Productive Joy

In this episode of 'Productive Joy,' Dr. Christie  recaps a week of engaging conversations with guests Nicolai Nielsen and Bronwyn Schweigerdt, emphasizing the brevity of life and the importance of connecting and letting go of anger. She shares personal reflections on her son's upcoming wedding and past parenting experiences, highlighting the need to live in the moment. The episode encourages listeners to focus on what truly matters, control what they can, and take care of themselves to avoid harboring negative emotions. 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 to Productive Joy00:11 Meet the Guests: Nikolai Nielsen and Bronwyn Schweigerdt00:53 Life is Short: Reflections on Time and Family02:34 Parenting Lessons: Embracing the Present03:35 Living in the Moment: Personal Growth05:04 Letting Go of Anger: Insights from Bronwyn06:15 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Bronwyn Schweigerdt, a psychotherapist, anger expert, and nutritionist. Bronwyn discusses the importance of acknowledging anger as a signal for emotional health and offers insights on how to manage and channel it productively. She shares her personal experiences with suppressed anger, its impact on her mental and physical health, and her journey to becoming a therapist. Bronwyn walks listeners through an integration exercise designed to release shame and foster self-acceptance, emphasizing the importance of respecting oneself. 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 Guest Introduction01:21 Understanding Anger: A Healthy Perspective03:24 Bronwyn's Journey: From Depression to Therapy06:14 The Connection Between Emotions and Physical Health15:12 Integration Exercise: Healing the Inner Child19:17 Defining Productive Joy24:59 Rapid Fire Questions and ConclusionKeywords:Bronwyn Schweigerdtangertherapypsychotherapistnature lovernutritionistpublic speakercat momB12welcomepodcastsubscribeAppleSpotifyYouTubelistenersemotionsdashboardlightemotional carcheck under the hoodexplosiveviolentchannelhealthy wayboundaryaccountabilityanxiousdepressedsickproductivehealthymental illnesssuppressed angermanifestationsschool of hard knockspatternsinner childalignmentshametraumaticemotional chiropractorintegrationpeople pleaserapproval addictionfeedbackawareconnection

In this episode of Productive Joy, the host welcomes Nicolai Nielsen, an expert in inner mastery and outer impact. Nicolai shares his diverse background, from a career at McKinsey to launching Potential Academy. He discusses his two eight-week courses designed to help people get unstuck and achieve sustainable peak performance. He reflects on balancing ambition with fulfillment, and shares key book recommendations that have shaped his worldview. Nicolai also talks about the importance of being authentic, channeling energy on tough days, and realizing the accessibility of the world. Find more about NicolaiDr. 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 Welcome00:27 Meet Nikolai Nielsen01:49 Nikolai's Journey and Potential Academy03:29 Courses Offered by Potential Academy05:41 Books and Personal Insights15:49 Advice for the Younger Generation21:54 Rapid Fire Questions and ConclusionKeywords:internationalsubscribeInner masteryouter impactauthordog dadDJDanishChineseBrazilItalyfunpeacejoyinsecurecorporate consultingMcKinseyleadership developmentPotential Academyeducation coursesgroup cohortsonline platformlife changingtalented peoplepersonal pathfinderdirectionallyfutureSustainable Peak Performancepeak performancephysical energyemotional energymental energyspiritual energyinner peaceouter peacebetter cooperationsystemstolerantdivisionconnect with yourselfconnect with othersself-inflicted sufferingunnecessary sufferingrecommended booksStephen CoveySeven HabitsPower versus Forceworldviewambitionleadershipambition triangle

Join Christie as she shares her excitement about her son's upcoming wedding and reflects on insightful conversations with Dr. Patrick Farran and Shannon Miller Lu Letz. Dr. Farran discusses the power of co-creation in the workplace, using the IKEA effect as an analogy for increased care and investment. Shannon emphasizes the importance of consciously writing your narrative rather than letting it happen by default. Christie encourages listeners to bridge the gap between knowing and doing, offering support and actionable steps for personal and professional growth. Connect with Christie via email or social media to learn more.Connect with Dr. FarranLearn more about Shannon Miller-LutzDr. 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 Personal Update00:39 This Week's Guests: Dr. Patrick Farran and Shannon Miller-Lutz01:07 Key Takeaways from Dr. Patrick Farran03:17 Insights from Shannon Miller-Lutz06:03 The Knowing-Doing Gap Challenge08:27 Conclusion and Call to ActionKeywords:executive coachIKEA effectco-creationworkplaceGen Zyoung adultssolutiondesigndefaultreverse engineeringfocusself-careemployee treatmentgrowthjump the gapknowing doing gapaccountabilitynew projectssupport networknew experienceslearningproductive joysocial mediaLinkedInInstagramFacebookTikTokpodcast

In this episode of Productive Joy, Shannon Miller-Lutz, a coach, trainer, and Broadway enthusiast, shares her life's story and how she helps others embrace their true selves. Shannon discusses her background, career transitions, and the importance of understanding your values, purpose, and legacy.  She shares personal stories to  emphasize the significance of listening to what moves you and loving yourself. Learn more about Shannon Miller-LutzDr. 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 Guest Welcome01:49 Shannon's Journey From Chicago to Florida06:04 Discovering Coaching and Personal Transformation10:08 Embracing Your True Self and Legacy16:55 Practical Exercises for Self-Discovery19:41 Finding and Connecting with Shannon22:55 Rapid Fire Questions and Final ThoughtsKeywords:Shannon Miller-Lutzcoachspeakertrainerdysfunction stopperBroadway enthusiastWickedcat momBatmanRobinfishing enthusiastChicagoNashvilleFloridaPompano Beachmusicvocal performancetheaterFlorida StateFSUUniversity of MarylandMarylandco-parentingThanksgivingSouth Carolinareal estate agentexistential crisesHamiltonproduction coachtransformational coachTony Robbinsneuro linguistic programmingpandemicroutinepositive intelligenceinner leaderinner childlegacyholistic centerreikisound bowlsgoddessenergyauthenticpositive joymissionvaluespurpose

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Dr. Patrick Farran, an accomplished CEO, executive advisor, founder, triathlete, and choir tenor. Dr. Ferran shares his insights on achieving productive joy through leadership without burnout. He discusses his early career as a high school teacher, his move into corporate consulting, and his calling for coaching and developing others. Dr. Farran stresses the importance of understanding one’s purpose and aligning leadership practices to create sustainable results.He and Dr. Christie also talk about his upcoming book, "The Intentional Executive: A Purpose-Driven Playbook to Transform Your Leadership, Your Team, and Your Results," which offers practical exercises and research-based methodologies for effective leadership.Connect with Dr. FarranDr. 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 Welcome00:26 Meet Dr. Patrick Ferran01:47 Patrick's Journey: From Teacher to Executive Advisor02:32 The Importance of Coaching and Developing Others03:04 Challenges and Joys of Teaching and Chemistry05:23 Coaching Strategies and the Power of 'Why'08:43 The Intentional Executive: Patrick's New Book09:48 The Role of Purpose in Leadership13:22 Practical Applications and Co-Creation18:21 Personal Insights and Family Life21:33 Rapid Fire Questions and ConclusionKeywords:CEOexecutive advisorfounderfatherspouseorchestra directortriathletechoirtenorleadershipteamsorganizationssustainable growthcoachingconsultingexecutive PhDprofessional choirteachingsciencechemistryinspiringentrepreneurialleadersexecutive transitionscorporate AmericaworkbookbookIntentional ExecutivePurpose-Driven PlaybookleadershipvisionpurposeBHAGbig hairy audacious goalspsychological safetyco-createdcoachingburnoutclientexecutive rolenonprofitprivate companiesleadership rolechange mandatesuccessresults

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie explores the importance of finding joy during tough times. She reflects on her conversations with two insightful guests: Michael Allison, a Marine Corps veteran who transformed his struggle with PTSD into a mission to help others through his writing, and Ben Solomon, who is coping with the loss of a job that defined him. Through their stories, Dr. Christie emphasizes that joy is a choice and a crucial tool for navigating life's darkest moments. She encourages listeners to seek support, find light in small moments, and believe that better days are ahead.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 to Productive Joy00:39 Michael Allison's Inspiring Journey01:17 Ben Solomon's Story of Identity and Loss01:46 The Importance of Finding Joy in Tough Times03:53 The Power of Community and Support04:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Productive Sadness with Ben SolomonIn this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie chats with her friend Ben Solomon about navigating life's valleys. Ben, recently unemployed after a long standing career in education, shares his raw and authentic experiences of productive struggle. They discuss the importance of accepting sadness, finding productivity in difficult times, and rediscovering one's unique genius. Dr. Christie and Ben offer insights into maintaining resilience, focusing on blessings, and being present in the moment. This candid conversation is for anyone experiencing tough seasons and seeking encouragement to find light in the darkness.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 Podcast Follow Request00:32 Meet Ben Solomon: A Journey of Two Decades02:03 Facing Unemployment: Ben's Story03:15 Navigating the Valley: Embracing Productive Sadness07:49 Ben's Background and Career Shift09:38 Lessons from Pixar and Embracing Sadness16:03 Finding Hope and Resilience in the Valley22:16 Rapid Fire Questions and Future Vision27:03 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysEmbracing Productive Sadness: A Conversation with Ben Solomon

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Michael Allison, who shares his powerful story of resilience and overcoming adversity. A veteran of the Marine Corps, Michael's life has been marked by extraordinary challenges, from surviving a childhood in hurricane-prone Jamaica to serving in combat in Fallujah, Iraq. Michael opens up about his struggles with PTSD and the pivotal moment that led him to transform his life. He introduces his new book, 'Break the Bottle,' and outlines his framework for shattering limitations and achieving peak performance through decision, direction, and destination. Michael's story is one of hope, transformation, and the power of breaking free from life’s constraints.Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:24 Introducing Michael Allison01:24 Breaking the Bottle: Michael's Concept03:10 Michael's Early Life in Jamaica07:52 Joining the Marine Corps09:46 Combat Experiences in Iraq14:24 Struggles with PTSD and Finding Purpose20:15 Writing and Sharing His Story24:25 Rebuilding Family and Finding Hope28:07 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing ThoughtsKeywords:veteranMarine Corpsshot glassestwo-time authorBreak the BottleChristiepodcastsubscribefollowguesthurricanechildhoodJamaicahomelessstruggleenvironmentidentityresilientcombatPTSDmental healthchild custody battleblended familycounselingtherapistsupport groupfreedom groupRush UniversityEmory Hospitalprolonged exposurepurposeneuro linguist programmingkeynote speakerTED TalkChristiebookjoyauthorCaribbeanUnited Statesfamilyfriendsovercome adversitytherapytraumaauthentic selfmotivation

Dr. Christie McMullen reflects on her week, sharing gratitude for her listeners' engagement. She highlights inspiring conversations with two guests: Jamie Lerner, who emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, and Kash Rocheleau, who discusses her rapid career progression and the value of loving the losses for their teachable moments. Dr. Christie encourages listeners to trust their team, embrace their unique gifts, and be a beacon of light in others' lives.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 Welcome00:23 Engaging with the Audience01:25 Guest Highlights: Jamie Lerner02:23 Guest Highlights: Kash Rocheleau03:56 Key Takeaways and Reflections06:12 Inspiring Stories and Final Thoughts