thingsperspectivecircumstancesproductive joymasculine energyfeminine energyefficientlyfeeling wholeauthentic selfenergizedgratitude

Apr 17, 2025 • 31min
Leveraging the Power of Awareness to Find Your Zone of Genius with Scott Haug
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie introduces Scott Haug, a manifestation coach, fitness enthusiast, and martial artist. Scott shares insights on transforming life through small, simple actions and emphasizes the importance of mindset and gratitude. He recounts his shift from an engineering career to becoming an entrepreneur and personal development coach. He and Dr. Christie explore how leaders can create productive joy in the workplace and Scott's approach to helping clients overcome recurring challenges. Tune in for practical tips to achieve a more fulfilling, joyful life.Find More About Scott HaugDr. Christie McMullen is a best-selling author and 24-year educator turned entrepreneur who can help you make work fun! She has worked with thousands of adults in multiple industries at organizations like Aetna, ReMax, Solaris, and RISE to improve human interactions.With a master's and doctorate in Educational Leadership and two and a half decades of practical experience she is able to connect with CEOs, directors, educators, salespeople, and everyone in between. Check out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction00:32 Meet Scott Haug03:01 Scott's Journey From Engineering to Entrepreneurship06:19 The Power of Listening to Your Inner Voice11:10 Creating Joy in the Workplace15:47 The Essence of Genuine Gratitude16:12 Defining Productive Joy16:24 Balancing Energies for Success17:59 Maintaining Wholeness in Productivity19:39 Discovering Your Zone of Genius20:59 Helping Clients Overcome Challenges22:53 The Journey to YouTube Success25:54 Rapid Fire Questions28:12 Final Takeaways and GratitudeKeywords:Scott Haugmanifestation coachfitness enthusiastmartial artistbookwormenergy workpersonal developmentmanifestingproper destiniesjourneycollegedegreecareercorporate spacecubicleapartmentMassachusettsNew Yorkleaving the jobstudent loan debttwo weeks noticeaerospace jobLas Vegasprivate companyjob offermanagerfundingentrepreneurpersonal developmentdepressionmindsetlogical momentintuitionheartprogrammingsubconsciousnervous systemmoney come inabundancefinancial abundancelavishBob ProctorThe Secretmentorcoaching careerYouTube channel

Apr 15, 2025 • 36min
How to Add Value to Your Organization and Yourself with Nejat Abdurahman
Are you ready for a truly inspirational story? Dr. Christie welcomes Nejat Abdurahman, an author, speaker, and leadership coach. Najat shares her experiences and insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the importance of managing up. She emphasizes the value of writing down your 'why,' aligning personal and organizational goals, and ensuring sustainable productivity. She and Dr. Christie also cover practical advice from Najat's book, 'The Art of Managing Up,' and offer listeners actionable steps to become the CEO of their careers and foster a balanced, impactful work life.Connect with NejatCheck out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:34 Meet Najat: Author, Speaker, Coach01:35 Najat's Journey: From Corporate Trainer to Entrepreneur03:27 The Impact of Leadership Development06:46 Balancing Passion and Practicality in Business13:09 Defining Productive Joy16:37 Sustainability in Daily Life17:38 Introduction to Managing Up18:45 The Importance of Managing Up19:43 Practical Steps for Managing Up22:10 Empowering Yourself in the Workplace24:40 Aligning Personal and Organizational Goals30:16 Final ThoughtsKeywords:authorspeakercoachlifelong learneravid readerhikingtravel enthusiastSpainpandemicquit full-time jobcompanyriskleadership developmentskydivingimpactorganizationleaderslearningpassiontrainingArt of Managing Upself-leadershipleading downleading upleading acrosssustainabilitybalanceentrepreneuradvocatingcareer successMcKinsey and CompanyHarvard Business ReviewpurposegoalsvalueappreciationaligningCEO of your careerimpact otherswork-life balanceauthentic selffunemotional intelligencewellbeing

Apr 12, 2025 • 9min
Turning Challenges Into Triumphs and More From Dr. Lucette Beall and Dr. Greg Stewart
This week on Productive Joy recap edition, Dr. Christie delves into the impactful conversations she had this week with two remarkable guests. Dr. Lucette Beall, a veterinarian turned life coach, shares her journey of overcoming adversity and creating systems for extraordinary lives. Dr. Greg Stewart, organizational leadership expert and pastor, introduces his I Cubed framework, focusing on information, interpretation, and intensity to manage emotional responses. Dr. Christie McMullen emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts to achieve productive joy and offers resources for personal growth. Check out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.Episode Highlights: 00:12 Podcast Guests and Book Thinkers01:11 Dr. Lucette Beall's Extraordinary Life02:00 Dr. Greg Stewart's Mindset Shifts03:04 Applying Mindset Shifts in Daily Life04:28 The Knowing-Doing Gap05:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement07:26 ClosingKewords:Book Thinkerspublicitymindset shiftsdoctorsveterinarianextraordinary livesorganizational leadershippastorcancer diagnosistraumatic brain injurybusinesstraumaI Cubedindividualscouplesinformationinterpretationintensityinfluencenegative emotionstriggerposturingchildhood traumasarcastic commentsknowing doing gapintentionalreactangrywisdommindset matterssimplechallenge

Apr 10, 2025 • 39min
Information, Interpretation, and Intensity Determines Everything with Dr. Greg Stewart
This is a must-see episode for anyone that wants to get to the core of how to better every type of relationship in their life, including the one with ourselves. Today Dr. Christie introduces Dr. Greg Stewart, an author, counselor, and emotional intelligence expert. He shares his personal and professional story, offering insights on emotional intelligence and how to reclaim power over your environment. He and Dr. Christie discuss his books on managing negative emotions and achieving joy and success. He delves into techniques for emotional management, the importance of self-awareness, and addressing insecurity and trauma. Learn actionable strategies to enhance personal resilience and improve relationships at home and work.Find more about Dr. StewartCheck out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:31 Meet Dr. Greg Stewart01:57 Dr. Stewart's Journey to Ministry03:20 Defining Moments and Career Shifts04:33 Emotional Intelligence and Leadership06:02 Personal Struggles and Growth07:35 Marriage Mentorship and Counseling08:34 The Concept of I Cubed09:19 Understanding and Managing Emotions16:05 Practical Applications and Counseling Approach19:43 Connecting with Dr. Stewart20:25 Understanding Insecurity20:39 Owning Your Insecurities21:05 Teaching Kids Resilience21:57 Unpacking Trauma22:55 Reclaiming Lost Security23:11 Techniques for Emotional Management24:19 The Path to Emotional Goals25:18 Building Resilience in Relationships28:12 Defining Productive Joy34:39 Rapid Fire QuestionsKeywords:authorgolfergrandpaempty nesterministrycounselingadjunct professororganizational leadershipemotional intelligenceconsultantresidential treatment centertraumanegative emotionsidentityvalueworthcoaching leadersconsultingtelehealthresilientempathybig T traumalittle T traumakingdommarriage counselingmarriage mentorspremarital sessionsemotional energyself-awarenessinsecuritiescritical thinkingperceptionconstructive criticismspousesignificant othermental modelsphere of controlsphere of influencehappinesspeacecontentmentemotional goalswork environmentleadershipself-growthpersonal developmentburnouttrustconfidencevulnerabilityself-worthintimacyself-reflectionconstructive dialoguedisagreementboundaries

Apr 8, 2025 • 40min
How to Build an Extraordinary Life with Lucette Beall
Welcome back to Productive Joy. Today Dr. Christie has a fascinating conversation with Dr. Lucette Beall, a veterinarian, author, coach, and more. Dr. Beall shares her transformative journey through cancer, family crises, and financial struggles. She talks about the power of resilience, morning routines, and changing negative thought patterns. She and Dr. Christie stress the importance of living from the inside out, harnessing your worth, and fostering an extraordinary life by flipping the script on challenges. Listen for practical tools and strategies to cultivate productive joy and lead with authenticity in your own life.Connect with Dr. BeallEpisode Highlights:00:26 Meet Dr. Lizette Bell01:52 Overcoming Personal Challenges05:23 The Power of Resilience08:11 Building a Seven-Figure Business10:41 Tools for a Positive Mindset13:05 Introducing Flip the Script19:42 Recognizing Your Sphere of Influence20:05 Defining Productive Joy20:31 Taking Responsibility for Your Emotions20:50 Creating a Positive Work Environment23:23 The Power of Letting Go25:19 Tools for Personal Growth27:57 Living an Extraordinary Life31:15 Rapid Fire Questions36:47 Final Thoughts on WorthinessKeywords:Productive JoyDr. Lisettepodcastguestveterinarianspeakerauthorcoachscuba diverfoodiecookmeal prepdessertTexasextraordinarymediocremediocritycancer treatmentresiliencepositivitybrain injuryinstitutiontherapymental spacebankruptcydebtcashestatedementiaCOVID shutdownmemory careessential businessmortality diagnosismorning routinemindset expertsubscription programflip the scriptmeditationnegativityinfluencesphere of controlautopilot negative thoughtsNational Science Foundationchallengessolutionsjoybelief systemreverse reframerebuildextraordinary lifeWelcome back to Productive Joy. Today Dr. Christie has a fascinating conversation with Dr. Lucette Beall, a veterinarian, author, coach, and more. Dr. Beall shares her transformative journey through cancer, family crises, and financial struggles. She talks about the power of resilience, morning routines, and changing negative thought patterns. She and Dr. Christie stress the importance of living from the inside out, harnessing your worth, and fostering an extraordinary life by flipping the script on challenges. Listen for practical tools and strategies to cultivate productive joy and lead with authenticity in your own life.Connect with Dr. BeallCheck out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.

Apr 5, 2025 • 10min
Check In On Yourself and Find Your Peace, Ease, and Calm & More With Tina Miller & Dr. Carrie Graham
In this weekly recap episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie shares her excitement about being able to bring you such incredible wisdom and insights from two extraordinary guests, Tina Miller and Dr. Carrie Graham. Tina, a comedian and author, talks about her work helping students with addiction and introduces the acronyms HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired, Sick) and HOPE (Help One Person Every Day). Dr. Carrie Graham, a learning strategist, emphasizes the importance of tailored training and defines 'productive joy' as 'peace and ease.' Check out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction00:42 Guest Introduction: Tina Miller01:38 Guest Introduction: Dr. Carrie Graham02:44 Key Takeaways from Tina Miller04:46 Key Takeaways from Dr. Carrie Graham07:22 Final ThoughtsKeywords:comedianauthorschoolsaddictionsubstance abuseTampa Bay areatrain stafflearning strategistdoctorateeducational leadershipCatawba Collegeparallel systemsfangirlingmessageshaltshopehelping othersphenomenalfunnyspecialtrainingarticulate their visionCPR trainingphysical therapistssave livespeace and easedefinitionrecognizekeeper of informationnavigateTikTokdirect message

Apr 3, 2025 • 37min
Let's Not Do Things Differently, Let's Do Things Strategically! With Dr. Carrie Graham
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes a long-time friend and former Catawba College alum, Dr. Carrie Graham, a workplace learning strategies. Together they explore the power of effective training programs and the significance of understanding the learners' needs. Dr. Graham shares her journey from sports medicine to transforming organizational training systems, emphasizing strategic thinking and shared values. They discuss creating environments of peace and joy in professional learning, offering amazing insights for leaders aiming to foster growth and fulfillment within their teams.Check out the incredible sponsor of our podcast, Shine Press. What’s holding you back from writing a book that supports your career? Strategize with Shine Press to write, publish, and market your book - with joy. Illuminating Stories. Empowering Authors. Shine Press.Check out Dr. Graham’s tailored training solutions Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Special Birthday Shoutout01:17 Meet Dr. Carrie Graham02:53 The Importance of Effective Training03:31 Dr. Graham's Journey and Insights05:04 Challenges in Training Programs06:58 Creating Impactful Training Programs17:55 Defining Productive Joy22:15 Advice for Leaders28:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsKeywords:Catawba Collegetraining programsworkplace learning strategistadult learninglearning programsstudent satisfactioncoacheseducationexecutivesleaderspersonal developmentprofessional learningcertificationsexual harassment trainingtraining experienceeffective learningmandatory trainingadult learningemployee developmenthealthcare providerlearning strategyfaculty memberorganizational valuespeacepsychological safetyconference speakerslearning needsstrategic planningtraining systemswork environmentself-careleadership developmentonboardingtraining facilitationengagementteam dynamicstraining curriculumemployee retentionlearning gapslearning outcomesdevelopment programstraining budgetlearning alignmentmission alignmentlearning experiencecohort

Apr 1, 2025 • 37min
We Can Be Powerful or Pitiful... Choose Wisely with Tina Miller
In this episode of Productive Joy, the host introduces Tina Miller, a dynamic speaker, author, comedian, and founder of Victory High School. Tina shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood and addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for students struggling with substance use disorders. Throughout the episode, she discusses the importance of gratitude, humor, and compassionate education. Tina also reveals her unique hiring process, which involves students interviewing potential staff, ensuring they align with the school's mission of providing hope and healing.Connect with Tina MillerConnect with Tina MillerDr. Christie McMullen is a best-selling author and 24-year educator turned entrepreneur who can help you make work fun! She has worked with thousands of adults in multiple industries at organizations like Aetna, ReMax, Solaris, and RISE to improve human interactions.With a master's and doctorate in Educational Leadership and two and a half decades of practical experience she is able to connect with CEOs, directors, educators, salespeople, and everyone in between. Episode Highlights:00:37 Meet Tina Miller01:52 Tina's Early Life and Challenges04:11 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Purpose05:34 Founding Florida Recovery Schools07:45 Empowering Students and Staff14:11 Hiring the Right People18:40 Defining Productive Joy19:10 Embracing Gratitude for Joy20:22 The Power of a Grateful Sponsor22:23 Overcoming Adversity with Positivity23:27 Journey into Comedy26:34 Impact of Teachers and Mentors30:38 Rapid Fire Questions34:12 Final Thoughts on Joy and HopeKeywords:ProductiveJoyTina MillerChristiepodcastfollowsubscribefur babiesspeakerauthorcomediantherapeutic foster carestudentsspeech therapybullyingOhioalcoholdrugsspeech impairmentdomestic violencetraumawritingpoetryjuvenile justicenon-profitsubstance useaddictionsobrietyeducatorsFlorida Recovery SchoolsTampa BayVictory High Schoolcompassionresiliencefaithgratitudehigh schoolcollegeequine therapymentortherapeuticfuntraumacreativitymental healthrecovery programabusive environmentself-discoveryfoster care systemstoicism


