Do certain people always push past your limits or constantly leave chaos in their wake? In this second half of his two-part series, Shola Richards continues his deep dive into recognizing toxic relationships, and how to protect your peace without apology. Through the episode, Shola reveals: 🚫 What it really means when someone disrespects your boundaries, and how to respond with clarity instead of guilt. 🔥 The hidden patterns of “drama creators” who thrive on chaos (and how ...

Are you constantly tired after certain interactions? Feel like someone in your life never apologizes or always turns things around on you? In this first episode of a powerful two-part series, Shola Richards breaks down the first three warning signs of a toxic relationship, and what you can do to protect your peace without losing your compassion. Through real stories, honest reflection, and practical strategies, Shola explores: ❌ The truth about “energy vampires” and why some relationsh...

Can our world survive if we don’t figure out how to be kinder to each other? In this episode, Shola Richards is unveiling something he’s been quietly building for years: A new mission and framework called Strong Enough to Be Kind. This model challenges the myth that kindness is weakness and reveals why true kindness actually takes incredible strength. Shola breaks down the three pillars of his new framework - Start Within, Just Today, and Go First - and shows how each one dismantles th...

We’ve all done it: Delayed the project, avoided the conversation, or pushed off the doctor’s appointment. But what if procrastination isn’t about laziness at all? In this episode, host Shola Richards breaks down the surprising science behind why we put things off and how kindness can become the ultimate cure. You’ll learn: Why procrastination is really an emotion regulation problem, not a time management oneThe four emotional triggers that fuel delay, and how to recognize them in real ...

In this episode of The Kindness Extremist, host Shola Richards shares three simple, science-backed practices that will transform the way you show up in the world. Shola reveals how meditation, journaling, and sleep aren’t just self-care trends but daily disciplines that rewire your brain for empathy, patience, and compassion. This episode shows how small consistent actions can make you calmer under pressure, more present with loved ones, and a positive force in your community. Listen...

What if the very things you think you “need” are the same things holding you back? In this episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast, Shola Richards breaks down the three toxic needs that quietly sabotage your peace, your relationships, and your ability to live authentically. You’ll discover: Why the need to be liked can turn kindness into self-betrayal.How the need to be right destroys connection and keeps you from growing.Why the need for things to be easy makes you fragile and block...

Would you berate your friend every time they made mistake? Probably not. So why do we allow that kind of treatment from the voice in our own heads? In this episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast, Shola Richards tackles one of the toughest challenges we all face: negative self-talk. Shola shares 3 practical strategies to quiet the inner critic: Notice & Name ItQuestion the Evidence The Loved One Test Through the episode, you’ll learn how to break free from ...

Most people think kindness means being polite, smiling more, or holding the door open. But what if real kindness required you to step into discomfort, flip gossip on its head, and choose to care deeply about issues that don’t affect you personally? In this episode, Shola Richards shares 3 uncommon, courage-filled strategies to become a true Kindness Extremist: Seek Purposeful Discomfort – why leaning into the uncomfortable moments is an act of love.Practice “Kossip” – a game-changing w...

Critical thinking isn’t just smart — it’s kind. In this episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast, Shola Richards reveals why sharpening your critical thinking skills is one of the most powerful ways to create connection and compassion, and eventually, a kinder world. You’ll discover: Why intellectual humility is the foundation of better conversations and relationshipsHow to perform an “Assumption Audit” and uncover the hidden beliefs shaping your worldview5 common logical fallacies th...

Setting boundaries isn’t selfish — it’s one of the most compassionate choices you can make for yourself and for the people you love. In this episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast, Shola Richards gets real about what it takes to protect your priorities and reclaim your peace. As a lifelong recovering people-pleaser, Shola shares his hard-earned strategies for saying no without guilt, honoring what truly matters, and showing up more authentically in every area of life. You’ll ...

Have you ever landed a promotion, stepped into a big opportunity, or walked into an intimidating room and thought: “Any minute now, they’re going to find out I don’t belong here”? Welcome to the Imposter Club, you're in good company. In this episode, Shola Richards breaks down the hidden truth about imposter syndrome and shows you how to turn it into your secret weapon for growth. Through personal stories, real-life examples, and three powerful mindset shifts, you’ll learn how to...

Are we living in an appreciation-starved society? In this episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast, host Shola Richards exposes the hidden cost of neglecting gratitude and acknowledgment at work, at home, and in our closest relationships. What you’ll hear in this episode: The #1 reason most people quit their jobs (hint: it’s not pay).The surprising psychology of why we think people know we value them, but they don’t.3 practical strategies to level up your appreciation game in work, fa...

This episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast dives into one of the most difficult but urgent conversations of our time: radicalization. Shola Richards breaks down why traditional responses like shame, anger, or logic don’t work, and instead offers three strategies rooted in compassion, connection, and courage. 💡 What you’ll discover in this episode: The 3 phases of radicalization and the critical warning signs.Why shame, arguments, and confrontation often push people deeper into extr...

Negativity, drama, and toxic energy are everywhere — but the real challenge to your mission of creating a kinder world is the battle happening inside your own head. In this episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast, Shola Richards shares 3 powerful mindset strategies that will help you protect your attitude and keep moving forward no matter what life throws at you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Expect a Challenge – How to prepare for difficult people and situations so they can’t k...

Dealing with haters? Struggling with toxic feedback or online trolls? In this episode, Shola Richards shares his top 3 strategies to handle destructive criticism without losing your identity or peace. If you’ve ever held back on your dreams, your work, or your personality because of fear of judgment, this episode is your wake-up call to silence the haters and embrace your authentic self. You’ll learn how to: Respond with strength instead of reactivityUse hate as a signal to doub...

Think friendship has no place at work? Think again. In this thought-provoking episode, Shola Richards tackles one of the most harmful myths in modern workplace culture: "I'm not at work to make friends." If you've ever been told that friendship and professionalism don’t mix, prepare to have your perspective challenged. Tune in to hear: Why the "no-friends-at-work" mindset is sabotaging careers and mental health.Real-life examples of the human cost of workplace disconnection.The surpris...

Ever feel like your life quietly slipping into chaos? In this episode of The Kindness Extremist Podcast, Shola Richards unpacks one of the most overlooked forces shaping our relationships, health, workplace culture, and society: entropy — the universal drift from order to disorder. But don’t worry, this isn’t a physics lecture. You’ll learn how to reclaim your personal and professional life using Shola’s ICI Framework: ✔️ Intention – Focus your energy where it matters most ...

Is chronic complaining quietly draining your energy, damaging your relationships, and blocking your joy? In this episode, Shola Richards, your favorite Kindness Extremist, pulls back the curtain on one of the most toxic habits we all fall into: the endless complaint cycle. From the crucial difference between venting and complaining to how to protect your peace from other people's negativity, Shola is getting into it! In this episode, you'll discover: ✔️ Why complaining is ...

Can you lead with both heart and authority? In this episode of The Kindness Extremist, Shola Richards breaks down the myth that kindness is weakness in leadership — and reveals how compassion can become your greatest leadership superpower. Drawing from personal stories, research, and decades of leadership insight, Shola shares 3 transformative strategies to lead with authenticity, build trust, and drive results — all without compromising your strength. Whether you're leading a te...

Struggling with a toxic coworker, a passive-aggressive teammate, or a boss who takes credit for your work? You’re not alone. In this episode, host Shola Richards shares 3 practical strategies to help you handle difficult colleagues without sacrificing your peace of mind or professionalism. Shola offers practical, compassionate tools to protect your energy while staying true to your values. Learn when to speak up, when to let go, and how to use assertive communication that actually work...