Balancing Life's Issues Season 2: This Is Your Job Now

In this special Women’s History Month episode of *This Is Your Job Now*, Wendy Wollner invites listeners into a deeply personal and powerful reflection. Rather than naming specific historical figures, Wendy challenges you to build your own roster of women leaders—CEOs, doctors, activists, artists, grandmothers, single moms—who shape how you show up in the world. From corporate boardrooms to motherhood to volunteerism, Wendy shares why women need multiple mentors for multiple roles—and why we must carry each other forward across generations. This episode is both a celebration and a call to action: pick your women. Learn from them. Add to your list. And then become one.

What if the tattoo you’re judging is actually part of someone’s healing? And what’s a leader’s job when unconscious bias shows up in dress codes, hiring decisions, or everyday workplace reactions? In this episode of This Is Your Job Now, Wendy Wollner sits down with Elise Jaffe—Executive Producer, filmmaker, and owner of Big Teeth Productions—to explore a powerful reframe: tattoos aren’t just “style.” For many people, they’re healing, reclamation, and self-authorship after trauma, illness, or loss. Elise shares the story behind her documentary-in-progress, Unscarred, and explains why leaders, managers, and coworkers need to look beyond stigma and ask better questions—especially in workplaces where tattoos still trigger assumptions about professionalism, safety, or “fit.”

Host Wendy Wollner talks with Bill Doherty, family therapist, professor emeritus, and Co-Founder of Braver Angels, about practical ways leaders, teams, and clinicians can repair trust across deep political divides. Bill shares ground rules that make hard conversations possible, the difference between optimism and a choice for hope, and how therapists can serve as “citizen bridge-builders” at work, at home, and in their communities. What You’ll Learn Why polarization blocks solutions—and how “respectful rules” reopen dialogue A simple reframing: change minds about people, not just policies How to listen when you’re triggered (even for therapists) The line is behavior, not opinion: how to hold strong views respectfully Practical on-ramps for clinicians: from self-checks in session to moderating public workshops Why hope is a decision leaders can make—and model

What does it take to lead with purpose, grace, and energy — for decades — without burning out? Episode Overview: In this inspiring conversation, host Wendy Wollner sits down with Dr. Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of The Business Council of Westchester. A trailblazing leader who transformed a struggling local chamber into one of the most influential business organizations in New York State, Marsha reflects on her decades of leadership, the power of humility and gratitude, and how she continues to lead with joy, curiosity, and connection. From surviving tough early years to winning the prestigious Corning Award for Excellence, Marsha shares wisdom that every leader — especially those feeling stretched thin — needs to hear.

How do you lead creative teams at the speed of change—without losing the human touch? Fast Company’s Creative Director Mike Schnaidt shares how to protect originality in an AI-saturated world while building confident, energized teams. Host Wendy Wollner sits down with Mike Schnaidt, Creative Director at Fast Company, to unpack what modern creative leadership looks like in 2025: empowering designers with autonomy, embracing “a brand without a brand,” and keeping individuality front and center as AI transforms creative work. Mike opens up about confidence earned through failure, honest check-ins, and the practical growth frameworks that help his teams stay inspired—even on off days. He also shares how teaching and writing his new book Creative Endurance helped him rediscover purpose through creativity.

What does it mean to choose kindness—even when life breaks your back? Literally. In this powerful episode, Kath Koschel, founder of Kindness Factory and former elite athlete, shares her remarkable journey through physical trauma, grief, and unimaginable loss… and how small acts of kindness pulled her through. Her story is a testament to the human spirit, the science of kindness, and why leaders need empathy now more than ever.

What if the key to retaining top talent and improving workplace performance lies in understanding women’s hormones? In this episode, we explore why women’s health—especially in perimenopause and menopause—isn’t just a medical issue, but a leadership and public health priority. Wendy Wollner sits down with Dr. Mariah Prince-Allen, board-certified nurse practitioner, TEDx speaker, and founder of Telehealth for Her. Dr. Mariah shares her mission to help high-achieving women balance hormones, heal their gut, achieve sustainable weight loss—and feel like themselves again. Together, they unpack the history of women’s health research, the economic cost of ignoring menopause, and practical steps leaders can take to create hormone-intelligent workplaces.

This BLI the Podcast Live episode features wellness expert Krystal Taylor leading an engaging and interactive conversation on burnout—what it is, what causes it, and how to fight back. With warmth, humor, and plenty of practical wisdom, Krystal breaks down the clinical definition of burnout and helps us recognize the emotional and physical symptoms before they spiral. Listeners will gain access to real-world solutions, both personal and organizational, that can help build resilience and create a more sustainable work culture. Whether you're feeling emotionally exhausted, unsure of your role, or overloaded by digital demands, this episode is here to validate your experience and offer a way forward. This is burnout... redefined—with hope.

In this special follow-up to our conversation on redefining fatherhood Jason S. Frishman, PsyD, founder and lead guide at JourneyMen Foundation, invites you to slow down and reconnect with what really matters — through a guided Values Compass exercise designed especially for fathers, but relevant to anyone navigating life’s daily challenges. This episode is your chance to step away from the noise, breathe, and reflect on the core values that shape how you show up — at home, at work, and in your community. Jason’s approach combines mindfulness, intentional action, and self-reflection to help you move from vague ideals to clear, practical steps you can live out each day. Whether you’re a dad seeking balance, a leader supporting fathers on your team, or simply someone who wants to feel more grounded — this 15-minute practice is for you.

In this heartfelt Part 1 episode, Jason S. Frishman, PsyD, founder and lead guide at JourneyMen Foundation, shares his insights on what it means to redefine fatherhood as part of real leadership and community care. He explains why supporting fathers’ mental health is vital for family and organizational well-being. Guided by Kai Sorensen, Director of Podcasts, and Greg Baldwin, Multimedia Specialist—both fathers themselves—this conversation unpacks how challenging traditional norms of masculinity can unlock healthier ways of parenting, partnering, and leading. Jason also dives into the myth of the hero’s journey and how it impacts fathers’ identities, offering practical strategies like mindfulness and the Values Compass exercise to help men navigate daily stress and stay true to their values. Together, they remind us that fatherhood is an adventure worth sharing—not just surviving alone. In Part 2, Jason will take you through a guided exercise about using your "Value Compass".

In this powerful episode of This Is Your Job Now, host Wendy Wollner sits down with Dan Bolger, a foreign policy and development expert, and Matthew Weiller, a retired Department of State leader, to explore what it really means to lead through the tough stuff. Together, they dig into why great leaders today can’t afford to hide behind “it’s not my job.” They break down how to balance IQ and EQ, how sidebars and real check-ins build psychological safety, and why the root of crankiness, disengagement, or poor performance is often not work-related at all. Wendy, Dan, and Matthew share practical examples — from hidden medical conditions to fertility challenges — that show the urgent need for workplaces where employees feel safe to bring their whole selves. If you want to know what compassionate leadership looks like in practice, and why you should never let a good crisis pass you by, this conversation is for you.

This emotional episode of This Is Your Job Now explores one family's journey through childhood cancer—and what it means to truly care for the total individual. When their youngest son, Vaughn, was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer at just two years old, Amy and Tony’s world changed overnight. With the added weight of a global pandemic, they faced not only medical and logistical hurdles, but also profound emotional and psychological challenges.

In this powerful and personal conversation, Wendy Wollner sits down with John Ebron—a retired Army combat veteran, leadership coach, and proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community—for a candid talk about the toll of hiding your identity at work, and the transformation that comes when you finally feel seen.

Announcing season 2 of Balancing Life’s Issues the Podcast "This Is Your Job Now"Because leadership means showing up—especially when it’s uncomfortable.Hosted by Wendy Wollner, CEO of Balancing Life’s Issues, This Is Your Job Now helps leaders navigate the hardest parts of managing humans—burnout, mental health, DEI fatigue, grief, and more. With expert voices, real stories, and zero corporate jargon, this show asks the only question that matters: Why should you care?If you’re leading people today, this is already your job.Follow Wendy on LinkedInSubscribe to Balancing Life's Issues on YouTubeOr where you listen to podcasts www.balancinglifesissues.com

In this insightful episode, Wendy Wollner and Alex Golimbievsky, an experienced business coach and growth strategist, explore how AI can revolutionize business operations. With over 300 businesses coached, Alex shares real-world applications of AI that help companies streamline workflows, optimize marketing, and increase revenue. AI isn’t just a trend—it’s a powerful tool for business growth. Whether you’re looking to refine your customer profiles, enhance website conversion, or scale your marketing efforts, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you leverage AI effectively.

In this thought-provoking episode of Balancing Life’s Issues, Wendy Wollner sits down with Ruchi Jalla, a leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), to explore the challenges and triumphs of integrating DEI into organizational culture, particularly in the healthcare sector. Ruchi shares her personal journey into DEI, the misconceptions that often lead to resistance, and the resilience required to push forward in a politically charged climate. She highlights why DEI is essential for both business success and societal progress, emphasizing that the work must continue despite setbacks. From tackling healthcare disparities to navigating polarized conversations, this episode delivers powerful insights, practical strategies, and a message of hope for anyone committed to making workplaces and communities more inclusive.

In this powerful and insightful episode, Wendy Wollner, CEO of Balancing Life’s Issues, sits down with Terry Szuplat, former senior speechwriter for President Obama, to explore the art of communication, leadership, and storytelling.

In this powerful episode of Balancing Life's Issues, host Wendy Wollner welcomes Kath Koschel, founder of the Kindness Factory, to share her extraordinary journey of resilience, hope, and the life-changing power of kindness. From surviving personal loss and physical adversity to sparking a global kindness movement, Kath’s story is a testament to the strength found in compassion. Together, Wendy and Kath discuss the science of kindness, the courage required to choose optimism, and how small acts can transform lives.Key Takeaways:The Science and Impact of Kindness: Kath shares insights on what happens in the brain when we give or receive kindness, inspiring a ripple effect that can touch both familiar faces and strangers.Turning Adversity into Action: Kath reveals her journey from enduring life-altering injuries and profound loss to building the Kindness Factory, a global movement celebrating acts of kindness.Choosing Tough Love Over Sympathy: Wendy and Kath explore the importance of “strong skills” like compassion and empathy, which require both honesty and courage, and how they’re different from simply being nice.Finding Optimism Through Gratitude: Kath shares her practical approach to overcoming tough days through gratitude and choosing to focus on positive influences, which sustains her resilience. Links Mentioned:Learn more about Kath Koschel and her work: https://kathkoschel.comLog an act of kindness and join the movement: https://kindnessfactory.comThe world is changed by your example, not by your opinionGot an idea for the show? Email producer Kai [email protected]

Welcome to Season 2 of Balancing Life's Issues!In this heartwarming episode Wendy Wollner sits down with Alex and his mother, Val, whose famous letter to President Obama touched millions of hearts. Wendy, Alex, and Val dive into the power of empathy, raising children who believe in the magic of life, and how to maintain hope and inspiration amidst cynicism. Together, they explore how we can uncover life's miracles, even in the smallest gestures.Key Takeaways:Empathy Starts Early: Alex's story reminds us how important it is to raise empathetic children who believe in making the world a better place.The Magic of Family: Val shares her experience navigating cynicism while keeping hope alive through the incredible journey their family has taken.Believing in Miracles: Wendy encourages listeners to push past cynicism and embrace the idea that everyday magic exists, if we're willing to look for it.Inspiration Through Action: Learn how small actions can have a big impact, as seen through Alex's letter and the worldwide response it sparked.Video's Mentioned/Sourced:Watch Alex's letter to President Obama here: Alex's Letter to ObamaAnother reference to Alex's story: Video of Alex's Inspiring JourneyGot an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

Welcome to Balancing Life’s Issues the podcast! On today’s episode "quirky and perky" CEO of BLI Wendy Wollner, dives deep into the secrets of business success by inviting renowned expert and founder of FitMinded, Dr. Jen Huberty (https://www.jenhubertyphd.com/about). They discuss the pivotal role of data in your business, the consistent challenges of being a female business owner, and how to address imposter syndrome as a CEO. Discover how leveraging data can transform your decision-making processes, enhance your strategies, and ultimately help your business thrive. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tips from industry leaders on making data work for you. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on the power of data in the business world! Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]