
Modern Mentor
Rachel Cooke is your guide to leadership and communication, helping you craft a workplace environment you can feel good about. She’ll share tips to help you balance your work and personal life, effectively invest your time, and be mindful about where you’re devoting your energy. Let Rachel help you navigate your path to success—however you define it.
Latest episodes

Jun 3, 2025 • 19min
Trust and engagement: Alex Salas's HR insights on employee sucess
Alex Salas, Assistant Chief People Officer at the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and head of the NYC SHRM chapter, shares invaluable insights on enhancing employee experience. He emphasizes the critical role of trust and communication in remote work environments. The discussion touches on talent acquisition challenges and the need for adaptive strategies. Alex advocates for work-from-home policies, employee resource groups, and the importance of taking pauses to reassess organizational goals. His proactive approach promises to inspire positive change in workplaces.

7 snips
May 27, 2025 • 8min
Sustaining momentum in the battle against burnout
In a captivating discussion, experts dive into the unseen causes of workplace burnout like boredom and loneliness. They advocate for small, thoughtful choices over perfection, emphasizing the need for ongoing support systems. Strategies for sustaining momentum include celebrating small wins and embracing failure as part of growth. Listeners are encouraged to create inclusive environments that prioritize clarity and connection, making well-being a collective goal. Personal initiatives play a crucial role in achieving a balanced work-life dynamic.

12 snips
May 20, 2025 • 10min
Let activation be your burnout antidote
Explore the concept that recovery from burnout is a gradual journey rather than an instant fix. Discover the Activation framework—Deliver, Develop, Connect, Thrive—as a way to spark meaningful change in the workplace. Learn how to foster deeper connections and create a thriving environment for teams. The discussion includes actionable strategies to support organizational change and maintain positive momentum. Tune in for practical insights that can reignite your energy and build a healthier workplace culture.

May 13, 2025 • 9min
We’ve handed managers an impossible job
Managers are burning out—not just from doing too much, but from carrying too many roles that were never meant to be theirs. Let’s name the burden and start letting go of what was never yours to hold.Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.Have a question for Modern Mentor? Email us at modernmentor@quickanddirtytips.com.Find Modern Mentor on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, or subscribe to the newsletter to get more tips to fuel your professional success.Modern Mentor is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/modern-mentor-newsletterhttps://www.facebook.com/QDTModernMentorhttps://twitter.com/QDTModernMentorhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-mentor-podcast/

May 6, 2025 • 10min
Fixing burnout begins with understanding burnout
Burnout in the workplace is more than just excessive workload—it's influenced by environment and personal boundaries. Unique insights from youth sports highlight the symptoms and prevention strategies for this widespread issue. Leaders can find meaningful ways to alleviate team stress without needing to solve every problem. Acknowledging burnout is crucial for fostering open discussions and finding effective solutions. The complexity of burnout calls for a nuanced management approach to enhance employee well-being.

Apr 29, 2025 • 45min
Sustaining progress: Rethinking DEI for the next generation of work with Lily Zheng
Rachel sits down with DEI strategist Lily Zheng for a candid conversation on the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. They explore why real progress depends on focusing less on performative programs and more on outcomes that drive lasting change.Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.Have a question for Modern Mentor? Email us at modernmentor@quickanddirtytips.com.Find Modern Mentor on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, or subscribe to the newsletter to get more tips to fuel your professional success.Modern Mentor is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/modern-mentor-newsletterhttps://www.facebook.com/QDTModernMentorhttps://twitter.com/QDTModernMentorhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/modern-mentor-podcast/

4 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 9min
How to repair fractured relationships at work
Work relationships can be a mixed bag, sometimes smooth and other times rocky. This discussion dives into how to mend those strained connections with respectful dialogue and collaboration. Open listening is spotlighted as a key to unlocking better communication, while embracing feedback lays the groundwork for stronger bonds. Plus, a personal story about a former employee illustrates the journey toward fostering meaningful workplace relationships.

Apr 15, 2025 • 35min
Making work more human with Bonnie Davis
Bonnie Davis, co-founder of HuWork and a passionate advocate for human-centered practices, shares her insights on transforming workplace culture. She discusses the importance of building trust to engage talent, especially in hybrid settings. Bonnie emphasizes celebrating strengths as a catalyst for positive change and the need for meaningful connections through rituals. The conversation also touches on balancing human values with performance in a world influenced by AI and offers practical strategies for self-reflection and empowerment in the workplace.

6 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 8min
How to reignite your motivation when it dips
Everyone experiences drops in motivation, but often the solutions we pursue aren't effective. The discussion focuses on recognizing stagnant phases and suggests fostering curiosity instead of judgment. Practical strategies for reconnecting with work highlight the importance of emotional well-being and self-care. Self-compassion is emphasized to combat feelings of powerlessness, allowing individuals to regain agency over their actions and rediscover their inner spark.

Apr 1, 2025 • 9min
So you wanna DIY a team offsite...
Struggling to create a meaningful offsite for your team? Discover how to tackle team dynamics and boost productivity. Uncover essential tips for crafting a relaxed environment that encourages connection, including fun icebreakers and tasty snacks. Learn innovative exercises to align goals and improve decision-making through prioritization. Plus, find out how to streamline meetings for maximum effectiveness, ensuring every interaction counts. Say goodbye to overwhelm and hello to a collaborative atmosphere!