#83: The Courage Effect: 2025 Season Finale Suzanne reflects on this season's powerful conversations and asks: What are you waiting for permission to do? Season Themes: Speaking the UnspeakableFrom menopause (Jill Angelo) to family secrets (Susan Liu) to standing in gaps others won't (Andrea Anderson) — courage means saying what needs to be said. The Courage to Bear WitnessAshley Gilbertson documented Officer Eugene Goodman at the Capitol on January 6th, reminding us we can't look away from hard truths. Self-Compassion as StrategyMassimo Backus: Being kind to yourself isn't soft — it's strategic. Stop wearing leadership costumes and show up authentically. Permission Over PerfectionWe're better at giving others permission than ourselves. What are you tolerating that you no longer want to? Standout Quotes: Andrea Anderson: "I've always been comfortable standing in the gap that others don't want to stand in." Pelumi Nubi: "Is this fear mine, was it given to me, or do I need to give it back?" Susan Liu: "Sometimes the stories we're not allowed to tell are exactly the ones that the world needs to hear." Three Questions: What am I waiting for permission to do? Who am I waiting to tell me it's okay? What am I tolerating that I no longer want to? The Call: Stop apologizing. Stand in the gap. Bear witness. Take risks. Give yourself permission to be imperfect, human, and fully you. Let's stop discharging pain through blame and create real change — by speaking up, telling stories, and showing what's in the world. And thank you Stephen Pressfield for the inspiration: Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants To Be Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about  Support the Show: If this episode resonated with you: Leave a review on your podcast platform Share this episode with someone who would benefit from our stories Stay courageous.

#82: In this raw and personal mini episode, Suzanne opens up about a month of grief and disruption — losing her aunt to aggressive cancer and having a massive tree crash through her dining room skylight on her wedding anniversary. She reflects on what it means to feel safe and secure when life reminds us how fragile everything is. This episode is an invitation to examine our own lives: What are we taking for granted? Who do we need to call? What truly matters? She invites us to consider: What are you taking for granted right now? What gives you real security beyond physical structures? Who needs to hear from you? What can you let go of as we head toward year-end? Where do you need to be more present? A Note from Suzanne:  This episode is raw and unpolished — and that's intentional. Sometimes courage is just about showing up, being honest, and saying "this is where I am." Thank you for your patience and grace. The final episode of this season drops in two weeks. Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about  Support the Show: If this episode resonated with you: Leave a review on your podcast platform Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Suzanne’s story

#81: Andrea Anderson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Western Washington, discusses the courage to stand where others won't, lead authentically, and embrace not fitting in. From sex education to running one of the country's most progressive Girl Scout councils, Andrea shares why being an outsider is her superpower. Key Topics: Standing in uncomfortable spaces and calling out injustice Why "we've always done it this way" is never acceptable Girl Scout cookie sales as the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program on the planet Sex education, body autonomy, and the power of language The beach epiphany: embracing not fitting into systems not designed for you Memorable Quotes: "What better time to raise dragon slayers than in the time of dragons." "I stopped apologizing for my very existence years ago." "The scam is structural and they didn't make it with me in mind." "Bravery sometimes is just getting up and out of bed." Key Takeaways: Courage isn't always dramatic — sometimes it's just showing up authentically Refuse to fit into systems not designed for you Create space for people to bring their whole selves to work Stop telling people to "leave their shit at the door" Resources Mentioned: Andrea's TEDx Talk on respectful body language: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xJgEetiGh4 Girl Scouts of Western Washington: https://www.girlscoutsww.org/en/join.html?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19271251657&gbraid=0AAAAAD1syUTY6XykWzGD5Zt7QY--jM6he&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-zHBhBhEiwA7Kjq6-vcRm-5gTCflmon6BcadKbw-Zu2qQTzHbO79fcoRSymsZsGAHwMPxoCUEEQAvD_BwE Connect with Andrea via LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-anderson-61215232/ Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about  Support the Show: If this episode resonated with you: Leave a review on your podcast platform Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Andrea’s story

#80: Massimo Backus, author of "Human First, Leader Second," shares his transformative journey from high-achieving "sage on the stage" to authentic leader through the power of self-compassion. Key Moments: The Wake-Up Call - Massimo was running global leadership development when devastating 360 feedback revealed he was defensive, didn't create psychological safety, and was even described as a bully - the opposite of his intentions. The Epiphany - After surrendering to the Hoffman Process, Massimo experienced his first moment of unconditional self-love in the woods - realizing he'd spent his life hiding doubts and imposter syndrome behind a "leadership costume." The Power of the Pause - Why rushing from one role to the next keeps us stuck - and how the "neutral zone" allows for healing and repatterning. Powerful Quotes: "We wake up most days trying to be someone we already are." "Courage is the small things: taking good care of yourself, setting boundaries, asking for help." "I had to fully surrender - give up all the coping mechanisms and parts of my identity that on paper worked." Key Takeaways: Self-compassion isn't soft - it takes courage to confront yourself authentically Internal validation is sustainable; external validation keeps you off-balance Emotions are data points, not definitions Transition periods are opportunities, not just gaps to fill quickly Resources: Human First, Leader Second by Massimo Bacchus Brené Brown's Atlas of the Heart Dr. Kristin Neff's self-compassion research The Hoffman Process Connect with Massimo: Website: mass@massimobackus.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/massimo-backus/ Instagram: @massismoleadership   Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about  Support the Show: If this episode resonated with you: Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform Share this episode with someone who would benefit from Massimo’s story

#79: When Susan Lieu's mother died from a botched cosmetic surgery at age 11, her Vietnamese immigrant family did what they knew how to do: they never spoke about it again. For three decades, the silence persisted. But when Susan faced the question "How do I become a mother if I never knew my own?" everything changed.   In this deeply moving conversation, Susan Lieu – a Vietnamese American author, playwright, and performer – shares her extraordinary journey from Microsoft cybersecurity professional to acclaimed solo performer and author. With zero theater training, she wrote and starred in a 65-minute show playing 15 family members, performed 60 times to 7,000 people while pregnant, and wrote the memoir "The Manicurist's Daughter" — an Apple Book Pick and NPR Best Book of 2024.   Susan's story is about the courage to break generational silence, the power of becoming your family's archive keeper, and discovering that sometimes the stories we're forbidden to tell are exactly the ones the world needs to hear.   Key Topics Discussed: Family Secrets & Silence How trauma and cultural differences create walls of silence The cost of keeping family secrets vs. the courage to tell the truth   Intergenerational Trauma & Healing Understanding her parents' escape from Vietnam as boat people Learning to forgive a father shaped by war and loss   Body Image Unpacking the message "if you get fat, no one will love you" Reframing relationship with her body: "My body is my mother's last gift to me"   Truth & Memory How different family members hold different versions of the same story The power of archiving family history for future generations   Notable Quotes: "For me to go on a quest to avenge my mother's death, to track down the killer, to bring justice to our family, but really to know her was this confrontation of being courageous in my own family."   "My body is my mother's last gift to me. When I say I hate my body, that means you're saying you hate where you come from."   "Sometimes the stories we're not allowed to tell are exactly the ones the world needs to hear."   "In activating this courage, we will learn something new. It'll give us new information to keep pivoting, to keep inching toward what we think will give us our self-actualization."   Connect with Susan: Website: https://www.susanlieu.me/ Instagram: @SusanLieu Substack: "Live Like You're Mortal" https://susanlieu.substack.com/ Podcast: "Model Minority Moms" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/model-minority-moms/id1565085683 Book: "The Manicurist's Daughter" (available in print and audiobook) https://www.amazon.com/Manicurists-Daughter-Memoir-Susan-Lieu/dp/1250835046 TEDx Talk: "How to Make Peace with Your Belly Fat" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=al0Jw_9b06Y   Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about    Support the Show: If this episode resonated with you: Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform Share this episode with someone who needs to hear Susan's story Purchase "The Manicurist's Daughter" and leave a review Follow Susan on social media and support her work

#78: In this conversation, Lisa Fain discusses the concept of developmental networks and the role of courage in creating intentional learning relationships. She emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and reciprocity in mentoring relationships, and how these elements contribute to personal and professional growth. Lisa also shares insights on navigating career transitions, the significance of identity, and the power of intentional connections in fostering a supportive environment for learning and development.   Key Topics: Developmental networks - intentional learning relationships for growth The courage to ask - being the first mover and requesting what you need Effective mentoring elements - learning, reciprocity, and co-creation Common failures - "pair and pray" programs without structure Career transitions - leveraging networks during job searches Identity's role - how our lens shapes mentoring experiences   Standout Quotes: "Impact isn't built alone." "Everything is figureoutable, but everything is not figureoutable on your own." "If you're gonna share your wisdom, make sure it ends with a question mark and not with a period."   Chapters: 00:00 Exploring Developmental Networks and Courage 10:06 The Importance of Community and Connection 19:59 Understanding Mentoring Relationships 30:12 Navigating Career Transitions and Identity 39:52 The Power of Intentional Connections   Key Takeaways: Structure matters - Successful mentoring requires intentional frameworks Mentees drive learning - Come prepared with specific goals Reciprocity is real - Everyone has something valuable to offer Think beyond hierarchy - Peer and reverse mentoring work too Avoid "brain picking" - Be specific about what you want to learn   Get in touch with Lisa Fain: Website: http://www.centerformentoring.com TEDx Talk: "The Power of Intentional Connections in Your Career": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ4JEvEsO2c LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisazfain   Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about 

#77: George shares how a chance coffee shop conversation led to uprooting his family (three kids, ages 11-13) and moving to a small Spanish village for what became a two-year adventure. From navigating bureaucracy and language barriers to watching his children courageously walk into Spanish schools, this episode explores what it takes to "run toward the roar" of our biggest fears. Key Highlights: The Catalyst: A networking conversation that became life-changing advice Facing Fears: Professional uncertainty, family impact, and financial risk Reality Check: The challenging first months and questioning their decision Kid Courage: How children adapt and teach resilience to their parents Unexpected Benefits: How the experience prepared them for COVID and virtual work Memorable Quotes: "What right do I have to be coaching these people if I'm constantly comfortable and haven't done much of a big change in my life?" "Courage is not the absence of fear, it's having fear there but working your way through it." "Your kids can do it. You can do it. And the adventure is there waiting for you." Perfect For: Anyone considering a major life change Parents wondering how families navigate uncertainty People looking for courage to face their fears Those interested in international living experiences Key Takeaway: Sometimes the most transformative experiences come from running toward what scares us most - and our children might just be our best teachers in courage. Find more information about George Brewster at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgebrewster/ Gimbal Systems website: https://gimbalsystems.com/ Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#76: Join host Suzanne Weller and Patricia Bravo (Founder of Bravo for You) as they explore why empathy requires courage in today's workplaces and how leaders can use empathy strategically without sacrificing results. Key Topics: Empathy isn't a soft skill — it's a strategic leadership advantage that requires courage to implement effectively. Patricia defines empathy as "accurately identifying cues and clues to activate understanding" Research: 10% increase in empathetic leadership = $1,000/employee/year productivity boost The pitfall of confusing over-empathizing with over-responding Set boundaries while maintaining understanding Focus on genuine connection, not checking boxes Key Takeaways: Empathy saves time rather than draining time for busy leaders Understanding ≠ agreement - it's about better decision-making data Courage is required to prioritize empathy in traditional business cultures Small investments yield big returns - 10 minutes can transform relationships Results follow relationships - empathy drives productivity, loyalty, and discretionary effort Notable Quote: "It's not about slowing down business. It's actually about creating relationship shortcuts, which saves time." Find more information about Patricia Bravo at: Linktree - https://linktr.ee/theempatheticleader Substack - https://substack.com/@theempatheticleader Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#75: In this conversation, Suzanne Weller interviews Michele Y. Smith, CEO of the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), discussing her journey of courage and leadership in the nonprofit sector. They explore themes of democratizing pop culture, the importance of community engagement, and the challenges faced during the pandemic. Michele shares her personal story, the influence of her mother, and her innovative approaches to revitalizing institutions. The discussion emphasizes the significance of philanthropy and representation in leadership roles, highlighting how small acts can lead to significant change.   Key Topics: Michele shares she is a “product of philanthropy” having received a Milton Hershey School scholarship as a girl Crisis leadership: 9/11 at United Airlines, Keeping 1,000 animals alive during pandemic shutdown at Woodland Park Zoo Her "positive disruptors" leadership philosophy Transforming MoPOP through local partnerships and community engagement Making philanthropy accessible (starting with $5 donations) Notable Quote: "I consider my entire organization positive disruptors... What is the opportunity?"   Key Takeaways: Leadership: View problems as opportunities, not failures Balance accountability with empathy for your team Model the behavior you want to see during crisis   Community Building: Partner locally to strengthen the entire ecosystem Start small - every contribution matters ($1, $5, membership) Make people feel part of something bigger than themselves   Career Growth: Say yes to unexpected opportunities (San Francisco relocation) Build resilience through compassion during challenging times Use each experience to develop skills for future roles   Essential viewing: Michele’s rap at The Peer 150 event in October 2024.   Connect with The Courage Effect: Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about 

#74: Join host Suzanne Weller for an unflinching conversation with award-winning photojournalist and writer Ashley Gilbertson, who has spent over two decades documenting conflict, migration, and pivotal moments that shape our world. From the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan to the halls of the US Capitol on January 6th, Ashley brings us face-to-face with uncomfortable truths through his lens. In this deeply personal conversation, Ashley shares the magic that drew him to photography at 13, the weight of witnessing history, and why he believes documenting difficult stories is more crucial than ever. We explore his groundbreaking work,  his evolution as a storyteller, and what it means to find courage in the darkest places. Content Warning: This episode discusses war, conflict, domestic terrorism, and loss. Listener discretion is advised. Key Topics Discussed: Finding Your Voice Early: Discovering photography through skateboarding at age 13 How passion becomes purpose War Correspondence and Personal Cost The moment a Marine's death became personal responsibility Learning to carry trauma rather than overcome it January 6th: An Insider's Perspective Being among the first 20 people inside the Capitol Witnessing Eugene Goodman's heroic stand Evolving Storytelling Finding new angles on familiar stories The challenge of visual fatigue in modern media Migration and Global Issues Covering refugee crises across Europe and the US The complexity of immigration stories Notable Quotes: "There's nothing in the world that beats that magic... trying to find that moment, what Cartier Bresson would have described as the decisive moment." "You can't cover these places and come home the same. All of this comes with responsibility. There's no way of getting over any of this crap - it's learning how to carry it." "The harder the work is, the better the work will be. When you get really deep into it and you want to stop, that is exactly the moment that you have to try twice as hard." "What I saw was an insurrection. And what happened there was an insurrection. There is no question about that... These pictures will stand." "One man holds them up for long enough to save the Vice President of America, Nancy Pelosi, and senators... That type of courage, that type of heroism, that's what I live for." About Ashley Gilbertson Ashley Gilbertson is an Australian photographer and writer based in New York City. Recognized for his critical eye and unique approach to social issues, Ashley Gilbertson is an Australian photographer and writer living in New York City recognized for his critical eye and unique approach to conflict, global migration, climate, social and health issues.  See more of Ashley Gilbertson's work at https://theviifoundation.org/profile/gilbertson-ashley/ and follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashgilbertson/?hl=en Ashley’s work for of January 6th at the United States Capitol for The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/09/magazine/trump-coup.html Ashley’s books Whisky Tango Foxtrot and Bedrooms of the Fallen Photograph Learn more about VII Foundation at: https://theviifoundation.org/ Connect with The Courage Effect Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller Special thanks to Ashley Gilbertson for his courage, honesty, and friendship.

#73: In this conversation, Sharon Podobnik (leadership coach, facilitator, and founder of The Center for Conscious Leadership) and Suzanne Weller explore the multifaceted nature of courage, emphasizing its inner and outer dimensions. They discuss personal experiences of courage, the evolution of what courage means over time, and the importance of somatic practices in understanding our bodies' responses to fear and discomfort. The dialogue also touches on the significance of boundaries and the courage required to say no, highlighting that courage is a skill that can be developed rather than an innate trait. In this conversation, Sharon Podobnik and Suzanne Weller explore the importance of setting boundaries, the individualization of oppression, and the need for collective responsibility in creating social change. They discuss the concept of courage as a skill that can be developed, the significance of acceptance in the face of challenges, and the role of community in fostering empowerment. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of recognizing our agency and the power of saying no, while also advocating for a shift in societal expectations and norms. Takeaways: Courage is a value that becomes a way of being. Courage often involves discomfort meeting purpose. Life experiences shape our understanding of courage. Courage is not about fearlessness but about dancing with fear. Somatic practices help us understand our body's responses. Recognizing when to say no is crucial for self-care. Teaching young girls to say no can change the world. Organizations often take advantage of our willingness to say yes. Self-help often places undue responsibility on individuals. Collective action can alleviate individual burdens. Community and connection are essential for empowerment. We all have a role in creating social change. Get more information about Suzanne and Weller Collaboration at wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#72: In this engaging conversation, Pelumi Nubi shares her inspiring journey as a trailblazing travel content creator, adventurer, and the first black woman to drive solo from London to Lagos. She discusses the courage it takes to travel alone (especially as a woman!) and the importance of community support. Pelumi also opens up about her experience with dyslexia and how it shaped her perspective. Through her travel series One Week In, she aims to change the narrative around African destinations, showcasing their beauty and culture. The conversation emphasizes the transformative power of travel, the joy it brings, and the importance of taking courageous steps in life.   Takeaways: Traveling alone as a woman requires courage and determination. Community support is vital during challenging journeys. Dyslexia can be a barrier, but it can also be a source of strength. Travel fosters personal growth and self-awareness. Cultural respect is essential when traveling to all destinations. Joy is a choice that can be cultivated through travel.   Referenced in this show: Pelumi’s series 28 Days of Brave: https://www.tiktok.com/@pelumi.nubi/video/7467990401132006689 Her TedX Talk: How to embrace imperfect action:  ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qplHjdyoXtQ   Find Pelumi online at: WWW.PELUMINUBI.COM https://www.instagram.com/pelumi.nubi/?hl=en   Get more information about Suzanne and Weller Collaboration at wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#71: Jill Angelo (a visionary leader in women's health in midlife, and one of Inc. Magazine’s 2020 Top 100 Female Founders) talks with Suzanne about her journey of founding Gennev, a clinician-built menopause care platform. She shares her challenges and triumphs of founding the organization, shepherding its acquisition by United Women’s Healthcare, and the importance of community in addressing women's health issues. The discussion also touches on the courage required to embrace change, key steps in her growth as a leader, and the significance of listening to oneself during transitions.   Takeaways: Jill's journey into founding Gennev and its impact on women's health and community. The stigma around menopause can be a barrier to open discussion. Navigating the challenges of being a female founder requires resilience. Jill emphasizes the need for empathy in women's health care. Patience is essential in the entrepreneurial journey. Real-life application is more effective than excessive planning. Trusting your gut is crucial, especially in unfamiliar territory. How men can understand and support their partners during menopause. Every woman's experience in menopause is unique. Embracing change requires managing one's ego.    Sound Bites: "I had the courage to start it." "The stakes have changed for me." "I've learned to lean back." "Do more than learn and plan." "Trust your gut a little bit more." "We're driving change from within."   Find more information about Weller Collaboration at wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#70: In this micro show, Suzanne announces our brand new season launching June 11th. From there, get ready for an incredible range of topics: We’re kicking off with a powerful episode on menopause — featuring a trailblazing woman who founded the first clinician-based menopause care platform.  Leadership & Courage: We’re diving into what it really means to be courageous, exploring empathy and leadership as dynamic skills anyone can develop. Moving Internationally: Hear firsthand what it’s like to uproot your life and family to a new continent and the lessons learned along the way. Epic Travel Tales: We’ll bring you a jaw-dropping story from a woman who drove solo from London to Lagos, plus expert travel advice for your future adventures. Behind the Lens: An award-winning photojournalist shares what it’s like to document both the vibrancy and tragedies of the world, from New York City streets to conflict zones — and even the events at the US Capitol on January 6th. Pop Culture & Mentorship: We’ll discuss the democratization of pop culture and the transformative power of mentorship. As always, these stories are about wrangling the hard stuff: persevering when life presents mountains, hurdles, or even just speed bumps. That’s what The Courage Effect is all about—real conversations about facing fear, taking risks, and finding possibility on the other side. Don’t Miss Out If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe and like the podcast so you won’t miss a single episode—and mark your calendar for June 11th. More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about 

#24: Suzanne Weller engages with executive coach Michael Melcher to explore the themes of courage, growth, and the importance of networking. They discuss the discomfort that often accompanies personal change, the role of self-compassion, and how to navigate relationships that can either support or hinder our growth. Michael emphasizes the significance of taking courageous actions, the unpredictability of networking outcomes, and the necessity of reframing our approach to relationships in both personal and professional contexts. The conversation highlights the idea of an “invisible network” and the importance of cultivating connections to foster growth and opportunity. Takeaways: Expectations can hinder networking opportunities. Networking requires openness to unexpected outcomes. Weak ties can be valuable in career development. Talking about yourself is necessary for career advancement. Reframing relationships can change how we view networking. Cultivating a network is an ongoing process.   Sound Bites: "Growth is a lot about discomfort." "You can give yourself permission to let it be hard." "You need to get out of your own zone." "It's a living thing, your network." "Keep gardening that network." Chapters: 01:49  The Courage to Disrupt and Change 06:09  Navigating Discomfort and Self-Compassion 09:53  The Role of Others in Courageous Actions 15:09  Expectations and Networking 19:51  Understanding the Invisible Network 25:05  Reframing Relationships and Business Development More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#43:  In this episode of The Courage Effect, Suzanne Weller explores the intricate relationship between creativity and overthinking. Drawing inspiration from Rick Rubin's book “ The Creative Act”, she emphasizes the courage required to embrace creativity and the detrimental effects of overthinking on our creative processes. Suzanne discusses the importance of self-reflection, understanding our thought patterns, and creating conditions that foster creativity while addressing the roots of overthinking, such as perfectionism and low self-esteem. She offers practical strategies to break free from overthinking and cultivate a more creative mindset.   Takeaways: Creativity requires courage and vulnerability. Creating conditions for creativity starts with self-awareness. Overthinking can hinder our creative potential. Self-doubt often stems from overthinking and perfectionism. Viewing our work as a work in progress fosters growth. Recognizing thought patterns is crucial to overcoming overthinking. Self-compassion enhances resilience and creativity. Tracking our thoughts can help identify overthinking patterns. Embracing uncertainty can lead to greater creativity. Building a support network is vital for overcoming self-doubt.   Sound Bites: "The creative act is courageous." "We are all a work in progress." "Overthinking is the enemy of creativity." "We need to embrace uncertainty." "Let's see overthinking for what it is."   More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#21: In this episode of The Courage Effect, Suzanne Weller engages in a deep conversation with Lenora Edwards (CEO Advisor for Business Growth) about the themes of courage, trust, and entrepreneurship. They explore the journey of starting a business, the importance of trusting oneself, learning from mistakes, and the balance between logic and creativity in business. The discussion emphasizes the significance of partnership, feedback, and the courage to push beyond comfort zones to find unique value propositions.   Takeaways: Courage is essential in navigating the entrepreneurial journey. Trusting oneself is a key component of success. Mistakes can lead to valuable learning experiences. Partnerships can enhance business growth and creativity. Finding a balance between logic and magic is crucial in marketing. Unique value propositions set businesses apart from competitors. Feedback is vital for growth and improvement. Being comfortable with uncertainty can lead to innovation. Courage often comes from a lack of attachment to outcomes. Asking the right questions can unlock potential opportunities.   Sound Bites: "Trust yourself and your instincts." "You have to trust what's inside." "What could this be?" "It's about finding the gold in ideas." "Courage comes from lack of attachment."   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Courage and Trust 03:00 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 05:49 Learning from Mistakes 08:59 Pushing Beyond Comfort Zones 11:57 The Balance of Logic and Magic 14:51 Finding Unique Value Propositions 18:05 The Importance of Feedback and Iteration   More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about

#47: In this episode of The Courage Effect, host Suzanne Weller speaks with Rebecca Weaver, founder and CEO of HRuprise, about her journey through post-traumatic growth following a breast cancer diagnosis during the pandemic. They discuss the importance of recognizing collective trauma, the concept of post-traumatic growth, and how to navigate personal and professional challenges with courage and intention. Rebecca shares her insights on resilience, the need for honest storytelling, and the transformative power of growth after adversity.   Takeaways: The idea of seasonality – we will move through it. You will be even stronger than you thought possible. Post-traumatic growth is a possibility. How do we put the pieces back together in a new way? It's possible for us to move forward and thrive. You can make it through so much more than you ever thought you could. We need to acknowledge that where we were doesn't exist anymore.   Sound Bites "Post-traumatic growth is a possibility." "It's about living intentionally." "We have experienced this collective trauma." "This truly is just a season." "Tomorrow is not promised." "It's possible for us to move forward and thrive."   Chapters: 00:00 - Embracing Seasons of Change 02:40 - The Journey of Post-Traumatic Growth 14:19 - Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth 20:57 - Navigating Collective Trauma 24:10 - Lessons Learned and Moving Forward   Thanks to the support of our show sponsor Armoire. Build the perfect rental wardrobe with brands that are unique, sustainably sourced and they’ll be shipped straight to your door. Visit armoire.style/thecourageeffect to get up to 50% off your first month. #sponsored   More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about 

#39 | 1.24.2024: host Suzanne Weller engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Thomas Curran (the world's leading expert on perfectionism and author of the best-selling book The Perfection Trap) about the complexities of perfectionism. They explore its roots in societal pressures, the different types of perfectionism, and how the growth at all costs mentality exacerbates these tendencies. Dr. Curran emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation and reframing success to foster a healthier mindset. The discussion highlights the detrimental effects of perfectionism on mental health and the need for a shift towards self-acceptance and purpose-driven pursuits. Takeaways: Perfectionism is a form of deficit thinking. It leads to constant self-criticism and hinders success. Social pressures fuel perfectionism in today's world. Understanding perfectionism can lead to greater contentment. Intrinsic motivation is key to sustainable growth. Perfectionism is a relational trait, not just an individual one. There are different types of perfectionism: self-oriented, socially prescribed, and other-oriented. The growth at all costs economy exacerbates perfectionist tendencies. Perfectionism creates existential anxiety and mental health struggles. Reframing success can help reduce perfectionist pressures. Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp.  Go to https://betterhelp.com/courage for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Get more of Suzanne's insights to tackle perfectionism and other challenges via her Reimagine Growth newsletter -- sign up at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/.

Bringing out a show from our archive that about resilience, vulnerability, collective trauma, coping strategies, and leadership. #37: In this episode Suzanne engages in a heartfelt conversation with leadership coach Susan Mann about navigating the complexities of life, particularly in the context of collective trauma and personal loss. They explore the themes of courage, vulnerability, and the importance of recognizing both the magic and mayhem in our lives. Susan shares personal stories of grief and resilience, emphasizing the significance of connection, gratitude, and intentionality in finding joy amidst challenges. Takeaways: Courage is doing what's important, even when it's hard. Magic exists in our lives, especially during tough times. Collective trauma affects us all, and we must acknowledge it. Practicing gratitude can help us navigate challenges. Connection with others is vital for resilience. Finding beauty in the mundane can lead to joy. Intentionality is key in coping with life's difficulties. We must allow ourselves to grieve and process loss. Nature and movement are essential for mental well-being. Listening to children can remind us of the magic in life. Thanks to the support of our show sponsor BetterHelp.  Go to https://betterhelp.com/courage for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored More information about Weller Collaboration: wellercollaboration.com Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter here