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]

Welcome to Balancing Life's Issues, the podcast and today, we're celebrating Pride Month and asking the essential question: why do we celebrate Pride Month?As we discuss this, it's crucial to acknowledge the challenges still faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Currently, the ACLU is tracking 516 anti-LGBTQ bills in the U.S., encompassing curriculum censorship, healthcare restrictions, facility bans, sport bans, and even forced outing in schools.The journey for LGBTQIA+ rights has been filled with stark ups and down and to delve deeper into this discussion, we have BLI senior trainer Lori Jones joining us.Lori, a veteran with a 30-year career as an applied sociologist working in education and government, came out in 1981. She will share her insights on how far we've come and how much further we need to go in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights.Tune in as we celebrate Pride Month and strive to understand the importance of creating inclusive and safe spaces for everyone.Got an idea for the show? Email me [email protected]

It's our first live episode! Join hosts Kai and Wendy for an honest discussion on what it means to be an entrepreneur today.Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

Meet BLI trainer Garrett Sorensen! Today he joins us to discuss the trainings he specializes in as well as the psychological impacts of financial stress that we all carry - often through our whole lives. We chat the importance of budgeting and planning, and how financial education can serve as a powerful tool for mental health improvement. https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-sorensen-mw/Garrett is a Consultant, Financial Planner, and Army Veteran. He develops and nurtures client relationships and manages the delivery of financial planning solutions that help clients realize their personal goals and aspirations. He also works with Business Owners in the education and preparation of exiting their business. Garrett holds an MBA in Finance & Accounting from Belmont University and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from Post University.This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

Welcome to Balancing Life's Issues the podcast! I'm your host Kai and today we are celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month which runs May 1st through 31st. And it comes at a time when suicide rates continue to increase. Suicide and suicidal behavior are influenced by negative conditions in which people live, play, work, and learn. It's deeply personal and it's not happening in a silo. It's happening right in front of us. We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. So today we wanted to bring on Licensed Clinical Social Worker Tacha Fletcher to talk to us about how we reach out to a loved one and what to do if they are having thoughts of suicide. This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected] Sources for today’s show: https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/suicide-data-statistics.html https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5178031/

Happy Earth Day 2024! In the spring of 1970, Senator Gaylord Nelson created Earth Day knowing there were no legal or regulatory mechanisms to protect our environment. As a result, twenty million Americans demonstrated in different U.S. cities, and it worked! In December 1970, Congress authorized the creation of a new federal agency to tackle environmental issues, aptly named the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the EPA. On today’s episode we'll be talking to BLI trainer Beth Pollack who protested on that day in 1970. She’ll share her experience and what lessons we can apply from that day, to today. We’ll also be talking with brand new dad, and BLI multi-media specialist, Greg Baldwin about easy changes we can make in our homes that are low cost and high impact (now that babies have limited our time!) Sources for today's show: https://www.epa.gov/earthday https://www.earthday.org/ www.treehugger.com Opt out of physical junk mail https://www.optoutprescreen.com/ DMAchoice.org Ditch plastics for glass Replace detergent jugs with Earth Breeze ECO Sheets Out with the dryer sheets and with the dryer balls! This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

We can solve the world health crisis! Yes, you heard that right! CEO of Last Mile Health, Lisha McCormick, joins the podcast with THE answer. Community Health Workers. If we invest in the health care workers who are part of the communities that need the help...quality of care increases. This is a fact. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisha-mccormick-150a8b5/https://lastmilehealth.org/ So join Lisha and BLI as we celebrate “World Health Day” and this year's theme of "My Health, My Right". https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-health-day/2024 This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

Today we're here to continue the celebration of Women's History Month by sharing the stories of inspiring women and honoring the choices that they've made throughout their lives. Today Wendy invited national speaker, trainer, and Toastmasters graduate Rah Kalon onto the podcast. Rah got their bachelor's in strategic communication from the University of North Texas and claimed their master's in clinical counseling from UNT Dallas. They went on to found their own emotional intelligence consulting company in 2020.

Whats' Your Story?Balancing Life's Issues CEO Wendy Wollner kicks of Women's History Month with a message about honoring your choices.This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

Welcome to Balancing Life’s Issues the podcast. Today we are wrapping up Black History Month with a call to action. Reach out to your community. In our concluding episode Kai Sorensen, Director of Podcasts and Chester NY resident, delved into his community to explore its Black history. It was during his interaction with Clifton and Leslie of the Chester Historical Society that he uncovered the profound Black history embedded in his town. Little did he know, the town where he and his wife chose to establish their home and raise a family was just steps away from an underground railroad station.And it all started with a photo...This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

As we wrap up Black History Month, our featured guest on the podcast is John Ebron, a distinguished BLI top trainer and military veteran. In a candid conversation, John shares how cultivating a resilient mindset played a transformative role in saving his life as a black, gay man. Hailing from Greenville, North Carolina, John's origin reflects a town divided by a railroad – one side inhabited by the white population and the other by the black community. Born on the side less privileged, John's life journey was marked by a persistent drive to overcompensate in every aspect of his life. He dedicated himself to honing a skillset that would navigate him through life's complexities. This skillset propelled him through a 20+ year military career, serving a majority of that under the discriminatory "Don’t Ask Don’t Tell" policy. Making it federally illegal for him to openly be himself. The toll of concealing his identity and the pressures of his career eventually led to burnout and even thoughts of suicide. However, John successfully reclaimed his power, emerging stronger than ever. Today, he channels his experiences to guide and assist others in their personal growth and development journey. This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

Black people make up 12 percent of the US workforce but only 8 percent of employees in tech jobs. That percentage is even smaller further up the corporate ladder (https://www.mckinsey.com/bem/our-insights/how-to-close-the-black-tech-talent-g). As we continue the celebration of Black History Month, we will be sharing the story of someone we at BLI work with every single day. His name is Michael Havis, and he is a Technical Project Lead at Soliant Consulting. A company that is vital to the success of the day-to-day operations at BLI. Michael is Black and as we look to the significance of Black Americans and our shared history this month, we want to look to people like Michael. Someone who is thriving in the tech industry TODAY and who hopes to create better avenues for young black people that he wasn’t afforded. This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

Have you heard of the term HBCU before? It stands for "Historically Black College or Universities" and these are not institutions that just happen to be majority black. In the late 1800s, they were founded to both educate Black American students and to equip them with the viable skills necessary to excel in the nation’s workforce...while also acknowledging and celebrating their ethnic histories and cultures (https://www.tmcf.org/history-of-hbcus/). HBCUs offer an educational environment in which Black Americans are afforded the chance to learn as part of a majority, often for the very first time. And the proof is in the pudding as HBCUs account for 80% of Black judges, 50% of Black doctors, and 50% of Black lawyers (https://cdn.uncf.org/wp-content/uploads/Social-Mobility-Report-FINAL.pdf ). So today we have invited James Francis (Senior Trainer and DEIB Contributor) and his classmate Jamahal C. Boyd (Former CEO of The Crossroads Center, Executive and Healthcare Consultant) to discuss their experience at an HBCU (Delaware State), the lessons they learned, and how they transitioned back to the minority. Sources for today's show: https://www.tmcf.org/history-of-hbcus/ https://cdn.uncf.org/wp-content/uploads/Social-Mobility-Report-FINAL.pdf https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=667 https://uncf.org/pages/facts-and-questions https://www.terry.uga.edu/wp-content/uploads/HBCU-Impact-2017.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/09/16/a-proclamation-on-national-historically-black-colleges-and-universities-week-2022/ https://uncf.org/the-latest/the-impact-of-hbcus-on-diversity-in-stem-fields This is Balancing Life's Issues the Podcast. Got an idea for the show? Email [email protected]

256 years. If Black business ownership continues at its current rate, it would take 256 years to reach parity with the share of Black people in America—a timeline that leaves racial wealth gaps entrenched. (https://www.brookings.edu/articles/who-is-driving-black-business-growth-insights-from-the-latest-data-on-black-owned-businesses/) On today's episode we continue the celebration of Black History Month with insights from a Black woman, entrepreneur - Latisha B. Russell. What black history means to her, the role education has played, and how resiliency has gotten her to where she is today. Latisha is a renowned Emotional Wellness and leadership Coach, Author, and Transformational Speaker and founder of Latisha B. Russell, LLC and Russell Craigwell HR Consulting. In addition, we’ll share the story of former Xerox CEO Ursula Burns. The first Black woman to head a Fortune 500 company. Sources from today's episode: https://www.pathto1555.org/ https://www.brookings.edu/articles/who-is-driving-black-business-growth-insights-from-the-latest-data-on-black-owned-businesses/ https://www.forbes.com/profile/ursula-burns/?sh=60fc7c6840a0 https://hbr.org/2021/07/im-here-because-im-as-good-as-you

Today we kick off Black History Month with the WHY? Why do we celebrate Black History?Currently Black American History is being watered down by lessening the impact years of systematic oppression has had on a group of people. This is happening at the very foundations of our education system in states like Florida.So today we are joined by BLI Senior Trainer and DEIB Contributor James Francis to celebrate the father of black history, Carter G Woodson. As well as offer a message as to WHY he didn't move his bosses car due to the negative impact systemic issues have had on Black Americans.Sources for today's show:https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/initiatives/black-history-month-2024 https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/01/us/history-of-black-history-month-trnd/index.html?utm_term=17064497840662bde9520eeb4&utm_source=cnn_Five+Things+for+Sunday%2C+January+28%2C+2024&utm_medium=email&bt_ee=8P%2B2gkl906TRRP8FAX6QSzW2alWMc2WCQtUjSkiYR0oGrexdZyRUXvyH9LU4Hdpq&bt_ts=1706449784068 https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/16/us/florida-textbooks-african-american-history.html

Kai and Wendy discuss the viral news around Kyte Baby CEO (Ying Liu) who denied the work remote request of an employee who wanted to be with their premature child in the NICU...9 hours away from their Dallas home.https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/21/business/kyte-baby-ceo-apology-marissa/index.htmlhttps://www.cbsnews.com/news/kyte-baby-tries-to-fend-off-boycott-over-firing-of-new-mom/AND we're talking "The 5 Buckets"! BLI's flagship class that teaches us how we can have it all. Join us on Friday Jan 26th at 1pm EST for a FREE live webinar on this very topic. Registration information is available at: https://bli-info.com/freewebinars

On Monday January 15th, 2024 we will celebrate MLK Day. But why is it the third week in January and what did it take to become established as a federal holiday?Listen in as we explore the history of this important day and take note from James Francis (DEIB Director at Balancing Life's Issues) on the importance of this day, and why it's up to all of us to be the change we wish to see.

Wendy has been across the country, virtually and in-person, delivering the seminar "Leading and Living in Uncertain Times". It has been so successful that we had to bring that message to the podcast as we close out 2023 and look to 2024. So here are the 5 tips you need to lead in uncertain times.

On May 14th, 2022 Megan Andrews was faced with the unthinkable. A shooter drove to her community of Buffalo, NY and killed 10 Black people in a racist massacre at a supermarket in a predominantly black neighborhood.(Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/28/nyregion/buffalo-shooting-guilty-plea.html)What happened next for Megan was the culmination of 30+ years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Megan and her team were sent to the scene to provide immediate, on-site support for anyone in need in that moment. However, it was the support they provided months and years beyond the massacre that showed just how much the trauma of that day had permeated through the entire community. In very different ways.Kai and Wendy welcome Megan onto the podcast to discuss what trauma informed work is and the importance of bringing this kind of work to employees through their Employee Assistance Program. How do we begin to unburden ourselves from trauma?Megan Andrews BIO:Megan Andrews is the Director of Child & Family Services Employee Assistance Program, a leader in workplace health for over 40 years. She is an experienced social worker and clinician with a history of working in higher education, serving as an adjunct faculty at the University at Buffalo School of Social Work for 25 years. She presents locally and nationally on the topic of mental health in the workplace. At Child & Family Services, Megan is responsible for providing operational oversite for all EAP account and clinical services. She is focused on implementing effective clinical and professional EAP practices. Megan leads the account management and relationship development with member organizations and throughout the community Master of Social Work (M.S.W.), CISM and MSRA certified and DOT Substance Abuse Professional.

Antisemitism is on the rise. Not only in this country, but across the world. What's our role in confronting hate head on? How do we talk about it with our families, friends, and loved ones?The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has recorded a dramatic increase in U.S. antisemitic incidents following the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre (https://www.adl.org/resources/press-release/adl-records-dramatic-increase-us-antisemitic-incidents-following-oct-7).To help us navigate this recent surge in hate, Kai and Wendy welcome long time friend Rabbi Jennifer Jaech to the podcast. Rabbi Jaech is active in interfaith work in the community with an emphasis on social justice. She is a former Co-Chair of Reform Jewish Voice of New York State and served on the Union for Reform Judaism’s Commission on Social Action and the Central Conference of American Rabbis’ Committee on Justice, Peace and Civil Liberties.Currently she is the Senior Rabbi of Temple Israel of Northern Westchester.https://www.tinw.org/aboutus.html

The brutality of what we are seeing on the news is overwhelming and there is nothing you can do. Evil exists in the world and you can't control it. You can control how you respond though.So, how are you managing your mental health today?Wendy and Kai are connecting first thing this morning to Check-In, Double Down, & Do Something Fun.

Kai and Wendy welcome the Director of the Finance and Business Consultation Department at MATI, Akiva Ganz. Akiva is joined by a small business owner in Jerusalem to talk about how donations to MATI directly affect their business during this time.To donate to MATI's Jerusalem's Emergency Campaign please go to https://tinyurl.com/3mappd6x MATI Jerusalem’s Emergency CampaignOver the last few days, the magnitude of the disaster that has befallen the State of Israel and the residents living near Gaza has been revealed.Many residents from the South have come to stay in Jerusalem in hotels, hostels and in homes. They were forced to leave their homes and their lives behind, without their belongings, in the most painful way, not knowing when or if they can return.The Jerusalem small business community, which is also in crisis following the war, is mobilizing to help. MATI Jerusalem Business Center, with the aim of strengthening both the residents of the South and the Jerusalem community, will connect organizations that are mapping the needs of Southern residents together with local businesses in the city, in order to purchase the products and services from local Jerusalem small businesses. In this way, MATI will be able to support both the residents of Southern Israel, who experienced a terrible upheaval, as well as support the local economy, which is in crisis since the start of this war.We ask that you join MATI’s efforts and help us bring a ray of hope to residents of Southern Israel, who have gone through some of the worst things imaginable. Our goal is to raise $85,000 in order to provide products to as many families as possible.

Kai and Wendy welcome Zvia Shelly and Uri Gordon from the MATI Jerusalem Business Center to talk to us about the importance of supporting a small business during a time of war. To donate to MATI's Jerusalem's Emergency Campaign please go to https://tinyurl.com/3mappd6x MATI Jerusalem’s Emergency CampaignOver the last few days, the magnitude of the disaster that has befallen the State of Israel and the residents living near Gaza has been revealed.Many residents from the South have come to stay in Jerusalem in hotels, hostels and in homes. They were forced to leave their homes and their lives behind, without their belongings, in the most painful way, not knowing when or if they can return.The Jerusalem small business community, which is also in crisis following the war, is mobilizing to help. MATI Jerusalem Business Center, with the aim of strengthening both the residents of the South and the Jerusalem community, will connect organizations that are mapping the needs of Southern residents together with local businesses in the city, in order to purchase the products and services from local Jerusalem small businesses. In this way, MATI will be able to support both the residents of Southern Israel, who experienced a terrible upheaval, as well as support the local economy, which is in crisis since the start of this war.We ask that you join MATI’s efforts and help us bring a ray of hope to residents of Southern Israel, who have gone through some of the worst things imaginable. Our goal is to raise $85,000 in order to provide products to as many families as possible.

Summer is almost over and you know what that means...It's time to get ready to go back to school!With so much excitement it's easy to forget that there's a lot of anxiety and pressure about getting back into that school rhythm. Re-establishing sleep rhythms, shopping, and prepping lunch are all things that may have been replaced with the flexibility of those glorious summer days.Not to mention the mental health crisis we are in as a result of the last few years. How are we talking about COVID as we prepare to get back into the classroom? How are we validating the feelings of a child who might be scared? What's our role as parents in setting up our child for success?Liz Buffington joins the program to talk about all of this and more. Liz is a Lecturer, 21st Century Blended Learning Cohort Lead, Cultural Proficiency Minor Coordinator, & University Supervisor at San Diego State University who is currently working on her PHD.https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-buffington-m-ed-1927b531/Mom to some and educator to many!Got an idea for the show?Leave a comment or email [email protected]

‘Lazy girl jobs’ might just be the secret to work-life balance is trending on tik tok.https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/lazy-girl-jobs What does it mean to "coast" in a role and take advantage of a lack of oversight?Is it really that lazy to be totally OK with sticking to an administrative role knowing that will bring better work/life balance?If you run a company and there’s a role that has no actual responsibilities...who's fault is that really?Join Wendy and Kai as they discuss the article that has created some controversy around the idea of work/life balance.Are you in a 'Lazy girl job'?

Pride month comes at a time when there are there are 491 anti- LGBTQ bills at the state legislative level according to the ACLU (as of Thursday June 1st 2023).SOURCE: https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights How can you be a better ally to the LGBTQ+ community this month and why has the trans-youth conversation become so politicized?Nicole Modonna (She/Her, licensed Social Worker and Clinical Therapist) and Hayden Nielsen (He/Him, Trans man and Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate) join the podcast to share their experiences helping the trans community navigate their mental health. In the process they help separate fact from fiction concerning gender affirming care.This is a mental health conversation, not a political one.Got an idea for the show?Leave a comment or email [email protected] Madonna (She/Her) is a licensed Social Worker and Clinical Therapist with an extensive background in program development, training and therapy with adults for the past 20 years. She received her Master’s in Social work from Fordham University. Her clinical focus has been in treating complex trauma including survivors of sexual and interpersonal violence, grief and loss, intersectional identities and the trauma associated with this, work with the LGBTQIA+ community and crisis intervention & assessment. Hayden Nielsen (He/Him) is a Trans man and Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. He provides outpatient therapy to Trans and Gender Diverse (TGD) individuals. Hayden received his Bachelors and Masters of Social work from Appalachian State University. Hayden is also a member of Charlotte Trans Health (CTH) and their Trans Provider Committee. CTH aims to advance access to affirming health care in and around Charlotte for the TGD community.

We kickoff mental health awareness month with uncertainty...well how to live with it! Dianne Pulleyblank (25+ years as an exercise physiologist) joins the show to talk about how she has navigated, and continues to navigate, multiple myeloma. A type of bone marrow cancer that has sent her life into limbo.Got an idea for the show?Leave a comment or email [email protected]

In this episode, we explore the difficult topic of tragedy and how we can cope and bounce back.Wendy Wollner provides valuable insights on the "why" and "how" of bouncing back from yet another school shooting. Sharing her experiences and offering practical advice on how to move forward.This episode offers a compassionate and hopeful perspective on a difficult topic, and provides valuable insights for anyone looking to cope with pain and trauma.Got an idea for the show? [email protected]

Join CEO of Balancing Life's Issues, Wendy Wollner, as we continue the celebration of Women's History Month.Who is your north star?Friend of the podcast Rain Henderson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rainhenderson/) joins the show to talk about navigating her career as a woman and how she used (and continues to use) her "north star" to navigate difficult career decisions.

Let's Balance The Issue.Do you know your FICO score? CEO of Balancing Life's Issues Wendy Wollner discusses the importance of knowing your score and why we should all be talking about it. As we continue to gather news concerning the bank crisis, what's your role in understanding where your money is as an investor? As an employee, what questions should you be asking your manager(s) to make sure payroll is safe?Care to comment? Reach out to [email protected]

We debut the Balancing Life's Issues Podcast in celebration of Women's History Month. Join CEO of Balancing Life's Issues Wendy Wollner, as she looks back on women's roles with her mom, Monica. In addition we've invited Amy Siskind (https://amysiskind.com/about/) for a deeper conversation into what Women's History Month means and how women can be an ally for one another as we move forward.Podcast Referenceshttps://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/pill-mrs-america-womens-roles-1950s/#:~:text=A%20common%20stereotype%20was%20that,woman%20than%20a%20college%20degree. https://mom.com/momlife/why-womens-history-month-is-important