Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Business
Sports
Society & Culture
Health & Fitness
TV & Film
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
00:00 / 00:00
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts116/v4/68/2a/3e/682a3e33-c3cd-b71c-45d2-6a3ba072bbbf/mza_14514703418405529604.jpg/600x600bb.jpg
Productive Joy
Dr. Christie McMullen
247 episodes
2 days ago
Welcome to Productive Joy with Dr. Christie. I'm your host, Christie McMullen, and together we are going to make sure we turn fun into action. How will we do that? By thoughtfully taking AIM. AIM stands for Analyze Improve Move. We're going to analyze the things that you're currently doing that you're like, I probably could find more joy in this. We're going to improve on those things by listening to experts and learning all kinds of new ways to do business. And then we're going to move. It is time to learn and grow together...let's do this.
Show more...
Self-Improvement
Education
RSS
All content for Productive Joy is the property of Dr. Christie McMullen and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to Productive Joy with Dr. Christie. I'm your host, Christie McMullen, and together we are going to make sure we turn fun into action. How will we do that? By thoughtfully taking AIM. AIM stands for Analyze Improve Move. We're going to analyze the things that you're currently doing that you're like, I probably could find more joy in this. We're going to improve on those things by listening to experts and learning all kinds of new ways to do business. And then we're going to move. It is time to learn and grow together...let's do this.
Show more...
Self-Improvement
Education
Episodes (20/247)
Productive Joy
Simply Leap with Lauree Ostrofsky

Welcome to Productive Joy! In this episode, Dr. Christie is joined by the inspiring Lauree Ostrofsky. Lauree is an entrepreneur, author, career coach, brand new dog mom, and stepmom to teenagers. Known for overcoming fear and teaching others to do the same, Lauree shares her path from a shy child to a successful speaker and coach.

Diagnosed with a brain tumor at age 28, Lauree opens up about how the health crisis reshaped her perspective on fear and success. They discuss the importance of self-kindness, finding delight in everyday activities, and creating supportive communities. Lauree’s insights are sure to inspire and motivate listeners.


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy

00:05 Meet Lauree Ostrofsky: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change

02:13 Lauree's Journey: From Shy Child to Confident Speaker

04:32 A Life-Changing Diagnosis: Finding Purpose Through Adversity

07:56 Coaching and Consulting: Helping Others Leap

10:40 The Importance of Celebrating Success

13:12 Creating Productive Joy: Embracing Delight and Authenticity

24:52 Rapid Fire Questions: Fun, Authenticity, and Self-Kindness

31:22 Conclusion: Turning Fun into Action


Show more...
2 days ago
32 minutes 24 seconds

Productive Joy
Glow Up Yourself...Becoming the Best Version of You Chelsea Clark

Today on Productive Joy Dr. Christie welcomes Chelsea Clark, an advocate, author, and entrepreneur. Chelsea discusses her strategies for setting achievable goals, the importance of breaking them into manageable quadrants, and how she transitioned from a passionate blogger to the founder of NicheInvestor.com. 

Chelsea reflects on her mistakes, personal reinventions, and shares insights from her book, 'Glow Up Yourself.' She emphasizes the power of self-improvement, highlights the value of selling an online business, and inspires listeners to embrace their flow state and turn their unique genius into a profitable venture.

Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.com

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy

00:04 Meet Chelsea Clark: Advocate, Author, and More

00:51 Embracing New Beginnings and Overcoming Fear

01:43 Setting and Achieving Goals for the New Year

05:06 Chelsea's Journey: From Blogger to Business Owner

09:13 The Power of Sharing and Community Building

12:22 Defining Productive Joy and Finding Flow

15:19 Glow Up Yourself: Chelsea's Book and Personal Story

19:49 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

22:17 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts


Show more...
3 days ago
26 minutes 42 seconds

Productive Joy
Create Lasting Change in the New Year

Welcome to Productive Joy, the recap for 2026! Join us as Dr. Christie reflects on the past year and sets intentions for the new one. Learn how to harness your influence, set attainable goals, and make small, consistent shifts to achieve lasting change. She discusses the power of choosing a guiding word for the year and share personal stories of growth and intentionality. Embrace opportunities, navigate your circumstances with positivity, and turn fun into actionable steps for a fulfilling year ahead. Let's start 2026 with purpose and joy!


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy

00:51 Reflecting on the Past Year

02:11 Embracing Your Current Situation

03:35 Setting Attainable Goals

04:52 Choosing Your Word for the Year

05:57 Reflecting on Personal Growth

08:04 Encouragement for the New Year



#IntentionalLiving

#NewYearReflection

#ConsistencyOverPerfection

#PersonalGrowthJourney

#MindsetShift

#GoalSetting2026

#JoyIsAChoice

#SmallHabitsBigChange

#PurposeDrivenLife


Show more...
6 days ago
10 minutes 14 seconds

Productive Joy
Being Intentional in 2026

Welcome to the first episode of Productive Joy in 2026! As the new year begins, Dr. Christie reflects on the rapid passage of time and the importance of setting intentions. Rather than making traditional New Year's resolutions, the focus is on being intentional in various aspects of life - physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

She shares her personal word for the year, 'intentional,' and encourages everyone to choose a word that resonates with them. The episode also emphasizes finding joy in everyday moments and being thoughtful in actions. 


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy

00:31 Setting Intentions for 2026

00:45 Choosing Your Word for the Year

01:17 Living with Intentionality

03:54 Finding Productive Joy

04:18 Looking Ahead

04:58 Intentionality in Work

05:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


Show more...
1 week ago
6 minutes 16 seconds

Productive Joy
Joy - A Foundation for Growth In The New Year

Today on Productive Joy, Dr. Christie explores the concept of productive joy and shared examples of individuals who embody this principle through their work helping others and creating positive educational environments.

She emphasizes the importance of finding and nurturing bright spots in chaos to create better outcomes, while encouraging listeners to define their own version of productive joy. Dr. Christie poses a challenge everyone to actively work towards their goals by the end of 2026, urging us to think differently and create tangible steps towards their desired future.

Watch Dr. Christie’s recent TEDx talk on being a 'bold flavor' and consider how to implement intentionality in everyday decisions, from family interactions to workplace dynamics.

I am a Bold Flavor | Dr. Christie McMullen | TEDxSouthlake


Show more...
1 week ago
14 minutes 25 seconds

Productive Joy
End The Year With Purpose!

It’s almost here! Today Dr. Christie encourages us to take a breath and embrace intentionality as the year winds down. To reflect on the year's accomplishments and prepare for the next by setting purposeful actions. She shares personal insights, challenges everyone to plan intentionally for 2026, and discusses the importance of understanding yourself and others in both personal and professional relationships. 

Watch Dr. Christie’s recent TEDx talk on being a 'bold flavor' and consider how to implement intentionality in everyday decisions, from family interactions to workplace dynamics.

I am a Bold Flavor | Dr. Christie McMullen | TEDxSouthlake


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy

00:07 Taking a Moment to Breathe

01:02 Reflecting on Intentionality

01:46 Setting Intentional Goals for 2026

02:25 Understanding Yourself and Others

03:08 Assessing and Utilizing Talents

03:54 Embracing Intentionality Every Day

05:08 Wrapping Up the Year with Fun and Intentionality


Show more...
1 week ago
5 minutes 42 seconds

Productive Joy
Creating Productive Joy Daily

In this special Christmas episode of Productive Joy, we explore the concept of 'productive joy' for 2025. Dr. Christie, identifies 10 key pillars: purpose over busyness, intentional joy, human-centered interactions, growth and continuous improvement, balance with authenticity, resilience and emotional intelligence, the impact of joy on output, integrity, empowerment and self-worth, and avoiding burnout.

The episode emphasizes that joy can be cultivated daily, leading to a more fulfilling and productive life. Merry Christmas and may your day be filled with joy and special moments.

Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.comEpisode Highlights:00:00 Welcome and Merry Christmas!00:24 Introducing the 10 Pillars of Productive Joy00:44 Pillars 1-3: Purpose, Joy, and Human Connection02:16 Pillars 4-6: Growth, Balance, and Resilience03:48 Pillars 7-9: Joyful Output, Authenticity, and Self-Worth05:18 Pillar 10: Avoiding Burnout05:42 Final Thoughts and Christmas Wishes

Show more...
2 weeks ago
6 minutes 51 seconds

Productive Joy
Practical Joy is an Inside Job with M. Shannon Hernandez

In this enlightening episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes M. Shannon Hernandez, founder of the Joyful Business Revolution, author, and joy advocate. M. Shannon shares her insights on the limitless nature of joy, explaining that joy is an inside job distinct from the fleeting nature of happiness. 

She emphasizes the importance of identifying and living by your values, integrating joy into daily practices, and rejecting external pressures that stifle true self-expression. M. Shannon also discusses her unique approach to messaging and marketing, advocating for kindness and clarity over pain-driven tactics. 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy

00:04 Meet Shannon Hernandez: Joy Advocate

00:52 The Concept of Joy: No Ceilings

01:35 Practical Joy: Beyond Meditation

05:30 Joy vs. Happiness: An Inside Job

06:51 Values Inventory: A Path to Joy

09:11 Productive Joy: Intentional Fun

16:49 Practical Tips for Practicing Joy

18:43 Training for Mount Kilimanjaro

21:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion


Show more...
2 weeks ago
23 minutes 55 seconds

Productive Joy
Your Abilities, Your Revolution and More From Karen Agrait & Karen Mayer Cunningham

In this recap of 'Productive Joy,' Dr. Christie talks about her amazing interviews with Karen Agrait and Karen Mayer Cunningham, and what lessons we can learn from their stories and experience.

She focuses on identifying and leveraging personal gifts and talents and  emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating your unique abilities, suggesting a self-audit to list these skills. As the New Year approaches, the episode encourages listeners to make resolutions that play to their strengths and use their talents effectively. 


Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.com


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Productive Joy

00:05 Meet the Karens

00:36 Weekly Wisdom and Takeaways

01:54 Discover Your Unique Genius

03:05 Self-Audit and New Year's Resolutions

04:24 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons

05:44 Final Challenge and Encouragement



#ProductiveJoy

#PodcastRecap

#PersonalGrowthJourney

#KnowYourStrengths

#UniqueGenius

#PurposeDrivenLife

#LeadershipDevelopment

#MindsetShift

#SelfAudit

#IntentionalLiving

#DiversityOfThought

#UseYourGifts

#EndOfYearReflection

#GrowthMindset

#TurnJoyIntoAction


Show more...
2 weeks ago
6 minutes 56 seconds

Productive Joy
Be Epic and Lean Into Your Gifts with Karen Mayer Cunningham

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes special education advocate and stand-up comedian Karen Mayer Cunningham. Karen shares her compelling story of becoming an advocate for special education driven by her son's autism diagnosis.

She recounts her challenges with the educational system and her mission to help other parents, educators, and students navigate and succeed in special education. Karen emphasizes the importance of joy, effective advocacy, and productive teamwork between educators and parents. She also highlights the value of persistence and humor in overcoming life's obstacles. This episode is packed with inspiring advice for leaders on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment at work and in schools.

Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.com

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy

00:08 Meet Karen Meyer Cunningham

01:25 Karen's Journey into Special Education

02:36 Challenges and Advocacy

08:30 The Epic IEP

11:16 Special Education in the Workplace

14:48 The Impact of Over-Celebration on Generations

15:04 The True Value of Education

15:21 Qualities of Effective Leaders

17:16 Embracing Productive Joy

19:01 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

23:24 The Intersection of Comedy and Pain

24:42 Rapid Fire Questions

27:25 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways


#SpecialEducationAdvocacy

#AutismAcceptance

#InclusiveLeadership

#ParentAdvocate

#NeurodiversityMatters

#EducatorCommunity

#AdvocacyWithJoy

#InclusiveEducation

#PurposeDrivenLeadership


#CareerFulfillment

#PersonalGrowthPodcast

#ProfessionalDevelopment

#CareerDevelopment

#WorkLifePurpose

#MeaningfulCareer

#GrowthMindsetPodcast

#LeadershipDevelopment

#CareerHappiness

#PurposeDrivenCareer


Show more...
3 weeks ago
28 minutes 47 seconds

Productive Joy
Look in the Mirror, Success Starts with You with Karen Agrait

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Karen Agrait, a coach, learner, and personality expert. Karen shares her personal and professional journey, from her early interest in child welfare to her transition into coaching and training.

She and Dr. Christie discuss her passion for learning, helping others, and navigating life's challenges. Karen also shares the pivotal moments that led her to focus on productive joy and offers practical advice on achieving it, both personally and within organizations. Listen to learn more on leveraging strengths, maintaining self-awareness, and fostering a fulfilling and balanced life.

Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.com

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:03 Karen's Personal Journey and Background

02:46 Career Path and Professional Growth

06:10 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Challenges

10:29 Creating Productive Joy

18:22 Advice for Leaders and Final Thoughts

21:28 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion


Show more...
3 weeks ago
25 minutes 2 seconds

Productive Joy
In This Season of Giving, Save Some Time For Yourself 

It’s that time of year! A season of giving that can often leave us feeling a little depleted. Today Dr. Christie discusses the challenges of balancing holiday activities and personal well-being during this busy time. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing personal joy and taking time for yourself and offers practical tips for maintaining energy and mental health, such as reading, walking, and allowing yourself to say no to some things. 

Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.com


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy

00:44 Managing Holiday Stress

01:35 Prioritizing Self-Care

01:53 Embracing the Season

03:28 The Concept of Productive Joy

04:25 Spreading Joy and Choosing Happiness


Show more...
3 weeks ago
5 minutes 58 seconds

Productive Joy
Make your Dot on the Universe with Peter H. Reynolds


In this inspiring episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes the multifaceted Peter H. Reynolds, a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator, most notably known for his book 'The Dot.' Peter discusses his passion for storytelling, education, and creativity, emphasizing the importance of taking care of oneself to better inspire the next generation. 

He champions the idea of embracing imperfection through 'ish full thinking' and encourages everyone, especially educators, to explore their unique gifts. Peter shares personal stories, such as the impact of his family and his own experiences as a twin, and highlights the power of making even the smallest marks, like drawing a dot, to spark creativity and joy. 


Connect with Dr. Christie: christie@intentionalitygroup.com


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:06 Message to Educators

02:08 The Power of Picture Books

02:57 Discovering Unique Gifts

10:48 The Story of 'The Dot'

15:55 Defining Productive Joy

24:52 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion


Show more...
4 weeks ago
29 minutes 22 seconds

Productive Joy
Build a Blueprint For Your Life and Go Where You’re Meant to Go with Dr. Brandy Stamper

In this engaging episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie introduces Dr. Brandy Stamper, an accomplished mom, wife, author, and leadership development coach. Brandy shares her expertise on creating a life you love by understanding yourself deeply through the Enneagram system. She discusses the importance of having a personal blueprint that aligns with your true self rather than societal expectations. 

With a background in psychology and communications, Brandy reveals her own experiences of feeling unfulfilled despite outward success and explains how discovering her Enneagram type transformed her approach to life and work.

Brandy also gives glimpses into her book, 'Bridging the Purpose Gap,' which provides actionable insights into integrating Enneagram principles into personal and professional life. 


Connect with Dr. Christie at: christie@intentionalitygroup.com


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Brandy Stamper

01:44 Brandy's Journey: From Psychology to Enneagram

03:27 Discovering the Enneagram and Personal Fulfillment

05:46 Understanding the Enneagram: A Deep Dive

09:02 Brandy's Book: Bridging the Purpose Gap

12:39 Defining Productive Joy and Personal Insights

17:16 The Fear of Failure and Self-Worth

18:18 Understanding Enneagram Subtypes

18:46 Self-Preservation, Social, and Sexual Subtypes

21:16 The Importance of Accurate Typing

23:00 Practical Applications of Enneagram Knowledge

25:12 Rapid Fire Questions

28:25 Final Thoughts and Takeaways


Show more...
1 month ago
30 minutes 49 seconds

Productive Joy
Finish 2025 Strong, No Excuses

On this episode of Productive Joy, Dr. Christie reflects on the rapid and prolonged moments of 2025. She challenges viewers to use the remaining four weeks of the year to accomplish their goals intentionally. Christie shares her personal growth experiences in various aspects of her life, including being a mother-in-law, dealing with her son's diabetes diagnosis, becoming a Ted X speaker, mentoring couples, and improving physical fitness.

She emphasizes the importance of being present and intentional in achieving desired outcomes. Dr. Christie encourages everyone to recognize gaps, bridge them, and start new endeavors now instead of waiting for January.


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Welcome and Year-End Reflection

00:48 Personal Growth and Challenges

03:29 Intentional Living and Year-End Goals

04:59 Support and Resources for Personal Development

05:51 Conclusion and Encouragement


Show more...
1 month ago
6 minutes 47 seconds

Productive Joy
Be LGET...Learning Growing Expanding and Transforming with Curtis McCullum

In this episode of Productive Joy, we are joined by Curtis McCullum, a human potential coach, podcaster, seasoned expert in people dynamics, and an amateur photographer. Curtis shares his insights on discovering true joy that comes from within, contrasting it with external happiness. 

He dives deep into the importance of being authentic, acknowledging personal challenges, and the effects of carrying emotional baggage from the past. Curtis also discusses the methodologies he uses in his coaching practice, including clinical hypnotherapy, mental and emotional release techniques, and neurolinguistic programming. He defines the 'legit mindset' - Learning, Growing, Expanding, and Transforming - Curtis offers invaluable advice on how leaders and individuals can find productive joy and transform their lives by reprogramming their mindsets and embracing their true selves. 


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:08 Defining True Joy

02:55 Lessons from Experience

04:08 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

04:36 Human Potential Coaching Techniques

09:35 Reprogramming the Mind

12:33 The Legit Mindset Framework

16:07 Authenticity and Dropping the Mask

20:27 Rapid Fire Questions

25:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Show more...
1 month ago
27 minutes 4 seconds

Productive Joy
Speak From Experience, Then Get The Right People to Hear It with Danny DelVecchio


Thank you for joining us on Productive Joy! Today Dr. Christie introduces you to Danny DelVecchio, an entrepreneur, digital creator, and salsa dancer who found a unique way to blend creativity with business prowess. Danny shares insights on creating stress-free systems, his transition from a sales career to launching a podcast with 500,000 listeners, and eventually building a niche agency. 

He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in content creation, overcoming fears of self-promotion, and targeting the right audience rather than going viral. Discover how Danny helps clients create engaging content effortlessly through his Video On Easy Mode service, turning fun into a productive endeavor. He and Dr. Christie also discuss his practical advice on leveraging social media to build a presence and connect with potential clients. 


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:51 Danny's Background and Journey

02:35 From Podcasting to Coaching

06:16 The Birth of Video On Easy Mode

08:13 Challenges and Solutions in Content Creation

15:45 Defining Productive Joy

23:54 Rapid Fire Questions and Key Takeaways

26:54 Conclusion and Call to Action


A Deeper Dive:

In the latest episode of Productive Joy, we delve into the world of content creation and entrepreneurship with Danny DelVecchio, an entrepreneur, digital creator, and salsa dancer. Danny shares his inspiring journey from a 20-year career in sales to becoming a content creation expert, helping others transform their expertise into engaging content. Throughout this insightful conversation, Danny reveals the essence of productive joy and how it can be achieved through authenticity, strategic content creation, and a touch of resilience.

Danny’s journey into content creation began in 2016 after a thriving career in sales. Inspired by his love for the TV show "Impractical Jokers," Danny started a podcast that quickly gained 500,000 listeners. This success was achieved entirely through organic social media growth—a skill he now teaches others to harness. His passion for helping entrepreneurs create content led to the founding of "Video On Easy Mode," a service that guides clients through the process of effortless and authentic content creation.

Many entrepreneurs face challenges when diving into the world of social media content. Whether it's fear of judgment, lack of time, or not knowing where to begin, these barriers often prevent them from utilizing social platforms to their fullest potential. Danny emphasizes authenticity as the key to overcoming these obstacles. By speaking from personal experience rather than regurgitating generic tips, content creators can deliver genuine value and connect with their audience on a deeper level.

Danny explains that the true measure of content success isn't about going viral—it’s about connecting with the right audience. For entrepreneurs, the real goal is to use content as a vehicle for engagement. He reminds us that building a relationship with your audience is more valuable than the sheer number of views or likes. “The more hands you shake, the more money you make," he says, highlighting the importance of personalized, one-on-one interactions both online and offline.

In defining productive joy, Danny finds fulfillment in activities that bring him closer to his goals and make him happy, like working with clients in a creative, supportive environment. His dedication to fostering joy and productivity in his work has made content creation an enjoyable experience for his clients, transforming a typically stressful process into something they eagerly anticipate.



For more guidance on how to infuse your work with productive joy, be sure to connect with Danny on LinkedIn or explore his services at Video On Easy Mode.


Show more...
1 month ago
27 minutes 41 seconds

Productive Joy
Gratitude, Reflection, and New Beginnings

Today on Productive Joy, it’s fittingly all about being thankful. Dr. Christie reflects on the end of November and the importance of gratitude, in this season of Thanksgiving. She shares personal anecdotes about her family gatherings and her mother's move to Ecuador.

She emphasizes the significance of recognizing your own worth and achievements and being grateful for the positive influences in life. She encourages everyone to  voice their gratitude, choose positive self-talk, and turn reflections into action as they head into the holiday season and the end of the year


Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:24 Reflecting on Thanksgiving

00:43 Family Changes and Gratitude

01:58 Self-Recognition and Positivity

03:06 Choosing Gratitude

04:41 Final Thoughts on Gratitude and Action


Show more...
1 month ago
5 minutes 30 seconds

Productive Joy
Practice Makes Positive...Retraining Your Brain with Victoria Henrich

In this episode of Productive Joy, Dr, Christie welcomes Victoria Henrich, an inspiring author, speaker, and mom of five. Victoria discusses her new book 'Practice Makes Positive,' which encourages readers to prioritize happiness in just 10 minutes a day. 

She shares personal stories about managing a staffing company, overcoming breast cancer, and how these experiences inspired her to write and launch a women's retreat. Victoria also offers practical advice on finding happiness, being productive, and embracing new experiences. 

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:50 Victoria's Journey to Happiness

02:41 The Power of Intentionality

09:20 Creating a Women's Retreat

13:23 Advice for Aspiring Individuals

18:53 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

 A Deeper Dive:

Welcome to a journey of joy, productivity, and intentional living as we explore the inspiring conversation between podcast host Christie and guest Victoria Henrich, a remarkable author, motivational speaker, and advocate for practicing joy. Here's how Victoria, a mother of five, a businesswoman, and a cancer survivor, chooses happiness and shares her wisdom with the world.

Victoria Henrich brings a refreshing perspective on happiness. Her book, *Practice Makes Positive: Prioritize Happiness 10 Minutes at a Time*, is a practical guide to embedding joy in your daily life. She emphasizes that happiness comes from intentional acts, even if it's just dedicating ten minutes a day to something enjoyable. According to Victoria, intentionally creating positive moments helps train your brain to recognize and seek happiness, akin to seeing your new car everywhere after purchase.

Victoria shares insights from her life experiences, shaped by both joyous and challenging moments. After selling her staffing company, she turned to journaling to regain her sense of control and purpose. This journey led to her book, described as her "pocket full of sunshine," crafted to inspire readers to embrace practical, happiness-driven choices. Her story underscores the importance of finding joy in transition and recognizing each individual's choice in creating a fulfilling life.

An advocate for intentional living, Victoria recommends a mindset shift—from default to design. She discusses how thinking like an author of your own life, rather than a victim, opens up opportunities to intentionally craft a meaningful existence. This philosophy informs her actions, whether encouraging her children to recognize daily highs and lows or creating a women's retreat designed to foster self-discovery and joy.

Victoria, alongside her best friend, co-founded the Serenity Summit Retreat in Nebo, North Carolina, transforming a beloved vacation spot into a space of healing and growth for women. This retreat epitomizes Victoria’s approach to life: blending creativity, community, and serenity. Each retreat offers a different focus, such as “Fall into Change,” providing attendees with rituals, yoga, crafts, and the transformative power of community and relaxation.

In Victoria's view, life is too vibrant to be reduced to a single destination job or goal. Instead, she encourages exploration—trying new things, accepting imperfection, and discovering joy in unexpected places. Her message is clear: it’s not about being perfect at everything; it’s about the joy of trying, learning, and evolving.


Show more...
1 month ago
22 minutes 19 seconds

Productive Joy
How to Make Sure Your Story Matters with Bill Blankschaen

Today on Productive Joy, Dr. Christie welcomes Bill Blankschaen, a bestselling author, thought leader, and founder of Story Builders. Bill shares his story, from running a school in Ohio to helping individuals and organizations harness the power of their stories. He emphasizes that everyone's story matters and explores the concept of a 'story ecosystem' to maximize impact, influence, and income. 

Bill also delves into the common traps people face that prevent them from telling their stories and offers practical questions to help listeners get clear on their story and message. Tune in to learn how to live a life full of meaning and purpose by telling your unique story.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Welcome to Productive Joy

00:14 Meet Bill Blank: A Multifaceted Talent

01:08 The Power of Personal Stories

02:18 From School Founder to Story Builder

04:28 Overcoming the Confidence Trap

07:57 Building Your Story Ecosystem

12:10 Key Questions to Define Your Brand Story

17:33 Helping People Feel Valued and Appreciated

18:07 Treating Humans as Humans

19:08 Storytelling Structure and Audience Engagement

20:19 The Importance of Intentional Storytelling

22:32 Finding Joy and Purpose

28:24 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

A Deeper Dive:

In a world constantly driven by success, productivity, and self-discovery, we often overlook a critical element: the power of our personal stories. In a recent conversation on the "Productive Joy" podcast, host Christie sits down with Bill Blankschaen, a storyteller extraordinaire, to explore the profound impact of storytelling in shaping our lives and the lives of others. Here, we dive into some key takeaways from their enriching dialogue.

According to Bill, storytelling is more than just a skill—it's a superpower. He believes that every story matters and that every individual and business can harness its potential to drive impact, influence, and income. He shares that his journey from running a private school to founding Story Builders was fueled by a passion for helping people and organizations craft meaningful narratives.

Bill emphasizes that valuing one's story is the first step towards achieving breakthrough moments. He introduces what he calls the "story ecosystem," which begins with a clear brand story and leads to a message that resonates with people, ultimately leading to monetizing one's unique intellectual property.

He intriguingly states, "Your breakthrough begins when you start with your story," underscoring that the more effectively you tell your story, the greater the influence you wield.

Many people face barriers to expressing their stories, often due to a lack of confidence. Bill identifies this as the "confidence trap"—a tendency to devalue our own experiences while overvaluing those of others. Through exercises like the "story multiplier formula" and "book starter questions," Bill guides individuals and organizations in overcoming these hurdles to discover the power of their own narratives.

One of the highlights of Bill's conversation with Christie is the actionable framework he proposes: the "story multiplier formula" (Who You Are x How Well You Tell Your Story = Impact, Influence, Income). This framework helps individuals and organizations understand and leverage their unique stories to make a substantial impact. The formula guides them to multiply their intrinsic values by articulating their stories effectively, thus maximizing their potential impact on the world.

At the heart of Bill's philosophy is a profound belief in the transformative power of stories. He challenges everyone, from individuals to businesses, to find intentionality in their narratives. Whether it's understanding who they are at their core or connecting deeply with their audience, unlocking the story within is pivotal.


Show more...
1 month ago
33 minutes 53 seconds

Productive Joy
Welcome to Productive Joy with Dr. Christie. I'm your host, Christie McMullen, and together we are going to make sure we turn fun into action. How will we do that? By thoughtfully taking AIM. AIM stands for Analyze Improve Move. We're going to analyze the things that you're currently doing that you're like, I probably could find more joy in this. We're going to improve on those things by listening to experts and learning all kinds of new ways to do business. And then we're going to move. It is time to learn and grow together...let's do this.