The Courage Effect

#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 Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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 Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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.

#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/ Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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 Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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   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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

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 Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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!   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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. 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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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 ConflictThe Courage Effect #51: Erin Meyer: Bridging Cultures and Conversation for Global ImpactThe Courage Effect #43: Stop Overthinking to Expand Your Creativity: Suzanne WellerThe Courage Effect A More Beautiful Question by Warren BergerThe Advice Trap by Michael Bungay Stanier 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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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 Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here

#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 Instagram and Substack. Let's courage up together! More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com

#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   Follow us on IG @suzannenweller More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here