Arlene Pellicane is a marriage advocate dedicated to helping couples build strong, joyful relationships. Through her books, podcasts, and speaking engagements, she challenges the narrative that marriage is inherently difficult, instead presenting it as a fulfilling and worthwhile commitment. Drawing from her own 26-year marriage, Arlene emphasizes that while some obstacles may emerge, they can be navigated successfully with the right mindset and dedication.Arlene stresses the significance of truly knowing a partner before marriage, advocating for time, patience, and careful observation of character. She shares insights from her own love story, where friendship provided a solid foundation for a lasting marriage. Key factors such as conflict resolution, integrity, and family interactions help determine long-term compatibility, and she encourages individuals to seek guidance from trusted friends and family when making relationship decisions.LEARN MORE:> > National Marriage Week (https://www.marriageweek.org)> > National Marriage Week on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/nationalmarriageweek)> > Makingmarriageeasier.comNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn about what Arlene calls the “power hour” and why married couples must make time for it (http://members.nsls.org/audio/arlene-pellicane)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Tamar Huggins is reshaping the landscape of education and technology, combining innovation with equity. As the founder of Tech Spark, Huggins has created a platform that uses culturally relevant AI tools to address systemic biases in education while empowering students. Her groundbreaking Spark Plug platform offers schools and organizations a way to integrate AI more inclusively. In 2012, Huggins founded Driven, Canada's first tech accelerator for Black and BIPOC entrepreneurs. The program addressed the gap in business acumen often seen in underrepresented communities, focusing on transforming creative ideas into revenue-generating ventures. Despite facing challenges such as accusations of reverse racism, Huggins stayed true to her mission. By leaning on her advertising background and innovative thinking, she created a successful program that has raised over $1.1 million, with startups under its wing raising $20 million collectively.Huggins is a strong advocate for culturally responsive pedagogy in education. She emphasizes the importance of tailoring teaching methods to reflect students’ lived experiences. Tech Spark has developed a tech entrepreneurship course that aligns with the needs and interests of underserved students, providing them with real-world skills and opportunities.This week, you'll learn how Tamar’s Caribbean roots influenced her life, how Tamar rose above business rejections, and more about her commitment to underserved communities.LEARN MORE:> > tamarhuggins.com> > @tamarhuggins on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarhuggins)> > @sparkplug.ai and @techspark.ai on IG (https://www.instagram.com/sparkplug.ai)(https://www.instagram.com/techspark.ai)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn about the pivotal moment when Tamar realized her work was making a difference (http://members.nsls.org/audio/tamar-huggins)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, an O'Brien Associate Professor at Harvard Business School and a behavioral scientist, shares insights on the art of conversation. She emphasizes the importance of intentionality in dialogue and introduces the 'conversational compass' to balance clarity and emotional connection. Drawing from her experiences as an identical twin, Dr. Brooks discusses how reframing anxiety as excitement can improve communication. The podcast also tackles the significance of meaningful apologies in strengthening relationships and fostering accountability.

Michele McCain's journey in the entertainment industry is nothing short of remarkable. As a global motivational storyteller, singer-songwriter, and actress, she has enchanted audiences worldwide since her debut at Shea Stadium with the legendary James Brown. With Broadway credits like Ain't Misbehavin' and collaborations with icons such as B.B. King and Celia Cruz, Michele's dedication and talent have established her as an inspiring figure for aspiring artists.Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Michele’s love for performing led her to a successful Broadway career. After nearly 40 years abroad, particularly in beautiful Mallorca, Spain, she cherishes her journey from Brooklyn's energetic streets to Mediterranean tranquility. Through her travels across Europe, she often advises aspiring performers about the transformative power of adventure and exploration in discovering new opportunities.This week, you’ll learn why Michele decided to immigrate to Spain from Brooklyn, New York, how Michele landed her first big time Broadway show, and her advice for dreamers to remember the sky has no limit.LEARN MORE:>> Connect with Michele on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube (https://www.instagram.com/michelemccain),(https://www.facebook.com/michele.mccain.9), (https://www.youtube.com/@MicheleMcCain)>> Check out her website (https://www.michelemccain.net)> > Listen to Corey and Michele's song together, ⁠Werk⁠ (https://open.spotify.com/track/1VU4jHjuIdRunXAaqqTXRY?si=tU64S8JaTWySOCI90pz-4Q)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn about the best advice Michele’s ever been given (http://members.nsls.org/audio/michele-mccain)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Rich Holman is a vibrant 80-year-old and a dedicated advocate against sugar consumption. After experiencing a health crisis linked to metabolic syndrome, he uncovered the significant dangers sugar poses to chronic diseases. In his book, Killing You Softly, Holman shares his personal journey of recovery and emphasizes the urgent need to address sugar's impact on public health.Holman's journey began with dire health issues, including high blood pressure and chronic fatigue. By eliminating sugar and processed foods from his diet, he saw remarkable improvements in just a week, ultimately becoming medication-free. His experiences motivated him to explore the science behind sugar's effects and to inform others about the misleading practices of the food industry regarding sugar's health risks.Holman champions the importance of informed consent regarding dietary choices, urging consumers to scrutinize food labels. He highlights the historical context of sugar’s rise in diets, illustrating how it became a staple. By educating people on these issues, Holman seeks to ignite critical discussions about nutrition and the importance of reducing sugar consumption.This week, you’ll learn how a medical crisis helped Rich make lifestyle changes, if sugar in “moderation” is real or a myth, and healthy options instead of a sugar-filled diet.LEARN MORE:> > Read Rich Holman’s book, Killing You Softly: How Sugar is Killing Us NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn why Rich believes better health and wellness are society issues, and what he hopes people gain from reading his new book about sugar consumption (https://app.nsls.org/members/benefits/motivational-mondays)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Suzanne’s Giesemann’s path from military officer to spiritual advisor was anything but conventional. Her 20-year Navy career saw her rise to the role of aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. She flew on Air Force One with the President, met world leaders, and bore witness to pivotal moments in history, including the tragic events of 9/11. It was a life of service, discipline, and precision.But Suzanne’s transformation began with profound personal loss. The death of her stepdaughter, Susan, who was struck by lightning while serving as a U.S. Marine, left Suzanne questioning the nature of life and the afterlife. This heartbreak became the catalyst for her spiritual awakening. Determined to find answers, Suzanne embarked on a journey of meditation, self-discovery, and mediumship training that eventually revealed her own innate ability to connect with the spirit world.Suzanne’s teachings are grounded in the understanding that science and spirituality are not at odds but are deeply intertwined. She often draws upon principles of quantum physics to explain the mechanics of mediumship and consciousness, bridging the gap between the seen and unseen worlds. For those hesitant to embrace spiritual concepts, this scientific foundation provides a reassuring anchor.This week, you’ll learn how death inspired Suzanne to learn more about the spiritual existence, how she reconnected with a dear friend who had crossed to the spirit realm, and the connection between physics and spirituality.LEARN MORE:> > Visit Suzanne Giesemann’s website (http://www.suzannegiesemann.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn what Suzanne hopes readers will gain from her new book, and why Suzanne disagrees with the expression, “We’re Only Human” (https://app.nsls.org/members/benefits/motivational-mondays/11401551)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

As we wrap up 2024, Motivational Mondays celebrates an incredible year of inspiring conversations and transformative insights. This special year-end episode highlights five remarkable guests who graced the podcast with their wisdom and unique perspectives: Janice Robinson, Sandy Colhoun, Nacone Martin, Willie Pietersen, and Siobhan McHale. Each of these individuals shared invaluable lessons on creativity, resilience, leadership, and personal growth, leaving listeners with practical takeaways to fuel their journeys into the new year.LEARN MORE:> > Janice Robinson (https://www.nsls.org/blog/love-life-laughter)> > Sandy Colhoun (https://www.nsls.org/blog/leadership-through-fearless-learning)> > Nacone Martin (https://www.nsls.org/blog/from-bullied-to-bodybuilding-champ)> > Willie Pietersen (https://www.nsls.org/blog/leading-with-a-conscience)> > Siobhan McHale (https://www.nsls.org/blog/leadership-and-the-hive-effect)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn the importance of mentor/mentee relationships and why NOLS’s programs are perfect for young adults (https://members.nsls.org/audio/2024-wrap-up)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Atiba T. Edwards is the President and CEO of the Brooklyn Children's Museum. A former child visitor to the museum himself, Edwards now leads this cherished institution with a profound commitment to his community. His journey from a young visitor to the helm of such an important cultural space exemplifies his deep-rooted connection to Brooklyn and the impact he seeks to make for future generations.Edwards reflects on how working at the Brooklyn Children's Museum feels surreal, especially as it marks nearly a year since he took on the role. Reminiscing about his childhood experiences, he recalls the joy and wonder of exploring the museum, and he now approaches his leadership with a sense of responsibility. His passion for fostering memorable experiences for young visitors drives him each day, and he aspires to exceed the joyous memories he created as a child. Edwards highlights the Brooklyn Children's Museum's mission to celebrate diversity and inclusivity through its programming. Recognizing the importance of representation, the museum hosts cultural festivals that uplift various communities, reflecting the rich tapestry of Brooklyn’s demographic make-up. From Dia de los Muertos to Lunar New Year celebrations, these events offer families the opportunity to engage with and learn about different cultures in an authentic setting.This week, you’ll learn the importance of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum’s location, how Atiba was inspired by engineering studies, liberal arts, poetry and musicology, and how Wall Street prepared Atiba for life’s unexpected turns.LEARN MORE:Brooklyn Children’s Museum> > Website: www.brooklynkids.org> > Instagram: @bcmkids> > Twitter: @BrooklynKids> > Facebook: Brooklyn Children’s MuseumFOKUS> > Website: www.fokus.org> > Instagram: @fokusartAtiba> > Instagram: @at1baNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn what advice Atiba has been given that he still holds near (https://app.nsls.org/members/benefits/motivational-mondays/11398775)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Jason Feifer's journey to his current role at Entrepreneur was far from straightforward. From starting as a local community newspaper reporter to leading a major international publication, his path was characterized by unexpected opportunities rather than a rigid trajectory. He emphasized the importance of being open to experiences that may not initially align with one’s career goals. Feifer refers to this approach as a “zigzag pathway,” which allows individuals to gather a diverse set of skills and insights, ultimately leading to fulfilling career outcomes.A central theme in Feifer’s discussion was the need for a clear personal identity. He advocated for a personal mission statement that encompasses valuable qualities rather than narrowly defining oneself by a job title. This broader perspective facilitates adaptability, allowing individuals to pivot as their career evolves. By identifying themselves through transferable skills—such as storytelling—rather than limiting labels, people can unlock greater potential and embrace growth.Feifer left listeners with a powerful framework for approaching new opportunities. He suggests treating every new endeavor as an experiment, which removes the pressure of long-term commitment. By personalizing experiences and setting defined terms for exploration, individuals can evaluate outcomes without fear of failure. Feifer’s advice, inspired by behavioral scientist Katie Milkman, underlines that the goal of any experiment is learning rather than immediate success. This week, you’ll learn how Jason's successful journey began from a humble beginning, the importance of establishing your personal brand and why taking on new opportunities equates to invaluable growth.LEARN MORE:> > LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jasonfeifer> > Instagram: @heyfeifer> > Website: jasonfeifer.com> > Newsletter: jasonfeifer.com/newsletter> > Book: https://www.jasonfeifer.com/bookNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn the best advice Jason has been given (members.nsls.org/audio/jason-feifer)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Deidrea Miller, a dynamic and accomplished media expert, joined us to discuss her remarkable journey through the world of communications, art, and social influence. Her experiences, spanning various sectors such as luxury, government, and the arts, provide a unique lens through which she views storytelling and representation. Miller’s insights into her role at Christie's, particularly relating to the sale of an exclusive Andy Warhol painting, exemplified her deep connection to her passion for making art accessible to a broader audience.During the podcast, Miller recalled her involvement with the high-profile sale of Andy Warhol’s “Shot Sage Blue Marilyn.” Selling for nearly $200 million, this painting was not just a transaction but a moment that illuminated the intersection of popular culture and fine art. Miller shared the quirky backstory of the painting’s owners who casually transported it in their vehicle, a narrative that humanizes art in a way viewers often do not expect.Miller also reflected on her roots in communications, tracing her passion back to her parents, both dedicated public servants. Growing up amidst policy discussions and LEARN MORE:> > Connect with Deidrea on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/deidreamiller)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn the most important skills to prepare for a career in communications (https://thens.ls/41n9tbc)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp