

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

Mar 6, 2025 • 30min
Rip Up The Rule Book! with Lexi Godlewski
Sometimes rules are made to be broken, especially when it's breaking away from convention to forge your own path. Today Dr. Christie introduces Lexi Godlewski, a soultrepreneur and TEDx speaker living in Hawaii. Lexi shares her inspiring journey from following a conventional career path in New York to embracing her true calling. She discusses overcoming societal 'shoulds,' trusting her inner voice, and transforming her passion into a fulfilling business. Lexi and Dr. Christie dig into the importance of mindfulness, authenticity, and making small, purposeful steps towards one's dreams. Listen and discover how to lead with your soul and bring more joy into your life.Episode Highlights:00:26 Meet Lexi Godlewski: Soultrepreneur01:36 Lexi's Journey From New York to Hawaii03:24 The Power of Listening to Your Inner Voice14:03 Transforming Lives Through Authentic Marketing19:07 Advice for Aspiring Leaders and Entrepreneurs25:30 Rapid Fire Questions and Key Takeaways28:51 Final ThoughtsFind more about LexiDr. 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. Keywords:solopreneurTEDx speakerNew Yorkertransformeradventurersharksdolphinstravelermarketing jobmiserablehappyfulfilledside hustlescoffee baristababysitterbusinessNew YorkpandemicHawaiiremote workersentrepreneurssoul callingcollegepassionepiphanygut instinctdreamsmindfulnessmeditationsoul voicelimiting beliefsinner voiceintuitionauthenticitymanipulativemarketing strategysoul piecelife transformationclientsleadershipauthentic selfdaily grindlive life fullygut instinctexcitementepiphany momentfeardoubtinner voiceshut the shouldsrulebookauthenticitysoul guidetransformationdreamslife fulfillment

Mar 4, 2025 • 36min
Promise over Purpose With Danita Cummins
Today on Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes author and podcast host, Danita Cummins, to discuss finding peace and clarity in all aspects of your life. Danita shares her inspiring story, lessons she learned from being a military leader, and insights from her book 'Promise Over Purpose.' She and Dr. Christie explore how to achieve productive joy by aligning with clear goals, leveraging strategic planning, and integrating faith into daily life, and give practical tips on leading with intention and finding true joy even in life's most challenging moments.Episode Highlights:02:11 Danita's Book: Promise Over Purpose02:22 The Journey of Finding Purpose07:34 Danita's Background and Military Experience12:14 Coaching and Consulting Business15:02 Defining Productive Joy17:51 Measuring Success and Authentic Leadership19:03 Navigating Organizational and Human Dynamics21:06 Consulting and Coaching Strategies26:20 Faith-Driven Leadership and Promises30:43 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal InsightsKeywords:mompregnanciesparenthoodsuccesssongwritersingerPromise Over Purposeclaritypeacevalueimportanttoolswisdomleadershipstrategic planningconsultingdefense techmilitarycoachingnonprofittechnologyroadmapgoalsmeasurableauthentictransparencyhuman elementvisionmissionpromisesprovisionfaithgracechallengesimpactchecklistrecalibratetargetvisionaryidentityrestconfidencebusypausehumanimage

Feb 26, 2025 • 6min
Define Your Boundaries, Find Your Joy & More From Claire Lauer
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie focuses on setting clear goals and choosing a meaningful word to guide you in 2025. She talks about her choice of the word, 'grow,' and the importance of growth in various aspects of life. She also talks about the best slices of wisdom from her recent interview with SEO expert Claire Lauer and her path to truly balancing work and personal life, setting boundaries, and asking for help. Dr. Christie breaks down how to prioritize effectively, seek assistance, and combine fun with productivity for a fulfilling year ahead. On Today's Episode:00:17 Choosing Your Word for the Year00:30 Growth in Different Aspects of Life00:54 The Importance of Setting Clear Targets01:15 Interview with SEO Expert Claire Lauer01:39 Lessons from Claire: Doing More with Less02:49 The Power of Asking for Help03:28 Delegation and Letting Go04:32 Prioritizing and Balancing Work and Family04:52 Conclusion and Call to ActionKeywords:growgrowthclear targetplanguestClaire LauerSEO expertphotographersniche downrevenueboundarieschildrenexpectationunsustainablefrustrationaccomplishingthoughtfulentrepreneurlaunch a businessbusiness of onevillageask for helpcleaninggrocery shopsbabysitsdelegatingletting goset prioritiesfocus on the right thingsreach outemailsocial platforms

Feb 25, 2025 • 30min
How to Double Revenue and Work Less with Claire Lauer
Well it's hard to listen with a title like that! Today Dr. Christie welcomes Claire Lauer, a mom, writer, and SEO specialist. Claire talks about her beginnings in the business, and going from an agency position that "felt like hell," to breaking out on her own with new ideas and procedures, doubling her business revenue while working less. She touches on the lessons she learned about setting boundaries, focusing on a niche, and developing streamlined processes. She and Dr. Christie also discuss the importance of defining goals, seeking support, and prioritizing rest. Claire gives a look ahead at her plans for writing novels and offers useful insights into SEO for photographers and beyond. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to achieve more while working less and enhance their work-life balance.In This episode:00:24 Meet Claire Lauer01:33 Claire's Journey to Smarter Work03:27 Setting Boundaries and Finding Balance06:56 Niching Down: Focusing on Photographers08:30 SEO for Photographers10:41 Achieving Productive Joy18:45 Claire's Writing Journey25:12 Rapid Fire Questions and ConclusionConnect with ClaireDr. 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. Keywords:MomReaderWriterBooksPublishingSEO SpecialistSmarter not HarderHookAudienceDouble Business RevenueWorking LessMagical FormulaIndustryContent MarketingBusinessSales ProcessClientsNetworking EventsBoundariesMaternity LeaveDaughterStressFull ServicePhotographersRealtorsBabyEmailLeadershipGrowthSupportPregnancyIntentionalTimeEnergySystemsLeadership LessonCalendarExecutiveGoalsRevenueCoachPressureAILocal SEOMarketingLeadsCreative WritingJournalismInternshipsCreative Marketing AgencyData EntryGoogle AnalyticsCertificationsLearningFrameworkBloggingTrafficAuthenticityQuality LifeFascinatingInspirationWriting Process

Feb 19, 2025 • 7min
Bridge The Gap From Knowing To Doing & More From Charlynn Ruan
On today's episode, Dr. Christie reflects on her interview with Charlynne Ruan, and asks how the changes you promised to implement at New Years are going, and understanding why we often know what to do but fail to act on it, termed the 'knowing-doing gap.' She also emphasizes the importance of bridging this gap and offers coaching as a potential solution. So, remember that it takes support and leverage to fully accomplish your goals.

Feb 18, 2025 • 30min
Learning to Thrive with Charlynn Ruan
In this enriching episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie is joined by Dr. Charlynn Ruan, a leader, therapist, CEO, and mother. Dr. Ruan shares insights on the importance of inner work for outward success, how she was drawn to psychology, and her mission to help individuals thrive. She and Dr. Christie cover tips for leaders, leveraging team strengths, and the application of sports psychology principles to business. They encourage you to reflect on your routines, team dynamics, and personal growth for achieving true productive joy.In Today's episode:01:32 Charlene's Journey into Psychology02:49 Founding Thrive Psychology Group04:17 Expanding Focus Beyond Women04:55 Working with Founders and Leaders06:12 Applying Sports Psychology to Business07:41 Balancing Leadership and Personal Life09:13 Delegation and Time Management15:38 Defining Productive Joy16:10 Embracing Your Strengths in Management17:04 Leveraging Team Superpowers18:21 Balancing Talents in Psychology19:36 Constructing a Balanced Team22:25 The Importance of Gratitude23:06 Learning and Growing as a Leader26:06 Rapid Fire QuestionsFind more aboutDr. RuanDr. 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.

Feb 12, 2025 • 9min
If You Show Up, They Show Up & More From Kwesi Johnson
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie recaps her interview with Kwesi Johnson, a change agent and author of the upcoming book 'Dare to Be.' They discuss the importance of staying authentic, handling feedback, and focusing on positive reinforcement. Kwesi shares strategies like keeping a kudos folder to stay motivated and highlights the need for leaders to be their true selves and encourage the same in others.In this episode:00:44 The Concept of 'Dare to Be'01:11 Embracing Authenticity01:25 Feedback and Self-Acceptance03:24 Knowing Yourself03:32 Leveraging Strengths and Weaknesses05:01 The Importance of Positivity05:36 Creating a Kudos Folder06:14 Focusing on the Good07:22 Defining Productive Joy

Feb 11, 2025 • 35min
Dare to Be You...Being Impactful Rather Than Impressive with Kwesi Johnson
Today on Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Kwesi Johnson, who discusses his trajectory from healthcare to becoming a champion of workplace transformation.They explore the concept of 'productive joy,' the challenge of being genuine, the importance of combating imposter syndrome, and why we should focus on being impactful over being impressive.Kwesi shares his 'dare to be' mantra, emphasizing authenticity and promoting true collaboration through psychologically safe work environments, and he and Dr. Christie share insights on creating inclusive cultures, boosting employee engagement, and the significance of being over doing.In this episode:02:23 Kwesi's Journey to Transforming Workplaces05:03 The Concept of 'Dare to Be'08:37 Challenging Mediocrity and Imposter Syndrome12:55 Defining Productive Joy15:11 Supporting Others in Finding Productive Joy17:18 Learning from Each Other18:10 Extrovert vs. Introvert20:45 Dare to Be: The Book25:35 Rapid Fire Questions31:21 Final Thoughts on AuthenticityConnect withKwesiDr. 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. keywords:authortwin dadtwin momcycling enthusiastbest versionstrustemployee engagementrelationshipspositive environmentinclusive cultureauthentic selfleaderfriendTravis Beverlytransform workplacesjourneyNorth Carolinacollegehealthcareconsultingpatient experienceprocessesworkshopstrainingsvaluecompassionimproving processespatient throughputrevenue cycle managementtransform workplaceslearningchampion of experiencechurchreplicatetalentbecoming a published authordare to begenuineauthenticcall to actioninspirechallengemove forwardencourageindividualmentorshigh schoolbe betterimpactimposter syndromechameleonmaskBrene Brown

Feb 5, 2025 • 9min
When Income and Impact Come Together & More From Georgi Enthoven
Today Dr. Christie breaks down her conversation with Georgi Enthoven, an author, advisor, and Founder of Work That's Worth It. She discusses Georgi's unique path to help herself, and now others, to achieve the enviable combination of income and impact.
Dr. Christie reflects on the podcast's one-year milestone, sharing lessons learned and the significance of making work fun and rewarding for employees. She gives real-world insights on fostering a work culture that promotes happiness, productivity, and prosperity.
Find more about Georgi
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.
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Feb 4, 2025 • 32min
Work That's Worth It... How Will You Spend Your 90,000 Hours? with Georgi Enthoven
Welcome to Productive Joy! Today Dr. Christie, brings you an extraordinary guest, with an extraordinary past, and extraordinary story, vision and mission. But with that came a lot of doubt and struggle and finding the right path. Georgi Enthoven, an author and coach with a background from Harvard and USC Berkeley, shares insights on aligning your career with personal joy and impact.
Georgi discusses her eclectic life experiences, the importance of experimenting in early career stages, and how to discover your calling. She introduces her upcoming book and podcast, 'Work That's Worth It,' emphasizing the balance of income and impact in a fulfilling career.
Find more about Georgi
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.
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