

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

Jun 14, 2025 • 8min
Transform Your Life and Health Through Authentic Living & More From Monica Malan and Terry Tateossian
Today Dr. Christie digs into the interviews she had this week with two inspiring women, Monica Malan from South Africa, and Terry Tateossian from Austria. Monica empowers individuals to live authentically, especially women in male-dominated fields. Terry shares her transformative health journey and how she now helps others find balance for better health. Dr. Christie emphasizes the importance of finding purpose, passion, and presence in both life and work to cultivate lasting joy. She also shares insights on making work enjoyable, identifying roadblocks and reducing turnover. Dr. Christie McMullen is a best-selling author and 25-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:00:00 Introduction00:37 Recap of Monica Malan: Authentic Living02:10 Recap of Terry Tateossian: Health Transformation04:01 The Concept of Productive Joy07:01 Conclusion and Call to ActionKeywords:male dominated worldworkplacework funpuzzleswedding anniversaryJasonlife shiftbad healthoverweightfad dietschange habitsmeasure macroscoach womenpurposepassionpresencedaily work90 000 hoursquitpodcastChatGPTice cream coneroadblockquiet quitting

Jun 12, 2025 • 29min
Who Are The Boogymen In Your Head? with Terry Tateossian
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie introduces Terry Tateossian, a mother, entrepreneur, and holistic wellness coach. Terry shares her powerful story of moving from a challenging upbringing in Eastern Europe to thriving in the United States. She discusses her professional success juxtaposed with personal health struggles, ultimately turning her life around through holistic wellness practices. Terry offers insights into maintaining daily habits, overcoming internal boogeymen, and achieving a balance between personal and professional life. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on progress over perfection and finding joy in intentional actions.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:34 Meet Terry: A Journey of Resilience02:21 Health Crisis and Turning Point05:34 The Path to Sustainable Health11:55 Finding Productive Joy21:23 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing ThoughtsKeywords:momteensdogsfoodielift weightstravelingabsent-mindedpranksterdetoxifyhealthperimenopauseheart attackpre-diabeticovarian cystdietextreme nutritional restrictionslose weightholistic doctorcoachfuelmusclemenopausenutritionshameself-improvementgoalspositive habitsauthentic selfwork-life balancepurposepassionpresenceengagementfulfillmentachievementpersonal growthconsistencyhealthy lifestyleboogeymenepiphanycallingcoachingflowbigger purposeprogress over perfection

Jun 10, 2025 • 25min
Leading as Woman In A Male Dominated World with Monica Malan
In this episode of 'Productive Joy, Dr. Christie goes international with a special guest from South Africa, Monica Malan. Monica, a mother with a passion for puzzles, is learning French, and working to help women build confidence and live authentically. She shares her personal and professional experiences, including the impact of her brother's unexpected passing, her leadership approach focused on empathy, and her new coaching practice aimed at uplifting women. Monica and Dr. Christie emphasize the importance of knowing your values, setting boundaries, and leading with your own strengths without conforming to traditional male leadership styles.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement00:30 Meet Monica Melan01:43 Monica's Journey to Leadership02:34 The Importance of Empathy and Authenticity04:14 Launching an International Coaching Practice12:42 Balancing Work and Personal Life15:31 Defining Productive Joy21:04 Rapid Fire Questions and ConclusionKeywords:South Africacontenttoddler mombuilding puzzleslearning Frenchempower people to live in authenticitywomen build their confidencelead authentically as a womanman's worldBaby Monica to now Monicaleadership positiondepressive funkemotional maturityempathysilver liningleaders lead with kindnessmentor and coach peoplepositive impactlaunch my own practicementoring and coachingcoaching businesslearning from otherspastorperspectivetraumaintrospectionunderstanding boundariesauthenticityvaluespromoting joycareer developmentleadershippersonal valuesbalancing work and lifeprioritizingemotional intelligencefemale leadersempathy in leadershipmentorshipcommunity for womenlaunch a membershipLinkedInShe Leads Boldlybusiness growthauthentic leadershipfemale empowermentsuccessful leadershipconfidenceassertivemental healthemotional wellbeingtherapycoaching membershipprofessional coaching

Jun 7, 2025 • 14min
Rewire Yourself For A Joyful Life & More From Dr. Ran Anbar and Bracha Goetz
In this recap episode of 'Productive Joy,' Dr. Christie celebrates the value of being authentic. Highlighting the week's guests, Dr. Ran Anbar and Bracha Goetz, she discusses their contributions in helping children rewire their brains for healing. Dr. Anbar discusses the use of hypnosis to aid in managing health symptoms and overcoming obstacles in your life, while Bracha focuses on the power of gratitude and joy through her writings. Dr. Christie explores the five keys to a good life—sleep, exercise, diet, sense of purpose, and social life and encourages us to make positive choices that lead to greater fulfillment. 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. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy00:11 Embracing Natural Curiosity01:10 Recap of the Week's Guests02:13 Dr. Ran Anbar's Insights on Healing05:04 Bracha Goetz's Journey and Wisdom07:25 The Power of Authenticity08:49 Spreading Positivity and Gratitude10:35 Conclusion and Listener AppreciationKeywords:curiositylisteningkidsrewire brainsDr. Ran AnbarBracha Goetzchildrenhealhypnosissmokingcontrolinfluencesleepexercisedietpurposesocial liferelationshipsauthentic selfawarenesspositivitygratitudetoxic environmentsintuitiongrowthpersonal developmenthealingparentingPulmonologistHarvard gradIsraelbooksmental healthbrain researchhypnosis benefitswell-beingproductivejoyful livingpositivitysupport

Jun 5, 2025 • 31min
Harnessing Your Inner Power To Be Happy, Healthy and Confident with Dr. Ran Anbar
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Ran Anbar, a pediatric pulmonologist turned counselor and writer. Dr. Anbar provides insights into using the mind to overcome physical and mental challenges. He shares compelling stories from his medical career, discusses the power of positive self-talk, and the importance of sleep, exercise, diet, purpose, and social connections.He introduces practical tools like hypnosis and imagery to improve mental well-being. Dr. Anbar's recent book, 'The Life Guide for Teens,' aims to help teens and parents navigate life's challenges and he and Dr. Christie give actionable advice on achieving a healthier, more joyful life.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. Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:07 Meet Dr. Ran Anbar01:41 The Power of the Mind02:46 Journey into Hypnosis09:18 The Importance of Positive Self-Talk14:17 Keys to a Good Life15:39 The Importance of Purpose16:06 The Five Keys to a Fulfilling Life16:43 Major Tools for Positive Change17:11 Relaxation Techniques and Hypnosis17:47 Listening to Your Subconscious18:15 Personal Stories and Experiences20:09 The Concept of Productive Joy21:51 The Power of Kindness and Loving Thoughts23:21 Upcoming Projects and Paranormal Experiences28:16 Rapid Fire Questions and Final ThoughtsKeywords:counselorhypnosishypnotherapychronic diseasemental healthself-helpteen wellnessmind controlchronic illnessanxietyrelationshipssleepdecision makingpersonal developmentinner powerself-improvementmental powerteen healthself-healingalternative medicinehypnosis for healingtherapeutic techniquepositive thinkingmind-body connectionhealth and wellnessemotional healthself-talksocial lifefamily therapyself-regulationvisualizationhypnotic techniquehypnotherapy benefitsHolistic healthself-care techniquesmental fitnessspiritualitymindfulnessmeditationlife purposeparenting techniquespediatric counselingfunctional medicinebehavioral healthpositive reinforcementpower of imaginationhealing techniquesmental resilienceself-discoveryemotional wellbeingmental clarityoptimistic mindsetself-empowermentalternative therapyemotional intelligencesubconscious mind

Jun 4, 2025 • 16min
What Productive Joy Means In The Workplace - Road Trip Addition!!
That's right, Dr. Christie is on the road and bringing you not just one, but seven different short interviews from the Southeast Real Estate Expo in Greenville, South Carolina. Hear from a variety of professionals in off the cuff, entertaining conversations, on why they think productive joy is crucial for successful people, teams, and companies. 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.

Jun 3, 2025 • 31min
Growing Your IMPACT! with Bracha Goetz
Today on Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Bracha Goetz, an author, yogi, dancer, and mother of six, who shares insights from her experiences and how her gratitude practice transformed her life. Bracha discusses her search for life's purpose, which began at age 12, and led her to Israel, spiritual awakening, and recovery from food addictions. She and Dr. Christie discuss the power of gratitude in shifting from a miserable to a happy life, as well as the role of neuroplasticity in developing a 'gratitude brain.' Bracha also talks about her book 'Nourish the Soul' and her series of impactful children's books designed to instill gratitude from a young age.Learn more about Bracha GoetzDr. 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:00:00 Introduction and Podcast Promotion00:39 Meet Bracha Goetz: Author and Mother01:38 The Power of Gratitude02:56 Bracha's Journey and Memoir07:39 Lessons from Harvard and Beyond13:24 Impact Publications: A Family Affair14:16 Defining Productive Joy15:51 Neuroplasticity and Gratitude19:17 Bracha's Spiritual Journey to Israel27:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Key TakeawaysKeywords:Bracha Goetzbrilliant peoplepurpose of lifeThe Diary of Anne FrankNourish the Soulmemoirfood addictionshealingmental healthgratitudechildren’s bookssoulchildrenauthorimpactmessageparentsplanting gratitudespreading joyfamilyleadershippositive patternsneuroplasticitybrain traininggratefulmindfulnessauthentic selfinner calmhabit transformationjoypleasurespiritualitymeditationtreeorangelife purposegenuineintrospectionawarenesspersonal trainerpsychologyhabit changepractice gratitude

May 31, 2025 • 10min
Pushing Toward Your Values and More From Tracy LaLonde and Dr. Lenka Shulze
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie recaps her conversations with two inspiring guests: Tracy LaLonde, a Chief Joy Achiever, and Dr. Lenka Shulze, an author focused on understanding and maximizing our intuition. Tracy emphasizes the importance of merging achievement with joy, and being clear about personal values. Dr. Lenka discusses the significance of intuition and self-awareness, urging listeners to break free from self-imposed limitations. Dr. Christie reflects on the themes of joy, control, and the power of positive focus, challenging you to identify and overcome habits that keep you Stuck.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. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy00:35 Meet Tracy LaLonde: The Chief Joy Achiever02:19 Defining and Aligning Your Values04:59 Interview with Dr. Lenka: Embracing Intuition07:10 Taking Control of Your Joy08:25 Conclusion and Call to ActionKeywords:valuesTracy LaLondeDr. Lenka Shulzejoy achieverhappinesscommunityfamilyfaithhealthintuitionsphere of controlchoicevictim mentalitypositivenegativechallengefocusJanice KaplanJonathan Grant Brownskillshabitsproductivefriendachievementsuccessnegative thoughtspositive thoughtsfunimportantsupporthelpactionexcitementpodcastpersonal growthprofessional growthteam work

May 29, 2025 • 28min
Heart First, Brain Second - Trusting Your Intuition with Dr. Lenka Schulze
Ever regret not “going with your gut?” Do you overthink, only to miss out on opportunities? It happens to all of us, but what if we could change that? Today Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Lenka Schulze to discuss the transformative power of intuition.' Dr. Schulze, an author and nature lover, shares her insights on harnessing intuition's potential, navigating the polarization around it, and rediscovering fundamental truths. She and Dr. Christie discuss how intuition can enhance personal and professional decision-making, emphasizing authenticity and emotional awareness. Dr. Schulze's book, 'Intuition,' offers life-changing advice on integrating intuitive practices into daily life. And this episode reveals how embracing our intuitive senses can lead to profound personal growth and joy.Find more about Dr. Lenka SchulzeDr. 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:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:37 Meet Dr. Linka Schultz01:35 The Power of Intuition02:24 Dr. Linka's Journey05:58 Rediscovering Truths08:12 Intuition in Education14:49 Defining Productive Joy17:45 Dr. Linka's Book and Practical Intuition21:03 Rapid Fire Questions25:12 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysKeywords:Lenka Schulzeintuitionauthornature lovertravelexploretruthmomstepmomguestwealth of knowledgepassionpowerboundariestime travelinternal GPSIntuition bookshapes uspolarization viewsbirthrightcommunist countryreligionhealtarot cardsgypsiescouragegrowthmedical intuitivedeceptionrediscoveringconsciousnessintelligenceintellecteducationspiritshamanismhealingdandelionquantum fieldonenessserenityDavid Hawkinsmap of consciousnessvibrationtransformationevolutionsurvivaldualismauthentic selffeelingsjourneyworkshopsself-awareness

May 27, 2025 • 34min
Joy and Achievement Belong Together with Tracy LaLonde
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Tracy LaLonde, the Chief Joy Achiever and an expert in Burnout Recovery. Tracy shares her insights on balancing joy and success, exploring how to avoid burnout and make joyful choices in everyday life. She and Dr. Christie discuss the importance of self-awareness, identifying personal values, leveraging joyous strengths, and learning from the younger generation. Tracy also provides tips for leaders on maintaining a happy workplace. Dr. Christie McMullen is a best-selling author and 25-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:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:32 Meet Tracy Leland: Chief Joy Achiever01:14 The Journey to Joyful Success01:56 Understanding Joy and Achievements03:06 Tracy's Burnout and Recovery03:42 The True Self Stops Roadmap04:28 Making Joyful Choices10:43 Learning from the Younger Generation12:58 Aligning Values and Strengths16:30 Understanding Personality Types with Everyday Objects17:49 The Role of Hormones in Shaping Personalities18:43 Defining Productive Joy20:05 The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Adult Behavior21:04 Navigating Generational Norms and Approval Seeking22:09 Embracing Different Definitions of Productive Joy24:44 The Importance of Transparency and Trust27:04 Rapid Fire Questions: Fun, Authenticity, and Best Self30:36 Final Thoughts and Key TakeawaysKeywords:wisdomChief Joy Achieverworld travelerBurnout Recoverytrashy fictionnon-processed foodsButlerwelcomesuccessfulwork and joyself-awarenesshigh achievingchecklistjoy achievework travelerburnout2016bookspeaking opportunitiesroadmapjoyfulhappinesssmall choicesemailschoice momentsboundarieschoice momentvaluesstrengthsmaskleadershipgenerationscorporate worldcueswork travelteachercertifiedMyers-Briggsopportunityjoyous strengthsteddy bearpaperclipmagnifying glassslinkydisciplinemental healthdogNFL footballLinkedIntrainingrapid firedefinition of funauthentic selftrustexerciseawareness


