The Courage Effect

Shawn Vanderhoven: Tap the Pause

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:00:00 -0700

#88: Discover how slowing down can revolutionize your leadership approach and help your team excel amidst constant distractions. Shawn Vanderhoven shares his journey, insights from research, and practical tools to implement deliberate pauses for improved focus, impact, and well-being. He talks with Suzanne Weller about his book Pause: How to Lead Brilliant Work in a Busy World (which he co-wrote with his wife Anne).

In this episode:

The moment that changed the direction of his work
Why the highest-scoring leadership behaviors were all forms of "tapping the brakes"
Permission to focus vs. sponsoring it
Why environment — not personal productivity — decides whether deep work is possible

Shawn is a Partner at The Wiseman Group, a collaborator on the NYT bestseller Multipliers, and co-host of Leadership Matters with Liz Wiseman.

A question to sit with: Where are you unknowingly training your team to stay "always on"?

Resources & Links:

Pause: How to Lead Brilliant Work in a Busy World: https://www.pausebook.co/
Leadership Matters Podcast : https://thewisemangroup.com/leadershipmatters/
Liz Wiseman's Multipliers research and book: https://thewisemangroup.com/books/multipliers/

Connect with Shawn Vanderhoven:

➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnvanderhoven/

➡️ Website: https://www.pausebook.co/

➡️ Book Shawn to speak : https://www.pausebook.co/keynotes

Connect with The Courage Effect:

➡️ Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration

➡️ Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect

➡️ Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller

➡️ Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

If this conversation resonated, share it and leave a review on your podcast platform. That's how this show grows — one courageous conversation at a time.

Sharon K. Gillenwater: The Myth of the Flawless Founder

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0700

#87: Suzanne Weller talks with Sharon Gillenwater; a four-time founder navigating one of entrepreneurship's hardest moments: rebuilding from scratch after her previous company (Boardroom Insiders) was unexpectedly shut down following its sale. In this episode, she shares how she turned that setback into her current venture, ExecutiveIQ, an AI-driven platform helping go-to-market teams engage the C-suite.

Sharon opens up about the emotional and practical realities of starting over - leaning on transparency with her team and customers, rejecting the myth of founder perfection, and choosing focus over funding to compete with larger, better-resourced rivals. She also makes the case for a different kind of startup culture: one that rejects toxic "996" grind norms in favor of trust, work-life balance, and sustainable growth.

Drawing on lessons from storytelling and her outsider's perspective on the industry, Sharon offers a grounded take on what it really means to lead lived, and why long-term sustainability beats rapid scaling every time.

Resources & Links:

🔹 Sharon’s book Scaling with Soul: How to Build a Tech Company Without Losing Humanity: https://www.sharonkgillenwater.com/scaling-with-soul-how-i-built-sold-a-25-million-company-without-being-an-asshole

🔹 Executive IQ platform: https://www.executive-iq.com/

Connect with Sharon K. Gillenwater:

➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonkgillenwater/

➡️ Website: https://www.sharonkgillenwater.com/

➡️ TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@sharonkgillenwater

Connect with The Courage Effect:

➡️ Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration

➡️ Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect

➡️ Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller

Emily Parkhurst: Men Ask Forgiveness, Women Ask Permission

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 07:00:00 -0700

#86: In this episode, Emily Parkhurst talks with Suzanne Weller about her inspiring journey from classical musician to Founder and CEO of Formidable Media, an organization dedicated to amplifying women's voices in media, leadership, and healthcare. Discover how she challenges industry norms and advocates for more inclusive, impactful storytelling.

Main Topics:

The origins and mission of Formidable in transforming media coverage of women’s issues
Addressing women’s reluctance and misconceptions about media engagement
Building a sustainable, multi-revenue model for a purpose-driven media company
Leadership development through unconventional career paths and mentorship
The importance of women sharing their health stories and advocating for themselves

Connect with Emily Parkhurst:

➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyparkhurst1/

➡️ Formidable: https://beformidable.com/

➡️ Formidable Women’s Health Summit on October 30th, 2026: https://beformidable.com/p/new-event-brings-actionable-health-info-to-everyday-women

Connect with The Courage Effect:

➡️ Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration

➡️ Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect

➡️ Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller

➡️ Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

If this conversation resonated, share it and leave a review on your podcast platform. That's how this show grows — one courageous conversation at a time.

Brent Robertson: Unpacking Courage, Blasphemy, and Organizational Narratives

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:20:07 -0700

#85: Suzanne Weller sits down with Brent Robertson, founder of Be Generative and TEDx speaker, for a conversation about courageous leadership, storytelling, and challenging the status quo.

Brent shares why “blasphemy” is his word for what happens when someone questions the prevailing truth — and why that friction is often the start of real progress. He and Suzanne explore how leaders can create environments instead of just reacting to them, and why the stories people live inside shape their behavior, culture, and performance.

A major theme of the episode is listening: not just to behavior, but to experience and narrative. Brent explains that if leaders want different results, they need to understand the deeper stories running through their organizations.

They also discuss “love punches” — the hard truths that can help people grow when they’re shared with care and courage.

If you’re interested in leadership, culture, and what it takes to break out of familiar patterns, this episode is for you.

Key Themes:

Challenging the status quo
Storytelling and leadership
Listening beyond behavior
Culture and organizational change
Courageous feedback

Connect with Brent Robertson:

➡️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/brentrobertson

➡️ BeGenerative: http://www.be-generative.com

➡️ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brentrobertson

Connect with The Courage Effect:

➡️ Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration

➡️ Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect

➡️ Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller

➡️ Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

If this conversation resonated, share it and leave a review on your podcast platform. That's how this show grows — one courageous conversation at a time.

Kat Kibben: There's Always Another Way Out

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 08:00:00 -0700

#84: Discover how intentionality in creating your personal and professional environments can cultivate courage and lived leadership. In this episode, Kat Kibben talks with Suzanne Weller about their transformative journey into van life, insights on leading through uncertainty, and practical ways to build healthier, more resilient teams and communities.

Main Topics:

➡️ How choosing discomfort fosters growth and courage

➡️ Challenging inherited rules from toxic workplace cultures

➡️ The power of quitting intentionally as a design tool

➡️ Building organizational resilience and emotional intelligence

➡️ The importance of asking for help and fostering curiosity

Resources & Links:

➡️ The Bounce Back Factor book: https://threeearsmedia.com/the-bounce-back-factor-book/

➡️ Kat Kibben’s Newsletter: https://katrinakibben.com/

➡️ Three Ears Media: https://threeearsmedia.com/

Connect with Kat:

➡️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/katrinakibben

➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katrinakibben/

Connect with The Courage Effect:

➡️ Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration

➡️ Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect

➡️ Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller

➡️ Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

If this conversation resonated, share it and leave a review on your podcast platform. That's how this show grows — one courageous conversation at a time.

Season 2026 Teaser: It Starts With You

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0700

Think about the last environment you walked into — a meeting, a family dinner, a conversation with someone you manage or someone who manages you. Did you create that environment? Or did it just happen to you?

Most of us spend a lot of time thinking about what we're in. What we don't always do — and what takes far more courage — is turn the lens around and ask: What am I creating?

That's what the 2026 season of The Courage Effect is built around.

The central idea: you don't just work in an environment. You create one. And most of the time, you're doing it unconsciously — replicating patterns from the systems that shaped you, even when those patterns aren't working. This season, we're asking three honest questions: When did you become aware of the system around you? When did you become aware of your impact on it? And what did you do about it?

Coming this season: Kat Kibben, author of The Bounce Back Factor, who sold everything and ran their business from a van for three years — only to discover they'd been replicating broken leadership patterns all along. And Emily Parkhurst, who left her role as publisher and president of the Puget Sound Business Journal to found Formidable, a media company built specifically for women leaders that existing systems weren't seeing.

Plus solo episodes, a live event in Seattle this summer, and livestreams where you can be part of the conversation in real time.

The new season launches in June. Between now and then, sit with this: What environment are you creating — before you've even said a word?

📩 suzanneweller.substack.com | 🌐 wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect

What are you walking into rooms and unconsciously building?

Listener Favorite with Fumbi Chima: Getting There is One Thing, Staying There is Another

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:11:13 -0700

What does it really take to be a woman at the top — not just to get there, but to stay? In this listener favorite, Suzanne Weller sits down with global technology executive Fumbi Chima for an honest conversation about directness, equity, identity, and the quiet courage it takes to stop shrinking your truth.

Dr. Fumbi Chima is an executive coach at The ExCo Group and has held CIO and senior executive roles at Boeing Employees Credit Union, Adidas, Fox Networks Group, Burberry, Walmart, and American Express. She sits on the public company boards of Whitbread and WTW. Born in Nigeria and educated in England, she has spent nearly three decades at the intersection of business and technology — and taught herself to code along the way.

Key takeaways:

Getting to the top and staying there are two different challenges — and the second one doesn't get nearly enough airtime
Curiosity (about other people, other cultures, other ways of thinking) is the foundation of a true global mindset
Fumbi's Gen Z daughters pushed her to say what she actually meant. She listened.
Moving from ten words to seven isn't about being blunt. It's about being honest enough to stop protecting people from the truth you're carrying.

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction to the theme of courage and growth

(04:26) - Women at the top: Benefits and loneliness

(06:11) - Challenges women face to stay in leadership roles

(07:37) - The reality of diversity scorecards vs. genuine inclusion

(12:28) - Fumbi’s childhood in Nigeria and England

(15:05) - Self-teaching technology and building new skills

(17:37) - The power of ambition and owning your career goals

(20:22) - Confidently celebrating achievements and owning your voice

(25:18) - Cultivating a global mindset through curiosity

(33:37) - Ongoing learning in AI and data for future leadership

(34:37) - Closing thoughts on embracing disruption and innovation

Connect with Dr. Fumbi Chima on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fumbi-chima/

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a review on your podcast platform
If this conversation resonated, share it. That's how this show grows — one courageous conversation at a time.

Listener Favorite with Dr. Jeremy Nobel: Crafting Connections in a Lonely World

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:58:24 -0800

In this episode, Suzanne Weller engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Jeremy Nobel about the complexities of loneliness. They explore the different types of loneliness (psychological, societal, and existential) and emphasize the importance of acknowledging and addressing these feelings. Dr. Nobel shares insights from his book, 'Project Unlonely,' and discusses how the arts can serve as a powerful tool in combating loneliness. The conversation highlights the need for human connection, the courage to express feelings of loneliness, and the role of creativity in fostering relationships and emotional well-being.

About Dr. Jeremy Nobel: He’s a primary-care physician, public health practitioner, and award-winning poet with faculty appointments at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Harvard Medical School. He is the founder and president of The Foundation for Art & Healing, and author of the book Project Unlonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection.

Takeaways:

Loneliness is a universal experience that everyone faces.
There are different types of loneliness: psychological, societal, and existential.
Loneliness is not the same as being alone; it's a subjective feeling.
Acknowledging loneliness requires courage and can foster connection.
Loneliness can be a signal indicating a need for human connection.
The pandemic has made conversations about loneliness more acceptable.
Arts and creativity can help combat feelings of loneliness.
Recognizing the signs of chronic loneliness is crucial for mental health.

Sound Bites:

"Loneliness is a universal experience that everyone faces."

"Vulnerability is essential for authentic connections."

"Arts and creativity can help combat feelings of loneliness."

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Loneliness: A Human Experience

13:04 The Role of Arts in Combating Loneliness

Connect with Dr. Nobel:

Website: https://jeremynobel.com/
The Foundation for Art & Healing: https://www.artandhealing.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_-GxBhC1ARIsADGgDjscusqh0TIxqNq2gTDMnNRzKr9zyELmGhveSCPokdnWF0GmsOEomHoaAqFWEALw_wcB
Read his book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/647051/project-unlonely-by-jeremy-nobel-md-mph/

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Dr. Nobel’s story

Listener Favorite with Michael Hudson: The Courage to Be an Outsider

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 07:37:38 -0800

Michael Hudson moved to rural Vietnam at 22 and stayed through the hard parts. Now CEO of the Hudson Institute of Coaching, he shares what he learned about courage, identity, and the disruptions that force us to grow.

Key Themes:

Naive Courage vs. Cultivated Courage
Naive courage gets you on the plane. Cultivated courage keeps you there at the six-month mark when you want to quit. The real transformation happens when you choose to stay and figure it out.

The Flashcard Trap
Michael made 200 Vietnamese flashcards but wasn't learning. He was protecting himself from embarrassment. Real integration required letting go of control. Where are you creating the illusion of progress to avoid actual risk?

Disruption Forces Honesty
We think we know why we're succeeding when times are good. External disruptions reveal what actually matters. COVID forced Michael's organization from in-person to virtual. They didn't want to change — but learned things they're still using.

Identity as Obstacle
Change requires letting go of parts of yourself that no longer serve you. There's loss in that. Pain in that. We don't sign up for it easily. But becoming something different means releasing who you used to be.

Takeaways:

Break habituation deliberately. Take different routes. Create small disruptions before life forces big ones.
Be honest about what's moving the needle vs. what's just noise
Give yourself permission to make it up as you go
Stay long enough to know what you're really choosing

About Michael: CEO of the Hudson Institute of Coaching, spent 10 years in Southeast Asia and East Africa, coaches startup founders and social entrepreneurs.

Connect with Michael:

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hudson-8527728/
Hudson Institute of Coaching website: https://hudsoninstitute.com/

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Michael's story

Listener Favorite: Courageous Communication with Julie Pham

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0800

What happens when we avoid the hard conversations? Dr. Julie Pham, Founder/CEO of Curiosity Based and author of "Seven Forms of Respect," shares the messy truth about when she got it wrong—and what changed when she finally chose directness over avoidance.

Julie opens up about quitting a job through manufactured martyrdom rather than honesty, workplace gossip that spectacularly backfired, and the uncomfortable question that kept her up at night. When her boss told her to "let it go," she trusted her gut instead—and ended up modeling the behavior her entire team needed.

Drawing on her parents' journey fleeing Vietnam by boat, Julie reminds us that courage is relative. And sometimes the bravest thing we can do is slow down, stop judging ourselves and others, and have the direct conversation—even when it takes months to get there.

Key Insights:

Courage doesn't have to be immediate. Julie took months to process before having a difficult conversation. "Sometimes our expectations of having to respond right away actually gets us to maybe respond in a way that is just more reactive than thoughtful."
You can't outsource your courage. When Julie complained about her boss to a peer, that peer spread her words around the organization. "I can't expect other people to fight my battles for me. I can't expect other people to save me."
Trust your gut over bad advice. Against her boss's advice to ignore an uncomfortable situation, Julie had direct conversations and apologized. Her boss later told her: "You actually modeled the behavior that we should have here."
Building relationships requires risk. "We don't know how they're going to take it. All I can do is stay true to myself and maybe that'll work and we'll have a deeper relationship and for other people it's gonna isolate us even more."

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliepham2/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/juliephamphd
Website: https://curiositybased.cominstagram

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Suzanne’s story

Stay courageous.

2025 Season Reflections: Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0800

#83: The Courage Effect: 2025 Season Finale

Suzanne reflects on this season's powerful conversations and asks: What are you waiting for permission to do?

Season Themes:

Speaking the Unspeakable
From menopause (Jill Angelo) to family secrets (Susan Liu) to standing in gaps others won't (Andrea Anderson) — courage means saying what needs to be said.

The Courage to Bear Witness
Ashley Gilbertson documented Officer Eugene Goodman at the Capitol on January 6th, reminding us we can't look away from hard truths.

Self-Compassion as Strategy
Massimo Backus: Being kind to yourself isn't soft — it's strategic. Stop wearing leadership costumes and show up authentically.

Permission Over Perfection
We're better at giving others permission than ourselves. What are you tolerating that you no longer want to?

Standout Quotes:

Andrea Anderson: "I've always been comfortable standing in the gap that others don't want to stand in."

Pelumi Nubi: "Is this fear mine, was it given to me, or do I need to give it back?"

Susan Liu: "Sometimes the stories we're not allowed to tell are exactly the ones that the world needs to hear."

Three Questions:

What am I waiting for permission to do?
Who am I waiting to tell me it's okay?
What am I tolerating that I no longer want to?

The Call:

Stop apologizing. Stand in the gap. Bear witness. Take risks. Give yourself permission to be imperfect, human, and fully you.

Let's stop discharging pain through blame and create real change — by speaking up, telling stories, and showing what's in the world.

And thank you Stephen Pressfield for the inspiration: Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants To Be

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who would benefit from our stories

Stay courageous.

When Life Throws You a Tree: A Mini Episode on Loss, Safety, and What Really Matters

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 07:06:58 -0800

#82: In this raw and personal mini episode, Suzanne opens up about a month of grief and disruption — losing her aunt to aggressive cancer and having a massive tree crash through her dining room skylight on her wedding anniversary.

She reflects on what it means to feel safe and secure when life reminds us how fragile everything is. This episode is an invitation to examine our own lives: What are we taking for granted? Who do we need to call? What truly matters?

She invites us to consider:

What are you taking for granted right now?
What gives you real security beyond physical structures?
Who needs to hear from you?
What can you let go of as we head toward year-end?
Where do you need to be more present?

A Note from Suzanne:

This episode is raw and unpolished — and that's intentional. Sometimes courage is just about showing up, being honest, and saying "this is where I am." Thank you for your patience and grace.

The final episode of this season drops in two weeks.

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Suzanne’s story

Andrea Anderson: Good Trouble and Girl Scouts

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:28:46 -0700

#81: Andrea Anderson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Western Washington, discusses the courage to stand where others won't, lead authentically, and embrace not fitting in. From sex education to running one of the country's most progressive Girl Scout councils, Andrea shares why being an outsider is her superpower.

Key Topics:

Standing in uncomfortable spaces and calling out injustice
Why "we've always done it this way" is never acceptable
Girl Scout cookie sales as the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program on the planet
Sex education, body autonomy, and the power of language
The beach epiphany: embracing not fitting into systems not designed for you

Memorable Quotes:

"What better time to raise dragon slayers than in the time of dragons."

"I stopped apologizing for my very existence years ago."

"The scam is structural and they didn't make it with me in mind."

"Bravery sometimes is just getting up and out of bed."

Key Takeaways:

Courage isn't always dramatic — sometimes it's just showing up authentically
Refuse to fit into systems not designed for you
Create space for people to bring their whole selves to work
Stop telling people to "leave their shit at the door"

Resources Mentioned:

Andrea's TEDx Talk on respectful body language: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xJgEetiGh4
Girl Scouts of Western Washington: https://www.girlscoutsww.org/en/join.html?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19271251657&gbraid=0AAAAAD1syUTY6XykWzGD5Zt7QY--jM6he&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-zHBhBhEiwA7Kjq6-vcRm-5gTCflmon6BcadKbw-Zu2qQTzHbO79fcoRSymsZsGAHwMPxoCUEEQAvD_BwE

Connect with Andrea via LinkedIn at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-anderson-61215232/

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Andrea’s story

Massimo Backus: Why Being Kind to Yourself Makes You a Better Leader

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:50:58 -0700

#80: Massimo Backus, author of "Human First, Leader Second," shares his transformative journey from high-achieving "sage on the stage" to authentic leader through the power of self-compassion.

Key Moments:

The Wake-Up Call - Massimo was running global leadership development when devastating 360 feedback revealed he was defensive, didn't create psychological safety, and was even described as a bully - the opposite of his intentions.

The Epiphany - After surrendering to the Hoffman Process, Massimo experienced his first moment of unconditional self-love in the woods - realizing he'd spent his life hiding doubts and imposter syndrome behind a "leadership costume."

The Power of the Pause - Why rushing from one role to the next keeps us stuck - and how the "neutral zone" allows for healing and repatterning.

Powerful Quotes:

"We wake up most days trying to be someone we already are."

"Courage is the small things: taking good care of yourself, setting boundaries, asking for help."

"I had to fully surrender - give up all the coping mechanisms and parts of my identity that on paper worked."

Key Takeaways:

Self-compassion isn't soft - it takes courage to confront yourself authentically
Internal validation is sustainable; external validation keeps you off-balance
Emotions are data points, not definitions
Transition periods are opportunities, not just gaps to fill quickly

Resources:

Human First, Leader Second by Massimo Bacchus
Brené Brown's Atlas of the Heart
Dr. Kristin Neff's self-compassion research
The Hoffman Process

Connect with Massimo:

Website: mass@massimobackus.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/massimo-backus/
Instagram: @massismoleadership

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Massimo’s story

Susan Lieu: Breaking the Silence on Family Secrets and Finding Your Voice

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0700

#79: When Susan Lieu's mother died from a botched cosmetic surgery at age 11, her Vietnamese immigrant family did what they knew how to do: they never spoke about it again. For three decades, the silence persisted. But when Susan faced the question "How do I become a mother if I never knew my own?" everything changed.

In this deeply moving conversation, Susan Lieu – a Vietnamese American author, playwright, and performer – shares her extraordinary journey from Microsoft cybersecurity professional to acclaimed solo performer and author. With zero theater training, she wrote and starred in a 65-minute show playing 15 family members, performed 60 times to 7,000 people while pregnant, and wrote the memoir "The Manicurist's Daughter" — an Apple Book Pick and NPR Best Book of 2024.

Susan's story is about the courage to break generational silence, the power of becoming your family's archive keeper, and discovering that sometimes the stories we're forbidden to tell are exactly the ones the world needs to hear.

Key Topics Discussed:

Family Secrets & Silence

How trauma and cultural differences create walls of silence
The cost of keeping family secrets vs. the courage to tell the truth

Intergenerational Trauma & Healing

Understanding her parents' escape from Vietnam as boat people
Learning to forgive a father shaped by war and loss

Body Image

Unpacking the message "if you get fat, no one will love you"
Reframing relationship with her body: "My body is my mother's last gift to me"

Truth & Memory

How different family members hold different versions of the same story
The power of archiving family history for future generations

Notable Quotes:

"For me to go on a quest to avenge my mother's death, to track down the killer, to bring justice to our family, but really to know her was this confrontation of being courageous in my own family."

"My body is my mother's last gift to me. When I say I hate my body, that means you're saying you hate where you come from."

"Sometimes the stories we're not allowed to tell are exactly the ones the world needs to hear."

"In activating this courage, we will learn something new. It'll give us new information to keep pivoting, to keep inching toward what we think will give us our self-actualization."

Connect with Susan:

Website: https://www.susanlieu.me/
Instagram: @SusanLieu
Substack: "Live Like You're Mortal" https://susanlieu.substack.com/
Podcast: "Model Minority Moms" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/model-minority-moms/id1565085683
Book: "The Manicurist's Daughter" (available in print and audiobook) https://www.amazon.com/Manicurists-Daughter-Memoir-Susan-Lieu/dp/1250835046
TEDx Talk: "How to Make Peace with Your Belly Fat" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=al0Jw_9b06Y

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Support the Show:

If this episode resonated with you:

Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform
Share this episode with someone who needs to hear Susan's story
Purchase "The Manicurist's Daughter" and leave a review
Follow Susan on social media and support her work

Lisa Fain: Building Developmental Networks & The Courage to Ask for Help

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0700

#78: In this conversation, Lisa Fain discusses the concept of developmental networks and the role of courage in creating intentional learning relationships. She emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and reciprocity in mentoring relationships, and how these elements contribute to personal and professional growth. Lisa also shares insights on navigating career transitions, the significance of identity, and the power of intentional connections in fostering a supportive environment for learning and development.

Key Topics:

Developmental networks - intentional learning relationships for growth
The courage to ask - being the first mover and requesting what you need
Effective mentoring elements - learning, reciprocity, and co-creation
Common failures - "pair and pray" programs without structure
Career transitions - leveraging networks during job searches
Identity's role - how our lens shapes mentoring experiences

Standout Quotes:

"Impact isn't built alone."

"Everything is figureoutable, but everything is not figureoutable on your own."

"If you're gonna share your wisdom, make sure it ends with a question mark and not with a period."

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring Developmental Networks and Courage

10:06 The Importance of Community and Connection

19:59 Understanding Mentoring Relationships

30:12 Navigating Career Transitions and Identity

39:52 The Power of Intentional Connections

Key Takeaways:

Structure matters - Successful mentoring requires intentional frameworks
Mentees drive learning - Come prepared with specific goals
Reciprocity is real - Everyone has something valuable to offer
Think beyond hierarchy - Peer and reverse mentoring work too
Avoid "brain picking" - Be specific about what you want to learn

Get in touch with Lisa Fain:

Website: http://www.centerformentoring.com
TEDx Talk: "The Power of Intentional Connections in Your Career": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ4JEvEsO2c
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisazfain

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

George Brewster: The Courage to Uproot

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:27:01 -0700

#77: George shares how a chance coffee shop conversation led to uprooting his family (three kids, ages 11-13) and moving to a small Spanish village for what became a two-year adventure. From navigating bureaucracy and language barriers to watching his children courageously walk into Spanish schools, this episode explores what it takes to "run toward the roar" of our biggest fears.

Key Highlights:

The Catalyst: A networking conversation that became life-changing advice
Facing Fears: Professional uncertainty, family impact, and financial risk
Reality Check: The challenging first months and questioning their decision
Kid Courage: How children adapt and teach resilience to their parents
Unexpected Benefits: How the experience prepared them for COVID and virtual work

Memorable Quotes:

"What right do I have to be coaching these people if I'm constantly comfortable and haven't done much of a big change in my life?"

"Courage is not the absence of fear, it's having fear there but working your way through it."

"Your kids can do it. You can do it. And the adventure is there waiting for you."

Perfect For:

Anyone considering a major life change
Parents wondering how families navigate uncertainty
People looking for courage to face their fears
Those interested in international living experiences

Key Takeaway:

Sometimes the most transformative experiences come from running toward what scares us most - and our children might just be our best teachers in courage.

Find more information about George Brewster at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgebrewster/
Gimbal Systems website: https://gimbalsystems.com/

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Patricia Bravo: Empathy in Leadership

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0700

#76: Join host Suzanne Weller and Patricia Bravo (Founder of Bravo for You) as they explore why empathy requires courage in today's workplaces and how leaders can use empathy strategically without sacrificing results.

Key Topics:

Empathy isn't a soft skill — it's a strategic leadership advantage that requires courage to implement effectively.
Patricia defines empathy as "accurately identifying cues and clues to activate understanding"
Research: 10% increase in empathetic leadership = $1,000/employee/year productivity boost
The pitfall of confusing over-empathizing with over-responding
Set boundaries while maintaining understanding
Focus on genuine connection, not checking boxes

Key Takeaways:

Empathy saves time rather than draining time for busy leaders
Understanding ≠ agreement - it's about better decision-making data
Courage is required to prioritize empathy in traditional business cultures
Small investments yield big returns - 10 minutes can transform relationships
Results follow relationships - empathy drives productivity, loyalty, and discretionary effort

Notable Quote: "It's not about slowing down business. It's actually about creating relationship shortcuts, which saves time."

Find more information about Patricia Bravo at:

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/theempatheticleader
Substack - https://substack.com/@theempatheticleader

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller

Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Michele Y. Smith: Democratizing Arts and Culture

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:45:18 -0700

#75: In this conversation, Suzanne Weller interviews Michele Y. Smith, CEO of the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), discussing her journey of courage and leadership in the nonprofit sector. They explore themes of democratizing pop culture, the importance of community engagement, and the challenges faced during the pandemic. Michele shares her personal story, the influence of her mother, and her innovative approaches to revitalizing institutions. The discussion emphasizes the significance of philanthropy and representation in leadership roles, highlighting how small acts can lead to significant change.

Key Topics:

Michele shares she is a “product of philanthropy” having received a Milton Hershey School scholarship as a girl
Crisis leadership: 9/11 at United Airlines, Keeping 1,000 animals alive during pandemic shutdown at Woodland Park Zoo
Her "positive disruptors" leadership philosophy
Transforming MoPOP through local partnerships and community engagement
Making philanthropy accessible (starting with $5 donations)

Notable Quote: "I consider my entire organization positive disruptors... What is the opportunity?"

Key Takeaways:

Leadership:

View problems as opportunities, not failures
Balance accountability with empathy for your team
Model the behavior you want to see during crisis

Community Building:

Partner locally to strengthen the entire ecosystem
Start small - every contribution matters ($1, $5, membership)
Make people feel part of something bigger than themselves

Career Growth:

Say yes to unexpected opportunities (San Francisco relocation)
Build resilience through compassion during challenging times
Use each experience to develop skills for future roles

Essential viewing: Michele’s rap at The Peer 150 event in October 2024.

Connect with The Courage Effect:

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

Ashley Gilbertson: Confronting Conflict and Change Through the Lens of Courage

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:12:41 -0700

#74: Join host Suzanne Weller for an unflinching conversation with award-winning photojournalist and writer Ashley Gilbertson, who has spent over two decades documenting conflict, migration, and pivotal moments that shape our world. From the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan to the halls of the US Capitol on January 6th, Ashley brings us face-to-face with uncomfortable truths through his lens.

In this deeply personal conversation, Ashley shares the magic that drew him to photography at 13, the weight of witnessing history, and why he believes documenting difficult stories is more crucial than ever. We explore his groundbreaking work, his evolution as a storyteller, and what it means to find courage in the darkest places.

Content Warning: This episode discusses war, conflict, domestic terrorism, and loss. Listener discretion is advised.

Key Topics Discussed:

Finding Your Voice Early:

Discovering photography through skateboarding at age 13
How passion becomes purpose

War Correspondence and Personal Cost

The moment a Marine's death became personal responsibility
Learning to carry trauma rather than overcome it

January 6th: An Insider's Perspective

Being among the first 20 people inside the Capitol
Witnessing Eugene Goodman's heroic stand

Evolving Storytelling

Finding new angles on familiar stories
The challenge of visual fatigue in modern media

Migration and Global Issues

Covering refugee crises across Europe and the US
The complexity of immigration stories

Notable Quotes:

"There's nothing in the world that beats that magic... trying to find that moment, what Cartier Bresson would have described as the decisive moment."

"You can't cover these places and come home the same. All of this comes with responsibility. There's no way of getting over any of this crap - it's learning how to carry it."

"The harder the work is, the better the work will be. When you get really deep into it and you want to stop, that is exactly the moment that you have to try twice as hard."

"What I saw was an insurrection. And what happened there was an insurrection. There is no question about that... These pictures will stand."

"One man holds them up for long enough to save the Vice President of America, Nancy Pelosi, and senators... That type of courage, that type of heroism, that's what I live for."

About Ashley Gilbertson

Ashley Gilbertson is an Australian photographer and writer based in New York City. Recognized for his critical eye and unique approach to social issues, Ashley Gilbertson is an Australian photographer and writer living in New York City recognized for his critical eye and unique approach to conflict, global migration, climate, social and health issues.

See more of Ashley Gilbertson's work at https://theviifoundation.org/profile/gilbertson-ashley/ and follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashgilbertson/?hl=en
Ashley’s work for of January 6th at the United States Capitol for The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/09/magazine/trump-coup.html
Ashley’s books Whisky Tango Foxtrot and Bedrooms of the Fallen

Photograph

Learn more about VII Foundation at: https://theviifoundation.org/

Connect with The Courage Effect

Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller

Special thanks to Ashley Gilbertson for his courage, honesty, and friendship.

Sharon Podobnik: Courage as a Skill and Learning to be Brave

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:30:00 -0700

#73: In this conversation, Sharon Podobnik (leadership coach, facilitator, and founder of The Center for Conscious Leadership) and Suzanne Weller explore the multifaceted nature of courage, emphasizing its inner and outer dimensions. They discuss personal experiences of courage, the evolution of what courage means over time, and the importance of somatic practices in understanding our bodies' responses to fear and discomfort. The dialogue also touches on the significance of boundaries and the courage required to say no, highlighting that courage is a skill that can be developed rather than an innate trait. In this conversation, Sharon Podobnik and Suzanne Weller explore the importance of setting boundaries, the individualization of oppression, and the need for collective responsibility in creating social change. They discuss the concept of courage as a skill that can be developed, the significance of acceptance in the face of challenges, and the role of community in fostering empowerment. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of recognizing our agency and the power of saying no, while also advocating for a shift in societal expectations and norms.

Takeaways:

Courage is a value that becomes a way of being.
Courage often involves discomfort meeting purpose.
Life experiences shape our understanding of courage.
Courage is not about fearlessness but about dancing with fear.
Somatic practices help us understand our body's responses.
Recognizing when to say no is crucial for self-care.
Teaching young girls to say no can change the world.
Organizations often take advantage of our willingness to say yes.
Self-help often places undue responsibility on individuals.
Collective action can alleviate individual burdens.
Community and connection are essential for empowerment.
We all have a role in creating social change.

Get more information about Suzanne and Weller Collaboration at wellercollaboration.com

Pelumi Nubi: The Power of Solo Travel

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:30:00 -0700

#72: In this engaging conversation, Pelumi Nubi shares her inspiring journey as a trailblazing travel content creator, adventurer, and the first black woman to drive solo from London to Lagos. She discusses the courage it takes to travel alone (especially as a woman!) and the importance of community support. Pelumi also opens up about her experience with dyslexia and how it shaped her perspective. Through her travel series One Week In, she aims to change the narrative around African destinations, showcasing their beauty and culture. The conversation emphasizes the transformative power of travel, the joy it brings, and the importance of taking courageous steps in life.

Takeaways:

Traveling alone as a woman requires courage and determination.
Community support is vital during challenging journeys.
Dyslexia can be a barrier, but it can also be a source of strength.
Travel fosters personal growth and self-awareness.
Cultural respect is essential when traveling to all destinations.
Joy is a choice that can be cultivated through travel.

Referenced in this show:

Pelumi’s series 28 Days of Brave: https://www.tiktok.com/@pelumi.nubi/video/7467990401132006689

Her TedX Talk: How to embrace imperfect action: ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qplHjdyoXtQ

Find Pelumi online at:

WWW.PELUMINUBI.COM

https://www.instagram.com/pelumi.nubi/?hl=en

Get more information about Suzanne and Weller Collaboration at wellercollaboration.com

Jill Angelo: Empowering Women Through Menopause

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:14:52 -0700

#71: Jill Angelo (a visionary leader in women's health in midlife, and one of Inc. Magazine’s 2020 Top 100 Female Founders) talks with Suzanne about her journey of founding Gennev, a clinician-built menopause care platform. She shares her challenges and triumphs of founding the organization, shepherding its acquisition by United Women’s Healthcare, and the importance of community in addressing women's health issues. The discussion also touches on the courage required to embrace change, key steps in her growth as a leader, and the significance of listening to oneself during transitions.

Takeaways:

Jill's journey into founding Gennev and its impact on women's health and community.
The stigma around menopause can be a barrier to open discussion.
Navigating the challenges of being a female founder requires resilience.
Jill emphasizes the need for empathy in women's health care.
Patience is essential in the entrepreneurial journey.
Real-life application is more effective than excessive planning.
Trusting your gut is crucial, especially in unfamiliar territory.
How men can understand and support their partners during menopause.
Every woman's experience in menopause is unique.
Embracing change requires managing one's ego.

Sound Bites:

"I had the courage to start it."

"The stakes have changed for me."

"I've learned to lean back."

"Do more than learn and plan."

"Trust your gut a little bit more."

"We're driving change from within."

Find more information about Weller Collaboration at wellercollaboration.com

The Courage Effect Returns: New Season Teaser

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 08:30:00 -0700

#70: In this micro show, Suzanne announces our brand new season launching June 11th. From there, get ready for an incredible range of topics:

We’re kicking off with a powerful episode on menopause — featuring a trailblazing woman who founded the first clinician-based menopause care platform.

Leadership & Courage: We’re diving into what it really means to be courageous, exploring empathy and leadership as dynamic skills anyone can develop.
Moving Internationally: Hear firsthand what it’s like to uproot your life and family to a new continent and the lessons learned along the way.
Epic Travel Tales: We’ll bring you a jaw-dropping story from a woman who drove solo from London to Lagos, plus expert travel advice for your future adventures.
Behind the Lens: An award-winning photojournalist shares what it’s like to document both the vibrancy and tragedies of the world, from New York City streets to conflict zones — and even the events at the US Capitol on January 6th.
Pop Culture & Mentorship: We’ll discuss the democratization of pop culture and the transformative power of mentorship.

As always, these stories are about wrangling the hard stuff: persevering when life presents mountains, hurdles, or even just speed bumps. That’s what The Courage Effect is all about—real conversations about facing fear, taking risks, and finding possibility on the other side.

Don’t Miss Out If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe and like the podcast so you won’t miss a single episode—and mark your calendar for June 11th.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: Leveraging Your Invisible Network with Michael Melcher

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:30:00 -0700

#24: Suzanne Weller engages with executive coach Michael Melcher to explore the themes of courage, growth, and the importance of networking. They discuss the discomfort that often accompanies personal change, the role of self-compassion, and how to navigate relationships that can either support or hinder our growth. Michael emphasizes the significance of taking courageous actions, the unpredictability of networking outcomes, and the necessity of reframing our approach to relationships in both personal and professional contexts. The conversation highlights the idea of an “invisible network” and the importance of cultivating connections to foster growth and opportunity.

Takeaways:

Expectations can hinder networking opportunities.

Networking requires openness to unexpected outcomes.
Weak ties can be valuable in career development.
Talking about yourself is necessary for career advancement.
Reframing relationships can change how we view networking.
Cultivating a network is an ongoing process.

Sound Bites:

"Growth is a lot about discomfort."

"You can give yourself permission to let it be hard."

"You need to get out of your own zone."

"It's a living thing, your network."

"Keep gardening that network."

Chapters:

01:49 The Courage to Disrupt and Change

06:09 Navigating Discomfort and Self-Compassion

09:53 The Role of Others in Courageous Actions

15:09 Expectations and Networking

19:51 Understanding the Invisible Network

25:05 Reframing Relationships and Business Development

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: Stop Overthinking to Expand Your Creativity: Suzanne Weller

Wed, 07 May 2025 08:30:00 -0700

#43: In this episode of The Courage Effect, Suzanne Weller explores the intricate relationship between creativity and overthinking. Drawing inspiration from Rick Rubin's book “ The Creative Act”, she emphasizes the courage required to embrace creativity and the detrimental effects of overthinking on our creative processes. Suzanne discusses the importance of self-reflection, understanding our thought patterns, and creating conditions that foster creativity while addressing the roots of overthinking, such as perfectionism and low self-esteem. She offers practical strategies to break free from overthinking and cultivate a more creative mindset.

Takeaways:

Creativity requires courage and vulnerability.
Creating conditions for creativity starts with self-awareness.
Overthinking can hinder our creative potential.
Self-doubt often stems from overthinking and perfectionism.
Viewing our work as a work in progress fosters growth.
Recognizing thought patterns is crucial to overcoming overthinking.
Self-compassion enhances resilience and creativity.
Tracking our thoughts can help identify overthinking patterns.
Embracing uncertainty can lead to greater creativity.
Building a support network is vital for overcoming self-doubt.

Sound Bites:

"The creative act is courageous."

"We are all a work in progress."

"Overthinking is the enemy of creativity."

"We need to embrace uncertainty."

"Let's see overthinking for what it is."

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: Courage and Trust on the Entrepreneurial Journey with Lenora Edwards

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:30:00 -0700

#21: In this episode of The Courage Effect, Suzanne Weller engages in a deep conversation with Lenora Edwards (CEO Advisor for Business Growth) about the themes of courage, trust, and entrepreneurship. They explore the journey of starting a business, the importance of trusting oneself, learning from mistakes, and the balance between logic and creativity in business. The discussion emphasizes the significance of partnership, feedback, and the courage to push beyond comfort zones to find unique value propositions.

Takeaways:

Courage is essential in navigating the entrepreneurial journey.
Trusting oneself is a key component of success.
Mistakes can lead to valuable learning experiences.
Partnerships can enhance business growth and creativity.
Finding a balance between logic and magic is crucial in marketing.
Unique value propositions set businesses apart from competitors.
Feedback is vital for growth and improvement.
Being comfortable with uncertainty can lead to innovation.
Courage often comes from a lack of attachment to outcomes.
Asking the right questions can unlock potential opportunities.

Sound Bites:

"Trust yourself and your instincts."

"You have to trust what's inside."

"What could this be?"

"It's about finding the gold in ideas."

"Courage comes from lack of attachment."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Courage and Trust

03:00 The Journey of Entrepreneurship

05:49 Learning from Mistakes

08:59 Pushing Beyond Comfort Zones

11:57 The Balance of Logic and Magic

14:51 Finding Unique Value Propositions

18:05 The Importance of Feedback and Iteration

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: Growth Following Trauma with Rebecca Weaver

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 08:30:00 -0700

#47: In this episode of The Courage Effect, host Suzanne Weller speaks with Rebecca Weaver, founder and CEO of HRuprise, about her journey through post-traumatic growth following a breast cancer diagnosis during the pandemic. They discuss the importance of recognizing collective trauma, the concept of post-traumatic growth, and how to navigate personal and professional challenges with courage and intention. Rebecca shares her insights on resilience, the need for honest storytelling, and the transformative power of growth after adversity.

Takeaways:

The idea of seasonality – we will move through it.
You will be even stronger than you thought possible.
Post-traumatic growth is a possibility.
How do we put the pieces back together in a new way?
It's possible for us to move forward and thrive.
You can make it through so much more than you ever thought you could.
We need to acknowledge that where we were doesn't exist anymore.

Sound Bites

"Post-traumatic growth is a possibility."
"It's about living intentionally."
"We have experienced this collective trauma."
"This truly is just a season."
"Tomorrow is not promised."
"It's possible for us to move forward and thrive."

Chapters:

00:00 - Embracing Seasons of Change

02:40 - The Journey of Post-Traumatic Growth

14:19 - Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth

20:57 - Navigating Collective Trauma

24:10 - Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor Armoire. Build the perfect rental wardrobe with brands that are unique, sustainably sourced and they’ll be shipped straight to your door. Visit armoire.style/thecourageeffect to get up to 50% off your first month. #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: The Perfection Trap with Dr. Thomas Curran

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:48:38 -0700

#39 | 1.24.2024: host Suzanne Weller engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Thomas Curran (the world's leading expert on perfectionism and author of the best-selling book The Perfection Trap) about the complexities of perfectionism. They explore its roots in societal pressures, the different types of perfectionism, and how the growth at all costs mentality exacerbates these tendencies. Dr. Curran emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation and reframing success to foster a healthier mindset. The discussion highlights the detrimental effects of perfectionism on mental health and the need for a shift towards self-acceptance and purpose-driven pursuits.

Takeaways:

Perfectionism is a form of deficit thinking.
It leads to constant self-criticism and hinders success.
Social pressures fuel perfectionism in today's world.
Understanding perfectionism can lead to greater contentment.
Intrinsic motivation is key to sustainable growth.
Perfectionism is a relational trait, not just an individual one.
There are different types of perfectionism: self-oriented, socially prescribed, and other-oriented.
The growth at all costs economy exacerbates perfectionist tendencies.
Perfectionism creates existential anxiety and mental health struggles.
Reframing success can help reduce perfectionist pressures.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Go to https://betterhelp.com/courage for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Get more of Suzanne's insights to tackle perfectionism and other challenges via her Reimagine Growth newsletter -- sign up at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/.

Listener Favorite: Magic and Mayhem with Susan Mann

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 08:30:00 -0700

Bringing out a show from our archive that about resilience, vulnerability, collective trauma, coping strategies, and leadership.

#37: In this episode Suzanne engages in a heartfelt conversation with leadership coach Susan Mann about navigating the complexities of life, particularly in the context of collective trauma and personal loss. They explore the themes of courage, vulnerability, and the importance of recognizing both the magic and mayhem in our lives. Susan shares personal stories of grief and resilience, emphasizing the significance of connection, gratitude, and intentionality in finding joy amidst challenges.

Takeaways:

Courage is doing what's important, even when it's hard.
Magic exists in our lives, especially during tough times.
Collective trauma affects us all, and we must acknowledge it.
Practicing gratitude can help us navigate challenges.
Connection with others is vital for resilience.
Finding beauty in the mundane can lead to joy.
Intentionality is key in coping with life's difficulties.
We must allow ourselves to grieve and process loss.
Nature and movement are essential for mental well-being.
Listening to children can remind us of the magic in life.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Lessons Learned from Leaving Meta

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 08:30:00 -0800

#69 In this livestream conversation recorded on 2.25.2025, Suzanne and 3 other Meta refugees (Bridget Belden, Mellicia Marx, and Suzanne Rothmeyer) discuss their decision behind leaving Meta platforms. They share their individual experiences, values, and the impact of social media on their lives and businesses, while also exploring alternative platforms and strategies for connecting with their audiences.

You’ll hear their insights on navigating platforms like Substack and Pinterest, the value of creators, and the lessons learned from stepping away from traditional social media. The discussion emphasizes the need for personal agency, courage, and the potential for richer, more meaningful connections in a digital age.

Takeaways:

Personal responsibility is crucial in navigating social media.
Where you invest your time, energy and attention is an individual (and values-driven) decision.
Social media platforms can create disconnection despite their intended purpose.
Substack and other platforms can provide a better fit for community building. While SEO and personal websites are valuable tools for business visibility.
Community and connection can thrive outside traditional social media.
Diversifying platforms can help mitigate risks associated with single platforms.
Lessons learned include the importance of planning and being proactive.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: Personal Safety with Barb Jordan

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0800

#17: Suzanne Weller speaks with Barb Jordan, a personal safety expert and founder of Always Bev, an organization dedicated to educating individuals about personal safety. Barb shares her personal journey, including the tragic loss of her sister to gun violence, which inspired her to create Always Bev (short for Always Be Vigilant). The conversation emphasizes the importance of intuition in personal safety, the process of grieving and healing, and practical tips for staying safe in everyday situations.

Takeaways:

Intuition is crucial for personal safety.
Trust your gut feelings; they often signal danger.
Building awareness of human behavior is essential.
Personal safety education can empower individuals.
Grief is a complex process that requires time and support.
EMDR therapy can be transformative for trauma recovery.
It's important to honor your own boundaries and say no.
Eye contact can help assess a person's intentions.
Body language plays a significant role in personal safety.
Creating a safe environment for yourself and others is vital.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: Breaking Expectations with Sports Photographer Elsa

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:30:00 -0800

#33: Elsa shares her story of becoming a successful sports photographer, which started when she shot a football game in high school and has led to covering some of the most preeminent events including the Olympics, World Series, Super Bowl, NBA Finals, US Open, and FIFA Men’s and Women’s World Cup. She talks with Suzanne about learning to bet on herself, the courage it takes to work in a male dominated industry, and the importance of not carrying the load of other people’s issues as she continues to pursue her dream job.

Famous for capturing some of sports most defining moments, Elsa has the distinct honor of being the first woman staff photographer at Getty Images.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Emerge 2025: The Courage Effect’s Evolution

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:30:00 -0800

#68: Suzanne sets the tone for the year, exploring her word of the year: "Emerge," a focus on shaking things up, and announces exciting changes coming in the months ahead – including a shift to a seasonal podcast format.

Referenced in this show:

The Courage Effect #36: Courageous Intentions for the New Year.

NSA Northwest’s 'Last Story Standing' Competition happening on February 15, 2025.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Embracing Grief and Growth with April McCormick

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 08:50:02 -0800

#67: Suzanne explores themes of grief, transformation, and the power of courage with April McCormick. April shares the heart-wrenching story of her son’s passing and how it shaped her leadership approach, highlighting the importance of understanding others, finding meaning in pain, and the strength to confront incredibly difficult challenges.

April is a wife, mother, coach, and senior manager for flight test engineering at a major aerospace company who uses her story to inspire others as the host of the Uncomfortable Friend podcast.

Referenced in this episode:

April’s Uncomfortable Friend podcast episode 1: My Story - Lincoln

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

The Courage Effect #12: Owning Your Story

Father Richard Rohr

Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief by David Kessler

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Unlocking Potential: Courage, Joy, and Personal Truth with Roger Kastner

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:30:00 -0800

#66. Roger Kastner (organizational development practitioner, leadership coach, and host of the What Do You Know To Be True? podcast) joins Suzanne for an exploration into the fluid nature of personal truth and the journey from fear to courage. They discuss how purpose, joy, and organizational development can shape meaningful change in the workplace, with Roger sharing powerful insights on accountability, feedback, and the courage to disrupt the status quo for a better future.

Referenced in this episode:

First, Break All the Rules book from Gallup

Hope for Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness by Dr. Jamil Zaki

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Listener Favorite: Courageous Conversations with Suzanne Weller

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 15:43:56 -0800

#32: Now we’re in the holiday season, there’s a good chance we’ll be having hard or awkward conversations with family, friends, or colleagues. Suzanne talks through some ways to prepare for what she calls a “courageous conversation” so we can transform these dreaded discussions into empowering, mutually beneficial exchanges.

Leadership Insights for Uncertain Times: A Conversation with Stacy Harris

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:30:00 -0800

#65. Suzanne is joined by visionary leadership coach Stacy Harris for a conversation about the tough realities leaders are facing right now – from navigating uncertain markets to managing remote teams and engaging a diverse workforce. They also share insights on their upcoming leadership mastermind Outsight <> Insight, and the importance of seeking diverse viewpoints to grow and lead effectively. A powerful episode, packed with tips to help you stay courageous and resilient as you open up to new perspectives.

Apply for the Outsight <> Insight leadership mastermind at https://www.oimastermind.com/

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

The Power of Pause: A Courage Up! 30-Day Challenge Mindfulness with Allie Siegel

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:01:39 -0700

#64: Join our October “Courage Up!” Challenge to practice mindfulness with our special guest, Allie Siegel. She challenges us to dedicate just 5 minutes a day to connect our mind and body through mindful meditation, using our senses to break the autopilot mode. Your path to greater presence and balance starts now!

Allie's new drop-in series (starting in December) is for anyone interested in exploring/playing with some personal practices to thrive, using your natural mind-body connection. Registration details are at Practice 2 Thrive | Tula Creative or contact Allie at allie@tula-creative.com

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Surviving a Chaotic World: Practical Strategies for Navigating Stress, Anger, and Anxiety

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#63 Suzanne dives deep into emotional resilience, sharing insights on how to balance emotions, recognize anxiety as unmet needs, and turn stress into positive outcomes. We explore the power of emotional literacy and the courage to turn anger, stress, and anxiety into catalysts for growth and creativity.

Referenced in this episode:

Emotions Wheel

Permission to Feel by Mark Brackett, PhD

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Judy Greenfeld’s Journey Through Faith, Loss, and New Beginnings

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Suzanne speaks with rabbi/cantor Judy Greenfeld, whose journey is a testament to the power of courage and resilience. Judy shares how she found strength in Judaism after her father's tragic murder (despite her earlier drift away from her faith), the transformative power of sharing personal stories, and the importance of community support.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Conquer Procrastination with our Courage Up! 30-Day Challenge

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#61: Join our October “Courage Up!” Challenge to Conquer Procrastination. Suzanne shares insights on understanding why we procrastinate – whether it's a daunting task or breaking a bad habit – and invites you to join her 30-day challenge to conquer what's been holding you back. Let's face it together and get some serious stuff done before the year's end!

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Leadership Insights and Global Experiences with Mikaela Kiner

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#60. Founder, CEO, and executive coach Mikaela Kiner talks with Suzanne about the importance of kindness, patience, and understanding in both personal and professional interactions. They touch on the courage it takes to address toxic behavior in the workplace, each leaders’ responsibility to create healthy, inclusive cultures, and shares her recent experience of working remotely from Costa Rica: debunking the myth that you can't be productive in a beautiful setting.

Mikaela Kiner’s company Reverb helps organizations create healthy, inclusive cultures. She enjoys coaching leaders at all levels and working with mission-driven organizations. Mikaela is the author of Female Firebrands: Stories and Techniques to Ignite Change, Take Control, and Succeed in the Workplace.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courage Up! Your 30-Day Challenge to Learn Something New

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#59: Suzanne invites you to join our September “Courage Up!” Challenge to Learn Something New

Suzanne reflects on the stories of last month’s challenge to make one new connection, and invites you to join her new 30-day challenge: learning something new. Whether it's reading a book, taking a class, or exploring fresh perspectives, let's commit to expanding our minds this fall (which is even more important with the upcoming election!).

Join us on this journey, share your stories using #CourageUp, and let's keep the courage contagion alive!

Referenced in this episode:

From Reimagine Growth: Redefining Networking: Cultivating Meaningful Connections for Personal and Professional Growth

The Courage Effect #24 Leveraging Your Invisible Network with Michael Melcher

The movie Cast Away

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

The Courage to Disrupt: Michael Hudson on Change and Leadership

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#58: Michael Hudson (CEO at the Hudson Institute of Coaching) joins Suzanne for a conversation about adapting to new environments, the courage to disrupt traditions, and why coaching is needed in our world today more than ever before. They discuss Michael’s early career experiences in Vietnam and Kenya, the impact of external interruptions on personal and leadership growth, his insights into leading through uncertainty, and the evolving role of AI in coaching.

Michael Hudson serves as CEO at the Hudson Institute of Coaching, one of the world's premier coach training and corporate coaching organizations. He also works as a coach, partnering primarily with startup founders and social entrepreneurs.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Permission to Be Joyful: Overcoming Barriers to Happiness with Lisa Even

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#57: Suzanne talks with Lisa Even (speaker, coach, author, and JOY connoisseur) about choosing joy in our lives, even when faced with challenges and obstacles. Lisa shares her insights on how to infuse joy into our daily lives, emphasizing that it's a personal choice that requires courage, attention, and nurturing. We also discussed the concept of a "good ripple effect" and how our attitudes and actions can positively impact those around us.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courage Up! Your 30-Day Challenge to Make New Connections

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#56: Suzanne invites you to join our August “Courage Up!” Challenge focused on stepping out of your comfort zone to make new connections and curate meaningful relationships.

She’s challenging listeners to meet one new person in the next 30 days. You’ll hear tips on how to reframe networking and make it feel less intimidating, so you can approach it with confidence and courage. Remember, even a brief conversation can lead to incredible opportunities! So, take that leap, make a new connection, and see where it takes you.

Share your journey using #CourageUp and be part of the movement of spreading courageous contagion!

Meet Suzanne in person! If you're in the Seattle area on August 20th, join her for a special “Making Connections” event! Register here: http://bit.ly/46tqvEW

Show referenced in this episode: The Courage Effect # 36 Courageous Intentions for the New Year

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Fumbi Chima on Leadership, Diversity, and the Art of Being Fearlessly Bold

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:30:00 -0700

Suzanne speaks with Fumbi Chima, a dynamic leader and fierce advocate for women of color. They delve into the unique strengths women bring to leadership, the challenges of being at the top, and the real impact versus the talk of diversity initiatives. Fumbi candidly shared her journey from Nigeria to the C-suite, her pursuit of tech education, and the boldness required to drive meaningful change. If you’re ready to be inspired by courageous conversations, this episode is a must-listen.

Dr. Fumbi Chima is a strategist with global cultural understanding who has driven change and inspired high-performing diverse teams within Fortune 500 and signature brands. She was most recently the Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Boeing Employees’ Credit Union (BECU), a not-for-profit financial cooperative, and has served in leadership roles at various companies in the retail and financial sectors, including Adidas AG, Fox Networks Group, Burberry Group plc, Walmart, and American Express Company.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

On the Mic with Alicia Dara: Courage, Challenges, and Change

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#54: Suzanne and Alicia Dara dive deep into the realities and challenges women face in the music industry and beyond, discussing the critical need for courage, solidarity, and a cultural shift. Alicia shares her personal experiences (including a physical assault in a club), touches on the importance of supportive whisper networks, and her commitment to helping women find their power voice.

**Content Warning** This episode contains a scene with physical assault from 10:43 to 13:50. Please take care of yourself, and if you need to, don’t be afraid to reach out to RAINN (the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization) at https://www.rainn.org/.

Remember, change begins with conversation, and it’s time we amplify the voices that foster real change.

Additional resources and media mentioned in this episode:

Horizon Music newsletter: https://www.herizonmusic.com/

Rolling Stone article: The Music Industry’s #MeToo Wave Is Just Getting Started -

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/metoo-music-industry-adult-survivors-act-1234902450/

Alicia Dara is a nationally recognized Executive speech and presentation coach. She’s worked with an array of corporate clients, including Microsoft, Amazon, Planned Parenthood, and Carhartt. She has an extensive musical background and founded the award-winning indie folk band Diamondwolf and is the the Founder and Editor in Chief of Womancake Magazine.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courage Up! Your 30-Day Challenge to Be Curious and Ask Questions

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#53: Suzanne invites you to join our next Courage Up! Challenge focused on curiosity. This month, step out of your comfort zone and practice asking meaningful questions in every conversation. Let's break the cycle of assuming and truly listen. Share your journey using #CourageUp and be part of the movement of spreading courageous contagion!

Referenced in this show::

The Courage Effect #52: Becky Selengut: Balancing Respect, Compassion, and Conflict
The Courage Effect #51: Erin Meyer: Bridging Cultures and Conversation for Global Impact
The Courage Effect #43: Stop Overthinking to Expand Your Creativity: Suzanne Weller
The Courage Effect
A More Beautiful Question by Warren Berger
The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay Stanier

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Becky Selengut: Balancing Respect, Compassion and Conflict

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#52: Author, instructor, podcaster, and chef Becky Selengut shares her poignant struggles with balancing respect and empathy in contentious situations, from family disagreements on politics to broader global issues like the Middle East conflict. She talks with Suzanne about the importance of standing strong in one’s values while also expressing compassion and understanding towards those who differ.

Becky Selengut is an author, instructor, podcaster, and chef based in Seattle. Her books include: Misunderstood Vegetables, How to Taste, Shroom, Good Fish, and Not One Shrine. Selengut is the co-host of the local foods podcast Field to Fork.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Erin Meyer: Bridging Cultures and Conservation for Global Impact

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#51. Dr. Erin Meyer from the Seattle Aquarium talks with Suzanne about the nexus of courage and conservation. Erin shares her journey from childhood visits to the aquarium to leading global conservation efforts, emphasizing the courage it takes to foster strong, respectful partnerships across cultures. We tackle the importance of vulnerability in leadership, the necessity of decolonizing conservation, and the transformative role of inclusivity in environmental advocacy.

More information about ReShark (an international, collective effort to recover threatened sharks and rays around the world) is available on their website.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courage Up! Your 30-Day Challenge to Reconnect

Wed, 29 May 2024 10:13:24 -0700

#50: Suzanne celebrates our 50th episode by kicking off the first Courageous Challenge! In these monthly “Courage Up!” challenges, she invites us to take small, courageous steps to spark positive change in our lives and communities. Our first challenge: Reconnect with someone meaningful we haven't spoken to in a while.

So . . . who will you reach out to this month?

Join The Courage Effect community, experience the ripple effect of courageous connections, and share your stories and journeys with us on social media using the hashtag #CourageUp or connect with our community via Substack. Let's courage up together!

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Dr. Jeremy Nobel: Crafting Connections in a Lonely World

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#49 | 5.22.2024: Suzanne discusses the world’s loneliness epidemic with Dr. Jeremy Nobel. They explore the types of loneliness – and the vital distinction between solitude and isolation – with Dr. Nobel sharing his insights on how engaging with the arts and community can lead us out of isolation and into connection.

Dr. Jeremy Nobel is a primary-care physician, public health practitioner, and award-winning poet with faculty appointments at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Harvard Medical School. He is the founder and president of The Foundation for Art & Healing, and author of the book Project Unlonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection.

Event alert: register for Project Unlovely Films Season 8 launch even on Sunday, June 2nd here.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Personal Safety with Barb Jordan

Mon, 20 May 2024 22:14:43 -0700

#17 | 8.2.2023: In a conversation about personal safety, Barb talks through the work she does at Always Bev, an organization she founded following her sister’s death, who was tragically killed by gun violence. She and Suzanne discuss the importance of trusting our intuition, not ignoring the “yellow flags” we see (and feel) from others, and the journey Barb has taken to process her grief and take action in support of others empowering themselves.

Barb Jordan is a personal safety expert who partners with organizations and universities to educate and build awareness around ways to stay safe. Barb founded Always Bev (short for Always Be Vigilant) in honor of her sister, whose mission is to educate individuals on their personal safety at home, on campus, and in social environments. She is also the host and creator of the podcast: Always Bev: The Ripple Effect.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Feminine Fortitude: Kate Isler’s Impact on Entrepreneurship and Gender Equity

Wed, 08 May 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#48 | 5.8.2024: Suzanne dives deep with the incredible Kate Isler, co-founder of The WMarketplace (an innovative ecommerce accelerator and online sales channel supporting women-owned businesses) and a true trailblazer in the tech industry and beyond. Kate speaks to her journey of breaking boundaries and empowering women entrepreneurs globally.

In addition to being the co-founder WMarketplace, Kate Isler has held executive roles in Fortune 100 companies and startups, lived and worked globally, while using her influential voice in discussions about global marketing and gender equity. Her journey is detailed in the memoir Breaking Borders.

Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp. Use this link for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Growth Following Trauma with Rebecca Weaver

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#47 | 4.24.2024: Rebecca Weaver talks through the wounds we collectively experienced during the pandemic (and shares a powerful personal story) through the lens of "post-traumatic growth." She and Suzanne discuss the complexities of navigating personal and professional challenges, reframing our need to rush back to normalcy (such as returning to the office), and coming to terms with the realization that the world we used to live in – and the way we worked – no longer exists.

Rebecca Weaver is the Founder and CEO of HRuprise, an employee advocacy organization that supports companies with flexible, independent HR for the new world of work.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Unwrapping Courage: Highlights from The Courage Effect’s First Inspiring Year

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:30:00 -0700

#46 | 4.1.2024: Hey, Courage Champions! Suzanne Weller here, celebrating one transformative year of The Courage Effect. We've delved deep into tales of triumph and heartbreak, revealing how facing fear unlocks possibility and growth. In this show, we hear my reflections on past shows, featuring the wisdom of previous guests Elsa, Susan Mann, Ruby Love, Troy Livingston, and Chezik Tsunoda.

Original episodes:

Breaking Expectations with Sports Photographer Elsa

Magic and Mayhem with Susan Mann

Stepping Out In Faith with Ruby Love

Starting Anew with Troy Livingston

The Courage of Not Looking Away with Chezik Tsunoda

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Pivot Points with Kate Walker

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 07:12:42 -0700

#45 | 3.27.2024: : Kate Walker talks with Suzanne about her book A Candid Conversation: Lessons in Life, Love, and Leadership, a combined memoir and guide that shares relatable lessons in life for all the girls and women who feel unworthy, agreeable, codependent or helpless.

Kate Walker is an executive consultant, life coach, HR expert, and author of the Amazon Bestseller A Candid Conversation: Lessons in Life, Love, and Leadership. She’s the founder of Kate Walker Consulting, where she works to enhance leaders' skills, impacting company culture and profits.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Making a Difference in Your Community with Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0700

#44 | 3.1.32024: : What is solutions-journalism? Roxanne Patel Shepelavy (Executive Editor and Co-Executive Director of The Philadelphia Citizen) talks with Suzanne about her path to founding a nonprofit media outlet that stands for democracy, ignites civic action and advocates for innovative solutions.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Stop Overthinking to Expand Your Creativity: Suzanne Weller

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#43 | 3.6.2024: Suzanne gets inspired by Rick Rubin’s book The Creative Act, and speaks to how wecan tackle one of our biggest creativity killers: overthinking.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

The Courageous Acts of Others with Andreas Gebhard

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#42 | 2.21.2024: Andreas Gebhard talks with Suzanne about how we grow through the courageous acts of others (sharing an experience that shifted his thinking and made him a better leader), and the possibilities that arise when we do things differently (particularly in corporate environments, where we struggle to effectively communicate and build connection).

Andreas Gebhard is CEO of Forward Momentum (a category design consulting firm that helps companies find their focus and become market leaders) and COO of Hype1000 (whose platform Hypecast lets companies use podcasts and audio for internal comms).

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

The Courage of Not Looking Away with Chezik Tsunoda

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#41 | 2.7.2024: Suzanne talks with Filmmaker Chezik Tsunoda, about the courageous path she’s taken as an impassioned water safety advocate after her 3-year-old son Yori’s tragic drowning. Chezik shares her thoughts on pushing through challenges, and invites us to think about what we’re looking away from and the power of redirecting our gaze.

Chezik Tsunoda is an impassioned water safety advocate and founder of No More Under, a nonprofit dedicated to saving lives through increasing equitable access to swimming lessons and tools. She also directed Drowning in Silence, a documentary that chronicles her quest for answers and healing. Along with her water safety work, Tsunoda heads Visually Inspired Productions, which creates social impact films that help shift the narratives of systematically excluded communities.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courageous Books: Suzanne Weller, Nicole Christie, Rick Ehlers, Rebecca Rockafellar, Jenna Taylor and Melanie Vargas

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#40 | 1.31.2024: : Suzanne talks with guests about the books that inspired them to be more courageous. They include:

Nicole Christie - Kiss Off Corporate America by the Lisa Kivirist

Rick Ehlers - The Second Half of Life: Opening the Eight Gates of Wisdom by Dr. Angeles Arrien

Dr. Adeola Mead - The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Rebecca Rockafellar - The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer

Jenna Taylor - Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brené Brown

Melanie Vargas - Playing Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead by Tara Mohr

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

The Perfection Trap with Thomas Curran

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#39 | 1.24.2024: Dr. Thomas Curran, the world's leading expert on perfectionism and author of the best-selling book The Perfection Trap, talks with Suzanne about the 3 different types of perfectionism, how they are all steeped in deficit thinking, and how it’s fed by our “growth at all costs” economy.

Thomas Curran is a professor of psychology at the London School of Economics whose TED Talk on perfectionism has received over 3 million views, and he’s contributed writings to many major international publications including TIME magazine and the Harvard Business Review.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courage and Craft Beer with Lara Zahaba

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#38 | 1.17.2024: Lara Zahaba, the Co-Owner of Stoup Brewing, talks with Suzanne about the courage it took to start their brewery, and the challenges of maintaining and growing the business. She shares how their team came together to survive the pandemic, touches on the evolution of the beverages space, and how Stoup’s business partnership trio (including herself, her husband Brad Benson and Robyn Schumacher) consistently builds trust while leveraging each others’ strengths.

Lara Zahaba is responsible for all things aesthetic, from the design of the tap room and beer garden space to merchandise at Stoup Brewing. Formerly a veteran of the wine industry, Lara has 20 years experience in Marketing, PR & Education. She balances full-time duties at Stoup with mom duties for their two children.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Magic and Mayhem with Susan Mann

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#37 | 1.10.2024: Susan Mann talks with Suzanne about why courage is a vital tool for us in navigating what she calls the “vulnerability sh#tshow” we’ve been living through these past few years. She anchors on the importance of having agency in uncertain times, providing recommendations for what we all can do to move through trauma and loss.

Susan Mann is a leadership coach, workshop facilitator, and consultant to global companies and non-profit organizations.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courageous Intentions for the New Year: Suzanne Weller

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0800

#36 | 1.3.2024: Suzanne talks us through intention-setting for 2024, shares her word of the year, and ideas around how we might bring more courage into the next 12 months.

Resources mentioned in this show include her 2023 year-end blog post on closure, and her recommended Start, Stop, Continue framework.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Becoming a Torchbearer with Cindy Elkins

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0800

#35 | 12.20.2023: Cindy Elkins shares her experiences of being a leader, mother, and Cindy how she’s tapping her courage as an advocate (or “torch bearer”) for causes including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a treatment for depression, art - healing - and loneliness, and blood donation.

Cindy Elkins is a biotech and high tech leader, board director, and mom of two amazing college women whose passion is creating vibrant, accountable and high performing environments where people can thrive and bring their best selves to life and work every day.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

“Should I Stay or Should I Go?” with Lora Poepping

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0800

#34 | 12.13.2023: When is it time to pursue a new job, or stay where you are? Lora Poepping and Suzanne talk about taking the time to discern what’s best for you, and the courage involved in either saying “yes” to a new opportunity, or settling in to appreciate the value you’re realizing in your current role.

Lora Poepping is the founder and president of Plum Coaching & HR Consulting, a firm that provides services related to career and job search, as well as human resources consulting.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Breaking expectations with sports photographer Elsa

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0800

#33 | 12.6.2023: Elsa shares her story of becoming a successful sports photographer, which started when she shot a football game in high school and has led to covering some of the most preeminent events including the Olympics, World Series, Super Bowl, NBA Finals, US Open, and FIFA Men’s and Women’s World Cup. She talks with Suzanne about learning to bet on herself, the courage it takes to work in a male dominated industry, and the importance of not carrying the load of other people’s issues as she continues to pursue her dream job.

Famous for capturing some of sports most defining moments, Elsa has the distinct honor of being the first woman staff photographer at Getty Images.

Follow Elsa on Instagram @elsagarrison

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courageous Conversations: Suzanne Weller

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0800

#32 | 11.29.2023: Now we’re in the holiday season, there’s a good chance we’ll be having hard or awkward conversations with family, friends, or colleagues. Our host Suzanne Weller talks through some ways to prepare for what she calls a “courageous conversation” so we can transform these dreaded discussions into empowering, mutually beneficial exchanges.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

My What If Year with Alisha Fernandez Miranda

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0800

#31 | 11.22.2023: Suzanne talks with Alisha Fernandez Miranda about her book My What If Year – where she details her adventure of pausing her career for a year to explore the “what if” jobs of her dreams, which took her from internships at a Broadway theater, a London art gallery, a Scottish luxury hotel, and a virtual fitness studio (Zumba, anyone?!). It’s a joyous conversation about taking risks, stepping into courage, and the extraordinary people in her life who enabled her to realize it.

Alisha is a writer, the host of two podcasts Extra Shot with Alisha Fernandez Miranda and the award-winning Quit Your Day Job, and serves as chair and former CEO of I.G. Advisors.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

On Writing with Melissa Kirsch

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0800

#30 | 11.15.2023: Melissa Kirsch, deputy editor of Culture and Lifestyle at The New York Times, talks with Suzanne about two essential ingredients in the writing process: vulnerability and courage.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Ditching the Hustle & Grind with Sarah O’Brien Hammond

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0800

#29 | 11.8.2023: Sarah shares the story of waking up to what truly made her happy and the journey of creating positive change in her life through ditching the hustle and grind mentality and achieving success differently.

Sarah O'Brien Hammond is a community creator, life and career coach and recruiter. She creates safe and judgment-free containers for women to gather and talk about the things that matter most. She is the host of the podcast Below The Surface at the NoW.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

“Why Not Me?” with Amy Kugler

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#28 | 10.25.2023: Amy – who’s living in her “why not?” moment – talks about how powerful the act of storytelling can be, and how vital it is for us to not only share narratives broadly but bring others along to do the same.

Amy Kugler is a media executive, writer, and founder of BEAM - a venture that illuminates the unseen corners of motherhood with human-scale storytelling. She is the host of the radio show/podcast BEAM Stories.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Riding Professional Tides with Justin Reed

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#27 | 10.18.2023: Justin talks through the turns of his professional career in the advertising industry, and the importance of knowing who you are to not only thrive but survive in work environments.

Justin Reed is a seasoned advertising, marketing, public relations, and communications professional based in the New York area.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Mindfulness and Courage with Laura Sage

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#26 | 10.11.2023: Laura talks about how the seven tenets of mindfulness aren’t only guideposts in her life and work, but how’ve they helped her be courageous. She and Suzanne also discuss the challenges of being an entrepreneur, including necessary pivots, compromises, and not being “too much in love with your own cooking.”

Laura Sage is the Founder & CEO of CHILL, whose mission is to support mental well being in the workplace. She and the CHILL team are committed to helping people live less stressed, more mindful lives.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Rewiring Your Brain with Maureen Chiana

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#25 | 10.4.2023: Maureen shares a story where she had the courage to move on after something failed, her decision to study neuroscience, and how empowering it is to have a better understanding of our brains.

Maureen Chiana is the CEO and founder of The Mindsight Academy and host of the Lead To Excel podcast. She enhances leaders and teams to perform at their optimum in her work as a Neuroleadership Facilitator and NeuroCoach.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Leveraging Your Invisible Network with Michael Melcher

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#24 | 9.27.2023: Michael Melcher talks with Suzanne about creating change in our lives by moving beyond the need for permission, the importance of relationships in career success, and the courage to cultivate your “invisible network.”

Michael Melcher is an internationally known executive coach, leadership expert, keynote speaker and author of three books, including his most recent: Your Invisible Network: How to Create, Maintain, and Leverage the Relationships That Will Transform Your Career.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

The Courage to Learn: Suzanne Weller

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#23 | 9.20.2023: Our host Suzanne Weller talks about a moment where her father disrupted her thinking as she was growing up, and she encourages us to welcome new challenges to rethink our deep-seated beliefs.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Rising Up to an Opportunity with Traca Savadogo

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#22 | 9.13.2023: Traca shares the story of her path to the TEDX stage (which she originally turned down) and how the experience took her from being behind the curtain supporting others to taking the stage herself. She and Suzanne delve into the power of enlisting thinking partners, why we shy away from the things that ultimately make us human, and how Traca supports others to jump into the deep end of the pool.

Traca Savadogo is an engaging and dynamic speaker known for her authentic approach and commitment to fostering meaningful connections. Traca has touched the lives of countless individuals with her powerful messages, including her TEDx talk, Why You Should Regularly Talk with Strangers.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Trusting Ourselves with Lenora Edwards

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#21 | 8.30.2023: Suzanne talks with her friend and business consulting partner Lenora Edwards about the role courage plays in starting and maintaining a successful business. They discuss using creativity to turn mistakes into opportunities, how vital it is to have a thought partner to challenge your thinking, and the power of one simple question “what might this be?”

Lenora Edwards is a business development consultant for CEO’s. Her clients hire her to help them design, develop, and build their businesses – on their own terms.

Lenora Edwards is a business development consultant for CEO’s. Her clients hire her to help them design, develop, and build their businesses--on their own terms.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Fawn Sanchez: Sharing Her Indigenous Experience

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#20 | 8.23.2023: Suzanne speaks with diversity thought leader Fawn Sanchez, who is Shoshone Bannock from Fort Hall, Idaho. They talk about her journey from growing up on a reservation, joining the US Army, to working at Amazon where she’s currently the sole Native American person at her level in the organization.

Fawn Sanchez is currently a Senior Learning Business Partner in AWS,. She has broad experience spanning Human Resources, Learning & Development, Program Management, and the Technical training space. Prior to coming to Amazon, Fawn served and worked in the US Army.

Fawn is also the President of Amazon's Indigenous Employee Resource Group, where she drives programs to support Indigenous communities internally and externally, recruitment and retention programs for Indigenous employees, and the creation of innovative technology solutions to meet the needs of underrepresented communities.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Swivel Moments with Stacy Harris & Dave Nelson

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#19 | 8.16.2023: Dave, Stacy, and Suzanne anchor their conversation on the importance of embracing the unknown in their lives, and being open to experimentation and do-over’s. As professionals who’ve created their share of “swivel” moments, they share stories about what it looks like to trust your gut – even when you’re hearing doubt from others – and not being too rigid when it comes to creating your dreams.

Dave Nelson is a Seattle-based composer and music producer committed to curating music that his audience can attach to their own experiences and serve as a soundtrack for life's moments.

Stacy Harris serves as a catalyst for growth, fueling personal and organizational excellence through her coaching and consulting practice.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Lifespan Navigation with Vanessa Laughlin

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#18 | 8.9.2023: Vanessa and Suzanne delve into the meaning of courage, the equations we go through in our minds to calculate if something is worth it (“vale la pena?”), and how these surface in the lifespan navigation work Vanessa and her team do to support and bring grace to individuals and families in need.

Vanessa Laughlin is the Principal and Founder of Banister Advisors, a 3x founder, conscious capitalist, caregiver, 3rd-culture kid, and disability advocate. She was honored in 2019 by The Puget Sound Business Journal as a 40 Under 40 Finalist.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Unleashing Your Creative Genius with Bridget Quigg

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#16 | 7.26.2023: Suzanne has a fun and inspiring conversation with Bridget Quigg, who shares stories about doing comedy, improvisational theater, and the importance of trusting your gut to unleash your creative genius. The world needs your special brand of brilliance. Let it out!

Bridget Quigg is a long time marketing director, improviser, and comedian who believes that improvisational theater principles can help people in the workplace feel more confident and engage effectively with others. Based on Seattle, she’s the creator of the "You're a Genius" workshop series, author of three books on creativity and intuition, and has produced 5 one-woman comedy shows.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Doing the Inner Work with Nicole Christie

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#15 | 7.19.2023: Nicole and Suzanne dive into how courage shows up differently throughout the various phases of our lives, with Nicole speaking to a number of challenges she’s navigated over the past few years (including battling cancer, ending a relationship, and relocating – all during the pandemic).

Nicole Christie is the founder and CEO of Tulla Productions—a storytelling studio connecting brands with their audiences through human-centered audio, visual, and print stories. She is also the creator and host of Here For Me, a podcast about the power of choosing yourself.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Getting Defensive with Jeff Jacobson

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#14 | 7.12.2023: Suzanne and fellow coach Jeff Jacobson anchor their conversation on the human tendency to defend ourselves. Touching on a range of topics including gun control, hard conversations, and reproductive rights, they discuss our greater need for safety and how we might better understand what’s worth protecting.

Jeff Jacobson is a professional coach and facilitator who works with clients to manage change, enhance performance, discover cutting-edge solutions, and create sustainable working environments. He’s on faculty at the Co-Active Training Institute and is the author of the novel The Boy Who Couldn’t Fly Straight.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Align To Your Design with Christine Arylo

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#13 | 6.28.2023: How can courage liberate you from stress and overwhelm? Suzanne talks with Christine about living in a culture built for burnout and how we wake up and shift to making choices that are right for ourselves. They discuss recognizing when you’re overwhelmed, the “overgiving imprints” we tend to fall into, and Christine shares her theory of harmonic defiance (a powerful process of personal activism) and the path to embracing a new way that gives us clarity and courage to design a life that sustains us.

Christine Arylo is a transformational leadership advisor, social impact entrepreneur, wisdom teacher, and author. She’s the host of the popular Feminine Power Time podcast, and her latest book is called Overwhelmed and Over It, Embrace Your Power to Stay Centered and Sustained in a Chaotic World.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Owning Your Story: Suzanne Weller

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#12 | 6.21.2023: Providing insight into why she started The Courage Effect, Suzanne shares some personal stories about why courage is a recurring theme throughout her life – which she’s reminded of every day in the form of a scar. She talks about courage as a practice, what we gain by focusing on what we can control, and learning through the lens of regret.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Building a Collective with Keren Sachs

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#11 | 6.14.2023: Keren and Suzanne delve into their love of photography and the power of visual storytelling. They discuss working in an industry fueled by passion, the joy (and power) of creating community, and supporting underrepresented professionals. Keren shares the challenges of being a female founder and the courage it took to build her own business from the ground up (at 5 months pregnant!).

Keren Sachs is the Founder and CEO of The Luupe, a one-stop production marketplace helping underrepresented photographers and creators connect with one another and brands all over the world.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Leveraging Your Courage Chamber with Wayne Kimball, Jr.

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 08:03:00 -0700

#10 | 6.7.2023: Wayne Kimball, Jr. specializes in business strategy and enterprise transformation as an investor, startup advisor, and an independent board director who currently serves as Principal for Google Cloud's Go-to-Market Strategy and Mergers & Acquisitions business. He is also the founder and global leader of Google’s TechAMPLIFY: an initiative to accelerate the growth and sustainability of traditionally untapped, diverse startups.

Wayne talks through “leveraging his own courage chamber” and how he welcomes elements of the unknown into his life – starting with leaving his hometown in rural North Carolina for boarding school as a teenager, moving to the Silicon Valley to start his career, and cultivating a healthy relationship with risk as an investor, board member, and his work in mergers and acquisitions.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Willingly Facing Fear with Iliana Quinonez

Wed, 31 May 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#9 | 5.31.2023: Iliana shares her story about facing a challenging medical diagnosis and she found courage in naming her fear, visualizing a positive result, and a dose of humor to stay the course and successfully recover.

Iliana Quinonez is a powerhouse Latina Trailblazer in the High Tech Industry, who builds and scales high performing teams in addition to developing the next generation of people leaders. She’s a strategic startup advisor for the ICA fund (an organization that provides coaching, connections, and capital to grow Bay Area businesses and close the gender and racial wealth gap). Ilana is a passionate advocate and ambassador for Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in the workplace, and a certified Beyond Barriers Coach focused on women professionals.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Stepping Out In Faith with Ruby Love

Wed, 24 May 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#8| 5.24.2023: Ruby Love defines courage as stepping out in faith. She talks with Suzanne about how her upbringing during the civil rights movement shaped her values, the importance of learning to take risks (and the greater risk we all face when we don't say yes), and how our lives change when we tap into courage to unlearn destructive practices.

Ruby Love is the Principal of Love Resource Development Group. Based in Seattle, she is a transformational business leader, entrepreneur and strategist advocating for socially responsible business and community organizations.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

No Regrets with Carmen Cano

Wed, 17 May 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#7 | 5.17.2023: Always at the intersection of business, design and technology, Carmen Cano has led teams and organizations in product, innovation and design. She's currently the SVP of Product Design at Seismic and is passionate about solving problems by creating a vision that enables everyone to do their best work. Her motto: "Leave it better than you found it."

Carmen shares her story about love inspiring her move to the US from Madrid, what her “no regrets” mantra has brought to her life and work, and how fear of failure is what holds us back from learning and innovation.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

The Power of Wonder with Michelle Grover

Wed, 10 May 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#6 | 5.10.2023: Michelle Grover is Chief Technology Officer of Slalom, a global management consulting firm headquartered in Seattle. She’s been named by Business Insider as one of the 100 People Transforming Business in Emerging Tech, is a member of the Greycroft and Sierra Ventures Technology Councils, and dedicates her time to mentoring high school young women and people of color in the technology field.

Michelle shares how she broke away from expectations to launch a career in technology as a black woman, her work mentoring young people to open up fresh perspectives, and why she values not being able to give advice to her younger self.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Passion and Perspective with J.R. Siegel

Wed, 03 May 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#5 | 5.3.2023: J.R. and Suzanne anchor their conversation on the topic of passions – they discuss seeing the macro view to ensure we’re pursuing what matters most to us and J.R. shares his recurring self-review process where he tests what he “loves, likes, can’t, and won’t” do. He also touches on how empowering it is to hide self-view on video calls (a smaller but still courageous act!) and what opens up when you stop hiding behind the work of others.

J.R. Siegel is a sustainability strategist, writer, and business leader based in Seattle. He’s the Senior Director of Product Innovation of Worldly (a Series B Sustainability SAAS Company), a member of the scientific and technical advisory committee for the Tom Ford Plastic Innovation prize; and the author of Bright Spots, a newsletter that unpacks good news about the climate that you may have missed.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Courageous Communication with Julie Pham

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#4 | 4.26.2023: Organizational development leader Julie Pham, PhD and Suzanne discuss the role courage plays in communicating with others: the ways it’s challenged by our speed of work, the trend of self-censoring becoming more common, and how trusting our intuition surfaces the ability to stay true to ourselves. Dr. Julie Pham is the founder and the CEO of CuriosityBased, an organizational development firm based in Seattle. She’s been recognized with numerous awards for her community leadership, and has applied her community building approach to creating strong, collaborative and curious teams. Her books include 7 Forms of Respect: A Guide to Transforming Your Communication and Relationships at Work (2022) and Their War: The Perspectives of the South Vietnamese Military in the Words of Veteran-Émigrés (2019).

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Styling Courage with Mellicia Marx

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#3 | 4.19.2023: Mellicia – a self-proclaimed iconoclast – talks about tapping into courage to make new memories (bikini included!), the power of claiming your authentic style, and how having a child allowed her to make more intentional choices for the life she creates for herself and her family.

Based in Seattle, Mellicia Marx is the founder of Poplin Style Direction, a boutique personal styling consultancy in Seattle. Since 2013, Mellicia has helped hundreds of cis and trans women across the country look and feel their best through personalized, one-on-one style mentoring.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Flying Bravely with Lia De Feo

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#2 | 4.12.2023: Lia talks about how she grew into being an empathetic leader and advocate through her own personal and professional struggles. She and Suzanne touch on compassionate workplaces, doing what's right when it's not easy, and the importance of cultivating supportive networks.

Lia De Feo is a brand builder, revenue-generator and innovation leader who has brought thousands of products and many successful partnerships to life. She’s proud to be an empathetic manager, collaborator and mentor who leads product and business development for Uncommon Goods and is the founder of Fly Bravely, an NYC-based consultancy dedicated to normalizing infertility.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Starting Anew with Troy Livingston

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0700

#1 | 4.5.2023: Troy shares a story with Suzanne about the loss of a relationship that turned his world upside down, and how getting “pushed off a ledge” brought him to a place of freedom and choosing new ways.

After a career as an executive in museums, mental health care, and public health, Troy Livingston focuses on helping people and organizations narrow the gap between their current reality and their ideal world. Today he’s a management consultant focused on organizations that need to solve complex problems they’ve been unable to solve on their own.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

Introducing The Courage Effect

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 08:53:00 -0700

Meet us in conversations about everyday courage. Where Suzanne Weller and her guests talk about what they've learned through wrangling fear, risk, and uncertainty – no matter how big (or small) the challenge.

More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com