Live from the Transform 2026 conference floor in Las Vegas, Lori sat down with Daria Maneche, founder of The Working Optimist, for a candid, neuroscience-backed conversation about what it actually takes to build human connection at work, and why the stakes for getting this right have never been higher. Daria brings a deeply personal why to her work: after years of her own struggles and many forms of support that fell short, it was understanding the neuroscience of the brain that finally changed how she walks through the world. That shift became the foundation of the Working Optimist Mindset Method, and now she is bringing it to teams and leaders across the globe. In this episode, you will hear: Why high-quality connections (HQC) at work are not a "nice to have" but a core performance and retention strategy How a raging amygdala physically blocks access to the prefrontal cortex, and why this matters for every decision your team makes under pressure The hidden burnout accelerator: working in a remote or hybrid environment without intentional space for human connection Why globalizing a workforce without cultural consideration is a recipe for disconnection and disengagement What the Working Optimist Mindset Method is, and how metacognition can help individuals and teams change the way they think about thinking Guest Bio Daria Maneche is the founder of The Working Optimist, where she brings neuroscience-backed tools rooted in positive psychology into workplace settings to help individuals and teams connect, think more clearly, and perform with greater resilience. She is also an executive and transformational coach. Timestamps [00:00] — Welcome from Transform 2026, Las Vegas [01:30] — Daria introduces the Working Optimist Mindset Method [03:00] — What leaders can be optimistic about: EQ, connection, and the age of digital transformation [05:30] — The HQC gap: what we are not investing in and why it matters [07:30] — Burnout is accelerating, and disengagement is part of it [08:30] — The amygdala, the prefrontal cortex, and why stress blocks problem-solving [10:00] — Daria's personal why: how neuroscience changed everything for her [12:00] — Where to find Daria and The Working Optimist Find Daria Maneche at: workingoptimist.com | and linkedin.com/in/daria-maneche-87331418 Subscribe, leave a review at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/, and share this episode. Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when the title is gone, but the work isn't finished? In this solo episode, Lori Adams-Brown pulls back the curtain on the past six months: the beach day that changed everything, the blank bio she couldn't write, and the Italian word that finally gave shape to what she was building. This is the origin story of Brava Global Advisory, and a masterclass in the kind of self-leadership most leaders never talk about out loud. What you'll hear in this episode: The moment at Santa Cruz that turned a word into a mission Why applying the Ikigai framework to yourself is completely different from applying it to others What it actually looks like to run an executive search and launch a consulting practice simultaneously How Lori's personal board of directors keeps her accountable (and why yes-people are leadership liabilities) Why the bravest work in today's world of work is being willing to see yourself clearly Lori Adams-Brown is a strategic transformation executive, intercultural leadership practitioner, and founder of Brava Global Advisory. With 20+ years advising senior leaders across six continents and six languagess, from Jakarta to San Jose, she brings a rare combination of global range and personal depth to every conversation. She hosts A World of Difference, a podcast with 153,000+ downloads across 100+ countries. Timestamps: [00:00] — The word brava, and what it means to earn it [04:30] — The blank bio: who are you outside the title? [09:00] — The beach, the reset, and the origin of Brava [14:00] — Applying Ikigai to yourself (it's harder than it sounds) [19:00] — Running a search and building a business at the same time [24:00] — Self-leadership, personal boards, and anti-yes-people [28:00] — What Brava is for — and what this show has always been for Subscribe, leave a review at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/, and share this episode. Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever started a new job and realized the “real work” isn’t just the work. It’s learning the culture, the decision-making rhythm, and what success actually looks like? In this re-released best-of conversation, Dr. Shweta Miglani breaks down the small, practical moves that help you ramp faster, build credibility, and grow your career without burning out. Dr. Miglani shares how her journey began in journalism, pivoted through learning science and instructional design, and expanded into global talent management and organizational development—supporting leaders across industries and countries. Together, we talk about what separates professionals who thrive quickly from those who stay stuck: proactive communication, stakeholder mapping, clear expectations, and learning how to lead with both strategy and humanity. You’ll hear actionable guidance for your first 90 days, how to make your one-on-ones count, and why emotional intelligence and cultural intelligence matter even more as AI transforms the workplace. If you’re stepping into a new role, navigating a career pivot, or leading across cultures, this one will give you a playbook you can actually use. Main topics we cover: The #1 mistake people make in a new job—and how to avoid it How to prepare for one-on-ones so you’re seen as a true partner Stakeholder mapping: the career accelerator most people skip Upskilling/reskilling + AI: what leaders must unlearn to adapt EQ + CQ: why “being more human” is the competitive advantage Dr. Shweta Miglani is a global talent and organizational development leader with deep experience across major companies, helping modern organizations build leadership, culture, and capability. She holds a doctorate in leadership development and organizational enablement and is the author of Navigate Your Career: Strategies for Success in New Roles or Promotions by Wiley press. Timestamps (approximate): 00:00 — BetterHelp + why support matters 01:30 — Why this best-of episode is back 04:30 — Shweta’s career pivot and the mentor question that changed everything 13:30 — The biggest early-career mistakes in a new role 20:00 — What high performers do differently (prep, proactivity, follow-through) 30:30 — Talent development trends: skilling + AI 40:30 — EQ/CQ and leading “more human” in an AI world 52:00 — The one leadership move: lead with your values + clear expectations 58:30 — “Difference Maker” community: planning, stakeholder map, managing up Subscribe, leave a review, Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone starting a new role or navigating a pivot. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Get 50% off your first 2 months with Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/ErHyXrgXYn3 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it look like to build a life from scratch, not once, but again and again? Nuray Krein Yilmaz has done it more times than most people ever will, and her story is one of the most quietly extraordinary ones we've shared on this podcast. Nuray grew up in a small farming village in eastern Turkey, the eleventh of twelve siblings, in a community where girls' futures were largely pre-written. She lost both parents to cancer before she turned 13. She taught herself to dream inside boarding school libraries and across chess tournaments — and she never stopped. In 2018, she moved to the United States through a cultural exchange program with limited English, no safety net, and an enormous amount of courage. Today she is a content analyst in tech, a published author, and the founder of What If You Can — a community for people navigating immigration, grief, career transitions, and the question of whether they belong. In this episode, Lori and Nuray explore: How losing both parents to cancer before age 13 became the unlikely foundation for a life built on education and agency The role her father played in naming a different future for her — in a place where most men didn't What chess taught her about being underestimated, competing, and winning on her own terms The layers of learning agility required to navigate new languages, new cities, new countries, and new cultures Practical advice for first-generation immigrants: mentors, community, salary negotiation, and the courage to ask for help Why storytelling and community are not soft extras — they are the infrastructure of belonging The vision behind What If You Can and what she most wants to say to the girl she once was Nuray Krein Yilmaz is a first-generation immigrant, content analyst working via Highspring at Google, a published author, and founder of the What If You Can community. She holds a degree in business administration and builds spaces for people navigating uncertainty with curiosity and hope. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 — Introduction & welcome 02:00 — Growing up on a farm in eastern Turkey; losing both parents before 13 05:00 — Her father's pivotal role; chess as a gateway to confidence and travel 10:00 — Arriving in the United States in 2018; navigating visa challenges and a new culture 18:00 — Education, self-learning, and tools for first-generation immigrants 22:00 — Salary negotiation, unwritten rules, and asking for help 24:00 — How storytelling builds belonging and motivation 29:00 — What If You Can community and the difference Nuray is making 33:00 — Where to find Nuray, her book, and her community Find Nuray Krein Yilmaz at: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nuraykreinyilmaz Instagram: @nuraykrein Book: Notes From My Mind (available on Amazon) Subscribe, leave a review at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/, and share this episode. Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the way we’ve been thinking about brains at work is fundamentally broken? What if accommodations aren’t about fixing people, but about unlocking talent we’ve been filtering out for decades? In this powerful episode, Lori sits down with Dave Thompson to explore how neurodiversity is the biggest shift in human capital in a generation, and why the companies that get it right will lead the future of work. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why “rebranding the brain” matters, and how moving from a deficit model to an ecological, strength-based framework changes everything for individuals and organizations The four levels of psychological safety (inclusion, learner, contributor, and challenger safety) and what they actually look like when done well — not as buzzwords Why hiring is broken for everyone, and how job descriptions, ATS systems, and rigid requirements filter out some of the most brilliant talent before they even get a chance The difference between accommodations and “success enablers” and why Dave’s “desk tour” approach unlocks self-advocacy without labels or paperwork How ERGs can become true business resource groups, and why emotional labor and self-advocacy deserve recognition, not just a bullet on a job description About Dave Thompson: Dave Thompson is a strategist, author, and internationally recognized speaker focused on redesigning systems that support the full range of human cognition. A program coordinator and visiting scholar at Vanderbilt University’s Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, two-time TEDx speaker, and advisor to Fortune 100 companies, he translates lived experience as an early-identified ADHDer and dyslexic thinker into practical change. His book Brainstorm: Neurodivergent Talent and the Future of Work is available now wherever books are sold. Timestamps: [00:00] Cold open — What if brains at work are fundamentally misunderstood? [01:10] Intro — Meet Dave Thompson [02:00] Dave’s why — From cheese club to systems change [04:30] Rebranding the brain — The rainforest analogy for neurodiversity [08:00] Belonging & psychological safety — The four levels explained [14:30] Hiring is broken — Job descriptions, ATS bias & filtering out brilliance [21:30] Success enablers vs. accommodations — Dave’s desk tour approach [26:00] Self-advocacy & recognition — Not everyone wants a birthday party [33:00] ERGs that actually work — From afterschool clubs to business drivers [40:00] Brainstorm the book — What Dave hopes readers take away [43:30] Outro — Patreon exclusive teaser + calls to action Want more? Dave joins us in the Difference Makers community on Patreon for an exclusive: watch here. Find Dave Thompson at: Website: brainstormneurodiversity.com Book: Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, bookshop.org, and wherever books are sold Subscribe, leave a review at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/, and share this episode. Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the key to innovation in your workplace isn't finding people who fit your culture, but transforming your culture to unlock brilliance that's been overlooked? Tara May, CEO of Aspiritech, has spent her career proving that when organizations create truly neuro-inclusive workplaces, everybody wins. In this conversation, Tara opens up about her personal journey, including raising an autistic son and her own OCD diagnosis in her 40s, and shares the practical frameworks any organization can use to go beyond diversity buzzwords and create real, measurable change. In this episode, you'll discover: Why 80% of autistic adults face unemployment, and what employers are missing The 'spiky cognitive profile' advantage and why neurodivergent talent can be 150% more productive What the 'ROI of Kindness' really means for your bottom line Three concrete steps to become a neuro-inclusive organization starting this week The canary in the coal mine: how accommodations for neurodivergent employees benefit everyone Why psychological safety isn't a soft skill — it's the engine of innovation About Tara May: Tara May is the CEO of Aspiritech, a tech services organization built on the belief that neurodivergent talent is a competitive advantage. With 25 years leading digital transformation at major media companies, Tara brings both executive credibility and lived experience to the movement for neuro-inclusive workplaces. Timestamps: [00:00] Intro — What if inclusion is the real innovation strategy? [01:24] Tara's origin story: An autistic son, a C-suite career, and a new mission [05:05] Neurodiversity belongs to all of us — the 86 billion neuron truth [06:56] Tara's own OCD diagnosis: 'It's okay to have needs' [10:03] Accommodations demystified: the water bottle story [13:20] The spiky cognitive profile and the strengths employers overlook [17:03] The index card meeting: introverted leadership in action [20:44] Universal design and the canary in the coal mine [25:27] 3 steps to becoming a neuro-inclusive organization [30:00] Psychological safety as the engine of digital transformation [35:11] How Aspiritech measures success — employees ARE the mission [38:54] One action you can take this week: ask 'what do I need?' [41:08] Where to find Tara and connect with Aspiritech Find Tara May at: www.aspiritech.org | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tara-may Subscribe, leave a review at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/, and share this episode. Visit our website for more resources. Mentioned in this episode: The Human Score — https://thehumanscore.org Find out how human-centric your organization really is with our 40-question survey and live dashboard. Get clear insights and practical steps to strengthen culture, trust, and performance. Host Lori Adams-Brown is one of the consultants in the Human Score Consultant Collective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're highly capable. So why does your next move feel so unclear? For senior leaders at a career inflection point — whether navigating a layoff, a values misalignment, or a long-overdue pivot — the problem is rarely a lack of skill. It's a lack of perspective. In this episode, executive coach and strategic advisor Karen Kunkel Young joins host Lori Adams-Brown to talk about what high-performing leaders consistently miss when they're standing at a crossroads — and what it actually takes to move forward with clarity, agency, and intention. In this conversation, you'll discover: Why the habits and communication styles that made you successful may now be holding you back — and how to see that shift before it costs you How to reclaim ownership of your career narrative, especially when external forces (layoffs, leadership changes, industry shifts) have made you feel like a passenger The critical transition from expert executor to strategic leader — and why skipping the mindset shift is a lose-lose for everyone How to advocate powerfully for your impact without it feeling like bragging — including the storytelling framework that connects your achievements to business outcomes A practical approach to fear in high-stakes transitions: how to name it, feel it, and use it as a launchpad rather than a brake About Karen Kunkel Young: Karen Kunkel Young is an executive coach and strategic advisor known as "the telescope in the room" — helping senior leaders step back far enough to see the blind spots, shifting influence, and hidden opportunities their current vantage point obscures. With nearly 30 years of experience as a global media showrunner (including Project Runway and Tim Gunn's Guide to Style), Karen brings a master storyteller's precision to leadership transitions, executive presence, and career pivots. Timestamps: 00:00 — Introduction & why this moment demands perspective over pace 01:12 — What highly capable leaders aren't seeing clearly right now 03:51 — You are the CEO of your career: reclaiming agency 07:30 — The expert-to-leader transition: why it's a lose-lose without support 10:04 — What the telescope reveals: the hard truth that changes how leaders lead 13:42 — Naming unspoken fear in high-stakes transitions 18:46 — How your narrative expands or limits your future influence 23:02 — Advocacy without bragging: the storytelling framework that works 28:14 — Coaching leaders through emotionally difficult career transitions 33:57 — Advice for high-performing women in a slow, painful job search 38:30 — Where to find Karen Kunkel Young 39:44 — Lori's closing reflection on perspective, resilience, and sustained impact Find Karen Kunkel-Young at: 🌐 karenkunkelyoung.com 💼 LinkedIn: Karen Kunkel Young Subscribe, leave a review at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/, and share this episode with a leader standing at a crossroads — even if they haven't named it yet. Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources, tools, and episodes designed for globally-minded leaders. Watch this episode on YouTube here. Join us for an exclusive with Karen on Patreon here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're highly capable. So why does your next move feel so unclear? For senior leaders at a career inflection point — whether navigating a layoff, a values misalignment, or a long-overdue pivot — the problem is rarely a lack of skill. It's a lack of perspective. In this episode, executive coach and strategic advisor Karen Kunkel Young joins host Lori Adams-Brown to talk about what high-performing leaders consistently miss when they're standing at a crossroads — and what it actually takes to move forward with clarity, agency, and intention. In this conversation, you'll discover: Why the habits and communication styles that made you successful may now be holding you back — and how to see that shift before it costs you How to reclaim ownership of your career narrative, especially when external forces (layoffs, leadership changes, industry shifts) have made you feel like a passenger The critical transition from expert executor to strategic leader — and why skipping the mindset shift is a lose-lose for everyone How to advocate powerfully for your impact without it feeling like bragging — including the storytelling framework that connects your achievements to business outcomes A practical approach to fear in high-stakes transitions: how to name it, feel it, and use it as a launchpad rather than a brake About Karen Kunkel Young: Karen Kunkel Young is an executive coach and strategic advisor known as "the telescope in the room" — helping senior leaders step back far enough to see the blind spots, shifting influence, and hidden opportunities their current vantage point obscures. With nearly 30 years of experience as a global media showrunner (including Project Runway and Tim Gunn's Guide to Style), Karen brings a master storyteller's precision to leadership transitions, executive presence, and career pivots. Timestamps: 00:00 — Introduction & why this moment demands perspective over pace 01:12 — What highly capable leaders aren't seeing clearly right now 03:51 — You are the CEO of your career: reclaiming agency 07:30 — The expert-to-leader transition: why it's a lose-lose without support 10:04 — What the telescope reveals: the hard truth that changes how leaders lead 13:42 — Naming unspoken fear in high-stakes transitions 18:46 — How your narrative expands or limits your future influence 23:02 — Advocacy without bragging: the storytelling framework that works 28:14 — Coaching leaders through emotionally difficult career transitions 33:57 — Advice for high-performing women in a slow, painful job search 38:30 — Where to find Karen Kunkel Young 39:44 — Lori's closing reflection on perspective, resilience, and sustained impact Find Karen Kunkel-Young at: 🌐 karenkunkelyoung.com 💼 LinkedIn: Karen Kunkel Young Subscribe, leave a review at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/, and share this episode with a leader standing at a crossroads — even if they haven't named it yet. Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources, tools, and episodes designed for globally-minded leaders. Watch this episode on YouTube here. Join us for an exclusive with Karen on Patreon here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when the doors you’ve worked for keep closing because of factors you can’t control? In this episode, Rebeca Lopez Valerio shares how she turned “no” into fuel, built opportunities from scratch, and learned to lead with coraje, heart-forward courage rooted in identity, resilience, and values. Rebeca’s story is powerful and deeply human. Born in Mexico with Indigenous roots from the Oaxaca/Puebla region, she immigrated to the U.S. at age four and navigated life as a first-generation student, while also carrying the realities of being undocumented during key years of her education and career journey. Together, we talk about what it really takes to keep showing up when the stakes are high, and how community can be the difference between feeling stuck and finding your way forward. In this episode, we cover: Indigenous heritage, language loss, and the impact of “dialects being looked down on” First-generation student survival: why community often beats 1:1 mentorship How to lead with ambition without being defined by hardship Rejection as strategy: building your brand through projects, businesses, and relationships Sustainable fashion + AI: how Apparel Assist aims to reduce clothing waste by starting in our closets Guest bio:Rebeca Lopez Valerio is a hardware engineer, entrepreneur, and community builder. A first-generation immigrant with a background in electrical engineering, she co-founded Apparel Assist, a sustainable fashion startup exploring how AI can help people rewear what they already own and reduce clothing waste. Timestamps (highlights): 00:01 – Meet Rebeca + the cultures that formed her 01:11 – Indigenous roots and the reality of language loss 05:44 – Immigrating at age four + education access 08:59 – Most overlooked resource for first-gen students: community 15:11 – “No” after “no”: how Rebeca built her personal brand 24:39 – Practical strategy: relationships, reps, and showing up anyway 29:56 – From cleaning business to Apparel Assist (AI + sustainability) 42:39 – Where to find Rebeca + Apparel Assist on Instagram Bonus: 00:01 – Legacy: impact through everyday interactions Follow Apparel Assist on Instagram, where Rebeca and her team are sharing the story behind their AI-powered sustainable fashion platform and inviting community conversation. Call to action:Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who’s been shrinking to fit. Visit loriadamsbrown.com for more resources and to stay connected. Join Lori for. an exclusive with Rebeca with our Difference Makers on Patreon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the very conversations you’re avoiding are the ones that could change everything? In this episode, we explore the hidden cost of silence, and how choosing “peace” over honesty can slowly erode trust, connection, and even joy. Many of us were taught to keep the peace, smooth things over, or stay quiet especially when the stakes are high in families, partnerships, and leadership roles. But as today’s conversation reveals, avoiding hard conversations doesn’t actually protect relationships. It quietly damages them. This episode is for anyone who knows something needs to be said, but isn’t sure how, when, or whether it’s safe to say it at all. I’m joined by Amy Brodsky. Amy is Founder and CEO of Sky Partners, a Performance Coaching, Facilitation and Advisory Firm. Amy has spent her career helping CEOs, Leadership Teams, UHNW Families and high-profile individuals navigate their most confidential and complex matters, including challenging team and family dynamics. Amy helps CEOs and Leadership Teams achieve the utmost success through exploring their current thoughts and patterns of behavior while supporting them as they create shifts to increase performance, professional relationships, awareness and peace. Amy has 30 years of experience in leadership, transformational change, negotiation and executive coaching across sectors. She has led client engagements ranging from large-scale mergers and acquisitions, organizational change, and cultural integrations. Amy holds a J.D. from New York Law School, Executive Coaching Certification from Columbia University and B.A. from University of New Hampshire. Her past employers include J.P. Morgan, Union Bank of Switzerland, PIMCO and U.S. Trust. Amy has been a guest on CNN to discuss the topic of harassment in the workplace. She is a well-known speaker on the topic of Family Dynamics, Performance Coaching and Acquisitions. This is not about being confrontational. It’s about being honest. It’s about understanding the difference between peace and avoidance, and learning how to reclaim your voice without burning bridges. In this episode, we explore: Why avoiding difficult conversations creates fear, dysfunction, and lost potential The emotional dynamics that silently shape families, teams, and organizations The difference between technical problems and adaptive (human) challenges How self-awareness, intentional listening, and inquiry rebuild trust Why psychological safety and dignity are foundational—not optional—for performance About the Guest:Amy Brodsky is a performance coach and advisor who helps CEOs, leadership teams, and families navigate high-stakes conversations, succession planning, and deeply rooted relational challenges. With a background spanning Wall Street, HR leadership, and organizational behavior, Amy brings rigor, compassion, and clarity to the conversations that matter most. www.skyconsulting.org www.linkedin.com/in/amybrodsky Key Timestamps: 00:02 – Peace vs. avoidance: what silence really costs 08:14 – Emotional dynamics and why we’re never taught to communicate 16:36 – Trust, succession, and the real reasons families and companies fail 21:20 – Technical vs. adaptive challenges explained 35:28 – How assumptions derail relationships 39:10 – Final reflections: courage, fear, and choosing growth Call to Action:Subscribe to A World of Difference, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs permission to speak up. Visit loriadamsbrown.com to learn more and stay connected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when faith communities quietly replace women’s leadership with unpaid, invisible labor? In this powerful Best of 2025 #1 top most downloaded episode of 2025 re-release, historian and bestselling author Dr. Beth Allison Barr joins Lori Adams-Brown to unpack how the role of the “pastor’s wife” became a substitute for women’s ordination—and the deep harm that followed. Drawing from her book Becoming the Pastor’s Wife, Beth combines rigorous historical research with lived experience to show how a once-fluid vision of women’s leadership in Christianity narrowed dramatically in the late 20th century. What emerges is a sobering picture: women expected to perform the equivalent of multiple full-time jobs for free, while being told their obedience—not their gifts—is God’s highest calling. Together, Lori and Beth explore how this shift didn’t happen gradually, but almost overnight, during the Southern Baptist Convention’s fundamentalist takeover. They discuss the psychological toll on women, the myth of “biblical womanhood,” and how patriarchy often survives by recruiting women to enforce it. This conversation isn’t just about church history—it’s about power, unpaid labor, identity, and what happens when women are asked to disappear for the sake of “peace.” In this episode, we cover: How marriage replaced ordination as women’s path to ministry The myth of the “ideal” pastor’s wife and its emotional toll Why unpaid labor is framed as godliness—and why that’s harmful How women are pitted against one another inside patriarchal systems What it could look like for women to work together instead Guest Bio:Beth Allison Barr is a medieval historian, professor, and bestselling author of The Making of Biblical Womanhood. Her work bridges history, faith, and gender, helping readers recover the erased stories of women in Christianity. Key Timestamps: 00:05 – The forgotten legacy of Willie Dawson 12:30 – Dorothy Patterson’s hats & the performance of submission 19:40 – The “patriarchal bargain” explained 24:15 – The emotional cost of being the ideal pastor’s wife 27:40 – A vision for working together, not competing Call to Action:Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating faith, leadership, or invisible labor. Visit our podcast website or loriadamsbrown.com for more resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some conversations stay with us because they name what we’ve been living but haven’t had words for yet. This episode is one of those moments, a reminder that gratitude does not require us to deny our pain, and authenticity does not demand perfection. As we revisit this Thanksgiving message, one of the most downloaded and shared episodes of the year, Lori reflects on what it means to hold multiple truths at the same time. In a year marked by layoffs, uncertainty, grief, and global upheaval, this episode offers permission to be honest and grateful, resilient and tender. This is not a call to toxic positivity. It’s an invitation to courageous leadership by showing up fully human, holding space for ourselves and others, and leading with compassion even when life is messy. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why gratitude and grief are not opposites, and why leaders need both How holding “two truths” builds psychological safety and trust The difference between compassion and dismissal during times of loss What authentic leadership looks like in seasons of uncertainty Practical ways to support others facing layoffs, trauma, or transition Guest BioLori Adams-Brown is the host of A World of Difference and a globally minded leadership expert focused on difference, resilience, and authentic leadership. With decades of cross-cultural experience, Lori creates spaces where leaders learn to show up fully human while making meaningful impact. Key Moments 00:00 – Why this message resonated so deeply with listeners 02:10 – Holding gratitude and grief at the same time 04:30 – Trauma, empathy, and the power of being witnessed 06:55 – How to truly support someone after a layoff 09:10 – Joy, purpose, and showing up in your strengths If this episode resonates, subscribe to A World of Difference, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% off with the code: DIFFERENT Learn more at loriadamsbrown.com. Are you on Substack? Lori is too. Find her here: https://loriadamsbrown.substack.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever started a new job and realized the “real work” isn’t just the work. It’s learning the culture, the decision-making rhythm, and what success actually looks like? In this re-released best-of conversation, Dr. Shweta Miglani breaks down the small, practical moves that help you ramp faster, build credibility, and grow your career without burning out. Dr. Miglani shares how her journey began in journalism, pivoted through learning science and instructional design, and expanded into global talent management and organizational development—supporting leaders across industries and countries. Together, we talk about what separates professionals who thrive quickly from those who stay stuck: proactive communication, stakeholder mapping, clear expectations, and learning how to lead with both strategy and humanity. You’ll hear actionable guidance for your first 90 days, how to make your one-on-ones count, and why emotional intelligence and cultural intelligence matter even more as AI transforms the workplace. If you’re stepping into a new role, navigating a career pivot, or leading across cultures, this one will give you a playbook you can actually use. Main topics we cover: The #1 mistake people make in a new job—and how to avoid it How to prepare for one-on-ones so you’re seen as a true partner Stakeholder mapping: the career accelerator most people skip Upskilling/reskilling + AI: what leaders must unlearn to adapt EQ + CQ: why “being more human” is the competitive advantage Dr. Shweta Miglani is a global talent and organizational development leader with deep experience across major companies, helping modern organizations build leadership, culture, and capability. She holds a doctorate in leadership development and organizational enablement and is the author of Navigate Your Career: Strategies for Success in New Roles or Promotions by Wiley press. Timestamps (approximate): 00:00 — BetterHelp + why support matters 01:30 — Why this best-of episode is back 04:30 — Shweta’s career pivot and the mentor question that changed everything 13:30 — The biggest early-career mistakes in a new role 20:00 — What high performers do differently (prep, proactivity, follow-through) 30:30 — Talent development trends: skilling + AI 40:30 — EQ/CQ and leading “more human” in an AI world 52:00 — The one leadership move: lead with your values + clear expectations 58:30 — “Difference Maker” community: planning, stakeholder map, managing up Subscribe, leave a review, Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone starting a new role or navigating a pivot. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Get 50% off your first 2 months with Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/ErHyXrgXYn3 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the talent your organization is searching for is already inside your walls? In this Best of episode, Lori revisits one of the most impactful conversations of the year with talent strategy expert Dr. Edie Goldberg, and it’s just as relevant now as when it first aired. Dr. Goldberg shares why traditional job structures are holding organizations back, how skills-based talent strategies unlock massive ROI, and what leaders can do right now to reduce burnout while increasing engagement and agility. Why internal talent marketplaces are transforming how work gets done How skills-based approaches future-proof organizations amid constant change What “job crafting” really means—and how it helps prevent burnout How AI can reduce work (not increase it) when used thoughtfully Why widening pathways to talent is both a moral and business imperative Dr. Goldberg is the founder of E. L. Goldberg & Associates, a nationally recognized expert in HR strategy, and the author of The Inside Gig. She previously served as Global Leader for Learning and Development at Towers Perrin and recently chaired the board of the SHRM Foundation, where she helps mobilize HR as a force for positive social change. You’ll also hear concrete examples from organizations like Cisco Systems and HERE Technologies, showing how internal mobility saved millions, boosted engagement, and created more resilient teams. 05:40 – What industrial-organizational psychology teaches us about work 14:20 – The birth of internal talent marketplaces 21:10 – How skills-based strategy saves millions 28:30 – Burnout, job crafting, and deconstructing work 36:45 – Widening access to opportunity through HR 🎧 Listen now and discover why developing talent from within isn’t just smart—it’s essential. 👉 Subscribe, leave a review, and explore more at https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference https://bsky.app/profile/aworldofdifference.bsky.social https://www.tiktok.com/@aworldofdifference https://loriadamsbrown.substack.com Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Get 50% off your first 2 months with Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/ErHyXrgXYn3 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As 2025 comes to a close, this episode is a love letter to difference makers everywhere—those navigating change, courage, career pivots, and complex workplaces. Lori Adams-Brown reflects on the books that shaped her thinking this year and deeply resonated with listeners across the globe. From leadership in the age of AI to psychological safety, toxic workplaces, courage, presence, and recovery after trauma, these books don’t just inform—they invite you to live and lead differently. Many of the authors joined the podcast this year; others quietly transformed Lori’s thinking behind the scenes. Together, they form a powerful reading list for anyone committed to doing good work without losing themselves in the process. This episode is also a reminder: your voice matters. Whether you’re job searching, leading a team, serving your community, or recovering from burnout, these books offer language, courage, and perspective for the road ahead. In this episode, we explore: How leadership is evolving in the age of AI—and why authenticity matters more than ever What psychologically safe workplaces actually require (beyond values on a wall) Courage, agency, and presence in times of uncertainty Navigating toxic workplaces without sacrificing your dignity Why being “nice” can keep us stuck—and what real change requires Featured authors and books include: AI for the Authentic Leader Any Dumbass Can Do It Courage Over Fear Navigating a Toxic Workplace for Dummies The Price of Nice Perceptive The Psychological Safety Playbook Unforgettable Presence Navigating Your Career All the Cool Girls Get Fired Becoming the Pastor’s Wife The Well-Trained Wife and I Belong to Me Key Moments: 00:01 – Why books matter to difference makers 00:03 – Leadership, AI, and early voices at the table 00:06 – Courage, agency, and toxic workplaces 00:10 – Psychological safety and inclusive leadership 00:14 – Career pivots, presence, and visibility 00:18 – Religious trauma, recovery, and hope 00:19 – A message of encouragement for those navigating uncertainty ✨ Call to Action:Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow difference maker.Visit https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com for more resources and episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you feeling the weight of leadership decisions that seem to pull you away from your core values? You're not alone in wrestling with what it means to lead authentically when the world around us feels increasingly divided and transactional. What happens when kindness becomes your greatest strength, not your weakness? In a year marked by global upheaval, AI transformation, and workplace challenges that have disproportionately affected women, the question of authentic leadership has never been more critical. This reflection episode comes at a time when many executives are facing impossible choices between convenience and character. From ICE raids affecting Venezuelan asylum seekers to the McKinsey study showing gender parity gaps widening, from AI bias in compensation algorithms to the cultural wars targeting women in the workplace. The stakes for values-driven leadership have never been higher. I share personal reflections on navigating leadership challenges this year, including difficult decisions about walking away when values alignment disappeared. Drawing from childhood Christmas traditions in Venezuela to recent experiences in Denmark's hygge culture, this episode explores what it means to choose integrity over convenience. The courage to exit misaligned situations - Why walking away when values don't align isn't failure, but integrity, and how to recognize when it's time to make that difficult choice. Listening as leadership in divided times - How genuine listening to understand becomes your most powerful tool when relationships have become increasingly transactional. Human-centered approaches in the AI era - Why protecting dignity, voice, and agency matters more than ever as artificial intelligence transforms how we work. The strength of kindness framework - How to reject the false choice between being kind and being strong, and why authentic leaders embody both simultaneously. Building psychological safety through vulnerability - Practical ways to create environments where people can push back, make mistakes, and grow without fear of retaliation. The episode also touches on global perspectives that shape authentic leadership, from celebrating Maria Corina Machado's Nobel Peace Prize to learning from Denmark's egalitarian happiness model. These experiences remind us that our differences aren't the problem. They're the path forward. If you've ever questioned whether you can maintain your values while navigating complex organizational politics, or wondered how to lead with both strength and humanity, this reflection will help you clarify what matters most as you head into the new year. What You'll Discover The courage to exit misaligned situations - Why walking away when values don't align isn't failure, but integrity, and how to recognize when it's time to make that difficult choice. Listening as leadership in divided times - How genuine listening to understand becomes your most powerful tool when relationships have become increasingly transactional. Human-centered approaches in the AI era - Why protecting dignity, voice, and agency matters more than ever as artificial intelligence transforms how we work. The strength of kindness framework - How to reject the false choice between being kind and being strong, and why authentic leaders embody both simultaneously. Building psychological safety through vulnerability - Practical ways to create environments where people can push back, make mistakes, and grow without fear of retaliation. https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Subscribe, leave a review, and share episode 10% off therapy Master the Career Pivot. 10% off with code: DIFFERENT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you leading with the assumption that your team is operating from a place of psychological safety? The reality might shock you. Recent research reveals that 80% of workplace professionals have experienced trauma that directly impacts how they show up at work—and most leaders have no idea it's happening. What happens when that high-performing employee suddenly becomes reactive during feedback sessions? Or when your most talented team member can't seem to engage during meetings? Elizabeth Vahey Smith, COO of TCK Training and trauma-informed care practitioner, has spent over a decade researching how unprocessed experiences shape workplace behavior, and the findings will change how you think about leadership entirely. From her base in Vietnam, where she's currently traveling through her 27th country with her family, Elizabeth brings a unique perspective on how global mobility, cultural transitions, and everyday workplace interactions can create lasting impacts on our nervous systems. Her research shows that while "big T" traumas like natural disasters rarely trigger workplace responses, it's the "little t" traumas, those moments that make us feel helpless or unsafe, that create the biggest leadership challenges. In this conversation, Elizabeth reveals why that simple phrase "we need to talk" sends so many employees into panic mode, and how leaders can make tiny pivots that completely transform team dynamics. She shares the difference between cultural adaptation and trauma response, and explains why some of your most valuable employees might be operating in survival mode while appearing to be your top performers. Here are 5 key insights you can expect from this episode on building psychologically safe, high-performing teams: The 80% reality check - Why most of your team is likely carrying workplace trauma and how it's showing up in ways you haven't recognized. Big T versus little T trauma - How to distinguish between major life events and the accumulated experiences that actually create the most workplace triggers. Curiosity-led conversations - A powerful framework for starting difficult discussions that builds trust instead of triggering defensive responses. Cultural adaptation versus trauma response - How to identify whether employee reactions stem from cultural differences or deeper safety concerns. The hidden cost of hyper-vigilance - Why your most productive employees might be heading toward burnout and how to intervene before it's too late. If you've ever wondered why some team members seem to overreact to normal workplace situations, or if you're a globally mobile professional trying to understand your own responses to leadership and change, this conversation provides both the research and the practical tools you need. Elizabeth's work proves that trauma-informed leadership isn't just compassionate. It's strategic, profitable, and essential for building the kinds of teams where people actually want to stay and grow. 00:00:00The Hidden Reality of Workplace Trauma 00:02:58From Papua New Guinea to Global Leadership 00:07:19Understanding Big T vs Little T Trauma at Work 00:11:59Building Psychological Safety Through Curiosity 00:15:56Trauma vs Cultural Differences in the Workplace 00:19:55The Unexpected Benefits of Trauma Experience 00:26:52Preventing Burnout Through Recovery Skills 00:30:27Research Insights on Workplace Psychological Safety 00:37:34Managing Fear-Based Leadership and Dark Triad Personalities 00:42:29Connecting with Trauma-Informed Leadership Resources including her book Trauma-Informed Leadership Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you leading teams across cultures but struggling to understand why brilliant strategies fail and talented people clash? The answer might be simpler than you think, and more complex than you've imagined. What happens when the biggest barrier to global leadership isn't language or logistics, but the invisible assumptions we carry about how work should get done? Maria Angela Calmet has spent over 15 years leading projects across five continents, and she's discovered that the most successful leaders aren't just culturally aware—they're culturally competent. As CEO and founder of Allopoli and author of LIDERESA, Maria Angela has seen firsthand what separates leaders who thrive globally from those who fail spectacularly. Her framework goes beyond surface-level cultural etiquette to address the root systems that drive behavior, decision-making, and trust-building across cultures. In this conversation, Maria Angela reveals why directness in Dutch culture completely transformed her understanding of feedback, how a simple question about an engineer's character in Egypt opened her eyes to relationship-versus-task orientations, and why cultural competence is now listed as a top future skill by the World Economic Forum. But this isn't just about working with international teams. Whether you're navigating subcultures within your own organization or building bridges in your local community, the principles Maria Angela shares will change how you see leadership itself. ⁠https://www.allopoli.com⁠ ⁠Maria Angela Calmet⁠ Here are 5 key insights you can expect from this episode on building cultural competence as a leader: The Tree Analogy Framework - Why focusing on visible cultural differences (the leaves and flowers) while ignoring root beliefs and assumptions leads to persistent conflict and missed opportunities. Four Essential Leadership Competencies - The specific skills Maria Angela has identified through her global experience: effective communication, developing talent, visualizing impact, and thinking in solutions. The Fish Bowl Revelation - How to identify the cultural "water" you're swimming in and recognize unconscious biases that shape your leadership decisions without your awareness. Direct vs. Indirect Communication Reframe - Why Dutch directness taught Maria Angela that clear feedback is actually an act of kindness, and how this insight can transform your approach to difficult conversations. Relationship vs. Task Orientation - A powerful example from Egypt that demonstrates why some cultures prioritize personal character over technical competence, and what this means for building trust in global teams. If you've ever wondered why your best intentions sometimes create the worst outcomes when working across cultures, this conversation will give you the framework to lead with curiosity instead of judgment. The future belongs to leaders who can see the world through multiple cultural lenses—and Maria Angela shows you exactly how to develop that vision. 00:04:08Three Cultures That Shaped a Global Leader 00:06:20Building Allopoli: Creating Communities Across Cultural Differences 00:11:39Why Cultural Competence is the Future of Leadership 00:16:00Task vs Relationship: When Cultural Worldviews Clash in Business 00:20:48Four Essential Leadership Competencies for Global Success 00:25:44Breaking Barriers: Women Leaders in Latin America's Patriarchal Culture 00:33:11From Offense to Understanding: How Dutch Directness Changed Everything 00:37:06Beyond Surface Culture: Understanding the Roots of Cultural Differences What You'll Learn Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode Need therapy: get 10% off your first month Sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot. 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Get 50% off your first 2 months with Riverside: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you struggling to hold space for both gratitude and grief in your leadership? In a year marked by unprecedented challenges, many executives are finding it difficult to navigate the tension between authentic appreciation and the very real pain their teams are experiencing. What happens when toxic positivity meets genuine leadership? In this deeply personal Thanksgiving reflection, I share why the most powerful leaders aren't the ones who wrap everything up in a neat bow, but those who can hold multiple truths simultaneously—the joy and the suffering, the wins and the losses, the hope and the heartbreak. This isn't about pretending everything is fine when layoffs are decimating Silicon Valley, elections are dividing communities, and talented professionals are being pushed out simply for having a voice. Instead, it's about the kind of authentic leadership that allows both you and your team to show up as complete humans walking through difficult things together. I reveal why being an empathetic witness to others' struggles is one of the most powerful leadership tools you'll ever develop, and share the specific ways you can show up for team members facing job loss without falling into the trap of dismissive "compliments" that actually make things worse. What you'll discover: The power of holding multiple truths - How to acknowledge both gratitude and grief without falling into toxic positivity that dismisses real pain. Empathetic witness leadership - Why sharing difficulties with someone who truly listens creates healing and builds stronger team connections. Values-driven decision making - How to use your core values as a filter for leadership choices, especially during uncertain times. Supporting team members through job loss - Practical ways to help colleagues facing layoffs, plus what not to say when someone loses their job. Finding joy in your strengths - The Steph Curry principle of maintaining childlike enthusiasm for your work, even amid workplace challenges. If you've ever wondered how to lead with both strength and vulnerability, or how to create psychological safety while acknowledging real workplace difficulties, this episode offers a framework for authentic leadership that doesn't sacrifice honesty for optimism. 00:00:00Authentic Leadership Through Gratitude and Community Connection 00:02:16Holding Multiple Truths - Gratitude Amid Suffering and Trauma 00:05:23Values-Driven Leadership and Personal Board of Directors 00:05:25Supporting Others Through Job Loss and Career Transitions 00:11:57Community Impact and Podcast Growth Through Shared Conversations 00:12:47Mental Health Resources and Professional Support Systems Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Get 50% off your first 2 months with Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/ErHyXrgXYn3 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you feeling the tension between staying authentic and using AI tools in your leadership? You're not alone. Many executives are grappling with this exact challenge, and the stakes have never been higher. What happens when the biggest threat to authentic leadership isn't AI itself, but how we choose to use it? Communication expert Allison Shapira has spent years helping executives find their voice in moments that matter most. Now she's tackling the question keeping leaders up at night: How do you stay human when the tools you're using aren't? Her new book, AI for the Authentic Leader, isn't about becoming an AI expert—it's about alignment, presence, and whether the future of leadership will amplify our humanity or quietly erase it. In this conversation, Allison reveals where most leaders are already falling out of alignment without realizing it. She shares why vocal fry in AI assistants could literally program weakness into future voices, and explains the critical mistake executives make with AI that actually undermines their credibility. Find out more about Allison on her website. Here are 5 key insights you can expect from this episode on balancing human connection and AI efficiency: The AI Authenticity Loop framework - Why the human isn't just "in the loop" but is the loop, and how this mindset shift changes everything. The "Why You?" question - A powerful tool for finding your authentic voice before crafting any message or entering any high-stakes conversation. Value-centered AI alignment - How to use AI tools to amplify your best authentic self rather than outsourcing your voice entirely. The vocal fry warning - Why AI voice assistants are programming vocal weakness into future generations and what leaders can do about it. Practical boundaries for AI use - A simple test to determine when AI assistance is appropriate and when human-only effort demonstrates true value. If you've ever wondered whether you can use AI tools without losing your authentic voice, this episode will change how you think about both technology and leadership. The future belongs to leaders who can harness AI while staying deeply human—and this conversation shows you exactly how to do it. 00:01:30AI and Authentic Leadership Introduction 00:03:02Finding Your Voice Through Travel 00:05:54Using AI to Amplify, Not Replace Your Voice 00:10:07The Critical Importance of Alignment 00:15:20Public Speaking as Leadership 00:18:03Finding Your Authentic Voice with "Why You" 00:22:20Overcoming AI Fear and Resistance 00:26:31AI's Dangerous Vocal Programming 00:31:19Maintaining Authenticity with AI Tools 00:35:13Building Confidence in the AI Era 00:40:41Connecting with Allison and Resources Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Get 50% off your first 2 months with Riverside: https://riverside.cello.so/ErHyXrgXYn3 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices