Frame of Reference - Profiles in Leadership

Rauel LaBreche

"Frame of Reference" is a conversational style show with local experts about issues with global significance. I’m, at heart, a “theatre person”. I was drawn to theatre in Junior High School and studied it long enough to get a Master of Fine Arts in Stage Direction. It’s the one thing that I’m REALLY passionate about it because as Shakespeare noted, “all the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players”. Think about the universality of that line for just a moment. Think about the types of “theatre” that play out around us every day in today’s world. The dramatic, the comedic, the absurd, the existential, the gorilla theatre (it’s a thing, look it up) that is pumped into our Smart Phones, TV’s, Radios, and PC’s every minute of every day.

Think about the universality of that line for just a moment. Think about the types of “theatre” that play out around us every day in today’s world. The dramatic, the comedic, the absurd, the existential, the gorilla theatre (it’s a thing, look it up) that is pumped into our Smart Phones, TV’s, Radios, and PC’s every minute of every day. Think about the tremendous forces that “play” upon us - trying to first discover, then channel, feed, nurture, and finally harvest our will power and biases to move forward the agendas of leaders we will likely never meet. Think of all these forces (behind the scenes of course) and how they use the basic tools of theatre to work their “magic” on the course of humanity. Emotionally charged content matched to carefully measured and controlled presentations.

With that in mind (and to hopefully counter the more insidious agendas), I bring you Frame of Reference, where the voices of our local leadership can share their passion on why and how they are leaders in the community and in many cases, the world. Real players with real roles in a world of real problems. No special effects, no hidden agenda, just the facts and anecdotes that make a leader.

And at the risk of sounding trite, I sincerely thank my wife Ann and my two children Elisabeth and Josiah for continually teaching what leadership SHOULD look like.

read less

Money Reimagined: Emmanuel Daniel's Take on Future Finance
3d ago
Money Reimagined: Emmanuel Daniel's Take on Future Finance
What happens when the world of finance becomes more personalized? Get ready for a deep dive into the future of money with our insightful guest, Emmanuel Daniel. As a global thought leader, Emmanuel brings his fresh perspectives to this complex topic alongside my own reflections, and together, we untangle the intricate concept of personalizing finance and banking.Our conversation isn't just about money, it's about how we shape society and the value we place on communities. We're peeling back layers of thought-leadership, touching on community currencies all the way to global tokenization, and how these elements are chipping away at the conventional concept of banking. As we navigate this journey, we analyze powerful leaders, their organizational skills, and their lasting influence. We delve into how technology and digitization are driving unconventional currencies, and the impact these changes have on the value of education and the overall societal fabric. Join us for an enlightening conversation that will leave you questioning the status quo. Find out why Emmanuel holds a sentimental value for his bookshelves, learn about his perspectives on Bitcoin, and witness how his insights on personal finance and banking are challenging the norm. Tune in and witness how the future of money is being reimagined.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Healing Our Nation: Unveiling White Supremacy and Underlining Unity
Sep 16 2023
Healing Our Nation: Unveiling White Supremacy and Underlining Unity
It's time to challenge the status quo and expose the realities that are eroding the core of our society. The horrifying sequel of events in Jacksonville, Florida, serves as a chilling reminder of how deeply white supremacy is entrenched in our nation. Three innocent lives were lost, a grim reflection of the persistent mindset that threatens to push our society to the brink. As we dissect this tragedy, we delve into the dangerous, growing culture of radicalization and stress the urgent need for unity if we are to survive.Our discussion takes on the formidable power of censorship, scrutinizing Florida's recent decision to eliminate African American Studies as a college credit. This controversial move raises alarms about the risk of manipulating young minds and a potential shift in the perception of BIPOC communities. We also confront the prevalent culture of white supremacy, tracing its pervasive influence on aspects of our society from voter suppression to religion, and the critical need for education to counter it.Our conversation touches upon Jesus' criticism of rule-makers, the necessity of understanding His teachings, and the relevance of Martin Luther King's dream in today's context. We navigate the murky waters of gerrymandering, oppression, and power dynamics, spotlighting the importance of adequate representation at all levels of influence. Finally, we flip the script to reflect on how we can foster a global dialogue and encourage a diversity of perspectives to effect positive, lasting change in our society. Tune in, join the conversation, and be part of the change.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Challenging Invisible Double Standards and Their Impact on Our Culture
Sep 9 2023
Challenging Invisible Double Standards and Their Impact on Our Culture
Ever questioned how invisible double standards within our culture could be affecting you? Brace yourself for a riveting conversation that exposes those subtle, yet powerful norms that often go unnoticed, but when spotted, can trigger feelings of frustration and unfairness. From our homes to our workplaces, and more surprisingly, within our legal system, these norms are deeply etched, waiting to be challenged.What if we told you that these very double standards could be the barriers preventing unity and mutual respect? We journey through the complexities of differing perspectives, unfolding how being more understanding and kind can erode these divisions. You will begin to see the impact of these standards, how they shape our relationships and create an environment of unconscious bias. We uncover how even a seemingly harmless comment can perpetuate double standards, leading to feelings of disrespect and exclusion.Finally, in an era where technology is ever-present, we dare to ask: could artificial intelligence be perpetuating bias and unfairness? We touch the surface of this critical issue, contemplating our own biases and the role of pride in maintaining our convictions, even when proven wrong. At the end of this compelling episode, we hope to inspire reflective conversations about these norms and the effects they have on our relationships and our culture. Join us, as we challenge these standards, and together, let's ignite a change.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
A Fresh Perspective on the Relationship Between Sex, Religion, and Culture
Aug 18 2023
A Fresh Perspective on the Relationship Between Sex, Religion, and Culture
Do you ever ponder the societal and cultural impacts of sex and sexuality? In this week's episode Rauel and  Antowan tumble down that rabbit-hole together. They confront various beliefs and perceptions, specifically addressing the misconception of promiscuity within the African American community. In the process, we unravel the intertwined threads of primal instincts, societal assumptions, and personal responsibility regarding sex, even drawing parallels with a biblical tale of a temple brothel.As we delve deeper, we explore the intricate relationship of sexuality with religion and the challenges posed by our lustful temptations. We reflect on the consequences of a disrupted family structure and how it fosters a lack of understanding and education. Turning our lens towards the church's role in society, we find a scenario worth contemplating; has it become a networking platform instead of a space for worship? While we delve into sensitive subjects like generational rape, we emphasize the importance of teaching the truth about Jesus and the potential it holds to bring about change.Lastly, we discuss profound issues like poverty, inequality, and the need for compassion. We highlight the story of a single mother and the many hurdles she faces, underscoring that with the right resources, education, and much-needed compassion, the cycle of poverty and despair can be broken. Remember, these discussions are not about passing judgment but understanding the complexities of life. Join us on this journey of exploration and find a fresh perspective on these pressing issues.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Exploring the Stock Market with a Self-Made Trader
Aug 4 2023
Exploring the Stock Market with a Self-Made Trader
What if you could master the stock market from the comfort of your dorm room? Get ready to acquire life-changing insights from Anmol Singh, a seasoned trading expert whose journey began precisely in that way. Starting as an ambitious young trader in Delhi, India, Anmol fearlessly navigated the ever-changing world of the stock market to build the successful business he runs today at Live Traders.As we explore Anmol's trading adventure, we'll also delve into his favorite things, offering an eclectic mix of insights ranging from his favorite song and Indian cuisine to his favorite piece of furniture. An interesting highlight is Anmol's application of the lessons from the childhood fable of the Tortoise and the Hare to investing in the stock market. Finally, we'll discuss the role of statistics, personal trading strategies, and patterns in successful trading and investing. Anmol will share the importance of compiling data points from one's own trades to identify the most effective strategies for different market scenarios. We'll also talk about the different types of trading, the importance of integrity, and the crucial understanding of the market to make informed decisions. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a budding trader, this episode is packed with knowledge, insights, and intriguing stories that can guide you on your journey. Tune in now!Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Exploring the Future of Theater in the Digital Age with Jack Canfora
Jul 28 2023
Exploring the Future of Theater in the Digital Age with Jack Canfora
Could the world of theater evolve in this digital age? Ponder this as award-winning American playwright Jack Canfora and I discuss the future of theater in a Netflix-dominated era. With Jack’s career highlights, favorite plays, and playwrights, this conversation unravels the magic of live theater like never before.From Hamlet to modern plays by Arthur Miller, we cover a wide spectrum of theater's beautiful landscape, discussing the elements that truly make a play stand out. Tasting the richness of live theater, we delve into its power to form a sense of community, discussing how it surpasses the experience of merely reading plays in school. We also consider how the digital world has stirred up the ways we communicate and interact. In the midst of all this, we take some time to indulge in discussions about our favorite comfort foods and furniture, underscoring the simple pleasures of life.As we navigate through the complexities of art funding, we examine the potential pitfalls of government sponsorship and the critical role of private organizations. We also mull over the challenges of sustaining a theatre season. Jack provides insights into the way New Normal Rep is incorporating fresh voices and stories reflective of the audience's life into their productions. And then, we touch upon the profound—exploring the impact of tragedy and human behavior on his playwriting, particularly his play inspired by the events of 9/11. Listen in as we explore the world of theater, its challenges and triumphs, and the incredible power of storytelling.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Unraveling the History and Relevance of Black Lives Matter
Jul 21 2023
Unraveling the History and Relevance of Black Lives Matter
Ever wondered how the phrase 'Black Lives Matter' came to be one of the most potent rallying cries of the 21st century? This week Antowan and I dove into the convoluted labyrinth of racial injustice in America, from the tragic death of Trayvon Martin that fueled the birth of this movement, to the systemic and intentional targeting of black people. Engaging in this crucial conversation, we not only scrutinize the impact of state-sanctioned violence on black lives but also reflect on our personal experiences surrounding racial equality.While we delve into the progression of the Black Lives Matter movement, we also underscore the importance of understanding its roots and response. It's not just a cry against police brutality, but it's also a demand for change, pushing for a society that values black lives equally. Strategies like political action, letter writing, campaigns, and nonviolent protests are paving the way, but it’s essential to consider the potential misconceptions of the movement's message and the challenges that come with accepting racial inequality. Finally, we explore how the phrase 'Black Lives Matter' intertwines with the chess game of life and how the need to feel superior can lead to detriment. We revisit the example of Trayvon Martin and the Florida Stand Your Ground Law, demonstrating how laws have enabled state-sanctioned violence since the 1600s. The movement is not just about highlighting the systemic and intentional targeting of black people, but about dismantling these oppressive systems. Join us, as we unpack these complexities and strive to understand why it's more important now than ever to say, loud and clear, Black Lives Matter.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Challenging The Status Quo: Crime, Immigration, and Ethical Dilemmas
Jul 14 2023
Challenging The Status Quo: Crime, Immigration, and Ethical Dilemmas
Are you ready to challenge your perspectives and biases? We promise you a journey of self-exploration as we dissect the differences in how crime is perceived among Black and white communities. This episode is an eye-opener, revealing how media can paint a skewed picture and how personal experiences can shape our understanding. It’s a candid conversation about the unique experiences that create our world view.We then navigate the thorny world of crime and its root causes, pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking. Poverty, lack of structure, and power dynamics, it's all up for scrutiny. We also spotlight how political leaders and corporations may sometimes manipulate crime-related statistics for personal gain. Hence, we underscore the importance of ethical leadership and the implications of corporate decisions on workers and their families.Finally, we dive headfirst into the heated immigration debate and its impact on everyday Americans. This isn't just about policy; it's about the real-world effects on farmers, workers, and families across the states. We discuss how decisions made by large companies affect the people on the ground and emphasize the importance of crafting narratives that benefit all. This episode is a thought-provoking challenge to question our biases and understand the root cause of many issues. So tune in for a fresh perspective - this is one conversation you won't want to miss.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Commanding Your Personal Brand: A Conversation with Jeremy Ryan Slate on Self-Esteem, Morality, and Success
Jul 7 2023
Commanding Your Personal Brand: A Conversation with Jeremy Ryan Slate on Self-Esteem, Morality, and Success
What does it take to command your personal brand and navigate the complex world of self-esteem, morality, and success? In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Jeremy Ryan Slate, founder and president of Command Your Brand, join us for an eye-opening discussion on his incredible journey and insights. From hosting the Create Your Own Life podcast with notable guests like four-star generals and CIA directors, to founding his company with his wife, Brielle, Jeremy has plenty to share about hard work, resilience, and the value of meaningful conversations.We delve into the controversial topic of participation awards and the idea that self-esteem should be earned, not given. Jeremy reveals his thoughts on understanding why we fail in order to improve and the complexities of morality and spirituality in modern society. Together, we explore the state of education, the need for apprenticeship programs, and the challenges of politics and leadership today.Don't miss this captivating conversation with Jeremy Ryan Slate, filled with valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions that will leave you questioning your own perspectives on success, self-esteem, and the power of dialogue. Tune in to learn how you too can command your brand and make your mark on the world.  Jeremy is the host of the Create Your Own Life Podcast, which studies the highest performers in the world.  He studied literature at Oxford University, as well as holding a Master’s in Early Roman Empire Propaganda from Seton Hall University. His podcast was named the #1 Podcast to Listen To by INC Magazine in 2019, as well as Top 40 Under 40 by Podcast Magazine in 2022. Jeremy and his wife, Brielle, co-founded Command Your Brand—a new media public relations agency designed to help entrepreneurs share their message by appearing as guests on podcasts. He resides in Stillwater, NJ where he raises chickens and is a former competitive powerlifter.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Revolutionizing the Water Industry: A Conversation with Riggs Eckelberry
Jun 30 2023
Revolutionizing the Water Industry: A Conversation with Riggs Eckelberry
Can we truly revolutionize the water industry? Join us for a captivating discussion with Riggs Eckelberry, a nationally renowned entrepreneur with a mission to transform the way we manage, treat, and appreciate water. In this conversation, Riggs shares his journey from the high tech world to the water industry, revealing the challenges he faced and the importance of disrupting an industry unprepared for change.Together, we explore the psychology and spirituality of water, its preciousness, and why we often take it for granted. We also dive into the topics of decentralized water systems, population growth, and deglobalization and how these factors impact water treatment infrastructure. Riggs shares his insights on how businesses and large water consumers are investing in their own water treatment solutions, as well as the potential of tokenizing payouts to create a water marketplace.Finally, we debate the effectiveness of the Biden infrastructure bill in addressing water infrastructure issues and the reality of the allocated funding. We discuss alternative solutions, like unburdening infrastructure and taking the load off remotely, and how the Gates Foundation is helping to convert sewage and develop clean water supplies in third-world countries. Don't miss this fascinating conversation on the future of the water industry and the importance of investing in this indispensable resource.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
The Quest for a Fairer World: Uncovering Injustice and Empowering Change
Jun 16 2023
The Quest for a Fairer World: Uncovering Injustice and Empowering Change
What if we told you that understanding the truth and facts surrounding race relations, inequality, and justice could help us create a more equitable world? Antowan joins me in this eye-opening conversation to unravel the complexities of justice and truth, especially as they relate to societal issues like addiction, poverty, and politics. Together, we aim to dispel myths, correct misunderstandings, and inspire change.Diving into distributive justice, we discuss the clash between those who have earned their wealth through hard work and those who believe they've been denied equal opportunities. From uncovering the root causes of injustice to exploring the power of humility and accountability, Antowan and I navigate the often-challenging terrain of race and morality. Addiction, a topic intrinsically linked to poverty and disconnection, is also put under the microscope as we examine the best ways to approach it with understanding and compassion.As we discuss restorative justice and potential solutions for addressing inequity, the role of politics and power in shaping our views on justice becomes apparent. We tackle the complexities of the voting system, political polarization, and the power of money in influencing narratives. Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we shine a light on the importance of focusing on the facts and working together to build a more just and equitable society for all.What does it say about us as a nation that we are willing and complacent about serving out Justice that is biased and corrupt.  So many communities benefit from there being good, even and fair justice served.  Others not so much.  Join us as we try to unravel just a bit of the disruption caused by having two sets of rules.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Emmanuel Daniel: Transforming the Way We Think About Banking and Individualism
Jun 9 2023
Emmanuel Daniel: Transforming the Way We Think About Banking and Individualism
There have been many priceless moments during the years that I have been doing this podcast.  I have talked with so many amazing people and learned so much from their journeys, and studies, and expertise.  It is the wonder and beauty of being a life long learner that keeps me going in the face of the challenges we face in our modern world.  My guest for this episode stands out as one of the most fascinating people I have ever talked with in my life.  He is SO SMART and yet so willing to graciously share his knowledge that you never feel that he knows he is smart.  We engaged in a conversation spanning continents, industries, and thought-provoking topics.  Join me as I chat with global thought leader Emmanuel Daniel, whose insights will redefine how you think about the world around us. From his exposure to British colonial history to the admiration for penguins on the seventh continent, Emmanuel's unique perspective is sure to captivate your curiosity.Discover how personalization and individualism shape our lives, including our understanding of God and the role of technology in the banking and finance industry. As we explore the concept of the 'sovereign self' and the ongoing evolution of innovation, you'll gain a new perspective on the future of banking and the impact of personalization on the way we live and interact with the world.Don't miss this fascinating conversation with Emmanuel Daniel. By the end of our journey, you'll have been transported through his upbringing in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, marveled at the beauty of migratory birds, and reflected on the importance of personalization in every aspect of our lives. So come along, and let's uncover new ways of thinking about the world we live in.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Police . . . It takes work to make it work
Jun 2 2023
Police . . . It takes work to make it work
So, there's an obvious problem when the people that lay their lives on the line to protect us, (and that we depend upon for that security) have image, procedural, and behavioral issues that we see exploited in the media and demonstrated on the streets regularly.  We don't see, nor are we regularly reminded of all the work that most officers do to try and keep their community's and themselves safe.  But man do we ever hear about the times when they fail.  More importantly, we DON'T hear about all the times when Police make a bad call in a situation that antagonizes people.  Especially those that are already "behind the 8 ball" due to their economic condition, situational circumstances, or the color of their skin.  The fact is that there are systemic problems that need to be discussed that range from spending the time and money (pony up taxpayers) necessary to prepare and maintain our policemen and women, as well as the laws that often have more to do with oppression than they do with justice.  (Probably made some enemies with that comment).  The reality is that being a police officer is a tough job, and it's one with horrible consequences when we get it wrong.  So, let's get it right by figuring out the best tools for helping officers to keep themselves and us safe, while helping them to understand what happens when they allow their insecurities and biases (we ALL have those) to take over.  Far too many people of color pay a huge price when that happens, and black people, have to stomach a LOT of anger and humiliation to avoid confrontations that can quickly result in incarceration, beatings or worse.  That's not an indictment of Police, that's a condition that is perpetrated by ignorance.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
Memorial Day Memories
May 28 2023
Memorial Day Memories
Happy Memorial Day everyone - and to any Veterans out there that might listen - Thank you for your service.  I keep bringing this episode back for two reasons:  1) We need to remember the profound significance of this day.  This is one day where any other self label (Dem, Rep - whatever) must be placed in the backseat so that we all just call ourselves Americans with a shared debt to those we sent off to war.  Back in 2019 I was asked to accompany  a cohort of the Badger Honor Flight organization as a media Representative, and it was a transformational experience for me.  It's one thing to celebrate Memorial Day as a respectful citizen, it's a profoundly different thing to get a glimpse of what it really means, through the eyes and recollections of those that fought for our country and lost comrades.  These veterans are the first to tell you that they are not heroes.  Their friends and comrades that paid the highest price for our freedoms ARE the REAL heroes.  The stories I heard that day bear repeating over and over and over again.  They make this holiday real.  Not with pomp and circumstance and political posturing, but with the heart and soul of humanity.  Their stories made me sad, made me laugh in some cases, but mostly made me appreciate the real people behind this holiday.2) These are stories that need to heard and shared.  It was and incredible honor to share in this day.  I feel a responsibilty to continue to rebroadcast it as much as possible so that people hear  and ponder the significance of these stories so that they can perhaps understand more about what it truely means to be a patriot.  These are people that filmed scenes set in a war, these are the folks that were there, taking fire, and didn't run.P.S.  For the only time in my broadcasting career, I began the day feeling hoarse and by the end of the day completely lost my voice.  At the time that seemed like a catastrophe, but as the day went on, I realized it just might be God's way of telling me "shut up and listen".  I had no choice but to do so.  Good choice.  P.P.S.  At the end of this episode I tacked on a portion of Steven Curtis Chapman's song "We Remember".  If you don't have a copy of it, GET ONE!  It is by far one of the best songs ever written as an anthem of praise and thanks for our Veterans and all those who made sacrifices for our freedoms.  Let's stop fighting with each other over who said what and who voted for whom and. . . just listen.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.
From Seal to Serenity: Chris Maher
May 19 2023
From Seal to Serenity: Chris Maher
It's not every day that you get to talk with someone that has been a Navy Seal.  I've watched documentaries and mainstream movies that depict Seals and they are some of the most highly trained people in the world. Bonafide Bad A$$ Mother F*ers. Knowing just some of what they endure in training, it is hard to not think of them as Real Life Super Heroes.  Then to get to talk with one in real life is pretty cool.  But my guest in this episode is even more exceptional.Christopher Maher is a former Navy SEAL who endured intense physical, mental, and emotional stress as a child. By combining a “seal mindset” with modern stress management strategies, Christopher taught himself to free his body and mind from pain by developing mental and physical tools for eliminating unresolved stress. Christopher studied Traditional Chinese  Medical Practices at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and at Yo San University before continuing his studies at The Universal Healing Tao System. He is a student of Grand Master Mantak Chia at the Universal Tao Master School in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and is currently pursuing his Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine . To Give you more of an idea about what Chris has found in his journey, here's an excerpt from his book Free for Life:"The attitude of our society is work hard, achieve greatness, and don’t worry about tomorrow. Give it 100 percent all day, every day. Go all out. There is no need for balance, because the medal, the recognition, the signing bonus, is worth the pain.Intensity at the expense of our health and wellness is encouraged. I certainly bought into this idea during my time in the Navy SEALS, and externally, I appeared to be fit, successful, and satisfied. But inside, I suffered from chronic, debilitating physical and emotional pain.If this sounds like you, know that there’s a better way to live. You can determine what’s wrong in your life, turn your intensity into peace, and be happier and more successful than ever.That's just a sampling of who he is and what he has found.  Listen to find out more.Thanks for listening. Please check out our website at www.forsauk.com to hear great conversations on topics that need to be talked about. There's always time to expand your Frame of Reference.