In this episode, Roxanne Derhodge chats with Kristin Light, a vintage dancer and advocate for neurodivergence in the workplace. They delve into Kristin's personal experience with mental health and her transition to advocacy. They discuss the importance of authenticity, relationships, and leadership in the workplace, as well as the role of mental health in organizations. Also, they explore the concept of demonstrating diversity of thought using Lego. Towards the end, they touch on the significance of neurodiversity in strategic plans and introduce Roxanne's new book.

Roxanne Derhodge engages with Kristen Light in a thought-provoking discussion about neurodiversity's role and implications in the corporate world. Kristen candidly shares her personal neurodivergence journey, including the concept of 'masking'. The conversation delves into the stigma surrounding therapy and mental health, authenticity struggles, and societal expectations. Emphasizing the power of diversity in problem-solving, they underscore mental health as a business strategy. They also offer guidance for leaders to aid neurodiversity in the workplace and discuss Kristen's neuro inclusion program. The episode wraps up with a glimpse into Roxanne's new book, "ROR: Return on Relationships".

In this episode, Roxanne welcomes Mark Meyer to discuss the impact of trauma on life choices and the importance of course corrections in life's journey. They delve into self-awareness in leadership, and explore Mark's book, "The Art of Being Authentic". The conversation also covers the role of vulnerability in authenticity, the significance of recruiting with values in mind, and the necessity of updating values and beliefs according to life changes. They end with a discussion on the importance of bringing personal values to work.

In this episode, social worker Michel Arsenault joins Roxanne Derhodge to discuss the evolving recognition of gender diversity in the workplace. They delve into common misunderstandings, the importance of incorporating gender diversity in company policies, and navigating the delicate balance between employee privacy and company transparency. Strategies for addressing potential transphobia on social media platforms are also considered, alongside the vital role of diversity in innovative businesses.

Quote: “We have to take those hard moments and see what lessons can be learned and what can be applied from them, because that’s where the growth happens.” Jevon Wooden As we go through life, many of us are searching for our purpose or our reason to keep improving.  Leaders are no different. They must also realize what it takes to become an effective and empathetic leader. This can only be done when they recognize their own “why”. On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we’re thrilled to welcome Jevon Wooden to share his story of struggle and how he found the reason to turn his life around. Jevon is a dynamic coach and growth strategist, speaker, author, and Army Veteran who is passionate about leadership, growth strategy, and helping motivated leaders and businesses achieve their goals. He earned his master's degree in cybersecurity from Fordham University and his MBA from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland, drawing on his 12 years of experience in the military to hone his expertise in all aspects of leadership and peak performance under the highest possible stakes. Authentic Touch Points: Jevon’s journey to military life. 1:45 Finding structure and pushing through. 5:30 Connecting to your WHY. 10:30 It only takes one person to see your value. 15:00 Empathy in leadership is a must. 22:00 Leaders have impact. 29:00 Opening the dialogue to improvement. 32:00 Tips to get started. 36:00 Jevon's mission is to help others discover their true potential, define success on their own terms, and pursue their greatness despite seemingly insurmountable challenges. His remarkable business growth and personal development ideas have been featured in top publications such as Entrepreneur, Fast Company, Foundr, Forbes, and Verizon.  It’s time to take action and make a difference! Book a strategy call to discuss how you can become a more authentic leader for your team.  You can also Take our online quiz to rate your authenticity as a leader! Links: Jevon’s website: https://brightmindconsultinggroup.com/ Jevon’s book: Own Your Kingdom: How To Increase Your Confidence, Build Your Self-Esteem, And Control Your Destiny: Canada: https://www.amazon.ca/Own-Your-Kingdom-Confidence-Self-Esteem/dp/B09CRSP73X US: https://www.amazon.com/Own-Your-Kingdom-Confidence-Self-Esteem/dp/B09CRSP73X Jevon’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jevonwooden/ Roxanne’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannederhodge/ Book a complementary call with Roxanne: https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ Take our online quiz: https://roxannederhodge.com/quiz/

In this episode, Roxanne Derhodge talks with Jevon Wooden about his life journey, military experience, and the importance of resilience. Jevon shares his insights on empathetic leadership, overcoming adversity, and the role of feedback in personal growth. The discussion also includes highlights from Jevon's book, "Own Your Kingdom".

Quote: “We need to invest in ourselves, in the strength of our mind and the strength of our well-being.” Mike Pagan If there is anything that we have learned during COVID, it is that isolation is not good for our mental health and our overall well-being. Whether we are in a leadership role or a team member, we need to have support to help us feel connected and part of a team. Working in isolation, be that in a company or as part of a team (yes, team isolation is very real), can often cause a lack of direction and creativity, which prevents the ability to make decisions. On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we are happy to welcome Mike Pagan, who will share his “Mental Wealth” philosophy and how we can all help each other feel less isolated and alone. Mike is an executive coach with more than 25 years of combined corporate business management, coaching and consulting experience who coined the phrase “Mental Wealth.” He is an expert in helping clients achieve positive mental wealth through building hand-picked support networks and helping them unlock significant performance improvements. His expertise includes working with entrepreneurial small businesses through to corporate board members and professional sportsmen and women, both in the UK and internationally. Authentic Touch Points: Mike’s path to mental health. 2:30 Being proactive and accountable. 5:00 Unintentional isolation. 8:30 Trust and empower your team. 13:30 CSR vs HSR. 16:00 Fill your own cup first. 19:00 Being vulnerable as a leader. 22:00 Creating team connection. 24:00 Mike has found himself lost at points in his career, alone and isolated due to a lack of meaningful proactive support. By surrounding himself with his own hand-picked Mental Wealth team of supportive people, he’s now happier in life, more successful in business and feels more mentally and physically able to navigate the path ahead. It’s time to take action and make a difference! Book a strategy call to discuss how you can become a more authentic leader for your team. https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ You can also Take our online quiz to rate your authenticity as a leader! Stay Authentic, Roxanne Links: Mike’s website: https://mikepagan.com Mike’s book: https://mikepagan.com/mental-wealth-unlock-your-potential/ Mental Wealth Assessment: https://mikepagan.com/mental-wealth-assessment/ Mike’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepagan/ Roxanne’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannederhodge/ Book a complimentary call with Roxanne: https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/

In this episode, Roxanne engages Mike Pagan in a candid conversation about mental health, workplace dynamics, and the importance of self-care. They explore the impact of hybrid working on mental health, discuss the dangers of portraying perfection in leadership, and offer practical steps for improving workplace connection. The conversation wraps up with a challenge to listeners to analyze their relationships.

Quote: “I am an empathetic leader, and I do lead with my heart, but a lot of things are very factual and statistic-based, so I have to balance both of those things.” Lori Lococo Lori's episode was so popular that we decided to use it as a classic rewind. This information is so important, and teams need empathetic and caring leaders now more than ever! What is your leadership style? Are you a very fact and process-based leader or are you more driven by your heart and feel a connection to those you lead? Both are important traits, but in today’s work climate, you really do need to have a good relationship with your team in order to succeed. Working to create a bond not only helps to put your people on a productive path but also helps you retain your best and brightest stars. On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we welcome Lori Lococo to talk about her leadership experience and how those skills and lessons have assisted her in serving others. Lori is a current Niagara Falls City Councillor.  She is seeking re-election in the October municipal election. Lori has worked for over 25 years in Niagara’s legal community, 14 years as the Administrator of a large firm. Lori has also worked for Census Canada in 2016 and 2021 and as a Court Reporter for the Ministry of the Attorney General. Authentic Touch Points: Lori’s journey to city council. 1:30 The benefits of Toastmasters. 3:00 Authentic mentors who helped along the way. 6:30 Being genuine creates connection. 9:00 Strategically dealing with issues. 12:30 Balanced processing and perspectives. 16:30 Choosing to serve others. 18:00 One of the most rewarding experiences was her term as International Director of Toastmasters International, a non-profit communication and leadership organization. Her leadership on the world stage as a Board Director for Toastmasters has expanded her role as an ambassador for Niagara everywhere she goes. Problem: According to Gallup, employees who are not engaged or who are actively disengaged cost the world $8.8 trillion in lost productivity, in their State of the Global Workplace: 2023 Report. That’s equal to 9% of global GDP. In 2022, 23% of the world’s employees were engaged at work. This is an increase of two percentage points from 2021 and surpasses the prior high point of 22% recorded in 2019. Solution: Roxanne’s expertise in relationships and creating leadership connection can lower these costs with your teams. Get your copy of Roxanne’s latest book: ROR: Return On Relationships: https://www.amazon.ca/ROR-Relationships-Authentic-Leadership-Resilient/dp/1739001923/   Stay Authentic,   Roxanne Links: Lori’s website: https://www.lorilococo.com/ Lori’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-lococo-7a649928/ Toastmasters International: https://www.toastmasters.org Lori’s email address: lori@lorilococo.com Roxanne's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannederhodge/ Roxanne’s email: roxanne@roxannederhodge.com Chat with Roxanne: https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/

In this episode, Roxanne chats with Lori Lococo about her journey with Toastmasters International and decision to run for city council. They delve into authentic heart leadership, the importance of self-awareness and dealing with leadership challenges. Lori shares her motivation to serve others, her role as a connector, and her community involvement. They also discuss the value of diversity and the richness immigrants bring to communities.

Quote: “What I’ve learned is that it’s about team learning, not team building.” Tyler Hayden As a leader, how connected are you to your team? Do you feel like you have a great rapport or is there room for improvement? Do you understand how each member of your team learns best and likes to be recognized? On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we’re thrilled to welcome team-building expert Tyler Hayden to share his vast knowledge about how leaders make meaningful connections with their team, and you can too. Tyler is a Certified Speaking Professional and a keynote speaker like you’ve never experienced before! Since 1996, Tyler continues to be a sought-after internationally respected team-building designer, best-selling author, and business speaker. He delivers a powerful punch that inspires teams, innovates management techniques, and invigorates team engagement. When it comes to empowering audiences and teams to succeed—and to be their best every day—Tyler leads the way with insight and laughter. Authentic Touch Points: Wow, Tyler started young. 2:00 The 3 Fs of connecting as a leader. 5:00 Team building takes time. 11:30 Getting leaders on board. 14:30 Team learning vs team building. 20:00 Creating engagement. 28:00 Using your unique skillset. 32:00 Tips for leaders. 38:00 Tyler is the author of over twenty-five books and the creative mind behind 100s of powerful and fun team-building products including: The Business that Cared About People, The 14-Minute Mentor, Livin' Life Large, Father's & Mother's Message in a Bottle, TEAM Activities, and more. Tyler is a thought leader who works internationally with Fortune 500, Inc 5000 and Premier Associations to level up their learning design.  Tyler's innovative gamification and in-depth understanding of multiple intelligences yield programs that increase engagement and learning in amazingly simple ways. Problem: According to Gallup, employees who are not engaged or who are actively disengaged cost the world $8.8 trillion in lost productivity, in their State of the Global Workplace: 2023 Report. That's equal to 9% of global GDP. In 2022, 23% of the world's employees were engaged at work. This is an increase of two percentage points from 2021 and surpasses the prior high point of 22% recorded in 2019. Solution: Roxanne’s expertise in relationships can lower these costs with your teams. Get your copy of Roxanne’s latest book: ROR: Return On Relationships: https://www.amazon.ca/ROR-Relationships-Authentic-Leadership-Resilient/dp/1739001923/   Links: Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerhayden.com/Team Building School: https://teambuildingschool.xperiencify.io/Tyler’s books: https://www.tylerhayden.com/shopTeam Building Tool Box: https://teambuildingschool.xperiencify.io/commonalities/order/ Tyler’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerhayden/Roxanne’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannederhodge/Roxanne’s book: https://www.amazon.ca/ROR-Relationships-Authentic-Leadership-Resilient/dp/1739001923/  Book a call with Roxanne: https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/

In this episode, Roxanne Derhodge chats with guest Tyler Hayden about his journey in the speaking field. They delve into the 3 F's of team building, discuss Howard Gardner's 8 learning modalities, and explore the best team building approaches. The conversation also covers challenges faced by C-suite executives, the role of rewards in team building, and the use of templates for team activities.

In this episode, Roxanne converses with Dave and Marla Thomas about mental health advocacy, marriage challenges, and the importance of setting boundaries. They delve into the transition from the honeymoon phase to real life, addressing mental health issues in adult children, and the work of the Loving Beyond Reason Organization.

Quotes: “Silent suffering is suffering without the possibility of hope.” Marla Thomas“No matter how dark things get, things can get better.” Dave Thomas With so much being said in the media and posted on social media about mental health, the stigma has lessened, but mental health issues are not without preconceived prejudices. With more celebrities speaking out and sharing their own mental health struggles, it’s better, but we’re still nowhere near ending the discrimination that many people face every day. On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we welcome Marla and Dave Thomas to share the story of their adult children and how you can help stop the biases. Dave Thomas is a 10x Grammy Award-winning member of TAKE6. Marla is a celebrity realtor and motivational speaker. Together, they are fierce and vocal mental health awareness advocates. Married for 35 years, which is nearly unheard of in Hollywood, this power couple has raised three children in the glow of the spotlight - two of them have been diagnosed with a litany of mental health challenges. Authentic Touch Points: A bit about Marla and Dave. 3:30 Values and respect. 8:00 Staying grounded at home. 13:00 A continued connection. 18:30 Compassion for the diagnosis. 27:00 The stress of division. 37:00 Advice for parents. 44:00 Marla and Dave are dedicated to helping families find resources to care for their loved ones with mental health challenges and ending the stigma attached to mental health. Their foundation, Loving Beyond Reason, is committed to helping people with brain differences become productive and healthy members of their communities. According to the Harvard Center for Health Decision Science, the estimate for the global burden of mental disorders is approximately $5 trillion USD. They also estimate that at a regional level, the losses could account for about 8% of the gross domestic product in North America. Just how much of that amount is your company paying out, and what can you save by being proactive? It's time to take action and make a difference! Book a strategy call to discuss mental health in your workplace. https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ Links: Loving Beyond Reason: https://www.lovingbeyondreason.org/ Donate: https://www.lovingbeyondreason.org/take-action Mental Health Mondays Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthMondays NAMI: https://www.nami.org/home Canadian Alliance for Mental Health: https://www.camimh.ca Book a call with Roxanne: https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ ROR: Return On Relationships: https://www.amazon.ca/ROR-Relationships-Authentic-Leadership-Resilient/dp/1739001923/ Harvard article link: https://chds.hsph.harvard.edu/quantifying-the-global-cost-of-mental-disorders/

In this episode, Roxanne Derhodge speaks with Brandy Maslowski, a former firefighter turned quilter. They discuss Brandy's challenges and traumas during her firefighting career, the impact of long-term stress, and her experience with PTSD. They also delve into the therapeutic role of quilting in Brandy's healing and the effectiveness of EMDR therapy. The conversation concludes with insights into Brandy's quilting business and the importance of self-care.

Quote: “Care for yourself first until your cup is overflowing, and then you can give to others as well.” Brandy Maslowski  Social media and instant access to information can be a good thing, but not always. We live in an age where trauma is all around us. Some of us are more affected and closer to trauma than others. First responders are on the front line every day. They see and hear things that are unthinkable to most of us, so how are they supposed to cope with it all? On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we’re thrilled to welcome Brandy Maslowski to share her story of going from firefighter to quilting coach and how mindfulness can help overcome PTSD. Brandy Maslowski is a quiltmaker and textile artist who travels the world as a teacher, speaker, author and certified quilt judge. She has curated a portfolio of workshops to nudge the quilter into artfulness. Brandy’s work explores meaningful themes in her life such as trauma using the texture, colour and boundless possibilities of fabric, surface design and stitch. Authentic Touch Points: Brandy’s story. 3:00 Not treated as an equal. 7:00 Stress and PTSD. 15:00 The cumulative effect. 22:00 Some things you never forget. 26:30 Self-soothing… 29:00 Repressed memories. 35:00 5 life lessons. 38:00 Brandy leads quilt-themed cruises and land tours with the tagline More Joy, Less Overwhelm and has recently launched the Square One Textile Art Bootcamp on demand. She is the founder and host of the Quilter on Fire Podcast and can be found everywhere online as the Quilter on Fire. Roxanne offers executive coaching; we encourage leaders to reach out for guidance about presenting their authentic selves to develop an improved workplace for everyone with less conflict.  Visit https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ to schedule your complimentary discovery call now. Stay Authentic, Roxanne Links: Brandy’s website: https://quilteronfire.com/ Your Mind Matters Podcast: https://quilteronfire.com/podcast/ EMDR: https://www.emdr.com Brandy’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandy-maslowski-88017926/ Roxanne’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannederhodge/ Roxanne’s book: https://www.amazon.ca/ROR-Relationships-Authentic-Leadership-Resilient/dp/1739001923/

In this episode, Roxanne talks with Steve Judge about his resilience coaching, life-changing accident, and recovery journey. They discuss overcoming challenges through mindset and support, the role of neurotransmitters in resilience, and Steve's transition to becoming an elite athlete. The episode concludes with insights from Steve's books and a resilience quiz.

Quote: “Do what helps you to think straight, then you can start taking action.” Steve Judge How are you when something traumatic happens? Do you sit and wallow in self-pity? Do you spring into action right away? Or do you take some time, figure out how to proceed and move ahead carefully? On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we’re privileged to welcome Resilience Expert Steve Judge to share the journey that took him from sitting in a wheelchair to standing on the stage as a keynote speaker and resilience coach. At the age of 28, a devastating car accident left Steve fighting to stay alive and, following life-saving operations, was subsequently told that he may never walk again. However, following a multitude of operations and intensive care from the NHS, he was able to progress forward. Not leaning on his excuses, he set goals, turning his excuses into challenges; he eventually learned to stand and walk again. Steve continued his journey, which took him from wheelchair to world champion in the sport of para-triathlon. Authentic Touch Points: Steve’s path to resilience coach. 2:00 Knockbacks along the way. 8:30 Accepting the support that’s offered. 14:00 Realizing your strength. 18:00 Take time, then get on with it. 23:00 Finding the right support. 27:00 Self-reliance is key. 30:00 As a professional speaker, author and resilience coach, Steve shares his story to help people, inspire others and motivate many to go confidently on their journey in the direction of their dreams, their GOLD.  To experience the happiness and fulfilment of achieving the life that they have imagined and truly deserve, and by doing this, it ensures that the pain and suffering that he endured will not have been in vain. From Steve’s performance, audiences will be inspired to focus on their vision, energized to not lean on their excuses and motivated to turn their excuses into challenges to achieve their GOLD.  As Roxanne offers executive coaching, we encourage leaders to reach out for guidance about presenting their authentic selves to develop an improved workplace for everyone with less conflict.  Visit https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ to schedule your complimentary discovery call now. Stay Authentic, Roxanne Links: Steve’s website: https://www.steve-judge.co.uk/ Steve’s books: Don’t Lean On Your Excuses: https://www.steve-judge.co.uk/dont-lean-on-your-excuses-2/ Gold: https://www.steve-judge.co.uk/gold/ Steve’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-judge-908293b1/ Roxanne’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannederhodge/ Roxanne’s new book: https://www.amazon.ca/ROR-Relationships-Authentic-Leadership-Resilient/dp/1739001923/

In this episode, Roxanne engages with Jennifer Spear to discuss the pandemic's impact on individuals, the qualities of those who thrived, and the mindset of dealing with challenges. They delve into the importance of building deep connections virtually, the new work paradigm, and the crisis of trust in leadership. The episode concludes with an introduction to Spear's Chaos Lab and a discussion on post-traumatic growth.

Quote: “The more resilient you are, the more resilient you will be.” Jennifer Spear Here is a prime example of a timeless episode. We are happy to share this information again as a Classic Rewind Episode. I don’t think there has ever been a time when we have had to be more adaptive to change than in the past few years!  During the pandemic, we really had to build our flexibility muscles and learn to go with the flow. On this episode of Authentic Living with Roxanne, we’re so excited to welcome my friend and Change Expert Jennifer Spear to discuss taking advantage of change and living life UnScripted. Jennifer is a Recovering Corporate Executive, Keynote Speaker, Facilitator, Emcee, Moderator and Trainer who loves a challenge and partnering with her clients to Work & Lead UnScripted. Regardless of the constraints, Jennifer delivers customized experiential, engaging and practical solutions for each unique situation, whether in-person or online. Authentic Touch Points: Being UnScripted through COVID. 1:30 From what if to what now? 4:30 Thriving through uncertainty. 9:30 Creative ways to respond to change. 15:30 Finding support and creating connection. 20:30 Leadership + Flexibility = Retention. 24:00 Clear, concise communication. 27:30 Trust needs to be re-established. 29:30 Post-traumatic growth. 34:00    Jennifer sits on the Board of Directors of Meetings Mean Business Canada, representing the Canadian Association for Professional Speakers. Jennifer is a contributor to Forbes and is the author of the upcoming book “UnScripted” and is excited about her new Partnership with Chaos Lab, which produced the Chaos2Clarity research study. We encourage leaders to reach out for guidance about presenting their authentic selves to develop an improved workplace for everyone with less conflict, as Roxanne offers executive coaching.  Visit https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ to schedule your complimentary discovery call now. Stay Authentic,   Roxanne Links: Jennifer’s website: https://www.workunscripted.com/ Jennifer’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spearjennifer/ Chaos Lab website: http://www.chaoslab.org/ Roxanne's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannederhodge/ Roxanne’s email: roxanne@roxannederhodge.com Chat with Roxanne: https://roxannederhodge.com/chat/ Roxanne’s previous podcasts: https://roxannederhodge.com/blog/