

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 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 

Mar 29, 2025 • 12min
Break Free From Expectations, Find Your Unique Genius & More From Amy Kemp and Paige Arnof-Fenn
 In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Amy Kemp and Paige Arnof-Fenn to discuss the theme of finding and leveraging your unique genius. Amy, a thought habit coach, talks about helping people discover their inherent talents using the Habit Finder assessment. Paige, founder of Mavens & Moguls, shares insights on pursuing genuine happiness and success in marketing, and how to build your own personal brand. Dr. Christie emphasizes the importance of embracing one's gifts and how to turn your unique talents into fulfilling career paths.Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:14 Introducing Our Guests: Amy Kemp and Paige Arnof-Fenn00:47 Discovering Your Unique Genius with Amy Kemp01:42 Leveraging Team Talents02:48 Embracing Your Unique Genius05:21 Interview with Paige Arnof-Fenn: Marketing Insights06:11 Finding Happiness in Your Career06:45 Christie's Journey: From Teaching to Training08:33 The Essence of Productive Joy09:24 Final Thoughts and EncouragementKeywords:unique geniustalentsmentorsystemstrainingcomfortdevelopmenthabit finderauthenticwarmbelonggiftssuccesshappinessjoycareerleaderfishtreewatergeniusresourcesriskteachingeducatorsjobsoptionsstudentstraining teachersmarketingmavensmogulsfinancecontentmentshift 

Mar 26, 2025 • 34min
Happiness Can Equal Success... But Success Does NOT Equal Happiness with Paige Arnof-Fenn
 Pjoy122 - Paige Arnof-Fenn Show NotesOn this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Paige Arnof-Fenn, CEO of Mavens and Moguls. Paige shares her incredible journey from Wall Street finance to becoming a marketing expert. She emphasizes the importance of finding joy in your career and the power of personal branding. She and Dr. Christie give valuable insights on switching career paths, building a brand, leveraging your unique talents, and successfully blending happiness and success. Episode Highlights:00:35 Meet Paige Arnof-Fenn: A Multifaceted Professional01:45 Paige's Career Journey: From Wall Street to Marketing05:38 The Birth of Mavens and Moguls12:02 The Importance of Personal Branding19:55 Advice for Leaders and Finding Productive Joy27:38 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing ThoughtsFind more about Paige and Mavens and MogulsDr. 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:Tai Chiknittingspeakerwriterbranding expertCEOMavens and mogulscareer pathunfulfilledMichael DouglasWall Street movieinvestment bankingMBAmarketingProcter and Gambleconsumer productsCoca-Colainternet startupventure capitalYahoostartups9/11marketing jobsconsultantprivate equityclientswebsiteLinkedInportfolioentrepreneur magazineForbes Magazinenetworkingpersonal brandingresumejob searchbrand namelogotaglinecontentLinkedInCOVIDonline presenceGoogleSEOpodcast 

Mar 25, 2025 • 34min
I See You...Developing People's Unique Genius with Amy Kemp
 Today on Productive Joy, Dr. Christie introduces Amy Kemp, a thought habit coach known for her transformative approach to personal and professional development. Amy talks about starting as a high school English teacher and her path to being a successful coach, emphasizing the significance of subconscious thought habits in achieving influence, impact, and income. She discusses the importance of recognizing your unique genius and how to overcome mental barriers holding you back. Amy and Dr. Christie also offer practical insights on listening to your intuition and focusing on personal growth to tap into your full potential and living a life of productive joy.Connect with AmyEpisode Highlights:00:23 Meet Amy Kemp00:57 The Core Message: Thought Habits01:58 Amy's Journey: From Teacher to Coach03:23 The Birth of a Business09:22 Defining Productive Joy14:18 Discovering Unique Genius18:16 Discovering Your Unique Genius18:58 Understanding Subconscious Habits21:42 The Impact of Social Media on Young Women22:49 Reconnecting with Intuition26:08 Resources and Tools for Personal Growth28:24 Rapid Fire Questions32:30 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysKeywords:brilliant peoplecollege basketballGalapagosthought habit coachwork ethicdrivemotivationinfluenceimpactincomehigh expectationscoachingteachingdevelopmentsportscommunityHabit Findersubconsciousthinking habitsassessment toolintuitivethought processunique geniuschildrenproject managementstoriespersonal experienceclientdevelopment workfeedbackconstructive feedbackalignedorganizedleadershipgrowthpositive changetransitionslearning from failurespersonal growth 

Mar 22, 2025 • 12min
Live in the Moment, Thrive in the Future & More From Kate Galli & Brian Irwin
 In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie recaps insights from guests Brian Irwin and Kate Galli. Brian Irwin, author of 'Liberating the Overworked Manager,' emphasizes priority management over time management, focusing on efficiency within your available energy zones. Kate Galli, a vegan health coach, underscores the importance of self-care for leaders to optimize performance. Dr. Christie revisits concepts such as the significance of 'glass balls' vs. 'rubber balls' and encourages setting clear targets for growth in 2025, and align daily activities with personal values and goals.Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy00:21 Guest Spotlight: Brian Irwin00:45 Understanding Priority Management03:51 Guest Spotlight: Kate Galli04:37 Living in the Moment07:22 Setting Clear Targets for Growth09:14 Your Word for 202511:19 Final Thoughts 

Mar 20, 2025 • 30min
Liberating the Overworked Manager with Brian Irwin
 In this episode of Productive Joy, host Dr. Christie introduces Brian Irwin, a former '80s hair band guitarist turned agile coach and author, who specializes in identifying and reducing hidden costs in organizations. Brian shares insights on tackling inefficiencies by streamlining processes and managing priorities. He discusses his start in engineering, and using that experience to improve agile methodologies, management tools including time tracking and delegation, and shares examples of significant cost savings achieved through strategic simplification. Listen and learn how to reclaim lost time and enhance productivity at work.Episode Highlights:00:36 Introducing Brian Irwin01:28 The Hidden Costs in Organizations04:45 Brian's Journey to Agile Consulting07:19 The SEAM Methodology12:34 Tools for Managers16:44 How to Find Brian Irwin24:07 Rapid Fire Questions28:29 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysConnect with BrianDr. 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:mountain bikerentrepreneurSeattlehidden costsorganizationproject managementagile consultingagile coachingorganizational transformationwasted timefeedbackincrementalisminternal strategycontinuous improvementpriority managementhidden costHenri Savallmanagersstrategic simplifiercompetency gridstrategic action plancustomerscheduleE-mailmeetingslegacy processesreportsPhD programsocio economic approach to managementERP systemsliberating the overworked managerschool systemmechanicsbussystemsteamprotocolsauthentic selffeelingsmotorcycle accidentworkplace stress 


