Explore every episode of the podcast Short Story Long: Life Lessons from Leaders, Coaches, and Entrepreneurs
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Story Long Trailer | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:00:59 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Move for Love: Finding Love in Unexpected Places | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:16:19 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Can love truly strike in the most unexpected places? Join us as we share the whimsical and heartwarming tale of how an unplanned encounter led to a night of meaningful conversations and a revoked wedding invitation. Beki Fraser recounts this serendipitous beginning that ultimately blossomed into a deep and enduring connection with her husband. This episode celebrates the beautiful unpredictability of love and underscores the courage it takes to embrace life's uncertainties. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Navigating Turbulence: Embracing Change in Uncertain Times (Novella) | 08 Oct 2024 | 00:07:53 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Fresh out of Yale and bursting with ambition, I thought I had it figured out. Nothing prepares you for the real world quite like being thrown into the deep end. In my early career, I faced a whirlwind of changes that forced me to question everything I thought I knew about leadership and resilience. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Farm Girl Goes to Yale: Life-Altering Choices and New Beginnings | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:24:52 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. It's stunning how a single decision can change the trajectory of your life. Join me, Beki Fraser, as I share my journey from small-town Wisconsin girl to Yale University grad student. I chose to flip my life pretty dramatically to make that happen. Why would I do that? Sometimes, taking risks and planning flexibly can open doors you never knew existed. Learn about the struggles I faced and how this unexpected opportunity transformed my professional path. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Staging a Coup: The Power of Perspective in Professional Growth (Novella) | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:09:58 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Ever accidentally sent an email to the wrong person and felt your heart drop into your stomach? Well, so have I! Join me, Beki Fraser, as I walk you through some of my most memorable missteps in the world of office politics and communication blunders. From an unintended, face-palming email to an unexpected accusation of staging a coup, I share these tales not just for the laughs, but for the invaluable lessons they offer about understanding office dynamics and the unpredictable consequences of our actions. Learn how these experiences taught me the crucial importance of feedback and being aware of workplace relationships. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Breaking the Mold: How Stepping Off the Shore Changed My Life | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:30:55 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. In this episode of Short Story Long, host Beki Fraser delves into the pivotal moments that shaped her journey toward independence and financial freedom. Beki candidly shares her transition from a small-town high school student to a university graduate, emphasizing the courage it took to leave familiar shores in search of new horizons. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, she highlights the importance of embracing challenges, learning from diverse experiences, and recognizing the broader benefits of higher education beyond academics. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Namon's Story: Choosing Growth Into HR Over Going with the Flow | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:35:19 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. This episode explores Namon's journey from a decade in sales to a new path in human resources. Blending his creative identity as DJ Blue with a growing passion for people-focused work, Namon shares how formal education became a tool for finding focus and making intentional choices. With honesty and insight, he reflects on the shift from “going with the flow” to choosing a direction with clarity. This conversation is a thoughtful look at what it means to evolve professionally without abandoning your creative self along the way. "If I tell myself I'm just going to go with the flow, then I don't have to choose, I don't have to be upset about the choices." For anyone navigating career transitions, struggling with focus, or working to balance multiple talents, this episode provides both practical insights and permission to forge an authentic path forward. The journey from "going with the flow" to intentional decision-making might be challenging, but as Namon reminds us, "It may be difficult, but it's not impossible." Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Celebrating a Decade of Entrepreneurship: Insights and Evolution | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:38:57 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. In this special anniversary episode, we’re turning the mic around! To mark 10 years of full-time coaching through my business, Focus for Growth, I’m stepping into the guest seat. My friend and podcast producer, Richard Dodds, hosts the conversation as we look back on a decade of coaching, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. Join us as I share insights from ten years of working with growth-minded leaders, building a purpose-driven business, and growing alongside my clients. We explore what it really takes to sustain a coaching practice, how leadership evolves over time, and the mindset shifts that create the most meaningful impact—for individuals and organizations alike. Whether you're a coach, a leader, or someone navigating your own growth journey, this episode offers valuable takeaways about clarity, resilience, and redefining success. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| John Neral's Story: How a Personal Journey Shaped a Career Coach's Approach | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:31:00 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. The journey to authenticity often begins with our most challenging personal moments. In this profound conversation with career coach John Neral, we explore how his experience of coming out to his parents at age 28 shaped not just his personal life but fundamentally transformed his professional approach to leadership and coaching. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Networking to Build Relationships - Skill Builder | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:15:33 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. We build protective stories around our awkward experiences, convincing ourselves we're simply not cut out for schmoozing in crowded rooms or making small talk with strangers. These narratives serve a purpose – they shield us from discomfort and potential rejection. What if we're missing out on valuable connections by staying safely on the sidelines? Through practical strategies, you can transform networking from a dreaded obligation into a valuable practice. The next time you feel that networking anxiety creeping in, remember: these are skills you already have, just applied in a new context. And who knows? You might just meet someone who changes the trajectory of your career. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Scott Fleszar’s Story: From Layoff to First-Time CEO | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:34:56 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. In this episode, we explore powerful themes of resilience, reinvention, and the importance of staying connected. Scott Fleszar shares how a sudden career disruption became a catalyst for reflection and transformation. Rather than being defined by circumstance, he embraced change with intention. His story demonstrates how a strong network can open unexpected doors. Get inspired by Scott’s journey from corporate predictability to entrepreneurial possibility, revealing what it takes to lead through uncertainty. His story highlights the enduring value of relationships, the power of transferable skills, and the courage required to shape your own path. It’s a compelling reminder that leadership isn’t tied to a title, it’s how we respond to change. Click here to connect with Scott on LinkedIn. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| The Mindset Advantage: Mastering Leadership Agility - Skill Builder | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:08:15 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. The journey of leadership often requires us to make choices with incomplete information and limited time. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Scott Hanton's Story: The Reluctant Leap to Leadership | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:43:00 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Sometimes in life, we find ourselves at a crossroads that prompts uncomfortable yet exciting changes. In this episode, I speak with Scott Hanton, a seasoned researcher who faced the unexpected decision of transitioning from the world of scientific research to a pivotal leadership role. You can connect with Scott on LinkedIn here. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| How Kindness Shapes Workplace Dynamics - Skill Builder | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:06:14 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Explore the transformative power of kindness in leadership in this inspiring episode. Through real-world examples, I highlight how compassion and thoughtful communication strengthen relationships and create a more supportive team environment. Small, intentional acts of kindness can have a profound impact, fostering collaboration and trust within any organization. Great leadership goes beyond directing tasks—it’s about empowering individuals to grow and succeed. This episode encourages leaders to cultivate a culture of respect and empathy, creating an environment where everyone thrives. Tune in for practical insights on leading with kindness and redefining leadership through connection and care. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Anthony Marzilli's Story: Chasing Passion, Finding Balance Through Entrepreneurship | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:37:32 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. What drives someone to leave a stable career with Detroit's top sports franchises and dive into the uncertain world of entrepreneurship? Anthony Marzilli, a seasoned video and motion graphics editor, shares his journey of chasing passion and balance. He opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to prioritize family over a demanding job, offering a personal glimpse into the struggle between professional success and personal contentment. You can find out more about Anthony at AnthonyMarzilli.com Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| The Power of Choosing Your Own Career Path - Skill Builder | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:08:23 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. In this episode of Short Story Long, we explore the power of owning your career choices and breaking free from traditional corporate paths. Reflecting on Theresa’s inspiring journey from HR to sustainability, we discuss the emotional and practical aspects of redefining success on your own terms. Learn how to navigate uncertainty, build a strong support network, and turn failures into growth opportunities. Whether you're feeling stuck or seeking purpose, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you embrace change and pursue a more fulfilling career. Tune in and start transforming your work-life today! Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Theresa’s Story: Her Career Transition to Sustainability | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:34:19 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. What happens when a seasoned HR professional decides to pivot her career path entirely? Join us as we uncover Theresa's remarkable journey from a successful 25-year career in human resources to a burgeoning role in sustainability. Theresa shares the pivotal moments that urged her to take this leap of faith, Theresa’s story shines a light on the importance of being open to new challenges, learning from mistakes, and the courage it takes to redefine one's career path even after decades of success. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Season 2 Trailer | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:00:54 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. In this new season, host Beki Fraser goes beyond her own journey to explore the defining moments that shape careers and leadership. Each episode features conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who have navigated pivotal decisions—embracing change, overcoming fear, and leading with authenticity. 💡 What does it take to recognize when it’s time for a change? Join Beki as she uncovers these powerful stories and the lessons they hold. 📅 Season 2 launches March 4—available wherever you listen to podcasts! Produced by Crowned Culture Media. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Boundaries for Effective Leadership - Skill Builder | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:05:48 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Leadership isn't just about managing others—it's about managing yourself with intention. Drawing from a powerful conversation with Alan Heyman, this episode dives deep into two critical leadership skills: setting boundaries and creating psychological safety. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Short Story Long Season 1 Bonus Episode | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:27:00 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. In this bonus episode, Richard Dodds -- my producer and friend -- joins me to celebrate the end of our first season and the exciting path ahead. We reflect on the pivotal moments that shaped this journey, from overcoming initial challenges to embracing the art of storytelling. Richard's encouragement and collaboration were key in transforming an initial concept into an engaging podcast. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| From Self-Doubt to Self-Empowerment: The Journey into Entrepreneurship | 10 Dec 2024 | 00:14:08 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. What if the key to unlocking your true potential lies in unraveling the complex web of self-perception? Join me, Beki Fraser, as I share my candid and transformative journey from self-doubt to self-discovery. You'll hear about the challenges I faced, the breakthroughs I experienced, and how confronting my own beliefs became a catalyst for growth and adaptability. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Navigating Life's Curveballs: Resilience in Personal and Professional Storms (Novella) | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:07:12 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. What happens when you're caught in the crossfire of life's curveballs, wearing multiple hats and juggling personal turmoil with professional duties? Join me, Beki Fraser, on Short Story Long as I peel back the layers of resilience needed to navigate stormy waters. These stories are not just tales of endurance but of learning when to draw the line, building strong boundaries, and practicing self-care in the eye of the storm. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| The Caregiver's Balancing Act: Love, Guilt, and Growth | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:19:36 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Join me, Beki Fraser, as I share my journey through the ups and downs of caring for aging parents from afar. As I navigate the emotional landscape of guilt and love, you'll learn how family bonds can stretch across miles, and how respecting a parent's independence becomes a delicate balance. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| From Advertising Exec to Entrepreneur: Jason's Journey of Resilience and Change (Novella) | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:07:06 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Ever wondered how a successful advertising executive could end up molding young minds and running his own business? Join me, Beki Fraser, as I share my friend's story. Jason's life took unexpected turns that shaped him into the resilient entrepreneur he is today. With each challenge, he took them head-on and found the courage to re-evaluate his path. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Redefining Success: A Courageous Shift from HR to Coaching | 12 Nov 2024 | 00:18:09 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Leaving the familiar shores of HR, I embarked on a transformative journey into the world of entrepreneurship. In this episode, I recount my personal story of recognizing my old role was no longer inspiring to me and the awakening call of coaching. This journey was full of challenges and rewards, and it highlights the importance of listening to one's inner voice and courageously stepping into untested waters. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Choosing Change: When Staying Safe No Longer Feels Right (Novella) | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:06:21 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. What if stepping away from your current professional life could reveal the truth about who you are? Join Beki Fraser as she recounts her transformative journey post-Argentina and the somewhat unexpected challenges she faced upon returning to the U.S. Beki takes us through the pivotal moments that led her to reassess her career choices. She'd spent enough time in the gray zone and repositioned for new opportunities aligned with her strengths and passions. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Argentina Bound: Leaping into Growth and Embracing Support | 29 Oct 2024 | 00:16:36 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Feeling stuck and unfulfilled in your career? This episode will help you see dissatisfaction as a catalyst for profound transformation. Join me, Beki Fraser, as I recount a pivotal moment in my HR career when I was feeling low, only to find an unexpected opportunity that changed everything. Discover how boldly taking an international assignment taught me the power of recognizing new opportunities and trusting yourself while leaning into the support of loved ones. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Hitting the Wall: Burnout and Change Fatigue are Real (Novella) | 22 Oct 2024 | 00:07:16 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Navigating constant career changes and organizational upheavals can feel like an endless roller coaster. Have you ever found yourself in a position where your role changes constantly and you find yourself on the brink of burnout? Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Alan Heymann's Story: Reclaiming Energy Through Professional Reinvention | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:43:27 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. From drowning in meetings to discovering his authentic path, Alan Heyman's journey reveals what happens when we acknowledge the disconnect between career expectations and reality. This transformative conversation pulls back the curtain on what it truly means to recognize when a prestigious role isn't actually the right fit – and finding the courage to make a change. Connect with Alan on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/alanheymann/ Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Fear Doesn't Have to Run Your Show - Skill Builder | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:05:15 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Let's dig into the powerful distinction between following someone else's blueprint and charting your own authentic path as a leader. This episode explores how effective leadership begins with managing your internal reactions—especially fear. When emotions rise, it's easy to take things personally or default to defensiveness. But with awareness, leaders can pause, recognize the fear underneath, and choose a more grounded response. We discuss how the brain instinctively fills gaps with self-protective stories, often reinforcing fear-based patterns. By noticing these habits and shifting perspective, leaders create space for clearer thinking and authentic action. The conversation encourages moving beyond fear-driven decisions and trusting yourself to lead with intention and resilience. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Toby Adamson's Story: Reimagining Who You Are When Life Forces a New Path | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:28:03 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. What happens when you realize you're living a life on remote control? For Toby Adamson, this revelation sparked a transformation. Connect with Toby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toby-adamson-cpc-eli-mp/ Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Grieving: No Permission Required | 28 May 2025 | 00:05:39 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Beyond the Imposter: You're Not Faking It - Skill Builder | 20 May 2025 | 00:06:11 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Ever catch yourself saying "I'm just faking it till I make it" or feeling like an imposter despite your achievements? You're not alone, but you might be undermining yourself more than you realize. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Kris Liebau's Story: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Redefining Personal Success | 13 May 2025 | 00:37:07 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. Have you ever achieved everything you thought you wanted, only to find yourself still feeling unsatisfied? That nagging disconnect between external success and internal fulfillment is exactly what leadership coach Kris Liebau confronted on her journey to self-awareness. Learn more and Connect with Kris Liebau: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krisliebau/ Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||
| Brave Conversations: Preparing for Life-Changing Discussions - Skill Builder | 06 May 2025 | 00:09:50 | |
Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it. We've all faced moments when a deeply personal truth demands to be spoken, yet everything inside us screams to stay silent. These brave conversations—whether coming out to loved ones, revealing major life changes, or addressing difficult topics—represent defining moments in our personal and professional lives. Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod | |||