Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Building Thinkers: Accessible Blueprints for Learning & Life
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How to Foster Creativity and Flow to Make Work More Enjoyable | 15 Nov 2024 | 00:51:56 | |
I’m joined by Said Saddouk to dive into one of my 12 favorite problems: “How might we increase flow and creativity to bring joy to work?” Said is a virtual facilitation expert who transforms online sessions from dull and disengaging to impactful and inspiring. With his expert training, practical techniques, and passion for connecting with his audience, Said helps facilitators, educators, and team leaders unlock the full potential of virtual learning spaces. In our conversation, we explore the themes of joy, creativity, and innovation in the workplace, especially in virtual settings. We talk about the importance of finding joy in work, the journey to creativity, and how to create a playful and engaging environment in meetings. Said shares his insights on the definition of creativity, the power of childlike play, and practical tools for making virtual meetings more engaging. Our chat emphasizes the value of community, collaboration, and the continuous pursuit of joy and creativity in professional settings. Key Takeaways: Alpacas and llamas are different animals 😂 Childlike play can enhance creativity and innovation Engagement in meetings can be improved with playful elements Virtual meetings can be transformed with simple tools and techniques Small changes can lead to significant improvements in meetings Resources Mentioned: 100 Tricks to Sound Smart in Meetings by Sarah Cooper: https://amzn.to/3ObwvK2 Workshops.Work: https://workshops.work/podcast/ Star Talk: https://startalkmedia.com/ Butter Referral Link: https://butter.cello.so/X5aVOOcce9Z People to Follow: Cat Mulvihill: linkedin.com/in/mulvihillcatherine , youtube.com/@CatMulvihill Anamaria Dorgo: linkedin.com/in/anamariadorgo Jan Keck: linkedin.com/in/jankeck , youtube.com/@mrjankeck Myriam Hadnes: linkedin.com/in/myriam-hadnes , youtube.com/@myriamhadnes Thomas Lahnthaler: linkedin.com/in/thomaslahnthaler Olina Glindevi: linkedin.com/in/thevisualagilecoach Connect with Said: Website: thefacilitainer.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saidsaddouk YouTube: youtube.com/@facilitainer Instagram: instagram.com/thefacilitainer More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| What Lurking on Social Media Reveals About How We Learn | 01 Nov 2024 | 00:50:04 | |
This conversation with Dr. Gina Sipley stretched me in the best kind of way. In this episode, we dig into one of my twelve favorite problems: How might we create space for mindset shifts in learning experiences? Gina is a community college professor, a first-generation college graduate, and someone who’s deeply committed to building inclusive spaces where people can explore how texts (both online and offline) shape who we are. We talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention: lurking in online spaces. You know, the quiet observing, the not-posting, the watching from the sidelines. We explore what it means for learning, how it can be both helpful and harmful, and what it looks like to engage meaningfully, especially when perfectionism and fear are holding people back. This episode is about making room. Room for mindset shifts. Room for silent learners. Room for diverse voices. And room for a more mindful relationship with social media that allows us to curate instead of just consume. Key Takeaways: Lurking has become the dominant way we interact online Curating diverse perspectives on social media is crucial Protective curation helps individuals navigate online spaces Engagement with social media should be mindful and intentional Resources Mentioned: Books: Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Bias by Safiya Umoja Noble https://amzn.to/48uy7Ie Country of the Blind: A Memoir At The End of Sight by Andrew Leland Trolling Ourselves to Death: Democracy in the Age of Social Media by Jason Hannan Podcasts: You’re Wrong About https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/youre-wrong-about/id1380008439 The Measure of Everyday Life https://measureradio.net/ Transforming Society https://www.transformingsociety.co.uk/transforming-society-podcast/ Connect with Gina: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gsipley/ Newsletter: https://www.ginasipley.com/ More About Gina: I am a great resource for lurking and social media strategy, all things community college and the K-16 pipeline. I particularly love supporting first generation college students. I am interested in problem solving at scale and I welcome speaking and consulting opportunities. I would love to connect with other folks who bridge scholarly and creative pursuits for social good. More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| This Is What’s Wrong With Traditional Company Culture | 28 Jun 2024 | 00:52:27 | |
If your team feels overwhelmed or disconnected, the problem might be cultural, not operational. I sit down with Alma Quiroga to unpack how we might bring impactful order out of chaos. And wow, this conversation is one that made me completely rethink how stories shape the way we lead. Alma shares her journey of challenging traditional business norms and building people-first organizational cultures. We talk about the quiet power of storytelling, not just as a leadership skill, but as the foundation of how culture is created and how behavior is shaped from the inside out. We explore what it means to recognize and work with the stories that already exist within your team, and how to create environments where people can thrive, not in spite of chaos, but through it. If you’re a leader navigating change, culture shifts, or just craving more meaning in the way your organization operates, this one’s for you. Key Takeaways: Storytelling is deeply ingrained in human nature and is how we relate to each other. Our brains are wired to make sense of the world through storytelling, and humans naturally order the chaos of the world and their own internal world in a story format. Understanding how humans make sense through story is essential for effective communication and change management in organizations. By recognizing the power of storytelling and creating spaces for collective storytelling, organizations can co-create their culture and navigate transitions more successfully. Resources Mentioned: Books: Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins by Annette Simmons: https://amzn.to/4cqFq56 The Story Factor by Annette Simmons: https://amzn.to/4eGiwrQ The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human by Jonathan Gotsschall https://amzn.to/3xrXCvT Organizational Culture and Leadership by Edgar Schein: https://amzn.to/4bE0NPb Humble Leadership, Second Edition: The Power of Relationships, Openness, and Trust by Edgar Schein: https://amzn.to/3VMfWb0 Managing Transitions by: William Bridges & Susan Bridges https://amzn.to/3znNPaN Flawless Consulting: A Guide to Getting Your Expertise Used by Peter Block: https://amzn.to/4cCf8MI Podcasts: Beautiful Questions Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TuliandAlma Work Life Podcast: https://adamgrant.net/podcasts/work-life/ Radio Ambulante: https://radioambulante.org/en Invisibilia: https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510307/invisibilia Connect with Alma: Website: www.almaquiroga.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/almaquiroga/ More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| The Real Reason You're Tired All the Time | 14 Jun 2024 | 00:51:21 | |
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, distracted, or like you’re just going through the motions, this episode is for you. I’m chatting with Shani Persson, co-founder of Wonder, about what it means to "be where your feet are.” We unpack what being truly present looks like, not just as a buzzword, but as a way of living and working that honors us as whole human beings with brains, bodies, and lives. We dive into why it’s so hard to stay connected to ourselves in today’s nonstop world, and how self-awareness and self-inquiry can help us create work and life experiences that actually feel meaningful. We also talk about the power and challenge of saying no, and why listening to ourselves is a radical act of care. Key Takeaways: Recognize the importance of being present and enjoying the process, rather than constantly striving for the next thing. Learn to say no and set boundaries to maintain energy and focus. The facade of control can lead to addictive behaviors and a constant need for dopamine hits. The awareness of mortality can awaken us to what truly matters in life and help us reevaluate our priorities. Being present and letting go of urgency can bring more joy and clarity to our lives. Resources Mentioned: Essentialism by Greg McKeown https://amzn.to/4bhrk4F Connect with Shani: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanipersson/ Wonder: https://www.justwonder.co/ More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| How to Stop Self-Doubt from Ruining Your Life | 31 May 2024 | 00:51:48 | |
What if the voice in your head that’s holding you back isn’t actually you? In this episode of Building Thinkers, I’m talking with Sara Huang about how to rewrite those limiting beliefs that keep us stuck. Sara is an expert facilitator and designer who works with creative conflict resolution and collaboration. We dive into practical ways to identify and change those mental patterns, including concepts like “edge figures” and why creating safe spaces for growth is so essential. If you’ve ever felt trapped by self-doubt or stuck in old stories, this conversation offers fresh tools and hope to help you rewrite your inner narrative and open up new possibilities. Key Takeaways: Create space for self-reflection and connection to rewrite limiting beliefs and build a brighter future. Shift limiting beliefs by understanding their energy and using it to propel yourself towards new possibilities. Starting with what resonates (sparks interest), moving to imitation (practicing and experimenting), and finally reaching creation (applying and innovating in one's unique context). Resources Mentioned: Finding Your Way: https://www.findingourwaypodcast.com/individual-episodes/s2e3 On Being: https://onbeing.org/series/podcast/ Lessons from Courageous Child by Sara Huang - https://buymeacoffee.com/sarahuang/e/71071 The Power Manual by Cindy Suarez - https://amzn.to/4bSoWC8 Holding Change by Adrienne Maree Brown - https://amzn.to/3R3Mmwk The War of Art by Steven Pressfield - https://amzn.to/3R8F2j3 Beyond the Wall of Resistance by Rick Maurer - https://amzn.to/3KoJjLh Other Resources: https://app.7taps.com/av9kFaO3IR https://www.conflicttransformationsummit.org/www.conflicttransformationsummit.org/stage-2.html https://communityresourcehub.org/resources/turning-towards-each-other-a-conflict-workbook/ https://ariseembodiment.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/So-youre-ready-to-choose-love-workbook-19.pdf Connect with Sara: Website: www.bento.me/sarahuang LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/huangsara Instagram: www.instagram.com/bureautwist More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| How might we increase flow & and creativity to bring joy to work? with Paula Amiama | 10 May 2024 | 01:00:15 | |
In this episode of the Building Thinkers podcast, Tracy interviews Paula Amiama about one of her twelve favorite problems: How might we increase flow & and creativity to bring joy to work? Over the last decade, Paula worked across marketing, the arts, sustainability, innovation, and education. She’s had stops in start-ups, non-profits, and large corporate organizations. Currently, Paula leads the global Skilling & Learning agenda at DB Schenker, a large logistics company. Paula’s deep and wide expertise from her self-proclaimed non-linear career path, experiences, and clear life-long learning brought such powerful and unique insights in our conversation. Tracy and Paula discuss the importance of creating flow and autonomy in work, as well as strategies for shifting perspectives to find flow. They emphasize the need to protect time and set clear agendas to prioritize flow and creativity. The conversation highlights the role of leaders in supporting and prioritizing flow for their teams. Takeaways
Paula's Recommendations: Books: Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron Podcasts: Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle School of Embodied Arts with Jenna Ward Connect with Paula: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulaamiama/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulaamiama/ Substack: https://paulaamiama.substack.com/ | |||
| How might we create space for mindset shifts in learning experiences? with Lily Higgins | 19 Apr 2024 | 00:47:29 | |
In this episode, Tracy is joined by Lily Higgins, the founder of The Intervention Bureau, a learning experience design consultancy where she partners with agencies and thought-leaders to design signature sessions fueling her crusade against boring, ineffective workshops. They discuss the importance of creating space for mindset shift within learning experiences and the role of facilitation as an act of love. Lily shares insights on the power of play and the concept of life as a game. They also explore her signature “Serendipity Walk” experience. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of experiences and the importance of autonomy and ownership in learning. Key Takeaways:
Links & Recommendations: Books: The Power of Moments by Chip & Dan Heath: https://amzn.to/4cT75MB The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker: https://amzn.to/3UkmpdM Free Play: Improvisation in Art & Life by Stephen Nachmanovitch: https://amzn.to/3Jjahn0 How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy by Jenny Odell: https://amzn.to/49UMvc5 Connect with Lily: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lily-higgins-980519b8/ The Intervention Bureau: www.theinterventionbureau.com Book a 90-min experience design consultation with Lily: https://calendly.com/lilyhiggins/experience-design-consultation | |||
| How might "be where your feet are" become our primary way of being? with Hanna Finissi | 05 Apr 2024 | 00:56:28 | |
In this episode, Tracy and Hannah discuss the importance of being present and intentional in our lives. They explore the impact of conditioned beliefs and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The conversation highlights the need to be fully present in each moment (be where your feet are) and the consequences of not doing so. They talk about the practice of mindfulness through meditation and how it can lead to a life of peace and fulfillment and they discuss the obstacles to mindfulness, such as fear and the desire for safety and familiarity. They emphasize the importance of taking aligned actions and finding sustainability in growth and action. Takeaways
Hanna’s Recommendations: Books: Frequency by Penny Pierce https://amzn.to/4ayHOW8 The Inner Matrix by Joey Klein https://amzn.to/3U1WzLx The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer https://amzn.to/3TKhZLU Podcasts The Expanded Podcast Where Should We Begin? The Michael Singer Podcast Find Hanna: Soultrustignite.com | |||
| How might we create space for mindset shift in learning experiences? With T. Mark Meyer | 22 Mar 2024 | 00:52:20 | |
In this episode of Building Thinkers Tracy interviews T. Mark Meyer, author of "The Art of Being Authentic." They dive deep into creating space for powerful mindset shifts that transform your learning and life experiences. They cover the following topics:
This episode is your guide to the ongoing adventure of authenticity. Join the conversation and discover a fresh perspective on connecting with your true self. For more information, check out the resources T. Mark shared below: Books The Art of Being Authentic by T. Mark Meyer https://amzn.to/3PwgPCu Dare to Lead by Brene Brown https://amzn.to/3Pvze2f True North by Bill George https://amzn.to/3Pvze2f Socials LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troelsmarkmeyer/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authentictmarkmeyer/ | |||
| How might we use the power of habit to improve? with Jonathan Butterworth | 08 Mar 2024 | 00:57:38 | |
In this episode, Tracy interviews Jonathan Butterworth about the power of habits and how they can be used to improve various aspects of life. Jonathan shares his background as an entrepreneur and his experience in building people and teams. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the desired outcomes before implementing habits and making necessary sacrifices. Jonathan also discusses the balance between hustle and rest, and the need to align goals and habits. He provides insights on maintaining focus in a distracted world and shares his approach to creating content and managing time effectively. For more information, check out the resources Jonathan shared below: Books Meditations by Marcus Aurelius https://amzn.to/495qOoU Code of the Extraordinary Mind by Vishen Lakhiani https://amzn.to/493YWld The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson https://amzn.to/4cpuQvq Podcasts Lex Fridman Podcast https://lexfridman.com/podcast/ The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes https://lewishowes.com/sogpodcast/ Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett https://stevenbartlett.com/the-diary-of-a-ceo-podcast/ Socials LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbutterworth/ | |||
| How Might We Truly Put the Learner at the Center of the Learning Conversation? with Chris Skees | 23 Feb 2024 | 00:46:23 | |
In this episode, Tracy Clark interviews Chris Skees, a learning product manager at Cisco Meraki, about putting the learner at the center of the learning conversation. Chris shares his background and journey in the learning and development field, highlighting the importance of understanding personas and meeting learners where they are. He emphasizes the need for learning professionals to talk to learners and gather data to validate assumptions and make informed decisions. Chris also discusses the importance of measuring learning outcomes and connecting learning initiatives to business goals. He envisions a future where learning is personalized and engaging, leveraging technology to anticipate learner needs and provide targeted support. In this conversation, Tracy and Chris explore the concept of a product mindset and how it can transform the way L&D professionals approach their work. They also discuss the learner-centered approach of Justin Welsh and the power of listening to learners' needs. For more information, check out the resources Chris shared below: Books Transformed by Marty Cagan https://amzn.to/3TqRxXm Podcasts The Learning & Development Podcast: Developing A Digital Mindset With Myles Runham https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/developing-a-digital-mindset-with-myles-runham/id1466927523?i=1000514937966 The L&D Career Club Podcast: How to Become a CLO with David James https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-become-a-clo-with-david-james/id1540650959?i=1000609468785 Courses Justin Welsh: LinkedIn OS https://learn.justinwelsh.me/linkedin Socials LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cskees/ | |||
| How Might We Help Activate Human Potential? with Sandhya Sudhakar | 09 Feb 2024 | 00:52:02 | |
Tracy Clark and Sandhya Sudhakar discuss the importance of knowing oneself at work and how it’s critical to activating human potential. Sandhya shares her personal journey of experiencing burnout and leaving the corporate world to start her own business focused on helping individuals understand their innate potential and make choices that align with their true selves. They discuss the consequences of not knowing oneself at work, the role of self-reflection and the Enneagram in personal growth, and the need for rest and self-care. They also explore how leaders can create systems and structures that support individual differences and foster trust within teams. The conversation explores the importance of building trust and collaboration in teams and embracing our humanity at work. For more information, check out the resources Sandhya shared below. Books Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most -https://amzn.to/3TLBCEq The First, the Few, the Only: How Women of Color Can Redefine Power in Corporate America- https://amzn.to/43uvxQb The Essential Enneagram - https://amzn.to/49aEqPU Discovering Your Personality Type - https://amzn.to/3TkjcJm Podcasts Working Your Way https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/working-your-way/id1714936726 https://hbr.org/podcast/2018/02/lead-with-authenticity Enneagram Resources:
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| Turning Ideas into Action with the Power of Visualization | 18 Oct 2024 | 00:48:37 | |
I'm joined by Jovonee King to discuss one of my twelve favorite problems, “how might we make thinking visible?” Jovonee is a Scaled Solutions Engineer at Miro, with a rich background in customer education and a passion for transformative collaboration. She shares her journey with us, highlighting her commitment to education, inclusivity, and community building. We dive deep into the concept of making thinking visible, what that really means, and why it’s so crucial for accelerating learning and sparking creativity. And for my fellow recovering perfectionists, we also explore how visualization can help people overcome perfectionism. Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek into the future of Miro and some exciting new features that’ll definitely boost your creative game. And if that wasn’t enough, we also chat about Jovonee’s love for DIY projects and upcycling, and how digital tools can help us rethink and reimagine physical spaces. Key Takeaways: The importance of taking risks and learning from different experiences for career growth Visualization is crucial for effective collaboration and idea sharing Overcoming perfectionism is crucial for creative processes Visualization helps create an inclusive canvas that allows all voices to be heard Resources Mentioned: Books Design for How People Learn by Julie Dirksen: https://amzn.to/48f3CWv Master of Change by Brad Stulberg https://amzn.to/48f3CWv Other Links: Try Miro - https://miro.cello.so/Wviex1qZaSS Canvas ‘24 - https://canvas24.miro.com/ Miro Community - https://miro.com/community/ Connect with Jovonee: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovonee/ More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build.And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved.If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| Building AI-Powered Support for Diabetes Care with Shemmy Majewski | 07 Feb 2024 | 00:49:15 | |
Tracy Clark & Shemmy Majewski talk about the inflection point of this moment in time when it comes to AI and Machine Learning and how Shemmy’s own journey with diabetes fuels his passion for harnessing its power to enhance the lives of those living with diabetes. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Shemmy Majewski Books Socials
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| Season 2 Trailer: A Season of My 12 Favorite Problems with Tracy Clark | 25 Jan 2024 | 00:03:44 | |
The Building Thinkers Podcast is based on the realization that there is exponential potential and possibility in the things we build: From websites to mindsets, From freelancing firms to workout routines, From leadership programs to checklists, From that book proposal to the crucial conversation, we keep delaying, From goals and habits to the soundtracks we play in our minds. And these things we build have the potential to change our teams, our businesses, our families and in a non-hyperbolic way … really our lives. But sometimes the insights, research, and application can seem out of reach or overly complex. There’s a lot of noise out there and opinions and even “best practices” In Season Two of the Building Thinkers Podcast in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 Favorite Problems, these are my constant curiosities, my life’s work, the areas I’m always reading about, researching, and experimenting with in my personal and professional life. And I want to go deeper, I want to – build thinkers. I want to focus my attention and curiosity and growth intertwined in these topics. I want to talk with people who share these wonderings, who want to pause and question what they think they know and then also share the things they do actually know. The things they’ve learned... The things they’ve come to think of as If only people knew… in their industry, expertise, or project. - Join the Learning Agility Cohort | |||
| The Building Thinkers Goal Guide | 02 Jan 2024 | 00:32:33 | |
In this episode Tracy Clark steps through The Building Thinkers Goal Guide, a set of vision planning and strategic reflection activities for multi-potentialites. Download the FREE Goal Guide Here - https://courses.buildingthinkers.com/goalguide Looking for more support to make progress on your Big Idea? Learn more about The Learning Agility Cohort Here - https://courses.buildingthinkers.com/learningagility | |||
| Building Results Driven Leaders with Vaughn Sigmon | 01 Dec 2023 | 00:50:39 | |
In this episode, Tracy interviews Vaughn Sigmon, a corporate executive turned entrepreneur and founder of Results Driven Leadership. From his executive role at Carmax leading a team of over 3,000, to his entrepreneurial role as the founder of Results Driven Leadership, Vaughn shares his insights and strategies on a wide range of topics including leadership, giving feedback, time management, and maintaining consistency. They discuss the importance of being people-first in leadership and how successful companies prioritize their employees. Vaughn emphasizes the need for investing in employee development and providing regular feedback. The conversation highlights the significance of building relationships with employees and aligning individual and organizational goals. They delve into the challenges of delegation and the power of consistency in achieving success. In this conversation, Tracy and Vaughn discuss the importance of consistency and growth in the creative and business world. They also explore the challenges of perfectionism and fear of criticism. Takeaways:
Episode Resources - Recommendations from Vaughn Sigmon Books
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| My 12 Favorite Problems with Tracy Clark | 07 Nov 2023 | 00:24:46 | |
In this episode, Tracy Clark explores the idea of holding a dozen of your favorite problems in mind and why it is a powerful reflection exercise. We talk about multipotentialites and how this activity can help us get more clear about what matters to us, even when there are lots of possibilities on the table. We dig into the question, what is the work we want to be doing? We also consider how the 12 Favorite Problems reflection activity can be a helpful filter for what we say yes and no to. FREE Downloadable Template - My 12 Favorite Problems https://courses.buildingthinkers.com/pl/2148005479 Tracy answers the questions:
Episode Resources: Recommendations from Tracy Clark Books
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| Building Organized Spaces with Kerry Ann Pearce | 30 Oct 2023 | 00:48:19 | |
Tracy Clark & Kerry Ann Pearce talk all about building organized spaces and entrepreneurship. Kerry Ann shares her journey from the Bahamas to Buda, Texas where she launched and now runs her professional organizing services company, Luxxe Organizing. We talk about some of the reasons why people end up with too much stuff and too little space and how she approaches helping others decrease the stress of STUFF. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Kerry Ann Pearce Organizing Recommendations: Please note these are Kerry Ann's affiliate Links below. Velvet hangers- https://amzn.to/3SlHEvc Pantry Storage bins- https://amzn.to/3QBrCw2 Over door organizers- https://amzn.to/40gmKQ2 Lazy susan- https://amzn.to/3QCEMbT Closet storage bins- https://amzn.to/3QlvqQN Glass food storage containers- https://amzn.to/49hZepO BPA Free Plastic food storage containers- https://amzn.to/3SiUJ8w Decorative baskets- https://amzn.to/40ic03G Expandable shelves- https://amzn.to/3sf2DVP Socials:
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| Building Experiential Learning & Living with Romy Alexandra | 02 Oct 2023 | 00:48:50 | |
Tracy Clark & Romy Alexandra explore experiential learning and jump into the deep end of the duality of learning and development work. In this episode, Romy shares opportunities she sees to bring more humanity into the learning space. We talked about the power of the rules of open space not only for learning experience design but also as a handy mental reframing tool she applies to her life. Romy shares how those involved in learning experience design can love our participants more than our design and what it looks like for that to play out in real-time ways in our sessions. For more foundational information on what experiential learning design is, check out the resources Romy shared below. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Romy Alexandra Books Socials & Learning Links
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| Building Customer Education Experiences with Jordan Hopkins | 15 Sep 2023 | 00:48:24 | |
Tracy Clark & Jordan Hopkins talk all things customer education - including how to build customer education experiences that support informed, happy customers and better business outcomes. We talked about the power of simplicity in learning experience design and why less is almost always more. Jordan shares his take on how engagement isn’t always loud or overt and lessons he’s learned from traditional education, internal L&D work and customer education at Intellum. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Jordan Hopkins: Books
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| Building Learning Agility | 26 Aug 2023 | 00:21:54 | |
In this episode, Tracy Clark explores the idea of learning agility and why it is the ultimate competitive advantage for modern work and life. Tracy answers the questions: - What is learning agility? - Why does learning agility matter? - How might we begin to develop learning agility? Including three practical ideas for getting started with your own learning agility development. Tracy shares how reflecting on her own learning story helped her recognize the power of this concept and its direct impact on her personal and professional growth. Books The Power of Habit: Why we do what we do in life and business | By Charles Duhigg Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less | By Greg McKeown Limitless Mind: Learn, Lead & Live without Barriers | By Jo Boaler Socials All the Building Thinkers socials and such - https://linktr.ee/buildingthinkers Build Your Thinker - https://courses.buildingthinkers.com/newsletter | |||
| Building Clarity & Motivation to Learn with Kristiaan Hartmann | 11 Aug 2023 | 00:50:56 | |
Tracy Clark & Kristiaan Hartmann talk about building clarity and motivation to learn. Kristiaan spoke to his own challenge in making decisions at important crossroads in life and how he learned to trust his intuition take action and change course when necessary as he went from snowboard instructor at 17 to people manager to lecturer and entrepreneur. Kristiaan shared how he and his co-founder at Prototype You use best practices from lean, agile, design thinking and behavioral design to help professionals get from inspiration to action. We talked about the power of a posture of experimentation and a bit about Kristiaan’s current business prototype where he is putting into practice the same methods he teaches to others to help entrepreneurs take meaningful action within a structure of trusted and supportive accountability. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Kristiaan Hartmann Books Socials | |||
| How to Use Data to Close the Gap Between What We Know and What We Do | 04 Oct 2024 | 00:56:08 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Alaina Szlachta to discuss one of my 12 favorite problems: how might we close the research-practice gap (or the knowing-doing gap) across sectors like education and community work? Dr. Szlachta, a Measurement Architect, is deeply passionate about making data literacy more accessible, especially for professionals in education. During our conversation, we dive into the world of data-driven learning, exploring the importance of bridging that gap and creating a culture where learning and feedback thrive. Alaina shares powerful insights on how we can build a strong learning culture, why feedback matters, and how both qualitative and quantitative data can be used to improve performance across various domains. We also talk about how personal problem-solving and experimentation are key to developing data literacy, not just at work, but in everyday life as well. If you’re looking to improve how you or your organization uses data to drive smarter decisions, Alaina’s expertise is sure to provide some practical guidance and fresh perspective. Key Takeaways: Data-Driven Learning: Organizations should shift away from traditional learning methods and focus on collecting data to identify specific performance gaps and challenges. This data-driven approach allows for more targeted and effective learning initiatives. Prioritizing Professional Development: A culture of continuous learning is essential for organizational growth. Companies should invest in opportunities and provide the necessary support to help employees develop their skills and knowledge. The Power of Practice: Practical experience is key to developing valuable skills. Engaging in problem-solving and experimentation allows individuals to apply their knowledge in real-world situations and foster a growth mindset. Data Literacy: Understanding and utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data is crucial for making informed decisions. Developing data literacy skills can empower individuals to analyze information and drive positive outcomes. Resources Mentioned: Measurement and Evaluation on a Shoestring, by Dr. Alaina Szlachta https://amzn.to/4ePySgT Partner for Performance, by Ingrid Guerra-Lopez https://amzn.to/4eKB6hu Show the Value of What You Do, by Patricia Pulliam Phillips https://amzn.to/47V1Jye 2 Bobs: https://2bobs.com/ Clark Howard: https://clark.com/podcasts/ Creator Science: https://podcast.creatorscience.com/ Connect with Alaina: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drszlachta/ Website: https://dralainaszlachta.com/ Newsletter: https://dralainaszlachta.substack.com/ More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| Building a Life of Adventure & Continuous Personal Growth with Alexia Raven | 28 Jul 2023 | 00:58:58 | |
Tracy Clark & Alexia Raven talk about building a life of continuous adventure and personal growth. Alexia shares her mindsets and practices for making ongoing progress towards her goals personally and professionally. Alexia gives a mini-master class on marriage and shares her potentially controversial viewpoint that marriage is “easy”. We talk through what prompted Alexia to move from Hollywood to the Hill Country and start her own company, Maverix Insights and Strategy, after over two decades of corporate work in the qualitative research space, including at the top executive levels as Vice President of Warner Brothers Discovery Global Research & Insights Group, and roles at iHeart Radio, Lin Television and FOX Broadcast Network. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Alexia Raven Books
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| Building Visual Thinking Practices with Manuel S. Herrera | 14 Jul 2023 | 00:48:29 | |
Tracy Clark & Manuel S. Herrera talk about the power of drawing to make thinking visible. Manuel shares about creativity, art, visual literacy and why we sometimes may put our creative practices aside for a period of time. Manuel reflects on his career in education and edtech and the new opportunities opening up through his own illustrations and creative practices. We also talked about how Manuel learned how to illustrate children’s books and more about how several of his upcoming collaborations and projects came to fruition. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Manuel S. Herrera Books Podcasts Socials
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| Building Courage from Within with Amanda Parker | 16 Jun 2023 | 00:55:57 | |
Tracy Clark & Amanda Parker talk about building courage from within. With a remarkable career journey from NYC marketing to working with jaguars in Panama for the World Wildlife Fund and for clients such as the World Economic Forum, World Bank, Unicef, and General Assembly - Amanda’s experience in organizational and individual transformation shines throughout our conversation as she shares her insights and challenges us to consider what might be on the other side of that resistance we feel and leads us to a place where we find the courage to take the next right step forward. If you are ready to get unstuck and consider what courage looks like in your own life, take a listen and let me know what you think. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Amanda Parker Books
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For more from Tracy Clark & Building Thinkers check out https://linktr.ee/buildingthinkers | |||
| Building Collective Impact with Anna Brewster | 02 Jun 2023 | 00:37:27 | |
Tracy Clark & Anna Brewster talk about building teams for collective impact and evidence-based health policy. We analyzed why there is such a gap between what we know (research) and what we do (practice) across many fields and what strategies make an impact. If information doesn't change behavior, what does? Anna shares her journey from management consulting at Deloitte to cancer prevention work at MD Anderson and her recent career transition to local government policy. Anna received her masters in public health from Harvard University and is passionate about seeing the impact of government health policy in action. It was such a treat to talk with my longtime friend and hear about the incredible impact of her work in public health. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Anna Brewster Books Podcasts Socials | |||
| Building a Better Way to Manage Stress with Stephanie Simpson | 08 May 2023 | 00:46:01 | |
Tracy Clark and Stephanie Simpson talk about conscious leadership and becoming more “human” at work. At a time when change is happening at an exponential pace, having the tools to navigate ambiguity and adversity is vital. Stephanie shares how her unique experience in the performing arts and arts education comes into play as she coaches clients and teams to nurture the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Stephanie Simpson Books Podcasts Socials | |||
| Building Ecosystems for Never Ending Learning with Toby Newman | 21 Apr 2023 | 00:49:12 | |
Tracy Clark & Toby Newman explore strategies for building seamless learning ecosystems that minimize friction between learners and the learning process. Discover how this approach fosters adult learner agency and unlocks limitless learning potential. Toby shares his insights on the intersection of AI and Learning Technology, the potential for improving our learning ecosystems, and the power of being a generalist in learning and development. Episode Resources - Recommendations from Toby Newman Books Socials Community | |||
| When Change Feels Impossible & How to Move Forward | 06 Apr 2023 | 00:50:27 | |
Sometimes the biggest obstacles to personal growth are the ones we overcomplicate. Today's guest is Tony Wang. He shares his personal transformation stories and the insights he’s gained on the path to self-discovery. Tony has a way of cutting through the noise and showing how we often make introspective change harder than it needs to be. We talk about navigating difficult emotions, breaking free from limiting beliefs, and shifting the way you think in order to create breakthroughs in your own life. Tony also opens up about how plant medicine played a role in his emotional breakthroughs, though we emphasize this isn’t medical advice, and we encourage anyone interested in new forms of therapy or healing to consult with a physician first. Resources Mentioned: Lao Gan Ma Chili Oil (better than sriracha) Connect with Tony: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| How to Turn Language Barriers Into Opportunities for Connection | 25 Mar 2023 | 00:40:38 | |
What if the way you communicate is holding you back more than you realize? I sit down with cross-cultural communication expert Paola Pascual to explore how language and culture shape the way we connect, collaborate, and show up at work. Paola brings such a powerful perspective on how non-native English speakers can shift their mindset, build confidence, and access more of their full selves when communicating in another language. But this conversation isn’t just for non-native speakers. Paola also shares what native English speakers can do to reduce linguistic bias and create more inclusive, innovative environments in our teams and organizations. We talk about the real impact a vibrant multicultural community has on the way we work and create together. Paola draws from her own journey and her work at Talaera, supporting individuals and organizations across cultures, giving us practical strategies we can start using right away. Resources Mentioned: Upcoming Free Webinar! Working Across Cultures (link goes to registration page) Talaera - Business English Training for Global Teams https://www.talaera.com/ The Culture Map | by Erin Meyer Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard | by Chip Heath and Dan Heath Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness | by Richard H. Thaler Connect with Paola: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| How Do You Know It’s Time to Pivot Your Career? | 10 Mar 2023 | 00:40:24 | |
What does it take to walk away from a successful business and completely reinvent yourself? That’s the exact journey Amanda Rickman has lived. In this episode, she shares how she went from running a local cake shop to building a thriving real estate business and leading a team. Along the way, she’s picked up lessons that apply far beyond real estate, insights any business owner or professional can use when facing a big pivot. We dig into what’s really happening in today’s housing market, how Amanda thinks about building a real estate investment portfolio, and the critical moments when she chose to delegate so her business could grow without burning her out. Resources Mentioned: The Go-Giver | by Bob Burg & John David Mann The Energy Bus | by Jon Gordon Connect with Amanda: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| Building Strong Communities That Spark Collaboration | 24 Feb 2023 | 00:53:43 | |
Building a thriving community isn’t about luck. It’s about purpose, values, and intentional action. I sat down with Anamaria Dorgo to unpack what really makes communities of practice succeed. She shares why narrowing the gap between your community’s vision and reality depends on living your purpose and values every single day. We dive into how co-creation and human-centered design aren’t just buzzwords; they’re essential tools for leaders who want to cultivate spaces where innovation and growth happen naturally. If you’re serious about building a sustainable community that truly serves both individuals and organizations, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Resources Mentioned: Books How We Learn: Why Brains Learn Better Than Any Machine ... for Now | by Stanislas Dehaene Creative Confidence | By Tom and David Kelley The Art of Gathering | By Priya Parker Podcasts Creative Confidence Podcast | By IdeoU Workshops Work | By Myriam Hadnes Learning Uncut | By Michelle Ockers Learning Any course by KAOSPILOT on Learning Experience Design, Experience Design and Leadership Presence Leading Groups Online, Offline and Hybrid from Mischief Makers (facilitation) Tate Modern Museum Youtube Channel is the most inspiring resource I’ve found recently. Connect with Anamaria: Connect with Anamaria on LinkedIn Visit her Bento page to learn more about her work More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| Why Do We Think Negative Thoughts? Here’s How to Rewire Your Mind for Good | 20 Sep 2024 | 00:59:03 | |
Have you ever felt like you're stuck on repeat, with the same negative thoughts running through your mind? In this episode, I’m sitting down with Stephanie Silver to explore one of my 12 favorite problems: how might we rewrite broken soundtracks? These "broken soundtracks" are those limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns that often keep us from moving forward. Stephanie’s life story is an inspiring example of resilience. She’s overcome deep trauma and heartache, rewriting her own soundtracks to build a life that’s even better than she could have imagined. In our conversation, we dive into the power of recognizing these limiting beliefs and how we can challenge them to create a more empowering narrative for ourselves. Steph and I share our personal journeys with broken soundtracks, how we noticed them, faced them, and ultimately rewrote them to find freedom and joy. If you’re ready to break free from the negative thoughts that may be holding you back, this episode will offer you the tools and insights to start rewriting your own story. Key Takeaways: Recognizing and challenging negative thoughts is the first step in rewriting broken soundtracks. Neuroplasticity allows us to rewire our brains and create new, positive neural pathways. Rewriting broken soundtracks requires self-reflection, honesty, and a willingness to challenge our own beliefs. Perceptions of success and failure vary among individuals. Stephanie challenges the notion that one must hit "rock bottom" to initiate change, arguing that personal definitions of bottom differ widely. By embodying positive beliefs about oneself, individuals can shift their energy and influence how they are perceived by others. Resources Mentioned: Anywhere, USA by Stephanie Silver https://amzn.to/4d8E6TH Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza https://amzn.to/3Xzqf3e Existential Kink by Dr. Carolyn Elliott https://amzn.to/3Xvb37i Radical Honesty by Brad Blanton https://amzn.to/3zqEpeO The Universe Has Your Back by Gabrielle Bernstein https://amzn.to/4dbsHTm Connect with Stephanie: https://www.vine-collective.com/ Podcast: https://www.vine-collective.com/mvp-business/ More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| Why Healthy Living Feels So Complicated (And How to Simplify It) | 10 Feb 2023 | 00:44:56 | |
Real health and fitness changes don’t have to be complicated. In fact, less is often more. I’m chatting with Daniel Raz about the simple shifts people overlook when chasing health and fitness goals. Daniel breaks down how small, manageable changes can boost your health and confidence in ways that stick, no crazy diets or exhausting routines required. If you’re tired of overthinking your wellness or frustrated by quick fixes that don’t last, this conversation will give you a fresh, doable approach to feeling better in your body and life. Connect with Daniel: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| How to Use Your Strengths to Build a Career You Love | 27 Jan 2023 | 00:42:48 | |
What if your next career move felt more like stepping into your true self than starting over? In this episode, I sit down with Tina Chessher, whose career journey is a masterclass in aligning your work with your strengths, while still leaving space to grow. Tina made a bold leap from childcare to the financial and insurance services industry, and she’s here to share what she learned along the way. We talk about how she leads with authenticity and connection, the mindset that keeps her learning in every season, and what it really looks like to build a career that feels right for you. Resources Mentioned: Modern Appointment Setting: Prospecting and Phoning for Financial Professionals | Gail B. Goodman Connect with Tina: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| This Might Be the Real Reason Our Schools Are Struggling | 14 Jan 2023 | 01:03:01 | |
What if the reason our school boards aren’t working… is because we’ve made it way too complicated? In this episode of Building Thinkers, I chat with AJ Crabill to talk about the real purpose of school boards and why so many have drifted away from it. AJ has been deep in the work of turning around struggling school districts and serving at the state level, and he brings clarity to a space that often feels full of noise. We talk about how to build effective, student-focused boards, what actually moves the needle in school governance, and how leaders can stay committed to continuous improvement without getting overwhelmed. AJ also gives us a sneak peek of his book, Great on Their Behalf: Why School Boards Fail, How Yours Can Be Effective, and let me tell you, it’s a must-read for anyone who cares about real change in education. Resources Mentioned: Great on Their Behalf: Why School Boards Fail, How Yours Can Be Effective | By AJ Crabill - Coming to Amazon in Spring 2023 Leadership & Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box | By The Arbinger Institute Connect with AJ: AJ Crabill on Twitter @ ajcrabill7 More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| The Leadership Tool You're Likely Ignoring at Work | 30 Dec 2022 | 00:48:08 | |
What if the real antidote to fear… is play? 🎈 I sit down with Kirsten Anderson to unpack something we don’t talk about nearly enough - the power of play. Kirsten believes (and I agree!) that play isn’t just for kids, it’s a serious tool for unlocking creativity, connection, and even productivity at work. Yes, productivity and play can coexist, and when they do, amazing things happen. Kirsten shares how her years running a wildly creative toy store taught her lessons that now help grown-ups tackle tough problems in the workplace. We dig into the bottom-line benefits of bringing play into work cultures and how it can actually reduce fear, fuel innovation, and make teams more resilient. If you’re a leader, builder, or thinker who’s tired of fear-based, overly serious work environments, this one’s for you. Let’s reimagine what’s possible when we take play seriously. Resources Mentioned: Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul | by Dr. Stuart Brown Playful Rebellion: Maximize Workplace Success Through the Power of Play | by Gary Ware The Fun Habit: How the Pursuit of Joy and Wonder Can Change Your life | by Mike Rucker, PhD Using Play to Rewire Your Brain & Improve Your Brain | Huberman Lab Sir Ken Robinson Ted Talk | Do Schools Kill Creativity? Connect with Kirsten: Kirsten on Instagram (@ KirstenPlaying ) Kirsten on TikTok (@ KirstenPlaying) More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| What the Military Taught Me About Leadership (That Books Never Did) | 16 Dec 2022 | 00:54:45 | |
What can corporate leaders learn from someone about to command a naval warship? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, I sit down with Jason Fite, an insightful, grounded, and soon-to-be Navy commander, to explore what leadership development really looks like in high-stakes environments. Jason doesn’t lean on your typical leadership books. He studies biographies because context matters, and people are complicated. We talk about why indecision can be more dangerous than a wrong call, how knowing your strengths and blind spots is non-negotiable, and what it means to lead with clarity and courage when the stakes are high. Whether you're in the military, the boardroom, or anywhere in between, this conversation is full of hard-earned wisdom on what it takes to grow as a leader and why self-awareness might be your most powerful asset. Resources Mentioned: John Adams | by David McCullough (Lesson: Country over self) Team of Rivals| by Doris K. Goodwin (Lesson: Team over self) The Hunt for Vulcan | by Thomas Levenson (Lesson: We can continually “rediscover” something that’s not there. Our worldview affects how we “discover” the natural world.) The Field of Blood: Violence in Congress and the Road to Civil War | by Joanne Freeman (Lesson: Civil War results from an irreparable breakdown in the body politics’ ability to compromise) Connect with Jason: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| What Ted Lasso Gets Right About Real Leadership | 28 Nov 2022 | 00:52:27 | |
Are we overcomplicating leadership? Because after this conversation with Kara Kirby… I think we are. In this episode of Building Thinkers, I sit down with Kara to unpack what actually builds strong leadership and people-first cultures, and spoiler alert: it’s often simpler (and more human) than we think. Kara brings real-world insight from her time inside some of the top-rated organizational cultures in the country, and now she’s using that experience to help companies around the globe lead with clarity, care, and courage. We talk about the common traps leaders fall into, the small things that make a big difference, and what it looks like to run a business where people are truly the priority. And if you’re a Ted Lasso fan? You’ll love this even more. If you care about building a team, a culture, or even just your own leadership style that actually works, you’ll want to hear this one. Resources Mentioned: Heart of Business | By Hubert Joly Don’t Overthink it | By Anne Bogel Outward Mindset: Seeing Beyond Ourselves | By The Arbinger Institute Culture Renovation | By Kevin Oakes Actualized Leadership | By William L. Sparks Quiet Leadership | By David Rock If You Want To Write | By Brenda Ueland Don’t Overthink It | By Anne Bogel Coach Beard's Booklist: Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds & Shape Our Futures by Merlin Sheldrake Fever Pitch by Nick Hornby About a Boy by Nick Hornby Football Against the Enemy by Simon Kuper Inverting the Pyramid: The History of Football Tactics by Jonathan Wilson Coaching Soccer for Dummies by Greg Bach The Greatest: The Quest for Sporting Perfection by Matthew Syed Connect with Kara: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| The Secret Ingredient Behind Effective Teams and Projects | 04 Nov 2022 | 00:53:13 | |
If you’ve ever overcomplicated a system or felt overwhelmed trying to “get organized,” this episode is for you. I’m joined by Gillian Calley, someone I deeply admire for her ability to bring calm, clarity, and structure to even the most complex work. We talk about what people get wrong when trying to build effective operations, and why simple, human-centered systems are often the most powerful. Gillian shares her journey from office admin to chief of staff, how being a non-traditional college student shaped her approach to problem-solving, and why communication (not more tools) is often the missing link in organizational flow. This conversation is full of insights on how relationships, trust, and psychological safety are just as important as strategy when it comes to making meaningful work actually happen. If you’re building something and want it to work better for everyone involved, don’t miss this one. Resources Mentioned: Books The Nightingale | by Kristin Hannah The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo | by Taylor Jenkins Reid Colleen Hoover and Elin Hilderbrand Podcasts Connect with Gillian: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| The Mindset Shift That Changed My Work Forever | 21 Oct 2022 | 00:46:12 | |
Ever wonder what really fuels the work I do, and why I'm so passionate about unleashing human potential? In this special episode, I’m on the other side of the mic as my good friend Greg Garner interviews me about my own story. We dig into the winding path that led me here, the moments that shaped my mission, and the core beliefs that guide everything I do in learning strategy. If you've ever been curious about the "why" behind Building Thinkers, this conversation is a window into the heart of it. We talk about purpose, impact, and how intentional collaboration can drive real change. Whether you're a fellow learning strategist, a curious thinker, or someone looking to deepen your own work, I think you’ll find a little spark in this episode. Resources Mentioned: The Art of the Gathering | by Priya Parker Connect with Me: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| What Every High-Achieving Woman Should Know About Money | 07 Oct 2022 | 00:47:01 | |
If you’re a high-achieving woman who’s done all the “right” things (degrees, career moves, leadership roles) but still feel uncertain when it comes to managing your money, you are not alone. I sat down with Eryn Schultz, a Harvard MBA and former Accenture consultant who now helps high-earning women get clear and confident about their finances. Eryn has this rare ability to take complex financial concepts and make them feel approachable, judgment-free, and genuinely empowering. In our conversation, we talk about the biggest things smart women tend to overcomplicate when it comes to personal finance, and what it actually looks like to take control without shame, overwhelm, or endless spreadsheets. Eryn also shares what she’s learned from years in corporate leadership and how she designs her personal finance courses specifically for women with big ambitions (and busy lives). Her work has been featured on NPR, CNBC, Harvard Business School, and Real Simple, and after this conversation, you’ll understand why. She brings clarity, compassion, and a deep understanding of what so many women are navigating behind closed doors. Resources Mentioned: Books The Simple Path to Wealth | by JL Collins LBJ Series | by Robert A. Caro Your Money or Your Life | by Vicki Robin Podcasts Your Money Briefing | WSJ Podcasts Connect with Eryn: Her Personal Finance on Instagram Eryn's 10 Week Money Bootcamp | Listeners can use the discount code Friendswithmoney for 10% off! More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| What Founders Need to Know About Patents, Equity & Early-Stage Growth | 16 Sep 2022 | 00:51:35 | |
If you’ve ever had a big idea but felt overwhelmed about where to begin or worried about how to protect it, this episode is for you. I’m chatting with Alex McFadyen, who brings a fresh perspective on what many of us overcomplicate: developing new products and navigating the patent process. Alex doesn’t just see products, he calls them “assets,” and he walks us through how to build something valuable enough that you can eventually hand it off for someone else to run, freeing you up to dream even bigger. We dig into some of the biggest questions every founder faces: How do you take that raw idea and turn it into something real? What should you know about equity early on? And what do venture capitalists really want to hear when you make your first pitch? Whether you’re an inventor, entrepreneur, or just curious about how innovation actually happens, this conversation will give you practical insights and a new way to think about building and protecting your ideas. If you’re ready to stop overthinking and start building smarter, this episode will help you take the next step. Resources Mentioned: Books Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less | By Greg McKeown How to Win Friends & Influence People | By Dale Carnegie Patent it Yourself (19th Edition) | by David Pressman & David E. Blau Connect with Alex: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| She Admitted She Was a Toxic Leader. Here’s What Changed. | 06 Sep 2024 | 00:52:07 | |
Ever looked around your workplace and wondered, "Why does joy feel so rare here?" In this episode of Building Thinkers, I dive into that question with someone who’s been on both sides of the leadership spectrum: Gretchen Fox Palmer. We unpack one of my twelve favorite problems: how might we increase flow and creativity to bring joy to work? Gretchen’s story is incredibly personal and powerful. She opens up about her journey from being a self-described “toxic executive” to becoming a conscious leader. Her transformation began when she started to untangle the patterns of hypervigilance she had internalized at work. What followed was a ripple effect of positive change within her team, real shifts in culture that came from her doing the inner work first. Now, through her EQ @ Work program, Gretchen equips performance-driven teams and leaders with emotional intelligence skills that actually rescue people from burnout. We talk about how these five core EQ skills, centered on emotional regulation and resilience, can take someone from just surviving to truly thriving. This conversation goes deep. We explore the role of vulnerability in leadership, and why it has to be approached with intention, not as a buzzword, but as a true tool for connection. And we talk about how prioritizing flow and creativity isn’t just good for business, it’s what makes work joyful and sustainable. If you’ve ever felt the tension between high performance and emotional well-being (or you’re leading a team and want to build something more human), this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Emotional intelligence skills are easy to learn and have quick transformative outcomes. Leaders need to prioritize emotional intelligence to create emotionally healthy performance-driven cultures. Feedback and vulnerability are essential in creating a culture of growth and productivity. Joy can be structured and designed for organizations by tying it to well-being, fostering connection, and prioritizing people's livelihoods. Emotional capacity plays a crucial role in individual and organizational well-being. Resources Mentioned: Books: The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron: https://tinyurl.com/zvrwp6jk The Presence Process by Michael Brown: https://tinyurl.com/3ya9ke2a Podcasts: Satsang with Mooji: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/satsang-with-mooji/id1134425259 Connect with Gretchen: MTO Agency: https://mtoagency.com/ More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| How to Actually Lead People, Not Just Manage Them | 02 Sep 2022 | 00:51:42 | |
We make developing people way harder than it needs to be, and in doing so, we often miss what actually helps them grow. I'm joined by Greg Garner, a learning and performance specialist at a pharmaceutical research company, to talk about what we tend to overcomplicate when it comes to leadership and human development. This isn’t about checklists or frameworks, it’s about mindset, motivation, and how we create the conditions for people to thrive. Greg brings such a thoughtful, fresh perspective, drawing on his doctoral work at the intersection of education, psychology, and design. He challenges us to think differently about productivity, not as a measure of how much someone can do, but as a reflection of how well they’re supported, understood, and empowered. If you lead people, work on teams, or just want to think more deeply about how we unlock human potential in today’s world, this conversation will give you so much to chew on. Resources Mentioned: Books Lateral Thinking | by Edward De Bono Pedagogy of the Oppressed | By Paulo Freire The Art of Gathering | by Priya Parker Connect with Greg: Greg Garner on Instagram (for his golf fans) More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| Why Most Strategies Fall Flat... and What Top Leaders Do Differently | 19 Aug 2022 | 00:53:17 | |
Most strategies fail, not because they’re wrong, but because they’re way too complicated. In this episode of Building Thinkers, I’m joined by Moss Pike for a conversation that dives into something I see all the time: how we overcomplicate strategy. We unpack what it really looks like to build strategy with clarity, without all the noise that usually surrounds it. Moss shares what he and his team are navigating right now as they develop a managed services product, and the kinds of thoughtful, forward-looking questions they’re asking, like: What is the true purpose of our office space in this new era of work? And how do we create space for meaningful, non-transactional conversations in a world that moves so fast? If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a loop of planning that doesn’t lead to action, or if you’re rethinking how your team works, connects, and delivers value, this episode will give you fresh perspective and practical insight. Resources Mentioned: Books Good Strategy Bad Strategy | by Richard Rumelt Beethoven: Anguish and Triumph | by Jan Swafford Every Good Boy Does Fine | by Jeremy Denk Embrace Fearlessly the Burning World | by Barry Lopez Big Feelings | by Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy | also their newsletter Connect with Moss: More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| What It Really Takes to Build a Business From Scratch | 05 Aug 2022 | 00:57:47 | |
What if building a brand didn’t have to be so complicated? In this episode, I talk with Kimberly Borges about the common ways people overthink everything from starting an apparel brand to manufacturing products and taking that first step as an entrepreneur. Kimberly also shares how the women in her family inspired her journey, and how she’s working to make her brand, PWR WMN, more inclusive and empowering. If you're dreaming big but feeling stuck, this one’s for you. Resources Mentioned: Book - Breakthrough Advertising | Eugene M. Schwartz Podcast - How I Built This| Guy Raz incfile - file LLC Alibaba - manufacture in high quantities Connect with Kimberly: PWR WMN | Use the code BUILDINGPWRWMN for 10% off for a limited time! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PWRWMN1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pwr_wmn/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pwrwmnkimberlyborges/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pwr_wmn More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||
| How Presence and Curiosity Unlock True Connection and Contentment | 22 Jul 2022 | 00:40:00 | |
Ever feel like building real connection and contentment is harder than it should be? In this episode of Building Thinkers, Ali Goljahmofrad and I dive into something we often overcomplicate: building true connection and contentment. We explore how we can break free from the “happy-when” mindset and embrace the power of presence in every moment. We’ll challenge you to rethink the idea of perfection and embrace our human imperfections instead. As we do, we start to witness real joy and connection in our work, relationships, and lives. One of the key takeaways from this episode is how curiosity can transform the way we engage with others. Ali shares the importance of exploring diverse perspectives, including content that pushes us out of our comfort zone. By learning from voices and experiences outside our own, we create a deeper, more genuine connection with those around us. So if you’ve ever felt disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to build stronger relationships, this episode is a must-listen. Resources Mentioned: The Golden Connection | Ali Goljahmofrad We’re All A Bunch of Broken Crayons | TEDxSanAntonio The Epidemic You’ve Never Heard Of | TEDxIdahoFalls Books When Breath Becomes Air | Paul Kalanithi The Letter: My Journey Through Love, Loss, and Life | Marie Tillman My First Coach: Inspiring Stories of NFL Quarterbacks and Their Dads | Gary Myers Podcasts Chasing Excellence | Ben Bergeron & Patrick Cummings The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast Connect with Ali:
More About Building Thinkers: I'm your host, Tracy Clark, and this is where potential becomes reality through deliberate curiosity, reflection, practice, and play. The Building Thinkers podcast is based on the realization that there's exponential potential in the things we build. And so, in my little corner of the internet and podcasting land, I want to take my 12 favorite problems, these are my constant curiosities, and I want to go deeper. I want to build thinkers. This is a community of multi-potentialites who may be disoriented by all the possibilities of success we envision but haven't yet achieved. If any of that sounds like you, come listen in. Welcome to the Building Thinkers podcast. | |||