

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

Aug 12, 2025 • 30min
Consistency and Practice Builds Natural Talents with Laura Patac
In this engaging episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Laura Patac, a Dubai-based author and avid traveler from Europe. Laura shares her inspiring origin story, revealing how her journaling transformed into poetry and eventually led to a book titled 'Stories With Purpose.' They delve into the power of introspection, storytelling, and recognizing one's unique talents. Laura discusses the importance of creating a support model in corporate America and emphasizes the significance of understanding individual strengths. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Guest 00:36 Meet Laura: Author, Surfer, and Globe Trotter01:30 The Power of Origin Stories05:54 Laura's Origin Story: From Journaling to Poetry10:08 Corporate America and the Power of Storytelling14:06 COVID-19 and Rediscovering Writing19:03 Defining Productive Joy24:36 Rapid Fire Questions26:54 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysDr. 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.

Aug 9, 2025 • 8min
Transform Culture, Transform Results and More with Sara Stibitz & Molly Smith
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie discusses insights from this week’s guests, Sara Stibitz and Molly Smith on finding purpose and healing. She emphasizes the importance of positive company culture and how the Intentionality Group can help enhance business success by focusing on employee happiness and effective training. She explains the measurable benefits of a positive workplace environment, including reduced turnover costs and increased productivity. LIsten and learn how to transform your organization and tap into spectacular results.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap00:10 Spotlight on Sarah and Molly01:03 The Importance of Company Culture02:43 Measuring Success and Happiness04:29 Effective Training and Adult Learning06:19 Call to Action and ConclusionDr. 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.

Aug 7, 2025 • 29min
What the Funk? How to Get out of the Funk and Heal with Molly Smith
On today’s episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie talks with Molly Smith, a health coach, author, and emotion code practitioner. Molly shares her insights on overcoming external validation, finding purpose alignment, and releasing trapped emotions. Discover how Molly transformed her life through emotional resilience and shifting perspectives, resulting in her book 'What the Funk.' Listen to learn actionable steps for attaining a life filled with purpose and joy.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Meeting Molly02:00 Molly's Journey to Success03:26 Discovering Emotion Code04:38 The Power of Emotion Code07:27 Molly's Book: What the Funk10:53 Working with Molly13:58 Exploring Productive Joy14:32 Creating Productive Joy with Clients15:52 Imposter Syndrome in the Professional World16:53 Purpose Alignment in the Workplace18:42 The Importance of Workplace Culture21:43 Personal Journey and Self-Worth24:11 Rapid Fire Questions26:09 Final Thoughts on Living a Purposeful Life

Aug 5, 2025 • 34min
Writing on Purpose...How to Get your Book Into the Universe with Sara Stibitz
Welcome to Productive Joy! On today’s episode Dr. Christie has a conversation with author, coach, and ghostwriter Sara Stibitz as she shares her insights on transforming your hidden stories into books. Discover how Sara’s transition from a legal professional to a writer led her to guide others in their creative processes. Learn practical tips on overcoming emotional roadblocks, starting your writing process, and the impact of AI in the writing world. Be inspired and motivated to share your unique story.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:24 Meet Sara Stibitz: Author, Coach, and Traveler02:07 Sara's Journey to Writing03:04 The Backpacking Adventure06:53 Transition to Writing and Mediation08:48 Writing on Purpose: The Book13:55 Advice for Aspiring Writers17:53 Overcoming Writing Challenges18:59 Impact of AI on Writing20:58 Using AI as a Writing Tool25:06 Defining Productive Joy28:44 Rapid Fire Questions31:20 Final Thoughts and EncouragementKeywords:Sara Stibitzauthorauthor coachghostwriterwriting processstorytellingbook writingcreativitytransformationconfidencetipsgetting startedpublishingemotional journeycatharsistraumahealingnon-linear writingflowinspirationmotivationpermissionsupportintentionlegacyOneNoteorganizationchaptersstructureAIChatGPTtechnologywriting toolseditingtransitionsfeedbacklearning curveprofessional writingfreelancearticlesmemoirself-discoverytravelBrazilmediationleadershipcoachingguidanceAmazonWriting on Purposewebsitemotivation emailplaylistmusicfunauthenticity

Aug 2, 2025 • 8min
Redefine Struggle, Find Success and More From Dr. Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau and Dr. Benah Parker
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie shares insights from Dr. Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau and Dr. Benah Parker on redefining productivity and embracing challenges with a positive outlook. She explains why attitude can make all the difference in overcoming perceived difficulties and discusses the impact of mindset and how to transform everyday tasks into joyous accomplishments.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap00:24 Guest Highlights: Dr. Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau01:18 Guest Highlights: Dr. Benah Parker02:02 The Power of Perception04:13 Embracing New Challenges04:54 The FFT Concept06:13 Daily Opportunities for Productive Joy

Jul 31, 2025 • 29min
We All Wear Lots of Hats...AND You Have the Power to Design Them with Dr. Benah Parker
Today Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Benah Parker, a psychologist and leadership expert. They discuss how intentionality in showing up and where time is spent can lead to better productivity and greater joy. Dr. Parker shares her journey from a 14-year-old in marching band to a leader in psychology, and how she helps clients balance their various social identities. They explore the idea of picking and designing your own 'hat' in life and work. Dr. Parker offers advice for both professional and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of choosing what to carry resulting in more fulfilling results. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:26 Dr. Benah Parker's Background and Journey01:02 Exploring Leadership and Identity04:30 The Hat Analogy: Understanding Personal and Professional Roles10:29 Parenting and Life Advice14:05 The Concept of Productive Joy15:42 The Importance of Fun in Work16:13 College Band Leadership and Fun17:07 Defining Productive Joy18:30 Helping Leaders Find Clarity19:44 A Navy Leader's Transformation23:58 Rapid Fire Questions27:13 Final Thoughts on Success and Joy

Jul 29, 2025 • 25min
The Power of Questioning Established Ideas with Dr. Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau
Join Dr. Christie on Productive Joy as she interviews Dr. Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau, an inspiring coach, artist, and former corporate leader. Dr. Sylvia emphasizes the importance of questioning established ideas and making the world a better place. She discusses creating a safe and joyful coaching space, her unique approaches to leadership, and the profound impact of collaboration. Explore how to view life with fresh eyes and embrace love and service. Episode Highlights:00:26 Meet Dr. Sylvia01:02 The Essence of Coaching03:33 Creating a Safe Space for Growth05:24 Embracing Flexibility and Creativity07:53 Rediscovering Joy and Curiosity10:19 The Power of Perspective13:03 Dr. Sylvia's Unique Approach20:13 Rapid Fire Questions23:26 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Jul 26, 2025 • 31min
Building a Productive and Joyful Marriage with Dr. Christie and Jason McMullen
In this very special episode of Productive Joy, Dr Christie is joined by none other than her husband Jason McMullen to share valuable lessons from their 26-year marriage on the wedding day of their son Jackson and his fiancée Cassidy. They discuss key topics such as effective communication, financial partnership, timing, and intimacy, as well as offer unique tips like the 'smiley' token and shoulder-to-shoulder conversations. Designed to help couples create meaningful and lasting relationships, this episode offers insights drawn from years of marriage mentoring.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:47 Reflecting on 26 Years of Marriage01:00 The Importance of Communication02:02 Marriage Mentoring Insights03:37 Defining Productive Joy in Marriage09:26 Top 10 Marriage Tips for Jackson and Cassidy29:01 Final Thoughts and Well Wishes

Jul 24, 2025 • 32min
Undoing Disordered Thinking with Michelle Petties
In this episode of 'Productive Joy,' host Christie talks with food story coach, TEDx speaker, and author Michelle Pettus.Michelle shares her personal experience of losing and regaining 700 pounds over 40 years and how she discovered that emotional eating has more to do with our beliefs about food rather than the food itself. Michelle emphasizes the importance of questioning, awareness, and reclaiming control over our thoughts to break the cycle of emotional eating. The conversation delves deep into the power of self-awareness and the tools needed to foster productive joy in life.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 Introduction and Exciting News00:46 Meet Michelle Pettus: Food Story Coach and More01:34 The Emotional Connection to Food02:08 Michelle's Personal Journey with Weight04:26 Understanding Emotional Eating08:13 The Power of Questioning and Self-Discovery11:25 The Influence of Food Marketing15:04 Creating Desire for Healthy Choices16:11 Little Johnny's Birthday Dilemma16:23 Rethinking Treats for Kids17:34 The Concept of Productive Joy18:56 Purpose vs. Passion19:57 The Journey to Self-Discovery22:06 Michelle's Contact Information23:58 The Secret Formula for Transformation26:23 Rapid Fire Questions29:00 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysKeywords:TEDx speakerauthorfood story coachweight lossemotional eatingyo-yo dietingstress eatingbeliefsmemoriesself disciplineself-controlwillpowerknowledgefundamental understandingemotionsemotional overeaterseating habitsmicroaggressionmacro aggressionpost officesnack food companiesjunk food companiesfood desertsknowledgeself-discoveryawarenessaccess to foodprocessed foodsfood marketersconscious mindhealthy habitsemotional eatingtoolsfood storiesgood healthpersonal interrogatorymindset shiftconditioningnutritioncelebrationsdietsprogrammingself-awareness

Jul 22, 2025 • 32min
Mind Over Matter Can Change Your Life with Dr. Hank Seitz
In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Hank Seitz, a multifaceted mental scientist, wealth maker, happiness coach, and author of 24 books. Dr. Seitz shares his remarkable insights on how thoughts shape our reality. He explains the five-step process to manifest desires—from thoughts to emotions, to divine communication, to allowing, believing, expecting, and receiving. He also highlights the importance of monitoring feelings instead of thoughts and offers practical tips for attaining greater control over your mind. 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 Introduction and Welcome00:25 Meet Dr. Hank Seitz01:35 Dr. Hank's Miraculous Journey03:36 The Power of Thoughts and Emotions06:54 Steps to Manifesting Your Dreams11:00 Overcoming Negative Thoughts15:36 Practical Tips for a Joyful Life26:45 Rapid Fire Questions with Dr. Hank29:19 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysKeywords:mental scientistwealth makerauthorsuccess coachhappiness coachveteranwalking miracleDivine Intelligenceintroducefollow this podcastChristieangel dustspread joycyberstalkingfascinating storywalking miracleeach one of you are walking miraclescontrastGodthoughts become thingsquantum physicistsneuroscientistsemotionsjoyallowbelieveexpectstep fivethoughts create energythoughts create matterask and you shall receivemindsetfeelingscommitteepositive thinkingmental scientisthow to manage thoughtsdifference between control and influencechecking in with feelingssimple but not easysphere of controlperfection comes in momentsshift focusquestions about lifeMaster Heart familyjoy shopangelic energy


