Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different™

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we engage in a captivating discussion with neuroscientist and author, Kelly Clancy. We explore the profound impact of games on human behavior and society, highlighting their dual nature as both trivial pastimes and cognitive tools. Kelly delves into how games shape intelligence, social structures, and even political systems. The conversation also touches on the gamification of life, the role of games in learning and social bonding, and the potential benefits and pitfalls of gaming. This episode offers a fresh perspective on the universal appeal and transformative power of games. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Kelly Clancy on the Dual Nature of Games Kelly Clancy introduces the concept of the dual nature of games, highlighting their role as both simple entertainment and complex cognitive tools. Games are often dismissed as mere pastimes, but they serve as mental scaffolding that helps individuals understand and navigate complex social systems. Games have played a significant role throughout history, shaping intelligence and social structures. From ancient board games to modern video games, they have been instrumental in teaching strategic thinking, cooperation, and competition. Understanding Complex Social Systems through Games Christopher and Kelly discuss how games serve as a framework for understanding societal rules and structures. Games like Monopoly can illustrate the foundational thinking behind economic systems such as capitalism and socialism. Kelly emphasizes the universal nature of play across species and its evolutionary significance. Games are not just a human phenomenon; they are observed in various animal species, highlighting their fundamental role in development and social bonding. Games as Tools of Learning Throughout history, games have been used as tools for conflict resolution and social bonding. They provide a structured environment for competition and cooperation, helping to resolve disputes and build relationships. Uncertainty is also a key aspect of games that captivates the brain and drives learning. The unpredictability of outcomes keeps players engaged and motivated to improve their skills. Games also serve as a window into understanding human behavior. The spectator element of games, such as watching sports or eSports, allows individuals to observe and analyze the actions and strategies of others. To hear more from Kelly Clancy and the hidden power of Games, download and listen to this episode. Bio Kelly Clancy is a distinguished neuroscientist and author, known for her contributions to understanding biological information processing and agency. Her research has been funded by prestigious fellowships, including those from HFSP, EMBO, and the Branco Weiss Fellowship. Kelly’s work delves into the principles of sensory representations and the interplay between agency and sensory perception in the brain. She has published extensively in top scientific journals and has received the Regeneron Prize for Innovation in Biomedicine. Kelly’s debut book, Playing with Reality: How Games Have Shaped Our World, explores the impact of games on human cognition and society. Her essays have been featured in renowned publications such as Harper’s Magazine, Wired, and The New Yorker, reflecting her talent for making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging to the public. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges neuroscience and literature, making her a prominent voice in contemporary science communication​. Links Connect with Kelly Clancy! Website | X (formerly Twitter) We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of the Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a conversation with Krish Ramineni, co-founder and CEO of Fireflies.ai. We explore the transformative impact of AI on business operations, focusing on Fireflies.ai’s journey from a Bay Area startup to a leader in AI-driven transcription and conversation analysis. Krish Ramineni shares his insights on strategic growth decisions, the shift to remote work, and leveraging AI for efficiency. If you want to know more about AI’s potential to revolutionize industries like legal and marketing through innovative applications, then you’re in the right place. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. The Journey of Fireflies.ai: From Startup to AI Pioneer One of the pivotal decisions that contributed to Fireflies.ai’s success was the shift to remote work and maintaining a lean team. Krish Ramineni emphasizes the importance of leveraging AI technologies to enhance productivity and efficiency, allowing the company to operate with fewer resources while achieving significant growth. Krish also talks about the importance of focusing on specific domain-related issues and building applications that solve end-to-end job functions. Fireflies.ai started by addressing the need for capturing and remembering meeting discussions, which evolved into a comprehensive AI meeting assistant that can join video conferencing platforms, take notes, send summaries, and perform post-meeting tasks. The Broader Implications of AI on Business and the Job Market Both Christopher and Krish emphasize the critical role of adaptability in an era of rapid technological change. Businesses must be willing to embrace new technologies and continuously evolve to stay competitive. Krish also shares the potential impact of AI on professions that historically relied on knowledge asymmetry, such as legal and marketing departments. AI can democratize access to information, making it easier for individuals and small businesses to compete with larger organizations. Which means those who are late on adapting might be phased out sooner than they think. The Ethical Considerations and Risks of AI They then touch on the potential risks and ethical considerations associated with AI. Krish and Christopher highlight the importance of careful regulation and transparency to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly. To hear more from Krish Ramineni and the transformative power of AI in business, download and listen to this episode. Bio Krish Ramineni is the co-founder and CEO of Fireflies.ai, a cutting-edge company specializing in artificial intelligence-driven meeting transcription and note-taking. With a background in product management and software engineering, Krish has a track record of transforming innovative ideas into successful technology solutions. Prior to founding Fireflies.ai, he worked at Microsoft, where he honed his skills in building and scaling enterprise software products. Under his leadership, Fireflies.ai has grown rapidly, serving thousands of businesses globally and revolutionizing the way professionals handle meeting documentation and collaboration. Krish’s vision for Fireflies.ai is to create a seamless workflow where AI-powered tools handle repetitive tasks, allowing individuals to focus on higher-value activities. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Krish combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of market needs. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation continue to drive Fireflies.ai forward in the competitive tech landscape. In addition to his professional achievements, Krish is passionate about mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and contributing to the broader tech community. Links Connect with Krish Ramineni! Fireflies.ai | LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter) We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we talk with a seasoned law enforcement officer and congressional candidate, Tim Alexander. Tim Alexander shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to a distinguished career in law enforcement, driven by a pivotal encounter with police misconduct and his grandfather’s wise advice. They discuss Tim’s dedication to rewriting police policies, advocating for smarter funding and training, and his stance on gun control. Tim emphasizes his commitment to practical, moderate policies focused on public safety, affordability, and job creation, aiming to serve his community effectively. So if you want to hear his insights on law enforcement and his plans as a congressional representative, take a seat and let’s dive right in. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Tim Alexander’s Journey: From Adversity to Advocacy Tim’s story is one of resilience and determination. Growing up in a poor family, he worked hard to support himself and his family. His journey took a significant turn when he decided to pursue higher education, despite financial constraints. This decision led him to an unexpected path in law enforcement, driven by a pivotal encounter with police misconduct. Tim credits his grandfather, Doc Plummer, for inspiring him to pursue a career in law enforcement and make a difference from within. His grandfather’s advice to become a police officer to effect change from the inside was a turning point in Tim’s life. Rewriting Police Policies: Smarter Funding and Training One of the key themes they discussed was the true cost of policing. Tim emphasized that the cost of bringing a new officer on board goes beyond their starting salary. It includes training, equipment, and other expenses that are often overlooked. Tim highlighted the importance of having mental health response teams to handle non-violent mental health calls. He emphasized that police officers are not always the best-equipped to handle such situations and that having trained professionals can lead to better outcomes. Tim Alexander on Gun Control: A Balanced Approach Tim’s stance on gun control is balanced and pragmatic. He supports the Second Amendment and the right to own guns but advocates for sensible gun laws, particularly regarding assault weapons. He emphasizes that these weapons are designed for war and have no place on the streets of America. Tim also discussed the role of law enforcement in advocating for sensible gun laws. He expressed frustration that police associations do not take a stronger stance against assault weapons, despite the dangers they pose to officers. To hear more from Tim Alexander and what he has done for law enforcement and his plans in the future, download and listen to this episode. Bio Tim Alexander, a New Jersey native, has dedicated his life to public service. After experiencing racial profiling, he pursued a 27-year career in law enforcement, rising to Detective Captain at the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office. Motivated by a commitment to community trust and safety, he earned a B.S. and M.B.A. from Drexel University and a J.D. from Rutgers University. Transitioning to law, Tim worked as a Major Trials Prosecutor and in the Civil Rights Unit in Philadelphia. Now in private practice, he focuses on Civil Rights and Employment Discrimination law. Tim is a lifelong Democrat, committed to serving his community. For more information, visit Tim Alexander for Congress. Links Campaign Website | X (formerly Twitter) | Facebook We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we delve into the revolutionary concept of the experience economy. Coined by Joe Pine and James Gilmore in the late 1990s, the experience economy has transformed how businesses engage with customers. This episode will break down the key insights from our conversation, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations on how to leverage the hero’s journey framework to elevate customer interactions. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Understanding the Experience Economy The experience economy is a concept that suggests businesses can create value by crafting memorable experiences for their customers, rather than just offering products or services. Pine and Gilmore’s visionary work has influenced modern business thinking, pushing companies to focus on the emotional and experiential aspects of customer interactions. Key Takeaways: Shift from Goods to Experiences: Businesses need to move beyond selling products and services to creating immersive experiences that resonate with customers on a deeper level. Emotional Engagement: Experiences that evoke emotions are more likely to be remembered and valued by customers, leading to increased loyalty and advocacy. The Hero’s Journey Framework The hero’s journey, a narrative structure popularized by Joseph Campbell, can be a powerful tool for businesses looking to create meaningful customer experiences. This framework involves a hero (the customer) embarking on an adventure, facing challenges, and ultimately achieving transformation. Steps of the Hero’s Journey: The Call to Adventure: The customer recognizes a need or desire that prompts them to seek out a solution. Crossing the Threshold: The customer takes the first step towards addressing their need, often by engaging with a brand or product. Trials and Tribulations: The customer faces challenges and obstacles, which the brand helps them overcome. Transformation and Reward: The customer experiences personal growth and satisfaction from overcoming challenges, leading to a deeper connection with the brand. Making Customers the Heroes One of the most impactful ways to engage customers is by positioning them as the heroes of their own stories. This approach not only enhances their experience but also fosters a sense of empowerment and loyalty. Actionable Tips: Understand Customer Needs: Conduct thorough research to understand the desires, pain points, and aspirations of your customers. Craft Personalized Experiences: Use the insights gained from your research to create tailored experiences that address individual customer needs. Support and Guide: Act as a mentor or guide, providing the tools and support customers need to overcome their challenges. For more insights and examples from the Category Pirates, download and listen to this episode. Don’t forget to grab a copy (or gift!) of one of our best-selling books: Snow Leopard: How Legendary Writers Create A Category Of One The Category Design Toolkit: Beyond Marketing: 15 Frameworks For Creating & Dominating Your Niche A Marketer’s Guide To Category Design: How To Escape The “Better” Trap, Dam The Demand, And Launch A Lightning Strike Strategy The 22 Laws of Category Design: Name & Claim Your Niche, Share Your POV, And Move The World From Where It Is To Somewhere Different **NEW!** The B2B Tech Marketer’s Guide To Category Design: How To Engineer Your Market, Find What Makes You Different, And Become A Category Queen We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, I would like to share with you a very special tribute to a man who’s not only a legend in the world of basketball but also a cherished friend of mine—Bill Walton. Join me as we take a walk down memory lane, revisiting the first time Bill graced my podcast with his presence and the indelible mark he’s left on my life. A Meeting of Minds in San Diego It was August 24th, 2017—a day etched in my memory, thanks to the friends who captured the moment and shared a photo of our first encounter. Meeting Bill Walton was like stepping into a storybook where the characters leap off the page. Here was one of the greatest NBA players of all time, a man whose stature was matched only by his extraordinary personality, ready to become a part of my world. Our initial meeting took place at an executive event in sunny San Diego, where we were both slated to speak. I remember watching Bill, completely unscripted, captivating the audience with his life’s slideshow in the background. His ability to weave tales and engage listeners with nothing but his memories and a carousel of personal photos was nothing short of mesmerizing. The Teacher in My Life Bill’s journey is one of resilience. From battling a stutter to enduring chronic injuries, his path was never easy. Yet, he emerged stronger, channeling his love for music and life into everything he did. His passion was infectious, and his dedication to being unapologetically unique was something that deeply resonated with me. Bill played a crucial role in my transition to becoming a teacher. His influence was a guiding light, helping me navigate through new territories with confidence. His life lessons extended beyond the court, and I was fortunate to be one of the many who benefited from his wisdom. Radical Generosity and Unwavering Support One of the most touching aspects of my friendship with Bill was experiencing his radical generosity firsthand. I’ll never forget the care package of memorabilia he sent my way—a testament to his thoughtful nature and the value he placed on our bond. In the aftermath of a personal tragedy, it was Bill’s kindness that shone through the darkness. His heartfelt messages provided comfort and support when I needed it most, further solidifying the profound impact of our friendship. As I reflect on the time spent with Bill Walton, I’m filled with immense gratitude. His legacy extends far beyond his basketball accolades; it’s etched in the hearts of those he’s touched with his generosity, spirit, and unwavering friendship. I hope that this episode gives you a glimpse into the remarkable man that is Bill Walton and the special place he holds in my life. His story is one of triumph, tenacity, and the power of genuine connections. Thank you for joining me in this celebration of friendship and legacy. Bio Bill Walton, an NBA legend, is renowned for his exceptional skills, dynamic personality, and influential career. Born on November 5, 1952, Walton’s basketball journey began at UCLA, where he led the Bruins to two national championships. In the NBA, he played for the Portland Trailblazers, San Diego/Los Angeles Clippers, and Boston Celtics, earning two NBA championships and an MVP award in 1978. In 1997, Bill Walton was selected as one of the NBA’s Fifty Greatest Players of all Time. Post-retirement, he became a beloved broadcaster, known for his colorful commentary. Walton’s legacy continues to inspire basketball enthusiasts worldwide. Links BillWalton.com | NBA Profile | ESPN Biography We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, the conversation takes a deep dive into the complex and sensitive situation in Gaza, Palestine, Israel, and the broader Middle East, and how our perception here in America is being warped by misinformation from different sides. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. A Feeling of Déjà Vu for America On the evening of Feb. 20, 1939, the marquee of Madison Square Garden was lit up for the big event: “Pro American Rally.” But it was the farthest thing from being American as can be. Uniformed members of pro-Hitler group The German American Bund carried American and nazi flags. That being said, In the last week of December 1942, fifty leading German-Americans (including baseball legend Babe Ruth) signed a declaration condemning nazis which appeared in ten major American daily newspapers. Ultimately, American patriots stopped the American nazis. Looking at the events this week at Columbia, MIT, NYU, and other elite US schools, they mirror much of the hate, horror and scale of The German American Bund. While some were there to genuinely support the civilians trapped in the ongoing conflict, there were others that openly supported Hamas’ extremist actions. It was very ironic to see banners about women and LGBT+ groups support, when they are the most oppressed in the world that these people envision. What’s even worse is that there were reasons to suspect that these protests were sponsored by people who don’t want to get their own hands dirty. (Mis)Information is Rampant One of the downsides of our technological boom is the ease of access to information. Unfortunately, ease of access does not always mean a smart populace. As information is shared from peer to peer, information gets distorted, if not outright manipulated to suit their agendas, that sometimes the victim comes out on the other end as the one being ganged on, instead of the oppressor. This particularly true with social media sites, who has become the de-facto source of information for the younger generation. There was even a brief period where young people were lauding a speech that Bin Laden made to justify 9/11. Never mind the atrocities he and his jihadist group committed in the US and international stage, he made a great speech! Totally justified. Call to Arms Nazis have attacked America from within before. American patriots stopped them. The only question now is, will you and I empower radical jihadists nazis? Or will we stop them, like our ancestors did 78 years ago? To hear more of Christopher Lochhead’s points on the matter, download and listen to this episode. Bio Christopher Lochhead Links WSJ Article on the Anti-Israel Protesters The World’s Record Holder for Executing Women Has Executed Three Women in Three Days This Is Ahmad. He Was Queer In Palestine. We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

Here at Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we’ve had the privilege of engaging in conversations that transcend the ordinary, delving into the depths of what truly makes us tick. On this episode, we sat down with Bruce Feiler, an acclaimed New York Times best-selling author, to explore his work, “Life Is in the Transitions.” Bruce Feiler is a renowned American author, television personality, and speaker known for his insightful and thought-provoking work on family dynamics, religion, and contemporary culture. He is the author of several New York Times bestsellers, including “Walking the Bible,” “The Council of Dads,” and “Life Is in the Transitions.” Feiler’s work often blends personal narrative with broader cultural analysis, and he has been a popular columnist for publications like The New York Times. This wasn’t your typical interview; it was a real, raw conversation about the seismic shifts we all face and how we can navigate them with grace and resilience. We believe that people are now more than ever being rocked by their life quakes, and hope that Bruce’s words could help us once again. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Bruce Feiler on the Non-Linear Journey of Life Bruce’s personal journey is a testament to the power of embracing life’s unpredictability. From battling cancer to supporting his father through Parkinson’s disease, he’s no stranger to what he calls “life quakes.” These are the massive, often unexpected events that shake us to our core and challenge the linear narrative we’ve been sold about how life is “supposed” to go. During our talk, Bruce recounted a moment at his 30th college reunion that sparked a revelation. As he moderated a panel of distinguished classmates, he saw firsthand the universal struggle to maintain the facade of a perfect, linear life trajectory. This experience, coupled with his own, led him to question the societal pressures that bind us to outdated life narratives. Bruce Feiler on the Myth of the Midlife Crisis One of the most enlightening parts of our discussion centered on the concept of the midlife crisis. Bruce debunked this myth, pointing out the flawed research and biases behind it. He argued that we need to update our understanding of life transitions to reflect the modern, non-linear world we live in—a world where change is the only constant. We also emphasized the importance of proactive life design. We must acknowledge and navigate through life’s disruptions, which often come at us like a “car pileup,” multiple and simultaneous. It’s about learning to dance in the rain, rather than waiting for the storm to pass. Life Quakes: Voluntary and Involuntary Bruce explained that life quakes are frequent disruptors, with most being manageable. However, about 53% of these quakes are involuntary—like a spouse cheating or losing a job—while 47% are voluntary, such as changing religion or leaving a job. Millennials, he noted, are more inclined to seek change, while older generations may feel more stuck. The pandemic, a collective involuntary life quake, has heightened our sensitivity to change. Bruce stressed that while the quake may be involuntary, the life transition that follows must be voluntary. It’s about taking back control and making the decision to navigate through the transition effectively. “If we look at life transitions as periods that we have to suffer our way through, we are wasting half of our life. If we look at them as periods, they’re going to be difficult and painful, but there’s also opportunities for growth and renewal. That’s the story of your life.” – Bruce Feiler Bruce’s book doesn’t just lay out the problem; it offers a toolkit for navigating life transitions. He provides practical guidance on what to expect, the phases involved, and the tools to get through it. This part of our conversation was particularly impactful, as it offered listeners actionable steps to take control of their life narratives. To hear more from Bruce Feiler and know more about life quakes and the transitions that come with it, download and listen to this episode. Bio Bruce Feiler is one of America’s most popular voices in contemporary life. He is the author of several New York Times bestsellers; the presenter of two prime-time series on PBS; and the inspiration for the drama COUNCIL OF DADS on NBC. Bruce’s two TED Talks have been viewed more than two million times. Employing a firsthand approach to his work, Bruce is known for living the experiences he writes about. His work combines timeless wisdom with timely knowledge turned into practical, positive messages that allow people to live with more meaning, passion, and joy. His book, LIFE IS IN THE TR

Welcome to a special episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, where we dive deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and business growth. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with a visionary in the realm of AI and revenue generation, Andy Byrne. Andy Byrne is the visionary CEO of Clari, a leading revenue operations platform. With a wealth of experience in the tech industry, Byrne has been instrumental in shaping Clari’s innovative approach to sales execution and forecasting. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. From Garage to Global: Clari’s Ascension Andy takes us on a journey through Clari’s evolution, from its modest inception in a garage to becoming a powerhouse with over 700 employees and R&D centers across the globe. He shares the pivotal role of generative AI in accelerating business processes, enabling companies to swiftly create, convert, and close their sales pipelines. Despite initial skepticism, Predictive AI has proven to be a game-changer for revenue leaders. Andy highlights how early predictions empower proactive decision-making and optimize capital deployment, crucial for managing expectations around revenue and earnings per share. Andy Byrne on Uncovering Revenue Leaks with AI We then discuss AI’s ability to identify and rectify revenue leaks. Andy provides tangible examples, such as neglected leads and overlooked targets, which can significantly impact a company’s bottom line. By harnessing AI, organizations can foster revenue collaboration and enhance productivity at all organizational levels. “The process of running revenue is more of a technology game now than a sales game.” – Andy Byrne Predictive AI: Fostering Collaborative Conversations Drawing parallels to the early days of SEO and network performance management, we delved into the concept of “signal” within AI. Clari’s AI is adept at analyzing signals from a myriad of sources, offering real-time insights that are instrumental in detecting revenue leaks and informing strategic decisions. Andy recognizes how Predictive AI can spark these useful conversations. He stresses how these talks, where people compare their gut feelings with the predictions made by machines, can boost teamwork and help businesses thrive. To hear more from Andy Byrne and how AI can help boost your company’s revenue, download and listen to this episode. Bio Andy Byrne, CEO of Clari, is a seasoned leader in the tech industry. Andy Byrne is dedicated to revolutionizing revenue operations, championing innovation, and fostering collaboration within sales teams globally. His strategic vision has propelled Clari to the forefront of the industry, where it stands as a trailblazer in harnessing the power of Predictive AI for sales execution and forecasting. Under his guidance, Clari continues to empower businesses to achieve unparalleled growth and success, setting new standards for excellence in revenue optimization and operational efficiency. Links Connect with Andy Byrne! Clari.com | LinkedIn | Twitter/X We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have the pleasure of sitting down with two remarkable entrepreneurs, Shante Frazier and Lauren Mitchell, the co-founders of WellCapped. In our conversation, we delved into the origins of their groundbreaking service, the hurdles they’ve overcome, and their ambitious vision for the future of the beauty industry. Their journey is one of innovation, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of redefining beauty standards. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. WellCapped: The Genesis of a Game-Changer Shante and Lauren’s venture, WellCapped, is akin to Rent the Runway, but for wigs and hair extensions. This novel concept was born from a simple suggestion by Shante’s aunt and has since blossomed into a business that caters to a diverse clientele seeking quality and affordability. Their personal experiences and corporate backgrounds have fueled their mission to democratize high-end wigs and hair extensions, making them accessible to all. The beauty industry has seen a surge in the use of wigs and hair extensions, with technological advancements blurring the lines between natural and styled hair. Celebrities and influencers are challenging traditional beauty norms, and WellCapped is at the forefront of this shift, empowering customers to experiment with their looks without the hefty price tag. The Entrepreneurial Leap Shante recounts the poignant moment that transformed her hesitation into conviction. The idea of a rental service for wigs and hair extensions wasn’t just a business opportunity; it was a chance to support individuals undergoing chemotherapy by offering free memberships and support—a testament to the personal significance of WellCapped. Transitioning from corporate America to entrepreneurship is no small feat. Shante and Lauren share their motivations and the challenges they faced along the way. “When you see your customers telling you how our company has changed their lives, it gives you the fuel that you need to keep going on the bad days.” – Lauren Mitchell of WellCapped Eventually, Lauren’s layoff became a catalyst for her commitment to WellCapped, while Shante reflected on the naivety and learning curve of starting a new venture. The Journey of Fundraising and Resilience Raising funds for a startup is a daunting task, but Shante and Lauren’s determination was unwavering. They focused on aligning with investors who shared their vision, rather than convincing skeptics. Their commitment to excellence and continuous improvement has been a driving force behind their success. Their participation in the Techstars program marked a pivotal chapter for WellCapped. The intensive accelerator experience honed their brand and helped shift customer perceptions about renting wigs—a concept that is now gaining traction and acceptance. Shante emphasized the growing trend of viewing hair as a fashion accessory. WellCapped taps into this trend by offering a cost-effective way for consumers to express themselves through their hair, fostering a culture of experimentation and self-expression. To hear more from Shante & Lauren and how they raised WellCapped from the ground up, download and listen to this episode. Bio Shante Frazier Shante is a recent MBA graduate from NYU Stern, where she specialized in Marketing and Strategy. She graduated from Spelman College in 2012 with a BA in Economics. Prior to coming to Stern, Shante worked at Progressive Insurance for 3 years in the Pricing and Competitive Intelligence departments while also serving as an officer in the Ohio Army National Guard. Lauren Mitchell Lauren is a experienced marketing enthusiast with a demonstrated history of providing direction in the consultant industry and building meaningful relationships. She is a two-time graduate from Louisiana State University where she received her MBA focused in Management Consulting and a BS in Marketing. Links Connect with Shante & Lauren! WellCapped: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram Shante Frazier: LinkedIn Lauren Mitchell: LinkedIn We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

Here at Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we’ve had the privilege of engaging in conversations that are not just thought-provoking, but also deeply impactful. On this episode, we sit down with Scott Wilson, the passionate co-founder of American Wild Horse Conservation, to discuss a topic close to both our hearts: the plight of America’s wild horses and the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect these magnificent creatures. Scott Wilson is a renowned Colorado Nature Photographer and Communications Leader, whose journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered the plight of America’s wild horses. Scott became captivated by the freedom and majesty of the wild horses roaming the western United States. His realization that these iconic animals were facing threats to their survival inspired him to take action and co-found American Wild Horse Conservation. This non-profit organization is dedicated to preserving and protecting wild horses, which have played a pivotal role in the nation’s history and ecology. This captivating conversation illuminates the plight of these majestic creatures, and the tireless efforts to secure their freedom and ensure their survival. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Scott Wilson on the Historical Tapestry of America’s Wild Horses The history of wild horses in the United States is as rich and complex as the country itself. Scott Wilson shares that there are approximately 65,000 wild horses roaming free across ten states in the western United States. It’s also a little-known fact that all the world’s horses have their origins in North America, and they were reintroduced in the 1500s. These animals are not just a part of the natural ecology but are woven into the very tapestry of our nation’s history. In 1971, the Wild Horse and Burro Protection Act was a promise made to these animals—a promise that we are duty-bound to uphold. As we delved into the significance of wild horses, it became clear that they are not just symbols of the wild but are key players in the ecological balance of our public lands. Wild Blue Roan by Scott Wilson of the American Wild Horse Conservation Scott Wilson on the Struggle for Space and Survival Given these facts, it was unsettling to learn that wild horses are allocated a mere 2% of public lands. Contrary to popular belief, these horses are not in competition for building or economic development. In fact, only 1% of the nation’s beef is produced on these lands, debunking the myth that wild horses pose a significant threat to our economy. However, the challenges they face are real and pressing. Competition with livestock, encroachment by oil and gas businesses, and government policies that often do more harm than good are just a few of the hurdles wild horses must overcome to survive. Wild Pinto Stallion Picasso by Scott Wilson of the American Wild Horse Conservation Nevada: The Heartland of Wild Horses It’s a surprising fact that roughly half of the wild horse population in the US is concentrated in Nevada. This distribution has significant implications for conservation efforts and the management of these animals. That being said, Scott Wilson’s initiative to buy back land and expand the habitat for wild horses is a beacon of hope. The acquisition of 3500 acres in Nevada and the establishment of a land trust are steps toward ensuring that wild horses and other wildlife can coexist peacefully. To hear more from Scott Wilson and how American Wild Horse Conservation help protect these majestic creatures, download and listen to the episode. Freedom by Scott Wilson of the American Wild Horse Conservation Bio A brand-builder and landscape photographer of twenty years, Scott Wilson found his conservation voice after a prolonged battle with stage 4 colon cancer refocused his lens on Colorado’s wildlife, leading to the life-changing discovery of a remote and mesmerizing herd of wild horses in Sand Wash Basin, on the border with Wyoming. While an early photographic encounter with a wild tricolored pinto mustang named Picasso helped change the focus of Scott’s career as an artist, it was an impending federal roundup, threatening the very survival of the herd, that unlocked his voice as an advocate, and he has since campaigned for better outcomes for wild horses, behind and in front of the lens, both as a spokesperson and strategist for American Wild Horse Conservation, the nation’s leading wild horse conservation NGO. Anger Management, a statement piece about the conservation challenges facing wild horses in the American west, earned Open Photographer of the Year and Natural World and Wildlife Awards in the 2022 Sony World Photography Awards, raising awareness of wild horse issues in more than 140 countries. Scott is a contributor to We

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have the pleasure of welcoming Sean Riley, the co-founder of Dude Wipes. For those unfamiliar with it, Dude Wipes is a brand that has revolutionized the concept of personal hygiene with a superior alternative to traditional toilet paper. Sean shares the story of how Dude Wipes catapulted to legendary success, including securing a deal with Mark Cuban on Shark Tank and being recognized as one of the top five greatest Shark Tank entrepreneurs. Our conversation was not only enlightening, but also a testament to the power of innovation and strategic category design in entrepreneurship. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Sean Riley on Disrupting the Market with Practical Innovation The conversation starts off with Sean’s mustache and how well everyone’s taking to it. Sean’s distinctive mustache isn’t just a personal style choice; it’s become a branding asset for Dude Wipes. Pivoting from that, Sean discusses the significance of the brand and its deep resonance with consumers. The name “Dude Wipes” itself is a stroke of genius, encapsulating humor, authenticity, and a bold approach to male hygiene. The conversation then veered towards the practicality of Dude Wipes. Sean emphasizes the universal dissatisfaction with traditional toilet paper and the need for a better solution, especially for men on the go. He explores the potential for Dude Wipes to become as ubiquitous as toilet paper, with the aim of making the product more accessible and convenient for consumers. Drawing parallels with Gojo Industries, the category king of liquid soap and Purell hand sanitizer, Christopher highlights the reframing of the problem and the potential for Dude Wipes to create a new category in the hygiene space. Despite initial skepticism, Sean’s commitment to disrupting the toilet paper market remains unwavering. Sean Riley on Overcoming Skepticism and Embracing Category Potential In the early days, Dude Wipes faced challenges and skepticism. However, Sean and his team were confident in their product’s appeal to men. They understood that by creating a better product, they could carve out a new space in the male market. Sean’s insights on the importance of category potential and market dynamics were particularly enlightening, emphasizing the significance of entering a growing category with unique offerings. The Shark Tank Effect: A Pivotal Moment for Dude Wipes Sean provides an overview of Dude Wipes’ impressive sales figures and distribution channels, highlighting the company’s organic growth and resourceful brand-building approach. Reflecting on their Shark Tank experience, Sean recounts the unexpected turn of events when Mark Cuban offered them a deal, marking a pivotal moment for the company. Sean’s passion and determination were palpable as he recounted the journey of building Dude Wipes and overcoming challenges to achieve success. To hear more from Sean Riley and to receive valuable insights into entrepreneurship, category design, and the power of believing in a product’s potential, download and listen to this episode. Bio Sean Riley is the co-founder and driving force behind Dude Wipes, a groundbreaking brand in personal hygiene. With a business degree in hand, Sean teamed up with his childhood friend to challenge conventional notions of men’s grooming. In 2010, they launched Dude Products, introducing flushable wipes tailored for men, a concept that resonated with consumers seeking convenient, effective, and masculine alternatives to traditional toilet paper. Sean’s leadership propelled Dude Products from a garage startup to a global phenomenon, with a diverse product line available in major retailers worldwide. His dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction solidified Dude Wipes’ position as an industry leader. Beyond business, Sean advocates for men’s health and wellness, leveraging Dude Wipes’ platform to promote positive habits and destigmatize personal hygiene. With relentless drive and passion, Sean continues to inspire others to embrace their dudehood and live life to the fullest. Links Connect with Sean Riley! LinkedIn | Dude Wipes We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow your Different, we have a conversation with Carl Daikeler, the visionary CEO of BODi (formerly known as Beachbody). We explore Carl’s remarkable journey in the fitness industry, beginning with the inception of the eight-minute abs video series—a concept that sprang from his own need for a quick and effective workout solution. Carl’s story is not just about the creation of a fitness program; it’s about identifying a gap in the market and filling it with innovation. The eight-minute abs series not only became a household name but also gained unexpected fame with its mention in the movie “Something About Mary.” If you’re interested to learn more, consider giving this episode a try. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Carl Daikeler on the Power of Media in Fitness Carl shares the challenges and triumphs of launching other renowned fitness programs like Power 90 and P90X. He emphasizes the crucial role of media in delivering fitness instruction and the concept of structured home fitness. Reflecting on the success of P90X, Carl reveals the strategic thinking behind creating new fitness programs, such as Insanity, and the lessons learned along the way. The impact of Carl’s fitness programs on individuals is profound, to say the least. They offer a sense of accomplishment and success to those who may have struggled with traditional gym environments. This, in turn, sheds light on the marketing and strategic decisions that propelled these programs to success and how Beachbody evolved into a digital powerhouse. The Evolution of Fitness: From Products to Subscriptions In the ever-changing landscape of the fitness industry, Carl explains the shift from selling products to embracing a subscription model. In fact, BODi has successfully transitioned to this model, boasting over a million subscribers. However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, such as subscription fatigue. As such, Carl highlights the importance of evolving the business model to include digital program purchases alongside subscriptions. The unique features of their digital platform, such as virtual trainers who can make real-time corrections for dozens of participants, also helped ensure a high-quality experience. This flexibility extends to allowing users to download programs for offline use, catering to the modern consumer’s need for convenience and customization. Owning the Morning and the Holistic Approach to Health The conversation took a personal turn as Carl shares his morning routine, which includes a health shot and Shakeology. He stressed the significance of starting the day with healthy habits to set the tone for overall well-being. This led to the discussion of a controversial topic in weight loss pharmaceuticals, like Ozempic, and the dangers of relying on drugs without making necessary lifestyle changes. Carl advocates for a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the need to build and preserve muscle for long-term vitality. They ponder whether people use these drugs as a kickstarter for a healthier lifestyle or merely as a shortcut. Carl introduces the concept of “health esteem,” advocating for building a lifestyle centered around health and activity rather than focusing solely on weight loss. To hear more from Carl Daikeler and how to build up your body the healthy way, download and listen to this episode. Bio Carl Daikeler is the visionary CEO and Co-founder of BODi, a revolutionary health and wellness company. With over two decades of experience in the fitness industry, Carl is on a mission to transform lives through innovative approaches to exercise and nutrition. Carl’s journey began with a passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Drawing from his own struggles with weight management and a desire to make a difference, he co-founded BODi to provide people with accessible and effective solutions for sustainable health transformations. Under Carl’s leadership, BODi has become a beacon of inspiration, empowering individuals worldwide to take control of their well-being. His relentless dedication to creating impactful programs and fostering a supportive community has earned him recognition as a trailblazer in the industry. Beyond his role at BODi, Carl is a fervent advocate for health advocacy and philanthropy. He continuously strives to make a positive impact on society by promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting charitable initiatives. With Carl Daikeler at the helm, BODi is not just a company; it’s a movement towards a healthier, happier world. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey together. Links Connect with Carl Daikeler! LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter / X | Facebook We hope you enjoyed this episod

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined again by a dear friend, Kevin Maney, as he shares stories about the missed opportunities for innovation after Soviet Union’s fall. Kevin Maney has a new book out called Red Bottom Line, wherehe tells his firsthand experience as a young USA Today reporter in Russia during the time. From the optimism of Gorbachev’s era to the disillusionment under Putin, Christohper and Kevin also explore Russia’s technological transformation, societal issues and geopolitical impact. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Kevin Maney on the Journalism in Russia during the late 80s and early 90s Kevin starts off the conversation with a description of the conditions in Russia before, during, and after the fall of the Soviet Union. He describes when Mikhail Gorbachev started loosening restrictions and allowing more foreign correspondents into Russia, which allowed journalists like Kevin to make it to Russian soil as early as 88-88. Though some restrictions were lifted, Kevin recalls that they still had to jump through so many hoops just to get there, as there aren’t exactly direct routes or flights going from America to Russia at the time. At this point in time, a lot of Americans and other Westerners were flocking to Russia, as demand for common consumer products skyrocket. Things like toothpaste and deodorant were being sold left and right, things that weren’t originally available locally. Kevin observed this trend and proposed to his editor to let him cover this economic and financial phenomenon that is happening in the Soviet Union. Kevin Maney on Life in Russia during Economic Hardship As Kevin recalls the situation then, he saw a country that was on its last legs, and its people trying desperately to live as normal as they could. He observed certain stores that only allowed foreigners or people with non-local currencies to shop, as they know it had more buying power in the long run. Local residents were crowding other stores, either to purchase clothing items or to replenish their essential supplies. In department stores, shelves were nearly bare, with only toys and luxury items remaining unsold. Everyone was scooping up anything they could find. Seeing all that in contrast to people’s lives in America was disheartening, to say the least. The Opening of the First McDonalds in Russia during the 90s Given all that, Kevin still saw some hope for the country as they start rebuilding themselves from within. That, and all the companies that are now flooding into Russia to help supplies their needs and ideally, boost their economy. One such company was McDonalds, who Kevin has a fond story to tell. He shares that on one of his trips back to Russia, he just happened to be on the same flight as George Kohan, the biggest McDonalds franchisee in Canada. George was on his way to Moscow to check his plans to build a branch there, which eventually became the first of many McDonalds built in Russia. Kevin got to talk with George Kohan on how things were going with building a business on foreign soil, and the procedures and machinations he had to go through to finally get approved to open his business there. To hear more from Kevin Maney and his stories from the redeveloping Russia in the 90s, download and listen to this episode. Bio Kevin Maney is cofounder of Category Design Advisors, where he works with CEOs and executive teams to develop and execute strategies to design and dominate markets. He is also a multi-time bestselling author and journalist who writes about technology and society. His most recent book, UnHealthare: A Manifesto for Health Assurance, was co-authored with venture capitalist Hemant Taneja and Jefferson Health CEO Steve Klasko. It came out in 2020, and tees up how healthcare will evolve in the post-Covid era. His previous book, Unscaled: How AI and a New Generation of Upstarts are Creating the Economy of the Future, was co-authored with Hemant Taneja and came out in 2018. His book Play Bigger: How Pirates, Dreamers and Innovators Create and Dominate Markets (Harper Business, 2016), is a collaboration with Silicon Valley veterans Al Ramadan, Dave Peterson and Christopher Lochhead. The book introduces business to the idea of category design and gave birth to the advisory firm Category Design Advisors, where I’m now a partner. Other Works He co-authored, with TIBCO CEO Vivek Ranadive, The Two-Second Advantage: How We Succeed by Anticipating the Future…Just Enough. Merging brain science and computer science, it was a 2011 New York Times bestseller, and predicted much of the conversation we’re now having about artificial intelligence. He also co-wrote Making the World Work Better, which marked IBM’s centennial in 2001. More than 600,000 copies are in print in a dozen languag

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by our friend and multi-time guest, John Rossman. John Rossman is a Master of Innovation and former Amazon Executive who brings to the table his insights from his new book, Big Bet Leadership: Your playbook for winning in the hyper digital era. His experiences with industry giants illuminate the path for making bold, transformative decisions. This conversation is a deep dive into the courage and strategy required to lead in uncertain times, focusing on big bets that redefine industries, in an era where navigating technological change is crucial. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. John Rossman on Category Design and Big Bet Leadership Christopher and John discuss the impact of category transformation and AI on businesses. John expresses gratitude for Christopher’s influential work on category design, which has shaped his thinking and client engagements positively. They then delve into the challenges faced by companies in making big bets and succeeding in transformations, particularly in the context of AI and digital eras. Both acknowledge the historical struggle of major corporations to adapt and innovate compared to startups. John emphasizes the need for senior leaders to rethink traditional approaches and embrace new strategies to navigate the hyper-digital era successfully and achieve substantial productivity gains. John Rossman on Bold Moves vs Incremental Improvements Christopher and John explore the necessity of both incremental improvements and bold moves in corporate leadership. They stress the importance of executives balancing ongoing operations with strategic innovation, emphasizing the need for a portfolio of big bets alongside incremental changes. Drawing on insights from successful leaders like Satya Nadella, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk, they highlight the challenges of leading transformations in established companies. They propose a framework centered on creating clarity, maintaining velocity, and accelerating risk and value to guide organizations towards systematic transformation. Customer Obsession and Customer-Driven Innovation Christopher and John then talk about the importance of customer obsession and strategic thinking in driving successful business transformations. They critique competitor-focused strategies and highlight the significance of understanding customer problems deeply. Drawing from Amazon’s approach, they emphasize the need for a portfolio of hypotheses and ideas, continuously testing and iterating before scaling. Both caution against premature scaling and advocate for a patient approach that prioritizes operational readiness and sustainability. They stress that a combination of tactics, including customer obsession, agile methodologies, and strategic experimentation, is essential for systematic innovation and transformation. To hear more from John Rossman and how to make Big Bets for your company, download and listen to this episode. Bio John Rossman Digital and Innovation Advisor Mr. Rossman is an expert at digital business models, operations and organizing programs. He has led engagements on developing innovation processes, Internet of Things strategies, marketplace and API driven platform business models. He is a sought-after speaker on creating a culture of operational excellence and innovation. Mr. Rossman has worked with clients across various industries, including retail, insurance, education, healthcare, consumer products, industrial products and transportation. Mr. Rossman’s notable assignments include The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Microsoft, Nordstrom and several of the world’s leading retail and insurance organizations. Prior to Rossman Partners, John was a Managing Director at Alvarez and Marsal, a performance improvement consulting firm. Prior to A&M, John was an executive at Amazon.com where he launched the Marketplace business and third-party selling platform, and ran the merchant services business. Links Connect with John Rossman! LinkedIn: in/John-Rossman | Twitter: @JohnERossman | Get the book: Big Bet Leadership We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by educator, neuroscientist, and former Professor of Evolutionary Biology and Psychology at Harvard, Dr. Marc Hauser. Dr. Marc Hauser has a new book out called Vulnerable Minds: The harm of childhood trauma in the hope of resilience. You should also know this is a very adult conversation, as it deals with tough topics like childhood abuse. If you are not comfortable with such topics, you have been advised. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Marc Hauser on Trauma and Compassion Fatigue in Working with Children Dr. Marc Hauser, who works extensively with trauma victims, discusses the challenges of maintaining emotional well-being while dealing with the profound suffering of his clients. He acknowledges the risk of compassion fatigue and emphasizes the importance of self-care. Dr. Hauser reveals his coping mechanisms, including physical activity and the supportive environment of his home life. He also highlights the necessity of balancing empathy for his clients with maintaining professional boundaries to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Comparing his work to that of his veterinarian wife, he underscores the unique emotional demands of his profession, particularly when faced with physically aggressive clients. Despite the difficulties, Dr. Hauser emphasizes the importance of maintaining compassion and offering hope for a better tomorrow to those he serves. Dr. Marc Hauser on Childhood Trauma and its Impact on Mental and Physical Health Dr. Marc Hauser explains the significance of TRACEs (Trauma Response to Adverse Childhood Experiences) and RRACEs (Resilience Response to Adverse Childhood Experiences) alongside ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences). He elaborates on how ACEs, identified through a questionnaire developed by Dr. Vincent Felitti, are linked to physical and mental health issues. Dr. Hauser highlights the transformative impact of understanding and addressing childhood trauma through TRACEs and RRACEs, emphasizing the importance of trauma-informed care and resilience-building strategies. It underscores the need for a holistic approach to supporting individuals affected by childhood trauma, considering both the adverse effects and potential pathways to resilience and healing. Misconception on the ACE score Dr. Hauser discusses the misconception surrounding ACE scores, emphasizing that they were never intended as individual predictors but as population measures. He explains how ACE scores were misinterpreted and integrated into policies like insurance coverage in California based on individual scores. Christopher questions the implications of ACE scores on insurance premiums and treatment eligibility. Dr. Hauser clarifies that ACE scores are not accurate predictors of individual health risks but rather reflect population trends. He compares ACE scores to heritability measures, highlighting that they indicate predispositions but not definitive outcomes for individuals. Dr. Hauser underscores the importance of understanding ACE scores as measures of experience rather than direct responses to adverse childhood experiences, introducing the concepts of TRACEs and RRACEs for a more nuanced understanding of trauma response. To hear more from Dr. Marc Hauser on childhood trauma, download and listen to this episode. Bio Marc D. Hauser, Ph.D. Links Connect with Dr. Marc Hauser LinkedIn | Twitter / X | Marc D. Hauser website We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we bridge the gap between native analogs and native digitals in business by having a dialogue between the VC legend Ted Dintersmith and one of the new legends of her generation, Hannah Grady Williams. Ted Dintersmith is a VC legend on the East Coast. He’s a former venture capitalist and a founding member of Charles River ventures, where he spent a significant portion of his career investing in and nurturing technology startups. Transitioning his focus toward education, he’s become an influential advocate for innovative educational practices. Hannah Grady Williams is the legendary founder and CEO of d’Skills. She’s recognized for her innovative approach to shaping education and her efforts to equip the next generation with the tools necessary for success in the modern digital landscape. And, oh yeah, she’s only 25 years old. Hannah, Ted and Chris discuss the challenges of bridging generational gaps in education as native digital and native analogs. Along with the importance of introducing AI into education to empower students with real world projects. You’ll be shocked at the transformative impact of the skills program on student’s confidence, problem solving abilities, and career prospects. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Hannah Grady Williams on Education Reform and Preparing Students for the Workforce After a quick introduction between the two guests, the conversation starts with Hannah recounting a pivotal moment from her childhood when her dad involved her in a real estate deal at age 12, sparking her interest in applying academic skills to real-world situations. This experience led her to question the traditional education system’s effectiveness in preparing students for modern careers, especially in the age of AI. She and Christopher discuss the shortcomings of current education models, emphasizing the importance of practical skills over rote memorization. Both share a vision of revolutionizing education by shifting focus from test scores to impact portfolios, where students showcase real-world projects demonstrating their skills. They aim to equip students with digital and AI skills through hands-on projects, enabling them to make tangible contributions to businesses. Ultimately, they envision a million students graduating high school with impact portfolios, ready for the demands of the modern workforce. Ted Dintersmith on the Disconnect between Traditional School Education and Skill Development Christopher and Ted discuss the stark difference between traditional education and teaching skills relevant to the modern workforce, particularly in the context of AI. They note the reluctance of many educational institutions to embrace AI tools, preferring to view them as potential cheating aids rather than productivity enhancers. Ted highlights the disconnect between traditional schooling and the demands of the job market, where college graduates often lack marketable skills and face uncertain career prospects. He emphasizes the need for parents to recognize the evolving nature of jobs and the importance of equipping students with adaptable skills. They see initiatives like Hannah’s d’Skills as offering a path for students to create their own fulfilling careers, distinct from the outdated model of relying solely on degrees and conventional career paths. Education Priorities and Student Motivation Adding more on the topic of issues concerning traditional education, Ted also emphasizes that education’s central issue isn’t test scores or learning loss but rather the erosion of student motivation and purpose. He highlights the success of programs like d’Skills in engaging students, enabling them to pursue meaningful projects they find important. These initiatives contrast starkly with traditional schooling, where students often lack enthusiasm and see little relevance in their coursework. Ted underscores the importance of empowering students to engage in real-world projects that matter to them, a stark departure from the test-focused education system. Christopher contrasts the enthusiasm and results of students involved in programs like d’Skills with those in traditional education, noting the marked difference in attitude and approach. To hear more from Hannah Grady Williams and Ted Dintersmith on the current state of education and how to improve upon it, download and listen to this episode. Bio Hannah Grady Williams is the founder/CEO of d’Skills. d’Skills is a one-of-a-kind digital training community that teaches young people entrepreneurship, AI skills and how to create a revenue producing business in 10 weeks. About Ted Dintersmith Links Connect with Hannah and d’Skills! d’Skills | LinkedIn | Twitter/X Connect with Ted Dintersmit

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by Izhar and Ophir Shay, a father and brother to Israelis who have lost their lives in the Hamas attack. Today, they share how they chose to honor their fallen, in what can only be described as, Different. Izhar Shay is an entrepreneur – a venture capitalist, very successful in the startup community and startup nation in Israel. And he’s a former Israeli Member of Parliament who served as the Minister of Science and Technology. His son, Ophir Shay, is also an entrepreneur, and he has a background in marketing and customer support. Both men have served honorably in the IDF. In Israel, it is customary to plant a tree for fallen Israelis taken in war or terrorism. But Izhar and Ophir chose to honor them by starting a startup called Next October, a nonprofit on a mission to create and build a new successful Israeli startup for every person murdered or kidnapped on October 7. It’s an extraordinary vision. How you can take horror and turn it into hope and prosperity. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Ophir Shay and Izhar Shay on Coping with Loss and Grief When asked by Christopher on how they are doing, Ophir expresses optimism amidst difficulty, mentioning progress with connecting companies and families. Izhar then reflects on the challenge of answering “how are you doing?” following a family tragedy on October 7, losing their youngest son, Yaron, a soldier. Christopher empathizes, sharing his experience of loss and the struggle with such questions. Izhar details Yaron’s life, highlighting his values as both an Israeli and American citizen. Yaron is remembered as a remarkable individual, cherished by his family, and honored for his service. Memories of Yaron and His Passions in Life Izhar and Ophir continue the conversation about Yaron’s life, one that is filled with different passions, be it in music, watching and playing different sports, and tattoos. Izhar further reflects on Yaron’s passion for sports, spanning across continents and connecting people. He highlights Yaron’s dedication to his favorite teams and how his commitment was recognized even in his funeral. Christopher reciprocates, sharing his lifelong passion for sports, particularly football and hockey. He recounts a story about NBA Hall of Famer Bill Walton, emphasizing the joy of being an enthusiastic fan and celebrating one’s passions. Both agree that sports serve as a unifying force, fostering connections and bonding within families and communities. On accepting New and Old Communities Continuing on that line of thought, Christopher shares his experiences of bonding with his nephews over football, and introducing them to different activities, and in effect, different communities. He notes that music and sports communities tend to be more accepting, as while options might differ vastly from person to person, it’s still an avenue to get a conversation started and to have something common to talk about even if it’s the first time you have met the other person. Ophir agrees with this sentiment, and also adding that at the end of the day, it’s about embracing a new community, or even finally embracing one that you’ve been part of all along. Nothing is stopping anyone from being hardcore fans of their teams, as long as they show mutual respect for others and the teams they support. And isn’t that the point of it all in the end? To hear more from Izhar Shay and Ophir Shay, and how their startups honor their fallen sons and brothers, download and listen to this episode. Bio Izhar Shay Cofounder of Next October. Former Minister of Science & Technology and MK. High-Tech Entrepreneur, Venture Capital Investor, Director & Chairman. Founder, Start-Up Stadium, the largest online community of Israeli entrepreneurs A former columnist at “Globes”. Founder of the “High-Tech Ba’Pkakim” podcast and radio show. Ophir Shay Cofounder of Next October. Links Connect with Izhar Shay and Ophir Shay! Next October website | IsraelGives.org | Izhar’s Linkedin | Ophir’s LinkedIn More on Next October We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we unveil what’s really possible for young people when they’re set up to win as modern entrepreneurs, leveraging new AI technology. And who better to showcase it than the Gen Z whisperer for CEOs and executives, Hannah Grady Williams. Hannah Grady Williams is back, and she’s here to talk about d’Skills. d’Skills is a one-of-a-kind digital training community that teaches young people entrepreneurship, AI skills, and how to create a revenue producing business in 10 weeks. And the superstars of this conversation are teenage AI entrepreneurs, Rory Straight and Anna Mitchell, two recent graduates of the d’Skills Program. This episode will definitely challenge and inspire you to think about what’s possible for young people in new and different ways. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Hannah Grady Williams on d’Skills and AI The conversation starts off with Hannah introducing d’Skills and what they do. Simply put, d’Skills is a hub where high schoolers are coming to learn 21st century skills and technology like ChatGPT and all its uses, and develop their skills further into projects that can make an impact in the market and the business world. Hannah finds it fascinating how new technology can bridge the gap between young people’s ideas and the business world, and give birth to new products and categories that they can further develop as they learn more skills, or become more adept in their current ones. Using AI for Business Projects while still in High School Hannah also talks about a thing that she and d’Skills did over the summer called GPT Challengers Cup, in which they invited high schoolers from around the globe. And from this competition emerged Rory and Anna, who are also joining us on this episode. It was astounding what ideas and end products that high schoolers were able to develop in the span of 30 days, but in the end, it was Rory & Anna’s project that emerged victorious. What they ended up building was a Chrome extension that functions as an app that helps people study more efficiently by creating a comprehensive studying schedule based on the tasks you have registered in your to-do list. Learning a New Skill in 15 Second or Less Christopher then talks to Anna, who was handling the social media aspect of their team. This info was made more impressive by the simple fact that Anna has not handle social media marketing prior to the competition, and had to learn things through a bit of mentorship, but also doing a lot of research by herself. “It’s actually funny that you asked that question because right now, I’m actually in a marketing class. And it’s super funny, because with all due respect to my teacher, I’ve learnt nothing in that class; It is like busy work, papers, everything. It’s crazy how much that I learned even like before the two weeks before the actual cup was over, and now that I’m doing it like in my free time, that it’s really not as hard to make it seem. You don’t have to know all the business lingo and the economic terms. All you have to do is continue to push yourself and try new things and see what works and if it doesn’t work, then you know that doesn’t work and you move on from that.” – Anna Mitchell To hear more from Hannah, Rory, and Anna and the importance of skill-building with new technology in the business world, download and listen to this episode. Bio Hannah Grady Williams is the founder/CEO of d’Skills. d’Skills is a one-of-a-kind digital training community that teaches young people entrepreneurship, AI skills and how to create a revenue producing business in 10 weeks. Aurora Straight Hi, I’m Aurora, a STEAM enthusiast from Kansas with a deep passion for innovation and a strong presence in both academics and extracurricular activities. I compete in robotics and debate, channel my energy into basketball, and master precision in fencing. My ambition steers me towards aerospace engineering or a career in the Air Force, reflecting my desire to explore and innovate. I co-founded ‘Acadium,’ a testament to my commitment to enhancing educational experiences through technology. My victory in the GPT Innovators Cup further underscores my ability to leverage AI for creative solutions. With internships at notable organizations under my belt, I’m honing my skills for real-world challenges. My journey is more than just personal achievement; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and inspiring others to do the same. Anna Mitchell Hello, I’m Anna, a high school student and digital art enthusiast turned innovator. My journey is marked by the creation of ‘Acadium,’ a Chrome extension that showcases my flair for digital solut

We all encounter radical challenges, and we face big choices about how we approach life in the most challenging moments and learn to survive in – maybe even thrive. Today, we are joined by a combat veteran, retired US Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills, as he shares his challenges and the choices he has made to get to where he is today. Travis Mills is a serial entrepreneur, the driving force behind the Travis Mills Foundation, and the author of Bounce Back: A playbook for facing life’s toughest challenges with grace and gusto. Make sure you listen all the way to the end. You don’t want to miss any of Travis’s unrelenting spirit, wisdom and humor. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Travis Mills on his Military Service and Experience Christopher starts off the conversation by inquiring about Travis’s motivation for joining the military. Travis recounts feeling directionless after college, and was prompted by family advice to choose a military path for personal growth and benefits. Fascinated by infantry roles, Travis enlisted for a signing bonus. He breezed through basic training due to his athletic prowess and later engaged in military ground fighting tactics, drawing on his childhood interest in karate. Despite his combat skills, Travis values self-control and notes the discipline instilled by martial arts. Travis Mills on Mental Toughness Travis reflects on being featured on a magazine cover for his mental toughness rather than physical appearance. He also appreciates the recognition for his foundation work. Christopher acknowledges the disparity between modeling and true toughness. Travis also shares instances where he had to assert himself, highlighting his ability to de-escalate conflicts but also assert authority when needed. He explains how his military background balances his jovial persona, noting people’s tendency to underestimate him. He emphasizes the importance of professionalism and corrective measures in his businesses, showcasing his leadership style derived from his military experience. From Military to Entrepreneurship Christopher admires Travis’s entrepreneurship and proposes introducing him to Iron Mike Stedman, a fellow Marine and entrepreneur. Stedman’s mission involves helping inner-city kids through boxing and assisting veteran entrepreneurs with their businesses. Travis expresses his belief in pursuing dreams and betting on oneself, citing personal experiences in entrepreneurship. Despite facing challenges, Travis advocates for seizing opportunities and embracing failure as a motivator. He shares his ventures in house flipping and marina ownership, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and taking calculated risks. Travis’s resilience and clarity of purpose derived from his military background inform his entrepreneurial journey. To hear more from Travis Mills and his journey and challenges from being in the military to being an entrepreneur, download and listen to this episode. Bio Born and raised in Vassar, Michigan, United States Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated veteran, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. In addition to being the founder of the Travis Mills Foundation, Travis also serves as the President of the Board of Directors. Travis has achieved his vision for the Foundation by bringing together a talented array of experts who masterfully accomplish the Foundation’s mission. Per Travis’s lead, the team at the Foundation are not only respected colleagues, they are family. Links Connect with Travis Mills! Travis Mills Foundation | Instagram We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

It’s February, so what better time it is than to talk Love on Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. Today, we have a fun one: a special dating episode for people over 40. And who better to talk about it than our guest, Nina Jarnum. Nina Jarnum is a lawyer-turned-Yogi-turned-popular writer, and she’s the author of a new book called, “F*ck Kissing Frogs”. And we had a blast talking about her book and the topic of dating over 40, as you’ll hear in just a bit. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Nina Jarnum on Kissing Frogs Christopher jumps straight into it with the question of how many frogs do you have to kiss to find the one. Nina answers that if one is being smart about picking and dating, not as much as one would think. Nina recounts her experiences in online dating, starting off with the bad impressions and stigma that people say online dating has to offer. But for the most part, Nina did not encounter those issues and had fun with online dating; which got her curious why a lot of people had a bad impression of it. And so Nina asked her friends if she could check out their matches and update their profile, and some got better results from it soon after. Nina Jarnum’s Online Dating Tips for Women When asked about what is it that sets up a good profile from a bad one, Nina points out that having a good profile is like introducing yourself favorably to the other person. It’s a good way to share some information that shows what you are looking for in a person, but not so much that you’re sharing your life story. Another tip that Nina gives is to be mindful of your profile pictures. Aside from the usual things to avoid like hiding in group photos and such, Nina suggests having at least one full-body picture on it, so that people have an idea of who they are meeting, and it’s also a good visual treat. Nina also talks about avoiding using filters and other image-altering stuff in your profile, as it is a major turn-off for men to find out that they’re not meeting who they think they were supposed to meet based on the profile. “Don’t put filter on your photos. Every man I have spoken to about this have been like, their pet peeve is turning up on a date and not being able to recognize the person is such a turnoff. I like comparing it to as a woman when you go on a date with a man and his profile says he’s 6’5”, and he turns up and he’s 5’7”. It’s not cool.” – Nina Jarnum Nina Jarnum on Dating Preferences and Honesty Following that line of thought, Nina adds that not only is it an awkward encounter at the very beginning of the date, it sets a bad impression and precedent right from the start that you are lying about something. She explains that while trying to appeal to the general consensus of what a “good-looking” guy or gal sounds seems like the way to go, the whole point of online dating is to find someone that likes you that you might also like, and not the other way around. That said, there will always be preferences on people that you like, but Nina suggests that you don’t overly limit yourself to those preferences, because you might be missing out. One common thing that she points out is about people’s height; as some would not even consider dating someone who is below a certain number. The point is, sampling out of your comfort zone is fine once in a while, especially if your current pool is not turning out the results that you want. You might end up finding that great date from someone you didn’t expect. To hear more from Nina Jarnum and more dating tips for people over 40, download and listen to this episode. Bio Nina Jarnum is a mother, a lover and a world explorer. She was born and raised in Denmark, moved to England in her twenties where she graduated law school. Nina has taught yoga, breath work and mindfulness all over the world, has written for major fitness magazines and worked with “Start Today” for the Today Show. She uses her knowledge and experience as mindfulness teacher to help people on a conscious journey of healthy dating. Nina believes that authenticity, self-care, a willingness to be uncomfortable and most of all gratitude is the secret to not just finding love but also a happy life. Links Connect with Nina Jarnum! Instagram | Twitter / X | F*ck Kissing Frogs We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

This episode is exclusively for people who want to have a personal breakthrough in their own performance. And who better to discuss it with but with people who have learned excellence, Dr. Eric Potterat & Alan Eagle. Alan Eagle is an executive Communication Coach, and he spent 16 years working with a top people at Google. He’s written several other books, and his most well-known for his celebrated book, “Trillion Dollar Coach” about the legendary Silicon Valley coach Bill Campbell. Dr. Eric Potterat is a clinical and performance psychologist, and he was with the US Navy for over 20 years as a commander. On the last 10 years of Eric’s career. he was the head psychologist for the US Navy SEALs globally. To say that these two know a little bit about how the top performers in the world do what they do is a radical understatement. And on this episode, we get into all of it, we pop the hood to go deep on their new book learned Excellence, which I highly recommend you pick up a copy of. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Eric Potterat and Alan Eagle on Maintaining One’s Mental Health in a Chaotic World Christopher, Alan and Dr. Eric opens the discussion on how they maintain their mental health with all the crazy things happening around all of us. Christopher highlights the overwhelming challenges globally, from political divisiveness to wars and rising anti-Semitism. Dr. Eric emphasizes the importance of focusing on what individuals can control, citing attitude, effort, and behavior within their circle. Alan adds that staying informed is crucial, but he discourages excessive complaining, urging people to think about actionable steps rather than mere criticism. “I can’t stand the complainers. Okay, if you’re going to take a position, great! Then I would think through, “what can you do?”” – Alan Eagle The three then get into how the struggle of balancing engagement with the world and avoiding emotional overload, especially in the face of potentially troubling events in the upcoming years. Dr. Eric Potterat and Alan Eagle on Mindset, Organizational Culture, and Sustained Excellence in Baseball Christopher, Alan, and Dr. Eric then talk about maintaining a good mindset in spite of challenges along the way. Dr. Eric talks about the concept of agency, and how to distinguish between victims, survivors, and thrivers, advocating for the latter by practicing agency and embracing post-traumatic growth. Alan underscores the importance of choosing a mindset and shares his experience with the Dodgers, highlighting the team’s systemic approach and organizational mindset. Dr. Eric credits the Dodgers’ sustained excellence to a focus on hiring talented individuals, providing necessary tools, and maintaining a process-oriented approach. Process and Mental Toughness in Entrepreneurship They then discuss the crucial role of process and mental toughness in entrepreneurship. Christopher draws from Michael Gerber’s “The E Myth,” highlighting how successful franchises attribute their triumph to well-defined processes, contrasting with small businesses’ failure due to a lack of systematic approaches. Dr. Eric identifies process as a pillar of mental toughness, emphasizing its role among the five pillars discussed in their book. Alan Eagle also shares insights from Silicon Valley, underscoring the balance between process and visionary chaos at Google, which contributed to its innovative success. To hear more from Dr. Eric Potterat and Alan Eagle on how to learn excellence, download and listen to this episode. Bio Eric Potterat, PhD, is a clinical and performance psychologist and a leading expert in individual and organizational performance optimization. He retired as a commander from the US Navy after twenty years of service, during which he helped create the mental toughness curriculum used during Navy SEALs BUD/S training. Dr. Eric spent several years as the director of specialized performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers and has also worked with Red Bull athletes, the US Women’s national soccer team, the Miami Heat, and numerous Olympic athletes, first responders, business leaders, and NASA astronauts. Alan Eagle is an author and executive communications consultant, helping leaders and companies shape and tell their stories. He spent 16 years at Google, partnering with executives to communicate the company’s story to clients, partners, employees, and the public. Alan is the co-author of the books How Google Works and Trillion Dollar Coach, and the author, all by himself, of seven letters-to-the-editor published in Sports Illustrated. He has never won the New Yorker Caption Contest. Links Connect with Dr. Eric Potterat & Alan Eagle! Dr. Eric LinkedIn | Alan LinkedIn | Learned Excellence We hope you enjoy

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by one of my favorite people in the creator world, Lenny Rachitsky. A few episodes back, we posted the conversation we had on Lenny’s Podcast were I also extended an invite to him for a dialogue at Follow Your Different. And now, here we are. Lenny Rachitsky specializes in deeply researched product growth and career advice, particularly for those in the startup/tech world. Lenny’s newsletter on Substack is also the number one paid business Substack. Try as we might with Category Pirates, we’ve been unable to catch him, and I think that’s great. There are some powerful learnings here for marketers, and creators, and really anybody who wants to design a legendary career, I think you’re going to absolutely love this very special conversation with Lenny. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Lenny Rachitsky on Product Management and Growth Strategies The conversation begins with Christopher praising Lenny’s approach to product management and growth, hailing him as the “category King.” They then discuss the value of staying broad versus niche in product management, with Lenny expressing admiration for specific experts like Emily Kramer in marketing. Christopher commends Lenny for his unique, non-egotistical approach in a field filled with “hustle porn stars.” Lenny attributes his success to providing genuine value rather than chasing followers. Christopher perceives a cohesive through line in Lenny’s work, suggesting a continuous quest to answer key questions for founders and product builders. Lenny elaborates on his goal of addressing a broad range of questions in product management and growth, emphasizing a core focus with intersecting adjacencies like career and leadership. Creating Valuable Content through Practical Application of Ideas Lenny continues to discuss his approach on content creation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diverse interests to keep himself engaged. Christopher Lochhead praises Lenny for incorporating varied topics into his work, appealing to a broader audience beyond the core niche of product management. From there, they explore the concept of obvious and non-obvious content, with Lenny acknowledging the practical nature of his content. Christopher notes the challenge of balancing obviousness with depth, expressing his preference for content that goes beyond the blatantly evident. Despite categorizing Lenny’s content as somewhat obvious, Christopher commends him for avoiding the realm of “stupid obvious,” recognizing the valuable and practical applications within Lenny’s work. Lenny Rachitsky on Creating Quality Content Following up on this, Christopher questions Lenny Rachitsky on creating smart, obvious, and practical content without it being overly simplistic. Lenny attributes his success to maintaining a high bar for quality, ensuring content is not overly obvious or uninteresting. He emphasizes spending extensive time on each post, sometimes up to 100 hours, and credits his ability to dedicate full time to content creation as a significant advantage. Lenny describes a flywheel effect where initial success allows more time for improvement, creating a cycle of growth. He suggests that anyone can follow this model if they find the time and opportunities to invest in their content. To hear more from Lenny and his ideas and thoughts on business content creation, download and listen to this episode. Bio Lenny Rachitsky (author of #1 business newsletter on Substack with 500k+ subscribers) interviews world-class product leaders and growth experts to uncover concrete, actionable, and tactical advice to help you build, launch, and grow your own product. Links Connect with Lenny Rachitsky! Lenny’s Website | Lenny’s Podcast | Twitter/X | LinkedIn We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

It is now 2024; and as they say, a new year, a new you. So let us start you off by helping you gain a new lens and perspective on things. And who better to assist you on that than our guest, Hal Elrod. In the world of kind of personal growth and personal development, Hal Elrod stands alone. He’s recently released a new updated and expanded version of the Miracle Morning. To say that Hal Elrod has created a movement would be putting it mildly. On this episode, you get to enjoy an extraordinary conversation with this man. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Hal Elrod on Spirituality and Personal Growth after Traumatic Events Hal Elrod talks about his journey of overcoming cancer and the cognitive challenges caused by chemotherapy. He shares that he has found himself struggling to finish books because he takes longer to process and comprehend what he was reading, or he forgets what has happened one or two chapters before and ends up rereading them again. They then delve into Hal’s spiritual growth post-trauma, exploring his Catholic upbringing and exploration of various religions. Hal emphasizes an inclusive perspective, viewing different faiths as attempts to understand a higher power. He describes a personal and intimate relationship with God, finding solace and strength through prayer. Hal reflects on the usefulness of belief and shares instances where prayer manifested specific outcomes, reinforcing his faith in a higher power. Hal Elrod on Faith, Personal Development, and Empathy in a Broken World When asked, Hal Elrod acknowledges his connection to Christianity but emphasizes a nuanced belief, focusing on embodying Jesus Christ’s teachings rather than subscribing blindly. Christopher appreciates the authenticity of Hal’s answer, asserting that being a good person matters more than religious labels. Christopher shares a personal perspective on faith, stating that being a good person transcends religious affiliations. He mentions a song by Aaron Lewis that explores everyone talking to God in challenging times, highlighting the universal inclination towards faith during hardships. This reflects a shared belief in the importance of personal development and empathy over rigid religious definitions in navigating life’s challenges. Miracle Mornings & Focusing on Personal Growth during Uncertain Times Christopher praises Hal Elrod’s impactful work on personal development, particularly the Miracle Morning routine. He notes the challenging times, referencing global issues, economic struggles, and personal hardships. Hal shares some of his insights from 2020, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what’s within one’s control to maintain mental well-being. He highlights the Miracle Morning as a powerful tool for daily self-improvement and resilience, especially during chaotic periods. Hal underscores the correlation between feeling out of control and the necessity of self-care. Ultimately, he advocates for concentrating on personal growth, stating that inner peace contributes to a better world, emphasizing the responsibility individuals have to themselves and those around them in tumultuous times. To hear more from Hal Elrod and how to live have your own Miracle Mornings, download and listen to this episode. Bio Hal Elrod is on a mission to Elevate the Consciousness of Humanity, One Person at a Time. As the author of one of the highest rated books on Amazon, “The Miracle Morning” (which has been translated into 37 languages, has over 3,000 five-star reviews and has impacted the lives of over 2,000,000 people in more than 70 countries) … he is doing exactly that. What’s incredible is that Hal literally died at age 20. His car was hit head-on by a drunk driver at 70 miles per hour, his heart stopped beating for 6 minutes, he broke 11 bones and woke up after being in a coma for 6 days to be told by his doctors that he would probably never walk again. Not only did Hal walk, he ran a 52-mile ultra-marathon and went on to became a hall of fame business achiever, international keynote speaker, author, and grateful husband & father-all before he turned 30. Then, in November of 2016, Hal nearly died again – his kidneys, lungs, and heart were failing, and he was diagnosed with a rare, and very aggressive form of cancer and given a 30% chance of living. After enduring the most difficult year of his life, Hal is now cancer-free and furthering his mission as the founder of The Miracle Morning book series, host of the “Achieve Your Goals” podcast, creator of the Best Year Ever [Blueprint] LIVE event, and Executive Producer of The Miracle Morning MOVIE – a documentary that reveals the morning rituals of some of the world’s most successful people. Hal is grateful to be alive and

Today marks the 100th day from the terrorist attack done by Hamas that took the lives of many civilians in Gaza. On this episode, our guest is an extraordinary woman named Natalie Sanandaji, who shares her experience as it happened on what could be described as the worse day for Jews since World War II. What you’re about to hear is a real, unedited, unfettered, unfiltered conversation about an extraordinary event that happened on October 7, and has been impacting the rest of the world since. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Natalie Sanandaji on the Day of the Attack The conversation starts off with Natalie painting a scene on how she found herself in the middle of the October 7th terrorist attack, where Hamas militants killed civilians and held the population hostage. For context, Natalie is an American-Persian Jew, who visits her relatives frequently, especially during holidays and family celebrations. As such, her visit back in October was for vacation, so she could be with them in the upcoming holiday season. That said, she had heard that there was an upcoming Nova Music Festival nearby, wherein they can camp out and enjoy music, which often lasted for a few days. The immediate comparison is that it was like Woodstock, as the themes of peace with music was similar. The irony of the event and what happened afterwards did not escape Natalie. Natalie Sanandaji on the Start of the Attack After the first night of the festival was over, Natalie and her friends decided to go back to their campsite and take a nap until the morning set of the festival. But instead of waking up to the sound of music, they were woken up by the sound of rockets. “One of our friends from our campsite was on the dance floor when the rock first rockets were intercepted overhead, and she knew that we were still at the campsite sleeping; we hadn’t woken up yet. So she came back to the campsite to wake us up, because she wants to make sure that we were alert to what was happening. She came in she woke us up and she was all smile-y. And she was like, “Hey guys, good morning. I just want to wanted you to know a few rockets were intercepted overhead. But it’s fine.” “ – Natalie Sanandaji Normally, the Iron Dome would’ve intercepted the few rockets and everything would be back to what they were, with their biggest fear being getting hit by falling debris. But there was something to the amount and frequency of the rockets that made Natalie’s friend think that this was different. Escalation After hearing more than a dozen rocket explosions, Natalie and her friends decided to pack up and just go home. Party’s over. Though there were people who were starting to panic as they were going to their cars, the whole vibe of it was more annoyance than fear – annoyed that the festival was cut short because of what was happening. Natalie and here friends themselves were not in a hurry. She even found time to go to the bathroom to freshen up while her friends waited by the car. Only later did Natalie find out that that decision could’ve been a fatal mistake on her part. “I went to the bathrooms and then I went back to the car, and not until about two weeks later did I realize how much I was putting my life in danger by going to those bathrooms. Because about two weeks later was when a video surfaced of the Hamas terrorists coming to those exact bathrooms where I was maybe 10-15 minutes later, and just shooting at every bathroom stall trying to kill anyone who was hiding inside.” – Natalie Sanandaji As they drove out of the venue, the festival security was herding the leaving people into the dirt roads for better traffic. Though suddenly, those same security people started telling people to go back, and later on telling them to get out of their cars so they could run and hide. Only then did people know that something was horribly wrong. And then, the sound of gunshots started to get louder and closer. To hear more from Natalie Sanandaji and her account on what happened on that fateful day, download and listen to this episode. Bio Natalie Sanandaji, 28, serves as a public affairs officer for the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM). A Long Island native, Natalie worked in real estate in New York City before October 7th, when she survived the Nova music festival massacre during a visit to Israel. Her traumatic experience that day led her to transform her life and switch her professional track to Jewish advocacy and fighting antisemitism. Links Connect with Natalie Sanandaji! Twitter/X | Instagram Combat Antisemitism Movement | CAM Twitter/X We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

This week on Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we’re presenting to you Christopher’s appearance on Lenny’s Podcast, hosted by Lenny Rachitsky. Lenny Rachitsky runs the #1 Business Substack newsletter, Lenny’s Newsletter. It is legendary especially for people in tech marketing, product marketing, and startups. It’s so legendary that even Christopher pays for it. And now, he’s in it. This is one of the more in-depth discussions Christopher has had with a very smart person about category design in a while. So settle in for a good listen and great lesson about category design. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. This episode originally aired on Lochhead on Marketing episode 187. If you want to hear more insights on marketing and category design from Christopher, feel free to check it out at Lochhead on Marketing and anywhere you listen to podcasts. On taking the Good with the Bad Lenny starts off the conversation by showing appreciation to Christopher’s extensive work, and jokingly adds that it was challenging to prepare for their conversation due to his numerous podcasts, books, and other content. That said, Lenny noticed Christopher’s website displayed negative reviews prominently. When asked about it, Christopher explained his approach with humor, calling his team Category Pirates and embracing criticism. He believed it was essential for innovators not to fear criticism, citing examples of famous artists and musicians who faced initial negativity. Christopher displayed the negative feedbacks to show the reality of creative work and to remind people not to take themselves too seriously. Lenny admired Christopher’s ability to handle criticism and expressed the desire to adopt a similar mindset. Lenny Rachitsky on how Lenny’s Newsletter came to be Christopher Lochhead expressed admiration for Lenny’s branding choices, appreciating the simplicity of just being called “Lenny.” He found it endearing and highlighted that Lenny’s authenticity stood out in a world where many influencers create an aura of superiority. Lenny shared that the name “Lenny’s Newsletter” was a default suggestion from Substack, and he never intended it to be a long-term commitment. Similarly, he struggled to find a different name for his podcast, wanting to avoid a self-centered approach. But despite having his name in the branding, Christopher noted the content wasn’t self-centered; instead, it reflected Lenny’s genuine approach, unlike influencers who focus on creating envy. They both appreciated the authenticity in Lenny’s approach. Lenny Rachitsky and Christopher Lochhead talk Category Creation Lenny asked Christopher about category creation, a concept Christopher has championed over competition in existing markets. Christopher explained how most people aim to compete by offering a better product or service in an existing category. However, legendary innovators don’t follow this path. They create entirely new categories, defining unique problems and solutions. Christopher emphasized that a single company in a category usually captures two-thirds of the market value, making category creation a lucrative strategy. He cited Gojo Industries, creators of Purell, as an example. They didn’t just invent hand sanitizer; they redefined the problem of hand cleanliness, leading to a new market category. Christopher stressed the importance of focusing on problem-solving rather than just product features, making one’s brand irreplaceable in customers’ minds. He contrasted this approach with typical marketing, where companies invite comparison, emphasizing the power of radical differentiation and being a category creator. To hear more about Christopher’s conversation with Lenny Rachitsky on Category Creation, download and listen to this episode. If you want to learn more about Lenny Rachitsky and his works, check out his Newsletter and Podcast at LennyRachitsky.com and LennysPodcast.com. We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

Today on Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, John Siefert and Bob Evans, the leaders and founders of Acceleration Economy, join in on the dialogue about DEI, AI, and what’s in store for 2024. In addition, Bob Evans is also the host of the podcast called Cloud Wars Live, which Christopher has actually been a guest to a few times. They also have some great guests and amazing discussions over there, so go check them out after this episode. That said, let’s dive in into this dialogue and prepare ourselves for the upcoming year. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. John Siefert on DEI in Tech Industry The discussion opens up on the topic of what they have learned in the past year. One thing they agreed on immediately is that people seem to have gotten a little dumber in 2023. Not like major blunders and the like, but more like small things that might seem inconsequential at first, and came back to bite them before the year’s end. After this brief exchange, the topic shifts to the topic of morals and intellectual decay that they have observed in the tech industry, particularly in the implementation of DEI statutes and the like. John Siefert comments on DEI, more specifically how a well-intentioned thing on paper could become twisted and be exploited when applied in the current social landscape. An example in the discussion is that people are being told to hire a diverse staff not because of being inclusive, but rather to meet certain numbers and get benefits out of it. Given these circumstances seemingly are the norm nowadays, Christopher believes that the floodgates might open once this one particular case sets precedence. Bob Evans on how DEI is distorted in practice Bob adds to the topic of DEI and points out that the distortion often comes on how it was implemented, e.g. if it’s already done in bad faith from people up in management for a few people’s benefit, then the struggle to actually implement a proper setup will be that much harder. It has come to the point that Inclusion is being used to actually exclude people. The example that the group gives is that certain analysts believe that Asians are overrepresented in Tech. So rather than hiring someone that is very capable in the required position, companies end up not opting to hire such talent because the person is Asian, and therefore skew their DEI scores. They would end up hiring for diversity rather than skill, and this dilutes their products and services, causing overall loss in the long run. The point of DEI was to be fair and impartial, and yet in practice it just became a way to fulfill certain requirements for special perks, sometimes to the detriment of the company. To hear more about Bob Evans’ and John Siefert’s thoughts on DEI, AI, and what 2024 has in store for us, download and listen to the episode. Bio John Siefert Chief Executive Officer, Acceleration Economy Co-founder John is a strategic thinker and business builder who loves to reimagine what is possible with smart people who are not afraid of the future. He has the ability to visualize voids in the market and then define a people, product, process, and position approach to creating a brand where that void once existed. Bob Evans Cloud Wars Founder, Acceleration Economy Co-founder, Analyst Bob analyzes business innovation, cloud technology, leadership, corporate strategy, and the global digital economy. He’s the founder of Cloud Wars, was recruited by and worked for Larry Ellison, and shares his thinking via daily videos, daily articles, newsletters, and podcasts. Links Connect with John Siefert and Bob Evans! Acceleration Economy Network | Cloud Wars Live: Apple Podcast & Spotify Bob’s LinkedIn | John’s LinkedIn We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

First and foremost, we at Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different would like to wish everyone from the bottom of our hearts, happy holidays. We hope that you have an opportunity to be with the people you love this time of year, and enjoy some happiness and peace. That said, there seems to be a lot going on lately. Be it about antisemitism, diversity, equality, and inclusion, and sort of the core values that the United States will be governed by and will latch on to. So I wanted to take this time and have a talk between you and I. You may not like what I will have to say, and that is all right. The important thing is that we have a good dialogue between us, and open ourselves to thinking Different does not always mean they hate you and your type of thinking. As we head to 2024, that is my wish for the holiday season. That we have a breakthrough in real, authentic, civilized, thoughtful dialogue. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Christopher Lochhead on LGBTQ+ rights over the years Christopher shared a heartwarming story about a LinkedIn acquaintance, a marketing executive, who recently had a baby with her wife. They had a positive exchange about babies, and Christopher expressed genuine happiness for the couple. “Around here, we think babies are fucking fantastic, especially when they’re born to good people who are committed to raising those children and loving knows children. What could be better than a great couple are a great group of folks who have a baby, love that baby, and do everything in their power to provide that child with a great life and enjoy that child. It’s wonderful.” – Christopher Lochhead Christopher then reflected on growing up around queer individuals, recalling the challenges they faced over the years. He emphasized the progress in societal acceptance of the queer community, highlighting the positive change that allows people to openly share personal milestones without fear of judgment. That said, Christopher expressed joy for the LinkedIn acquaintance, appreciating that she can legally be herself and share her family news without hesitation, considering it a legendary step forward, especially in the United States. Christopher Lochhead on mortgage discrimination Christopher then talks about a CNN headline that revealed the systemic racism about the Navy Federal Credit Union’s discriminatory mortgage approval practices. The report states that while over 75% of white applicants were approved for conventional home purchase mortgages, less than 50% of black applicants were approved under the same circumstances. Christopher condemns this as not just systemic racism but outright evil. He criticizes financial institutions like Wells Fargo for repeatedly facing charges related to racial discrimination without executives facing jail time. He emphasizes the urgent need to acknowledge and fight systemic racism for true equality and justice, citing the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. “This is racism right in front of us. And anybody who’s just anybody who cares about equality, and justice, and the pursuit of happiness for all must acknowledge that there is systemic racism against certain groups. There’s no doubt about that. And we need to fight it. We really need to fight it.” – Christopher Lochhead On Systemic Racism and DEI in society Christopher expresses concern about the rise of hatred, particularly in the context of recent events, notably the conflict in the Middle East. He highlights the misunderstandings surrounding the October 7th events, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the explicit threat against Israel and the Jewish population. Christopher is dismayed by the confusion and the lack of recognition for Israel’s right to defend itself. He shares a personal experience of a friend falling victim to violence and underscores the complexity of the situation, acknowledging the tragedy on both sides. Christopher attributes the rise in hatred to the teachings of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which he suggests simplifies the world into oppressors and oppressed, fostering division and victimhood competitions rather than promoting genuine understanding and collaboration. To hear more of Christopher Lochhead’s thoughts on 2023 and his wish for the coming year, download and listen to this episode. Bio Christopher Lochhead Links CNN: The nation’s largest credit union rejected more than half its Black conventional mortgage applicants We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes

Every thinking person and caring person has been affected by the pain and suffering in our world of late. And most of us have been grappling with the horrors of October 7 and everything that has come since then. Today, Rabbi Sharon Brous is here to help us make sense of it all. Rabbi Sharon Brous is the founding rabbi of IKAR Jewish synagogue and community in LA. Rabbi Sharon was also chosen to bless President Obama and Vice President Biden at their inaugural in 2013, and she returned to do the same for President Biden and vice president Harris in 2021. She was also named the number one most influential rabbi in the United States by Newsweek and The Daily Beast. Her new book is available now for preorder and it also makes a wonderful gift for yourself and for others. It’s called The Amen Effect, ancient wisdom to mend our broken hearts and world, and I think you’ll love it. So pick up a copy today wherever you get legendary books. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Rabbi Sharon Brous on coping with grief The conversation begins with Christopher asking Rabbi Sharon Brous about coping with grief and finding hope post-tragedy. Rabbi Sharon admits feeling shattered, expressing concern for her family and the world. Despite the prevailing sorrow, she emphasizes the pivotal moment in history, urging a deliberate choice toward healing. Christopher questions how, as a rabbi, she addresses anger, fear, and despair. Rabbi Sharon sees her role as a pastor: comforting the afflicted, acknowledging pain, and fostering empathy. She encourages reconnecting with shared humanity, emphasizing agency in shaping a better future. “I think that my first job is to be a pastor, to really be a pastor to my community. To, as we say, comfort the afflicted, to name out loud the pain that people are experiencing, to affirm how incredibly worrisome and anguished this time really is. And not to stop there – to then lead us to stretch our hearts and try to find some empathy from our own suffering, to try to reestablish links to a world that we dream is possible, even from out of the depth of the world that we find ourselves in.” – Rabbi Sharon Brous Rabbi Sharon Brous on loneliness and finding a community after a tragedy Christopher shares his distress post-October 7, expressing shock and concern at the rising anti-Semitic behavior. He opens up about feeling out of control, lonely, and abandoned—a sentiment echoed by others. Rabbi Sharon Brous acknowledges the surprising existential loneliness post-tragedy. Drawing on Dr. Vivek Murthy’s insights, she links loneliness to a gap between needed and actual social connections. Rabbi Sharon underscores the importance of reaching out, emphasizing that human thriving relies on connections. She encourages overcoming the inclination to retreat, advocating for rebuilding bridges to the mainland, as no one can self-sustain on an island. Reflecting on her own experience after October 7, Rabbi Sharon highlights the healing power of shared humanity, even across cultural divides. Rabbi Sharon Brous on healing and reconciliation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict On the topic of stopping the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Rabbi Sharon Brous envisions a future of reconciliation and healing. She rejects the idea of a military solution and emphasizes the necessity of building a shared future as neighbors. “I believe, along with the many thousands of Israeli Jews and Palestinian citizens of Israel, who are part of a very vibrant civil society in Israel, that the only way forward will be together. I believe that ultimately, there will not be a military solution to this conflict, that ultimately, we are going to have to find a way to build a future as neighbors.” – Rabbi Sharon Brous Despite the current pain and challenges, she draws inspiration from civil society leaders in Israel, such as the bereaved families’ forum and Combatants for Peace, who have been working together for decades. Brous believes that fostering curiosity and humanity will be crucial in navigating the path towards coexistence. She introduces the concept of “The Amen Effect” from her upcoming book, emphasizing ancient wisdom to mend both broken hearts and a fractured world. Bio Rabbi Sharon Brous is the senior and founding rabbi of IKAR, a leading-edge Jewish community based in Los Angeles. Rabbi Sharon Brous is a leading voice in reanimating religious life in America, working to develop a spiritual roadmap for a soulful, justice-driven, multi-faith ethos in Los Angeles and around the country. Brous is the senior and founding rabbi of IKAR, a Jewish community that launched in 2004 to reinvigorate Jewish practice and inspire people of faith to reclaim a moral and prophetic voice. IKAR quickly became one of the fastest growing and most influential Jewish

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have the great pleasure of talking to the “CEO whisperer” Jerry Colonna, once again. Jerry Colonna is back, and he has a new book to share with everyone. It’s called Reunion – Leadership and the longing to Belong. If you think radical, intimate conversations about careers are a powerful and important thing, you’re gonna love everything about this conversation with Jerry. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Jerry Colonna on Fame and being the same person all the time The conversation starts off with Christopher Lochhead and Jerry Colonna discussing the impact of their voices in podcasting, highlighting how listeners feel connected as they follow along Christopher and Jerry’s dialogues, as if they’re actually part of the conversation. They also think that being authentic online and offline is always a good thing, sharing their personal anecdotes and experiences. Christopher mentions meeting famous people and how Bill Walton handles fame graciously. On the flip side, Jerry reflects on the unnerving aspect of being known by strangers due to his work. They both emphasize the challenge of balancing public perception and personal identity, especially in the digital age. But at the same time, they appreciate the connection with their audience but acknowledge the unique dynamics of being recognized. Jerry Colonna on having Empathy and Compassion in Leadership Jerry discusses the importance of empathy and compassion, highlighting that being fully present and authentic allows for genuine connections. He attributes the current low levels of empathy in leadership roles to various forces and suggests that those in power may benefit from maintaining the status quo. Jerry Colonna, known as a prominent CEO coach, defends the relevance of discussing human aspects in business conversations. He believes that better humans make better leaders and expresses a responsibility for leaders to contribute to making the world a better place. Though he is also concerned about the divisive state of society and urges business leaders to engage in dialogue to address the issues tearing communities apart. Jerry Colanna on Suffering and how to cope & make a difference Christopher and Jerry then explore the challenges of coping with widespread suffering and violence. Jerrry draws insights from Buddhist teachings, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion. He discusses the choices people face in response to suffering and highlights the Buddhist perspective on addressing and transcending it. Jerry also introduces the concept of the tragic gap, urging individuals to stand between the present reality and a better future. Christopher shares his view of embracing change as the only sensible choice, rejecting defeatism. The conversation concludes with a quote from Captain Paul Watson, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present to shape a better future. To hear more from Jerry Colonna, his thoughts on his new book, and leadership in general, download and listen to this episode. You can also check out his previous episode here at FYD episode 067. Bio Jerry Colonna is an executive coach who uses the skills he learned as a venture capitalist to help entrepreneurs. He draws on his wide variety of experiences to help clients design a more conscious life and make needed changes to their career to improve their performance and satisfaction. Previously he was a partner with JPMorgan Partners (JPMP), the private equity arm of JP Morgan Chase. He joined JPMP from Flatiron Partners, which he launched 1996 with partner, Fred Wilson. Flatiron became one of the most successful, early-stage investment programs in the New York City area. Links Connect with Jerry Colonna! About Jerry | Reunion / Get the eBook! | Reboot Leadership | Twitter/X | LinkedIn Wired: This man makes Founders cry We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes

Every entrepreneur and every person who’s creative wants to have a deeply fulfilling professional and personal life. But it can be easy to get distracted and pulled off course, which is why we all need “Touchstone Moments” to remind us of what matters. Today, we talk about it with our guest, Brad Pedersen. Brad Pedersen is a lifelong entrepreneur, and the Co-founder & Chairman at Lomi. He’s got a new bestseller out called Startup Santa, a toy makers tale of 10 business lessons learned from timeless toys, and it’s great. What you’re about to experience is a deeply personal conversation about life and startups, the toy business and Brad’s learnings from creating Lomi, which is pioneering the smart home composter category. If you think real, meaningful conversations about life and business matter, you’re in the right place. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Brad Pedersen on courage and creativity in entrepreneurship Christopher Lochhead and Brad Pedersen start off the conversation with the importance of courage and creativity in entrepreneurship. Christopher reflects on his initial doubts before launching his book, Play Bigger, emphasizing the unpredictability of how the world will respond. Brad praises his courage to put his ideas out there, highlighting the power of the Internet in connecting people. Brad defines courage as finding the balance between recklessness and carelessness, emphasizing its pivotal role in decision-making. He values the courage to embrace the unknown, pursue ideas despite criticism, and create value in the world. Their exchange showcases the transformative impact of courage and the Internet in scaling ideas and fostering meaningful connections. On Mentoring and throwing a rope to those who need it The conversation then shifts into the importance of experienced entrepreneurs helping newcomers. Christopher emphasizes the value of giving back and supporting others in their entrepreneurial journey, drawing from his own mentors like David Ogilvy. They discuss the accessibility of mentors in the digital age, debunking the misconception that mentors are unapproachable. Brad shares his perspective on mentorship, emphasizing the significance of personal growth and the importance of mentors who focus on becoming better individuals. They challenge the pursuit of materialistic achievements, advocating for meaningful connections and personal development. Brad also suggests evaluating mentors based on their character and the positive impact they’ve made, highlighting the enduring value of genuine connections and intrinsic fulfillment. Brad Pedersen on prioritizing growth over material gains Continuing on the topic of mentorship, they discuss the evolving nature of mentorship and personal growth in the digital age. Christopher reflects on the accessibility of mentors in the digital world, contrasting it with the past when connecting with influential figures was challenging. He criticizes the influence of “hustle porn stars” who promote materialism and envy. Lochhead emphasizes the genuine connection and humility he values in mentors. Brad agrees with the assessment, focusing on personal growth and the pursuit of intrinsic value over material possessions. He highlights the importance of mentors who exhibit excellence and virtue. Christopher then shares a humorous anecdote about a wealthy individual’s arrogance, emphasizing the significance of genuine connections over material displays. To hear more from Brad Pedersen and how to realize your touchstone moments in your life, download and listen to this episode. Bio Brad Pedersen: Co-founder and Chairman of Lomi. Brad Pedersen is an award-winning entrepreneur, angel investor, thought leader, and sought-after business coach. In 2008, he founded and scaled one of Canada’s top toy companies, merged it to co-found Basic Fun and subsequently co-founded Pela, the 100 million sustainable phone case startup that created an entirely new category. In 2021, Brad and the team at Pela successfully launched a record-breaking 9.8 million crowd-sourced campaign for the Lomi, the world’s first smart waste kitchen composter. Brad has a passion for faith, fitness, adventure, and outdoor pursuits and lives in the mountains of British Columbia with his amazing wife, where they are building a beautiful life! Links Connect with Brad Pedersen! Brad’s Website | Lomi | Brad’s new book: Startup Santa We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes

Today on Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a special episode featuring a good friend of mine, Dr. Giora Yaron. We talk about what’s happening in Israel now, the realities of the situation Israel faces and what’s likely to happen next. Dr. Giora Yaron is considered a legend in the startup tech world. He’s known as one of the key players in creating the tech startup VC ecosystem. He started his career as a Senior Executive in National Semiconductor in the United States. And subsequent to that he’s founded, co-founded, and/or been the chairman of more than 25 Deep-tech startups. He’s also the former chairman of Tel Aviv University. Dr. Yaron is also a decorated Israeli Defense Forces Combat officer. And today, he serves as a strategic adviser to the Israeli Ministry of Defense. No matter what you think about this war, no matter how much you think you might know, there’s a lot to learn in this riveting captivating, in depth, no BS conversation with a living Israeli legend. Also, it’s important to note this episode was recorded on October 26 2023. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Giora Yaron on the current situation in Israel Christopher Lochhead and Dr. Giora Yaron discuss the situation in Israel. Dr. Yaron shares how his family was safe living far from conflict zones, although they hosted affected families initially. He mentioned the challenges faced by IDF with a significant number drafted and the delicate balance in completing the mission while saving hostages. Dr. Yaron also highlighted past incidents, comparing the current situation to previous attacks in 1973 and 2002. He expressed concerns about dealing with barbarian savages and the challenge of maintaining Israeli values while addressing the crisis. Dr. Giora Yaron on the conflict’s impact on civilians The conversation then shifts to the topic of the recent conflict in Israel and its impact on civilians. Dr. Yaron discusses the strategic and moral dilemmas faced by Israel in dealing with groups like Hamas and the challenges in differentiating between combatants and civilians. He emphasizes the need to combat extremist groups aiming to establish an Islamic state and the importance of military action to achieve this. Christopher notes that many veterans, like Colin Powell, become peacemakers later in life and discussed the heroic efforts of civilians in the conflict. But Dr. Yaron responds that the situation isn’t about pursuing peace but dealing with an ongoing conflict. Dr. Giora Yaron on Cultural Differences and how it affects perception in the West Dr. Yaron shares his concerns about the disconnect between Western sympathies for Palestinians and the harsh realities faced by Israelis due to terrorist attacks. He emphasizes the need for a practical approach and shared personal experiences, such as Mellanox’s tragic incident, to illustrate the challenges faced in pursuing peace in the region. He further underscores the complexities of the situation and the clash between idealistic hopes for peace and the harsh realities on the ground. To hear more from Dr. Giora Yaron and the clash of ideals in Israel, download and listen to this episode. Bio Dr. Giora Yaron is the former Chairman of Tel Aviv University (Executive Council), and on the board of Amdocs (DOX). Dr. Yaron serves on the advisory board of the Israeli Ministry of Defense. He is also an active Founding Investor and Founder of a group of high-tech and med-tech companies; P-cube, (acquired by Cisco), PentaCom (acquired by Cisco), Qumranet (acquired by Redhat), Comsys (acquired by Conexant, Texas Instruments), Exanet (acquired by Dell) Hyperwise Security (acquired by Checkpoint) Qwilt, Itamar Medical, Excelero, Equalum and, Aqua Security. Dr. Yaron has been serving as board member and/or Chairman of the Boards of these companies since their inception. Dr. Yaron served as Chairman of the Board of Mercury Interactive (acquired by HP for $4.5B US). From 1992-1995 Dr. Yaron has served as President of Indigo NV, leading the company to an NASDAQ IPO. Prior to joining Indigo served as corporate Vice President of National Semiconductor and was the Founder of National wafer fab in Israel (today Tower-Jazz Semiconductors) [https://issuu.com/malgin/docs/national_semiconductor_israel]. In 2008 Dr Yaron presented at the Computer History Museum the revolutionary microprocessor development work he lead with his team at NCS which provides the foundation for the microprocessors as we know them today. Dr Yaron was granted Honorary Fellowships by The Hebrew University In 2009 . In the years 2009-2013 served on Israel Prime Minister Entrepreneurship and Innovation Committee Dr. Yaron holds a Ph.D. in Device Physics from the Hebrew University has published numerous scientific papers and holds

How do you build an AI startup? What’s different about an AI startup compared to a normal tech startup? How do you get VCs to come to you instead of chasing them? If you have these questions in mind, our guest, Vikram Chalana, might have the answer you are looking for. Vikram Chalana is the founder and CEO of Pictory.AI, an AI video creation tool that can help content marketers create content in a fast and scalable manner. So, if you have an interest in AI and what future it holds, you’re going to love this episode. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Vikram Chalana on the Practicalities of Remote Work Christopher and Vikram start off the conversation by talking about the benefits of working remotely. Both have stated that they have enjoyed their work-from-home setups, even after the hustle and bustle of the world has returned somewhat. They also agree that, despite some backlash, remote work offers advantages, like eliminating commutes and enabling people to work in comfortable, happy environments. Vikram, a startup founder, values hiring talent globally, and that online tools like Slack and Zoom have made it easier to bridge the geographical barrier of work. Though they acknowledge the desire for in-person interactions sometimes, they could not ignore the practicality of remote work. Raising money for AI startup: when do you bring on investors? Christopher and Vikram then discuss the timing of taking in investors and venture capital. Christopher shares a conversation he had with a friend, a CEO in the AI space, who’s considering significant investment offers. They debate the need for additional funding despite having $5 million already. The friend’s reason for this is because of the demand for compute in AI due to expanding training data, which requires substantial investment. In this case, Vikram agrees that getting more funds makes sense because of the load they are taking as their data lake grows and the computing demand increases. Vikram, on the other hand, expresses hesitance about raising funds when his SaaS startup is already capital efficient. He grappled with how to allocate the money, but also considers future investments in deep tech. Vikram also emphasizes his approach of launching products even if they are initially embarrassing, highlighting his focus on post-revenue stages for fundraising. Vikram Chalana on startup valuations and fundraising strategies Christopher and Vikram then talk about fundraising strategies, emphasizing the risks associated with overvaluation. Christopher shares some cautionary tales about companies that raised large sums at high valuations, only to face significant drops in worth, causing employee dissatisfaction. Vikram, who favors a conservative approach, highlights his experience in building capital-efficient businesses. He stresses the importance of realistic valuations, suggesting that entrepreneurs should not overvalue their businesses. They discuss an entrepreneur who achieved a healthy valuation without pushing it to the extreme. Christopher notes the contrasting situations faced by non-AI entrepreneurs struggling to attract VC attention, while AI startups like Vikram’s are sought after. To hear more from Vikram Chalana and his thoughts on AI Startups, download and listen to this episode. Bio Vikram Chalana is an experienced business and technology executive with a demonstrated history in the enterprise software and medical device industry. Before becoming the CEO of Steth IO, Vikram was the co-founder and CTO of Winshuttle – empowering people to transform their ERP-based business. He propelled the company’s technology strategy to support Enterprise, workflow and mobile solutions, helping thousands of customers maximize their investments in enterprise applications such as SAP ERP, Oracle EBS and Salesforce.com. Prior to Winshuttle, Vikram spent several years in the software industry concentrating on data mining and business intelligence applications. His previous positions included engineering leadership positions at Verathon,Inc. and Insightful Software (now part of Tibco Corp). Vikram is a published author of more than 20 journal articles and holds more than a dozen US and international patents. Links Pictory.AI | LinkedIn We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes

On this episode, let’s talk about Israel, and the war that has come to this “Startup Nation”. Off the top, let me say the pain and suffering of what’s happening is unbelievable, unbearable. My heart goes out to Israel, all Israelis, and all Jews around the world. I also want to say I have spoken with many Arabs since this happened. There’s a very big difference between an Arab or a Palestinian and Hamas. They are not the same thing. My Arab friends wanted to stress that to me. My heart goes out to all the innocent Arabs in Gaza and in the region who are suffering and also experiencing extraordinary pain and loss. Israel is a “Startup Nation” If you’ve been in tech for a while, you’ve probably worked with Israelis. For the better part of my professional life, I’ve worked with entrepreneurs, engineers and executives from the country. The Israeli’s I know are smart, tough, driven, no-nonsense result producers. If you want to get big tech shit done, work with Israelis. It has one of the highest concentrations of startups in the world. Its tech sector is a major contributor to the country’s economy. Tech is 18% of Israel’s GDP, and 14% of all salaried employees work in Tech. That’s roughly 500,000 people. On top of which, 50% of Israel’s total exports come from Technology developed by these people. The framework Israelis created to co-locate Israel/US tech startups, established an innovation model that is envied the world over. Israel has over 6,000 Tech Companies The impact of this war borne out by the Israeli people. Reports indicate that the start if this war was “the darkest day in Jewish history since the end of the Holocaust.” And, it will also be felt by virtually every major tech company in the world. There are over 6,000 tech companies operating in Israel, including some of the largest names, with Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Intel to name a few. These companies have a variety of strategic operations in Israel, including research and development centers, sales offices, and customer support centers. Israel is home to over 15,000 startups, and they employ over 100,000 people. In 2021, Israeli tech companies raised a record $25.6 billion in venture capital funding. Today, they are scrambling to secure and support their people. 15,000 Israeli Tech Startups Now, this evil war is extracting an unbearable human cost. More death, suffering and disruption is sure to follow. And this war will be felt by many of us in the tech industry. My heart aches for Israel. My heart aches for all of the innocent souls in the Middle East. We’re praying for peace, and the day we can all get back to building legendary companies. To hear more of Christopher Lochhead’s thoughts on the recent events that unfolded in Israel, download and listen to this episode. If you wish to join the conversation and get more information on the matter, check out Christopher’s post on LinkedIn: Christopher Lochhead Different: Weekly Newsletter We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes

If you have been following Silicon Valley and tech news, you might be wondering what the future of tech startups in general are and what trends venture capitalists are following nowadays. Our guest, Paul Martino, might be able to answer those questions for you. Paul Martino is the founder of eight companies including Tribe; one of the world’s first social networks, and aggregate knowledge a big data advertising company. Paul holds over a dozen patents on core social networking concepts, content targeting and recommendation systems. This is a fun, fascinating and deeply insightful conversation with one of our favorite thinkers in the tech startup world. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Paul Martino on Venture Capital, Fundraising, and Market Sentiment The conversation begins with Paul Martino and Christopher Lochhead talking about the challenging environment for venture capitalists. Paul Martino acknowledges the tough 18 months, highlighting a temporary upswing but anticipating further challenges. Christopher shares mixed signals from CEOs, noting a tough market despite some positive indicators. Paul observes a significant change in fundraising capital availability in Q2, attributing it to increased confidence with NASDAQ’s rise. As Christopher mentions entrepreneurs preferring angel investors over traditional VCs due to difficulties and lowered valuations, Paul disapproves of VC complacency during tough times and assures entrepreneurs that committed VCs like him are open for business, emphasizing their entrepreneurial mindset. He also understands the logic behind entrepreneurs relying on existing investors during market uncertainty. Paul Martino on the impact of market downturn on early- and late-stage companies They then continue to discuss the challenges faced by late-stage companies dealing with overvalued situations. Paul emphasizes the distinction between a down round and a recap, suggesting that a down round, while not ideal, is manageable. He also stresses the importance of CEOs accepting a realistic valuation to issue new options and retain employees, criticizing those who let ego hinder practical decisions. Christopher raises concerns about companies with significantly reduced growth rates, questioning their true value. Paul gives a hypothetical example of a $10 billion company dropping to $3 billion, highlighting the need for companies to adapt and not shy away from necessary adjustments to move forward. Paul Martino on San Francisco’s decline and potential for recovery The conversation shifts to the topic of the decline of vibrant cities like San Francisco and Portland. Paul observes the eerie emptiness in once-bustling areas, expressing concern for the loss of the lively environment. Lochhead shares similar sentiments, reminiscing about the exciting times they experienced during previous boom periods. They discuss the root causes of these issues, focusing on policy changes like Prop 47 and Prop 57 in California that decriminalized theft under $1,000, leading to increased crime rates. Paul believes it will take a new generation of pragmatic leaders to address institutional problems and revive cities, estimating a 20-year timeframe for San Francisco’s recovery. The conversation highlights their shared disappointment in witnessing the decline of the cities they once knew. To hear more from Paul Martino and the future of tech startups, download and listen to this episode. Bio Paul Martino is a Managing General Partner at Bullpen Capital. Paul is the founder of eight companies including Ahpah Software (a computer security firm acquired by InterTrust; Tribe (one of the world’s first social networks), and Aggregate Knowledge (a big data advertising attribution company acquired in 2014 by Neustar). Paul’s early online gaming innovations in multi-player user experience from over 30years ago are the inspiration for several of the modern social gaming offerings. He holds over a dozen patents on core social networking concepts, content targeting, and recommendation systems. Prior to forming Bullpen In 2010, he was an active angel investor and personally invested in the first rounds of Zynga (NASDAQ: ZNGA), TubeMogul (NASDAQ: TUBE), and uDemy. He sold a company into Millennial Media prior to its public offering (Condaptive), as well as to Marketo prior to Its public offering (Crowd Factory). While at Bullpen, Paul has led several of its key investments including FanDuel (merged with Flutter Entertainment (LSE:FLTR)), Swish Analytics, Jackpocket, Grove, Ipsy, SpotHero, Ocrolus, and Life360 (ASX:360). Paul served on the board of directors of FanDuel for over 5 years during a period of tremendous high growth. Since forming Bullpen, Paul has stayed active as an entrepreneur forming companies specifically at the Intersection of spor

If you’re someone who wants to have a legendary, long-term, and super-successful professional career, you’re going to love this dialogue with Silicon Valley’s Legal Obi-Wan, David Schellhase. David Schellhase is considered as one of the greatest General Counsels in Silicon Valley history. David was the GC at Salesforce for nine years, and he was the GC that took them public. He was the GC at Groupon, and most recently, the GC at Slack. On this highly engaging episode, David and Christopher cover everything from the problems plaguing San Francisco in California, to how lawyers can be true partners who helped power the success of a legendary business. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. David Schellhase on the Challenges facing San Francisco The dialogue starts off on the topic of the current state of San Francisco. David described downtown San Francisco as a ghost town with a lack of energy and a significantly reduced population, feeling like just a really small scale of what it was four years ago. He expressed concern that there’s no immediate rebound in sight. Christopher pointed out that policies and politicians may have contributed to the city’s issues, but some complexity exists in understanding the causes. David acknowledged that many are well-intentioned but lack a clear understanding of cause and effect. They discussed the challenges of addressing issues like addiction and the need for comprehensive solutions, rejecting simplistic approaches. David emphasized the difficulty of the situation and the desire for an easy solution. Stuck in the middle David Schellhase discussed the challenges of dealing with complex problems, particularly in San Francisco, where there’s a high tolerance for individuals facing issues like addiction and homelessness. He noted the difficulty of reaching marginalized individuals with chemical problems. Christopher shared a scuba diving analogy, emphasizing the need to make a clear choice between being supportive and caring or taking a more serious approach. He highlighted the inconsistency in dealing with crimes related to opioids, such as fentanyl, where some individuals receive lenient sentences despite carrying dangerous substances. Christopher argued that society is stuck in an ambiguous middle ground, where it either needs to fully legalize and regulate these substances or enforce stricter criminal penalties, as the current approach is leading to harmful consequences. David Schellhase on addressing the societal issues in San Francisco David and Christopher then continued to discuss the lack of a coherent strategy to address societal problems in San Francisco and the broader United States. They acknowledged the need for a balanced approach that avoids mass incarceration but also holds individuals accountable for their actions. David emphasized the complexity of San Francisco’s permissive culture and the challenges it faces in dealing with issues like addiction and homelessness. Christopher highlighted the importance of a holistic approach, including both support programs and consequences for criminal behavior. He argued that the U.S. lacks effective measures to deter crime, with many serious offenses going unsolved and unpunished. To hear more from David Schellhase and his thoughts about the current Justice system, rise of AI, and how to build a long-term successful career, download and listen to this episode. Bio David Schellhase is of Counsel to Sullivan & Cromwell. He is resident in the Firm’s Palo Alto office and focuses on a range of technology-related and business issues. David has more than 25 years of experience in the technology industry and most recently served as the General Counsel of Slack Technologies, Inc. While at Slack, David oversaw the company’s 2019 direct stock listing IPO. Prior to that, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Honest Work Corporation, a software company that was acquired by Twitter, Inc. He also previously served as General Counsel and then Strategic Advisor at Groupon, Inc. and for more than eight years as General Counsel of Salesforce, Inc. where he guided both companies through successful IPOs. Professional Activities and Community Involvement Trustee, Junior State of America Foundation Board Member, Next Chapter Publications Cited in a Law360 article, “4 Major Concerns on GCs’ Minds for 2023” (January 3, 2023) Credentials Related Practices Credentials Education Cornell Law School, J.D., 1990 Columbia University, B.A., 1985 Links Connect with David Schellhase! LinkedIn | Sullivan & Cromwell We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, Dr. Avi Loeb makes a return to discuss why traditional science and academic circles still consider researching aliens as taboo. If you are not familiar with Dr. Avi Loeb and his work, you can check out our previous conversations with him (FYD 202 & FYD 230). Dr. Avi Loeb is the most credential scientist and astronomer ever to say that we have been visited by something outside of our galaxy that is alien in nature. He also has a new book out called Interstellar: The Search for Extraterrestrial Life and Our Future in the Stars. And now, Professor Loeb with his team are the first ever to discover and retrieve interstellar objects that landed on Earth. And even further, Professor Loeb says that he thinks there’s a case to be made that these remnants of these objects that came from outside of our solar system and landed in our ocean could be alien. So if you are interested in that and things from outside our earth, stay tuned to this episode. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Avi Loeb and his Interstellar discovery The conversation begins with Christopher expressing his admiration for Professor Loeb’s work and delves into the controversial nature of his recent actions. Professor Avi Loeb then talks about his expedition to Papua New Guinea and its connection to a significant interstellar discovery. Professor Loeb explains that his journey to Papua New Guinea was prompted by the detection of a fast-moving object that collided with Earth in 2014. This object exhibited unusual properties, including its high speed and material strength. It was determined to have come from outside the solar system, which sparked initial skepticism among his colleagues but was later confirmed by the US Space Command. To investigate further, Professor Loeb led an expedition to the Pacific Ocean, where the object had crashed. The team used a specialized sled with magnets to collect millimeter-sized particles from the ocean floor, which had rained down during the object’s explosion. After extensive searching, they found molten droplets and other materials that provided crucial insights into the object’s composition and origin. Dr. Avi Loeb and the Spaceballs Professor Avi Loeb then talks about the remarkable discovery of spaceballs, which are unusual spherical objects with unique compositions. Professor Loeb also adds that the expedition was a significant effort funded by private donors, emphasizing the extensive work put into the project. He then talks about receiving the spaceball materials at his doorstep via FedEx, and he wasn’t concerned about a slight delay given the billions of years it took for the materials to arrive on Earth. They then talk in detail about the analysis of these spaceballs, with Professor Loeb’s intern, Sophie Bertram, helping to discover and analyze a significant number of them. They found three high-yield regions along the meteor’s path, suggesting these regions might correspond to the flares observed during the meteor’s entry. The composition of these spaceballs, dubbed “Bilbao,” was unique, containing elements not found in known Earth, Moon, Mars, or asteroid materials. This composition further supports the idea that these materials originated from outside the solar system. Dr. Avi Loeb on the skepticism of Traditional Science Professor Loeb explains that initially, there was skepticism from some colleagues and reviewers when the data about these interstellar landings that occurred in 2014, leading to a delay in publishing the findings. However, three years later, the US Space Command formally confirmed the object’s interstellar nature with a high level of confidence. This confirmation prompted Professor Loeb to plan an expedition to Papua New Guinea, gather a team, design specialized equipment, and secure funding. During the expedition, they discovered unique materials known as “spaceballs” that didn’t resemble anything from the solar system. This discovery further supported the US Space Command’s assertion about the object’s interstellar origin. Professor Loeb expresses frustration with astronomers who clung to traditional models and refused to revise them in light of new data, referring to it as the “Stone Age of Science.” He highlights the importance of adjusting models when they don’t align with observed data. To hear more from Dr. Avi Loeb and his interstellar discoveries, download and listen to this episode. Bio “The world’s leading alien hunter”—New York Times Magazine Dr. Abraham (Avi) Loeb is the Frank B. Baird, Jr., Professor of Science at Harvard University. He received a Ph.D. in Physics from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel at age 24 (1980

Nothing is more powerful than words. Yet we seldom realize that our most private thoughts and emotions are not actually our own. For we think in terms of languages and images, which we did not invent, but which were given to us by our society. Today, we go deep into the power of words and much more with our guest, Dr. Valerie Fridland. Dr. Valerie Fridland is a professor of linguistics at the University of Nevada in Reno. She writes a popular language blog on psychology today called Language in the Wild. Her new book is the number one bestseller. It’s called, Like, Literally, Dude, arguing for the good in bad English. So if you love words, thinking, and thinking about words, you’re gonna love Dr. Valerie. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Valerie Fridland on how Language evolves over time The conversation starts with Christopher asking if the emergence of new phrases that some people dislike is a part of how language changes and develops. Dr. Valerie Fridland explains that language evolution involves a combination of factors, including how our brains and mouths work, societal influences, and the goal of maximizing communication with minimal effort. Language not only conveys information but also communicates social facts and signals about relationships and context. Dr. Valerie mentions that language naturally tends to become more efficient in terms of pronunciation over time. For instance, sounds that are harder to articulate tend to simplify, such as the evolution of “th” sounds into sounds like “f” or “v.” Despite these natural linguistic changes, people often criticize them as lazy or uneducated. Christopher shares examples of pronunciation differences he’s noticed over time, like the word “details” and “insurance”. Dr. Valerie explains that these changes often involve shifts in stress patterns, where certain syllables become emphasized while others are de-stressed. This shift in stress patterns can be influenced by various factors, including the influence of other languages or dialects. The shifting of words due to culture and society Dr. Valerie and Christopher then continue the discussion about the shift of words due to cultural and contextual changes over time. They explore the evolution of the word “stone” from its Old English origins as “stainaz” to its modern form, which was influenced by contact with Old Norse and Anglo Norman French. This emphasizes how language changes in response to historical interactions and influences. They also discuss the evolution of the word “partner” and how it reflects changes in societal attitudes towards relationships. Initially associated with business partnerships, “partner” expanded to include romantic or committed relationships, especially within the LGBTQ+ community as social acceptance grew. Younger generations commonly use “partner” to refer to their significant others, regardless of their gender or marital status. Valerie explains that language adapts to describe new concepts or changing social norms, often by repurposing existing words rather than creating entirely new ones. Dr. Valerie Fridland on Neologism Neologism refers to the creation of entirely new words, not borrowed from other languages. Christopher initially confuses neologism with someone who invents new words, but Dr. Valerie Fridland clarifies that it involves creating completely new words. They discuss examples related to language innovation. Christopher mentions how businesses like Starbucks introduce new words or repurpose existing ones to create new categories, as seen with “latte” and “grande.” Valerie explains that these are not neologisms but rather the borrowing or repurposing of words. The conversation delves into the concept of creating new words through morphological processes like adding suffixes, as seen with “palooza” and “gate.” These processes involve attaching meaningful elements to existing roots, creating new words that build on old word parts. Christopher provides an example of how he playfully tweaks expressions to make them more accurate, such as saying “to make a long story longer” instead of the common “to make a long story short.” Dr. Valerie describes this as a form of linguistic extravagance, where novelty and unexpected language use attract attention and cognitive focus. To hear more from Dr. Valerie Fridland and the power of words in our culture and society, download and listen to this episode. Bio Valerie M. Fridland, Ph.D. Sociolinguist, Professor, Author With a PhD in linguistics, Dr. Valerie Fridland is a Professor and former Director of Graduate Studies in the Department of English at the Univer

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a riveting dialogue with two of America’s favorite crime fighters. The hosts of the Game of Crimes Podcast are here: Morgan Wright and Steve Murphy. Steve Murphy was one of the real DEA Narcos who took down Pablo Escobar. The Netflix series Narcos is based on his work. Morgan Wright spent 18 years in state and local law enforcement is a highly decorated police officers state trooper and detective. He was even trained by the original members of the FBI as Behavioral Science Unit on serial crime profiling, which led him to training spies and spooks at places like the NSA. If you’re a crime buff care about justice and or care about the future of the United States, you’re going to love this episode. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. How Gangs are extending their Influence in certain parts of America The conversation starts off with Steve Murphy sharing shocking revelations about Mexican gangs and their influence on California laws. He mentions their podcast called “Game of Crimes”, which has been running for over two years, and their recent episode about an interview with a former member of the Mexican Mafia, referred to as “Mundo.” They emphasize not sharing his real name due to safety concerns, as there is a history of violence associated with such revelations. Steve explains further how criminal groups like the Mexican Mafia manipulate the California penal system and legislators. They work to secure more lenient laws, better prison conditions including improved food, reduced responsibilities, and access to phones for conducting criminal activities from behind bars. The speaker expresses how these criminals mock the California legislators, exploiting their reluctance to confront them, resulting in laws that favor the criminals. This situation is portrayed as detrimental to honest taxpayers in California, who end up losing out. On Gangs using children in their operations The conversation continues as they discuss the disturbing trend of gangs involving children in their criminal operations, particularly in relation to Mexican fentanyl gangs and trafficking. Christopher expresses his shock about the leniency of consequences for minors involved in serious crimes due to certain laws in California. He describes a conversation with a police chief who shared a case of a 14 or 15-year-old who stabbed a rival gang member and received only a three-month ankle bracelet as punishment. They then delve into the concept of gangs using children, mentioning how historically even New York City drug dealers employed young kids as lookouts. Steve Murphy shares insights into the psychology of recruitment, explaining how gangs exploit children’s need for attention and affection, particularly in impoverished neighborhoods where parental support may be lacking, and the allure of earning “easy money” even as a child. This dynamic leads to these kids being drawn into gang activities. Morgan Wright adds that Mexican fentanyl gangs are trafficking even children, who are forced into various criminal roles such as drug distribution, human trafficking, and even employment. He highlights the shift in focus for cartels from drug trafficking to human trafficking due to the increased profits and lower risks involved. The term “Minutemen” is mentioned, referencing how quickly kids are released from custody due to relaxed laws, allowing gangs to maintain control over them easily. Keeping children out of jail Morgan Wright then stresses how important it is to keep children out of the streets and jails, so they do not fall further into the machinations of these gangs. “The intervention has to start early and often because if you don’t, they’ll arrive at a path to where as he could either stay on the good side, or he could go to the other side. And it’s that age around 12 or 13 is the one of the most critical times for a kid.” – Morgan Wright He says that once these kids start getting involved in gangs, it’s like a rabbit hole that sucks them in deeper, and it’ll be harder to get them out later on. You’ll not only be fighting the gangs, but also these young adults as well, because now they think that’s the only thing they can do with their life. To hear more from Morgan Wright and Steve Murphy and the current state of Crimes and Justice in America, download and listen to this episode. Bio Morgan Wright Morgan spent 18 years in state and local law enforcement as a highly decorated police officer, state trooper and detective. He solved a lot of cases, interviewed a lot people, and interrogated a bunch of suspects. In fact, he was trained by the original members of the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit on serial crime profiling. This led to him training spie

Many of us are different; and for many of us being different is a superpower. But what do you do if your different is not always accepted in the business world? How can you use your different as an advantage? We get into that and much more with our guest, Jim Fielding. Jim Fielding has had an extraordinary executive career, working at the highest levels of some of the most well-known and respected corporations in the world companies like The Gap, Disney, DreamWorks, and 20th Century Fox. And Jim’s got a stunning new book out. It’s called All Pride, No Ego: A queer executive’s journey to living and leading authentically. Today, we get into all of it: from how to have a legendary career as an openly gay man and how to be different. We also dig into many of the thorny social dynamics that are being discussed and dealt with right now around the LGBTQ+ community in modern America. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Jim Fielding on being Different and having the Freedom to follow it The conversation starts off with Jim’s younger years, as he reveals that he felt different around the age of six or seven and had a sense of destiny beyond his hometown. He grew up in Toledo, Ohio, near Lake Erie, and had a middle-class upbringing with a firefighter father and stay-at-home mom. But he has always felt that his parents gave him a sense of freedom early on. Jim’s book, which was initially meant for 2024, has taken on more urgency amid the evolving LGBTQ+ rights movement. He shares how it has evolved into a platform for conversations, community building, and addressing inequities. They then talk about the impact of the book and how Jim is using his platform to advocate for marginalized communities and human rights. Jim Fielding on the state of queer communities then and now They then talk about the state of queer communities over the years. Jim Fielding discusses the evolution of attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals and their experiences. Jim reflects on the changing landscape and the challenges faced by the queer community. He notes that the current situation feels like a mix of progress and regression, with moments of hope interspersed with concerning headlines about anti-LGBTQ legislation and discrimination. Jim emphasizes the need to own the narrative and stand up against efforts to push the community back into the closet. He draws parallels to historical moments, such as the fight for rights in the 1960s and the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. Despite all these, Jim’s optimism remains strong, bolstered by the resilience of the queer community and the activism of younger generations. On standing up and being an Ally The conversation then shifts to Christopher’s perspective as an ally and his observations about changing attitudes. He contrasts the comparatively accepting atmosphere of the 1970s and 1980s, exemplified by cultural icons like David Bowie and Annie Lennox, with the challenges faced during the AIDS epidemic and subsequent backlash. He expresses confusion about the shifts in attitudes and experiences, wondering if his memories of acceptance were naive or if there has been a recent shift. Jim offers insights into the impact of the AIDS epidemic on perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community and the subsequent challenges it faced. He discusses how this period led to a more pronounced demonization of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially by conservative groups. They also touch on the struggle for marriage equality and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Bio Jim Fielding, a proud Ohio native and Indiana University Hoosier, started his career on the department store floor. Over the next 30 years, he would lead some of the world’s most beloved media and retail brands, including The Gap, Disney, Claire’s, Dreamworks, and 20th Century Fox. Jim is known for his ability to combine storytelling and product merchandising into unforgettable consumer experiences. As culture builder and talent spotter, he has recruited and trained global leaders in a variety of disciplines and at all levels. Today, Jim spends his time and talents on independent media, entrepreneurship, higher education, and philanthropy. He’s a Partner at Archer Gray, an independent media company inspiring change through storytelling and innovative brand collaborations. Jim is also the founder of the boutique consultancy, Intersected Stories, and proudly serves as part-time Executive-In-Residence for IU Ventures and The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. He is also an active angel investor and advisor to early-stage startups and their founders. Jim has been active in philanthropy for over 25 years, serving on the boards of charitable organizations like Make-A-Wish, GLSEN, Kidspace Children’s Museum, and the American Red Cross. He was recognized by the Walt Disney Company as Executiv

We all want to live life well and long but oftentimes, life gets in the way of having a legendary life. But what if there are secrets to a well lived life? Today, we have a life affirming real dialogue with the legendary Dr. Gladys McGarey. Dr. Gladys McGarey is a general practitioner, co-founder of the American Holistic Medical Association, and she’s a category designer who is considered the mother of holistic medicine. Dr. Gladys is 102 years old; she began her medical practice at a time when women couldn’t even have their own bank accounts. She’s got a new number one best seller out and it’s already in its second printing, called The Well Lived Life, a 102-year-old doctors six secrets to health and happiness at every age. This conversation takes some fascinating and unexpected turns, and we hope you join us for it. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Gladys McGarey on the Importance on focusing on Life and Love We start the conversation with Dr. Gladys, who is more than 100 years old, and they discuss how amazing it is to communicate through modern technology. Dr. Gladys expresses her conflicted views on technology’s impact, suggesting that the lack of real-life experiences and love in young people’s lives might contribute to violence. She then shares a story about using dogs in the classroom to provide children with a sense of real love, which could prevent harmful behaviors. She also talks about the power of animals to bring joy and love, and how Dr. Gladys’ upbringing in India reinforced the importance of love in healing and how it is a powerful medicine, as described in Dr. Gladys’ book. Dr. Gladys McGarey on how to make do with what you have Dr. Gladys discusses the benefits of modern technology, as well as acknowledge some concerns that herself has. She reflects on her medical career, recognizing the limitations of past practices and the importance of evolving with new knowledge. She shares a dream that led to the realization of the interconnectedness of masculine and feminine energies. They explore the concept of feminine gestation and manifestation, emphasizing the need to understand and appreciate this process in addition to traditional manifestations. Dr. Gladys suggests that acknowledging and accepting this holistic approach could lead to better outcomes, instead of rejecting them outright. Find her Voice in her 90s In her 90s, Dr. Gladys had a breakthrough in finding her voice and embracing her true humanity. She had always sought validation from others and struggled to trust her own voice. Through a dream, she had a profound realization that her voice mattered and was essential to express her soul essence. This led her to write a book with a deeper focus on the inner aspect of the Divine, emphasizing life and love. She believes that as humans, we are reaching for our true humanity, understanding the importance of caring for each other and the Earth rather than seeking dominance. Dr. Gladys sees simplicity in embracing life and love as essential elements of our existence. To hear more from Dr. Gladys McGarey and her views on how to live a fulfilled life, download and listen to this episode. Bio Dr. Gladys McGarey is 102 years old in 2023, at the time of the publication of her book “The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age” Dr. Gladys is also still a consulting doctor. Recognized as a pioneer of the allopathic and holistic medical movements, she is also a founding diplomat of the American Board of Holistic Medicine. She is the cofounder and past president of the American Holistic Medical Association, as well as the cofounder of the Academy of Parapsychology and Medicine and the founder of The International Academy of Clinical Hypnosis. Dr. Gladys lives and works in Scottsdale, Arizona, where for many years she shared a medical practice with her daughter. She currently has a medical consulting practice, maintains a healthy diet, and enjoys a good piece of cake every now and then. Links Connect with Dr. Gladys McGarey! Dr. Gladys’ Website | The Well-Lived Life | More info on Dr. Gladys We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

The people who are happiest don’t chase someone else’s dreams; they chase their own. This is according to our guest, one of our favorite authors, thinkers, and people, Bruce Feiler. So we have a whole dialog on just that. Bruce Feiler is the author of the landmark book, Life is in the Transitions. And now he’s back to address one of the seminal questions of our time: “How do we find or create meaningful work,” a subject he’s lived over and over again. His new book is out and it’s called The Search, finding meaningful work in a post career world. Bruce is one of America’s most thoughtful voices on contemporary life. He’s a seven-time New York Times bestselling author, he’s lived many lives from circus clown to preeminent spirituality, author to winning three James Beard Awards and being the subject of a Jeopardy question. Bruce is an American treasure, who you’re going to love hanging out with. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Bruce Feiler and his book’s effect One of Bruce’s books is titled “Life is in the Transitions,” which explores the idea that nearly half of our lives are spent in various transitions. The book delves into personal experiences, including Bruce’s own life upheavals, such as battling cancer, facing financial troubles, and dealing with family crises. He explains how society tends to undervalue and stigmatize these transitional periods while glorifying stability. Bruce’s mission is to normalize and understand the growth potential in these unsettled phases, encouraging people to embrace them as opportunities for renewal and transformation. The book has resonated with readers who recognize and appreciate the validation it provides for the complex emotions and experiences they encounter during life’s transitions. Bruce Feiler on the notable lack of life transition books at 40 When asked why he thinks there’s not a lot of books like his on the shelves, Bruce shares that it was mainly because society has traditionally undervalued and stigmatized these periods. The focus has been on achieving stability and success, neglecting the importance of understanding and embracing life’s transitions. However, Bruce says that recent societal changes, including the decline of organized religion and shifts in the workforce, have led to a growing interest in searching for meaning in life and work. People are no longer content with viewing work as a mere source of income but are seeking work with purpose and significance. This shift in perspective has sparked a renewed interest in exploring life transitions and finding meaning in these transformative phases, especially for professionals who are still pursuing their careers in their 40s and beyond. The power of work vs fame The conversation then shifts to the power of work over fame, and the importance of focusing on the craft rather than seeking balance. Bruce praises the Christopher’s diverse and successful career and emphasizes that legendary individuals are not known for balance. For Christopher, he finds Bruce’s commitment to the work quite amazing, and despite achieving fame and success, he remains grounded and humble. Bruce attributes his continued passion and joy to finding a path that aligns with his talents. They agree that the best work comes from dedicated effort and stepping away from distractions to focus on the creative process. To hear more from Bruce Feiler and how to make the most out of yourself during your transitions, download and listen to this episode. Bio Bruce Feiler Links Connect with Bruce Feiler! Bruce’s Website | Twitter | LinkTree We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

The story we’ve been told our entire lives is that as we get older, we decline physically. But what if we could become more legendary as we age? We discuss this and so much more with our legendary guest, Steven Kotler. Science-based Human Performance Guru Steven Kotler is back in his fantastic new book Gnar Country: Growing old, Staying Rad. Steven lays out how cutting-edge discoveries in embodied cognition flow science, and network neuroscience have revolutionized how we think about peak performance aging. In this radically different conversation, you’ll learn how to embrace peak performance aging in your life. This is a fun, fascinating and deeply insightful conversation with one of our favorite thinkers. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Steven Kotler writes a book about me The conversation starts off about the new book that Steven has written, called Gnar Country. Christopher expresses his gratitude to Steven for writing the book and acknowledges his admiration and respect for him. However, Christopher also tells Steven that it has challenged his comfortable outlook on life. The book centers around the idea of not being “dead before you’re dead,” encouraging readers to embrace mission-style challenges in the second half of their lives. Steven clarifies that he doesn’t mean Christopher has to go surf Mavericks, a famous surfing spot known for its enormous waves. But rather that engaging in difficult and fulfilling activities can be transformative. For Steven, the second half of life is presented as an opportunity for growth and exploration. Getting back to Gnar Country Christopher, who had been easing into a more relaxed lifestyle, confesses that he was getting used to being “dead” in a figurative sense – finding comfort in smoking at home, enjoying the garden, and taking leisurely walks. However, after reading Steven’s book, he feels inspired and reminded of the adventures he used to embark on with his friend Al Ramadan. Christopher mentions how he and Al would take annual trips for adrenaline-fueled activities like surfing, skiing, and scuba diving. Coincidentally, as Christopher reads the book, he receives an email from Al Ramadan, proposing a future surf and dive trip for their group of friends. This timing strengthens Christopher’s belief that the universe, through Steven and Al, is nudging him to return to thrilling and challenging adventures in “Gnar country”. Steven Kotler on Park Skiing in your 50s The conversation then focuses on Steven Kotler’s experience of teaching himself park skiing at the age of 50. This is despite conventional beliefs that learning such skills becomes impossible after a certain age. Steven explains that there has been scientific research done in the past 20-25 years that challenges the traditional view of aging, which assumes a gradual decline in physical and mental abilities. He emphasizes the “use it or lose it” principle, stating that with continued training and practice, individuals can maintain their skills far longer than previously thought. As a skier himself, Christopher initially finds it incredulous that Steven attempted to learn park skiing in his 50s. He recounts a personal experience of attempting a park maneuver in his early 40s and how risky it was as he continued. Christopher expresses his surprise at Steven’s determination and adventurous spirit, acknowledging the challenges and potential dangers associated with park skiing. This further showcase Steven’s pursuit of pushing boundaries and defying age-related limitations by taking on the challenge of park skiing in his 50s, which is pretty rad, in our opinion. To hear more from Steven Kotler and how to live in Gnar Country, download and listen to this episode. Bio Steven Kotler is a New York Times bestselling author, an award-winning journalist, and the Executive Director of the Flow Research Collective. Steven is one of the world’s leading experts on human performance. He is also the author of 11 bestsellers (out of fourteen books), including The Art of Impossible, The Future is Faster Than You Think, Stealing Fire, The Rise of Superman, Bold and Abundance. His work has been nominated for two Pulitzer Prizes, translated into over 50 languages, and has appeared in over 100 publications, including the New York Times Magazine, Wired, Atlantic Monthly, Wall Street Journal, TIME, and the Harvard Business Review. Links Check out Steven’s new book! Gnar Country: Growing Old, Staying Rad We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

The most powerful thing you can be is 100% yourself, and specifically be the things that make you different, yet uniquely you. But we live in a world that values sameness that drives conformity, that lack of openness to different can cause significant problems for adults, and even more so for kids. We discuss all these and more with our guest, Kayla Taylor. Kayla Taylor is the author of Canaries Among Us, a Mother’s quest to honor her child’s individuality in a culture determined to negate it. If you’re different, you love someone who’s different, or have a child in your life who’s different. You’re going to love this conversation with Kayla. Pay special attention to the part of this dialogue about how we’re all grappling with being caring and sensitive to the needs of others and on the other hand, not being so overly careful that we can’t say anything to anybody about anything for fear of being criticized or canceled. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Kayla Taylor on receiving appreciation for her work Kayla expresses gratitude for when people give their time and validation of her work. She describes her book as a vulnerable endeavor and admits to considering not publishing it multiple times. She recalls expecting critical reviews, which almost led her to give up. However, a positive review convinced her to continue. Kayla feels a sense of obligation to address the stigmatized issues covered in her book and support others who may be going through similar experiences. She acknowledges that while others have written about similar topics, they often reflect on childhood experiences or feel restricted by privacy concerns. She believes there is a lack of literature capturing the current challenges of raising children with learning differences who face bullying, and she wants to fill that gap and offer support to others in similar situations. Kayla Taylor on writing under a pseudonym When asked as to why she wrote under a pseudonym, Kayla explains that she couldn’t find a memoir from a parent in the midst of dealing with issues such as bullying, learning differences, and anxiety. She desired a book that captured the present moment and felt poignant. However, she also wanted to respect her children’s privacy and avoid publicly shaming individuals, including the children who behaved poorly. She believed that all children should have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and grow without enduring public shaming. To protect people’s privacy, avoid shame, and honor her own principles, she chose to write under a pseudonym. Additionally, through her research on different forms of victimization, Kayla discovered that society often fails to support and center those who have been victimized. She didn’t want to contradict her belief in prioritizing victims’ privacy and autonomy by publishing a book that would potentially expose everyone involved. Thus, she decided to use a pseudonym to maintain consistency. Understanding Learning Differences Kayla discusses her journey into understanding learning differences when her child faced bullying for being unique and different. Through research, she discovered that one in five people have diagnosable learning differences, including dyslexia and ADHD. However, this statistic doesn’t account for other factors such as sensory processing, mental health issues, and physical impairments that affect learning. She criticizes the education system for being designed during the Second Industrial Revolution, focusing on standardization and neglecting individual strengths. Christopher shares his own experience of having multiple discernible learning differences and emphasizes that being radically different left him with no choice but to embrace his uniqueness. Despite not having a GED, he became the head of marketing at a publicly traded software company. Kayla acknowledges that many successful individuals, including Albert Einstein, dropped out of school or struggled within the rigid system. She highlights famous scientists and CEOs who are believed to have learning differences, such as dyslexia and autism spectrum traits, to challenge the notion that such differences hinder capability. The conversation emphasizes the need to recognize and value individuals for who they are rather than conforming to a rigid educational system. To hear more from Kayla Taylor and how being unique in a world of sameness is actually a good thing, download and listen to this episode. Bio About Kayla Taylor Kayla Taylor writes to address important issues plaguing families, and she uses a pseudonym to protect the identities of minors and other vulnerable individuals. She supports organizations that promote mental health, neurodiversity, and bullying prevention. Links Conn

In this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we learn how to build a legendary B2C category and company from one of the hottest founders in a brand new category space, Matthew Bertulli. Matthew Bertulli is a true mission driven founder, and this is a masterclass on how to be a missionary category designer who evangelizes their category and believes entrepreneurs can do what governments can’t. Lomi was introduced to the world with one of the most viral product launch videos in history, and Matt breaks down just how they did it. Trust me, you’re going to come back and listen to this episode multiple times. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. The Need for Lomi The conversation starts off about Lomi, and the need for a product infrastructure for composting. Matthew sets up a bit of background by discussing their company, Pela Case, which produces compostable phone cases. Later on, what they realized is that despite having the push to create compostable and earth-friendly products, there was a lack of compostable infrastructure globally. They observed that even major companies like Pepsi, P&G, and Unilever were investing in transitioning from single-use plastics to compostable alternatives. However, government regulations banning single-use plastics were in conflict with the lack of compostable infrastructure. For example, in California, companies offered compostable products, but there was no proper system to handle them. Compostable items were often mistaken for regular waste and ended up in landfills, rendering the whole effort futile. Matthew Bertulli on going against the “safe”route Matthew then shares their decision to go against the “safe”advice and pursue this idea for Lomi. Despite having a successful company with millions of customers, they chose to develop a complex product that would compost food in a short time. The process was difficult and required significant investment. They faced numerous obstacles, particularly with factories initially rejecting the idea or lacking the technological capability to execute it. However, they eventually found a toy factory willing to support the project. Matthew emphasizes that creating something new and innovative is met with resistance, as manufacturers prefer replicating existing products. “The hard part with all of this is like, it’s making this kind of product or any kind of product like this. It’s hard tech, which makes it expensive. It makes it slow. It took years to develop.” – Matthew Bertulli Standing up against the Board The conversation then moves toward the entrepreneurial mindset and the personal motivation behind pursuing a business idea. Matthew explains that having control over the board and ownership in the business allowed them to make bold decisions. For them, their drive stemmed from a strong dislike for food waste, particularly due to personal experiences with inefficient waste disposal methods. They believed that finding a better solution would resonate with others who shared the inconvenience. Matthew was highly convinced that the idea would work and could successfully sell it to the board and the team. They also highlighted the positive impact on climate change, which further motivated people to support the idea. Despite having some failed ideas in the past, the trust and confidence from the board and investors helped them move forward. The result of their efforts was the successful introduction of Lomi, a new kitchen product that has experienced rapid growth and is considered one of the most significant additions to the kitchen product category in over a decade. To hear more from Matthew Bertulli and the success story of Lomi, download and listen to this episode. Bio Matthew Bertulli Co-founder and CEO of Pela Case & Lomi. We are a certified B-corp, have Jay-Z’s Marcy Venture Projects as a notable investor, were named Top 10 in the Canadian Business Growth 500 ranking and are #1 in Deloitte’s Fast 50 for cleantech businesses in Canada. Links Connect with Matthew Bertulli! Lomi | Matthew’s Website | LinkedIn We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

We all face mental health challenges, and learning to navigate them is the difference between a super successful career and life or living a career and life of struggle. But the business world is not exactly the most welcoming place to talk about our mental well-being. One of the people leading the way to change that is our guest, Morra Aarons-Mele. Morra Aarons-Mele the author of The Anxious Achiever: Turning your biggest fears into your leadership superpower. She is also the host of the popular The Anxious Achiever podcast, and is on a mission to normalize anxiety and leadership. Morra says that anxiety is built into the very nature of leadership and can be harnessed into a force for good. So if you’ve ever experienced that feeling in your stomach that comes from being nervous, or if you’ve ever grappled with fear, you’re going to thank yourself for listening to this conversation. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Morra Aarons-Mele on talking about Mental Health The discussion opens up with the topic of mental health in the workplace. Christopher expresses his gratitude for a book on the subject and acknowledges the growing acceptance of talking about mental health. Morra then reflects on her interactions with others while doing so, noting that the value is in providing a sense of normalcy and acceptance. She hopes to assist people in incorporating mental health considerations into their lives and encourages them to consider how this affects their performance. She also emphasizes the value of humor and a human approach in dealing with mental health issues. The Shy Loud and the Introverted Extrovert The next part explores the experiences of Christopher and Morra as introverts and extroverts in social situations. Morra describes herself as an extreme extrovert who enjoys being in the spotlight, engaging with media, and giving speeches, but finds herself quite introverted when it comes to casual conversations and one-on-ones. She emphasizes that introverts can also enjoy public speaking and have a humorous side, challenging common stereotypes. Christopher, on the other hand, identifies as an extrovert but mentions being an “introverted extrovert.” He explains that while he is comfortable speaking or participating in events, he tends to avoid social gatherings without a clear purpose or role. Christopher shares his preference for meaningful interactions rather than superficial networking. He mentions that online platforms like TED Talks have allowed him to avoid uncomfortable socializing while still sharing his ideas. Managing Mental Health is important Morra emphasizes that managing mental health does not weaken a person’s ability to show up and be successful. She challenges the misconception that anxiety and depression make individuals weak and highlights that they are common human experiences and sometimes medical conditions. Morra draws attention to the fact that stories of overcoming adversity are celebrated because they demonstrate resilience and personal growth. She argues that mental health should be viewed in the same light, as individuals who confront and integrate their mental health challenges can become stronger and more effective leaders. Morra criticizes the tendency to deny or mask mental health issues, stating that it hinders our ability to be there for others. She ultimately suggests that managing and embracing mental health challenges can contribute to personal growth and leadership development. To hear more from Morra Aarons-Mele and how to thrive as an Anxious Achiever, download and listen tot this episode. Bio Morra Aarons-Mele Morra Aarons-Mele knows that taking your mental health seriously is a leadership strength. She hosts The Anxious Achiever podcast for LinkedIn Presents, which won the 2023 Media Award from Mental Health America, was a 2020 Webby Awards Honoree, 2022 “Best Commute Podcast” Signal Award winner, and is frequently a top 10 management podcast and top 50 business podcast. She’s passionate about helping people rethink the relationship between their mental health and their success. Morra speaks to and consults frequently with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and U.S Government agencies. She is a LinkedIn “Top 10 Voice” in mental health. Her new book, The Anxious Achiever: Turn Your Biggest Fears into Your Leadership Superpower, was published by Harvard Business Review Press in April 2023. Harvard Business School Professor Amy Edmondson calls the book “a game changer, wise and practical,” and Andy Dunn, who co-founded and sold the popular men’s clothing brand Bonobos, says “Morra has written an astonishing book. She moves from stories to data to advice in a page-turning way. This is not a book just for anxious achievers — it is a book for any h

There are experiences in life over which you never get in this, and dialogue is one of those. Normally, we tell you some things you’ll learn and some things to listen for, but not today – because we want you to get what there is for you to get from this conversation with our guest, Evan Mawarire. Evan Mawarire is a Zimbabwean clergyman who founded the #ThisFlag Citizens Movement to challenge corruption, injustice, and poverty in Zimbabwe. He’s the man who stood up to an evil dictator Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, with nothing more than his voice, faith, and commitment to his country and his people. Pastor Evan mobilized a movement powered by social media and empowered the nation of Zimbabwe to peaceful protest. And when he inspired his beloved country, Pastor Evan inspired the world, but he has paid in unimaginable personal price. On this episode, you get to hear his story in his words like never before. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Pastor Evan Mawarire on releasing the bitterness In this conversation, Pastor Evan Mawarire is asked how he maintains a positive attitude in the face of mistreatment and hardships. Pastor Evan admits to having felt bitterness and anger along the way, but emphasizes the importance of releasing these emotions and practicing forgiveness. Holding on to bitterness, he believes, only poisons oneself and prevents personal growth. By forgiving others and asking for forgiveness for his own mistakes, “I would be lying if I said I was never bitter or never angry at some point in my life, or in my journey, particularly this part of the journey. But you have to have an openness of heart to work that bitterness out. You have to have it in your hearts to be able to get to a point where you release the anger that you feel towards somebody because these are human emotions. At the end of the day, what bitterness does is that it does not affect what you are bitter towards, but it poisons your own well.” – Pastor Evan Mawarire Pastor Evan strives to be negative-free and to cultivate a clear conscience. He admits that this process is ongoing and affects all aspects of his life, including apologizing to his six-year-old daughter for his errors. Pastor Evan sees forgiveness as an essential part of his path, allowing him to thrive and be the best version of himself despite the risks and challenges that come with it. You can Forgive and still seek Justice Pastor Evan Mawarire is then asked how he can forgive those who have committed grave injustices against him and others, given the dangers he has faced. Pastor Evan explains that forgiveness is not a substitute for justice and emphasizes the significance of distinguishing between the two. He recognizes the importance of justice and understands that forgiving someone does not absolve them of their actions. While he has personally forgiven individuals such as Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe, who threatened and mistreated him, Pastor Evan believes that justice must be sought for the crimes committed, not just for his own sake, but also for the millions of others who have suffered. He encourages others to forgive at their own pace, because true forgiveness comes from the heart and cannot be forced. Finally, he emphasizes that forgiveness and the demand for justice can coexist because forgiveness is a personal choice and justice must still be sought. Pastor Evan Mawarire on the Liberation Struggle of Zimbabwe Pastor Evan then shares his background and the values instilled in him by his father. He describes how his father, who had humble beginnings as a cow herder in rural Zimbabwe, actively participated in the liberation struggle for Zimbabwe’s independence. When the war ended in 1980, his father, along with his newlywed mother, moved to the capital city, with dreams and hopes for a prosperous new Zimbabwe. Pastor Evan explains that he grew up witnessing his parents’ hard work, respect for others, and belief in the importance of helping people. “I think the one thing I recognized growing up watching my mom and dad is this idea that you can, through hard work, through respect for other people, and through digging into yourself and figuring out what you’re good at, you can you can really build a life. But the most important thing my dad taught me – even growing up as a young man – is that a life that is lived only for one self, is a life that’s wasted.” – Pastor Evan Mawarire Following his father’s teachings, Pastor Evan chose not to pursue college but rather attended a technical school to learn a craft, becoming an auto electrician. To hear more from Pastor Evan Mawarire and on how to inspire the world, download and listen to this episode. Bio Evan Mawarire is a Zimbabwean clergyman who founded #ThisFlag Citizen’s Movement to challenge corruption, injustice,

Many people dream of being paid to create. That is, earning a living from both knowledge work, which is the application of existing knowledge to produce value, and creating net new knowledge, intellectual capital content, or what you can think of as creator capital, is simply cool. Our guest today is the Category Queen of teaching people to build highly scalable, highly profitable, native digital businesses, and specifically digital courses, content and communities, Amy Porterfield. Amy Porterfield has a podcast called Online Marketing Made Easy, which is often the number one ranked marketing podcast in the world. and she also operates the leading digital course academy. Her book, Two Weeks Notice, find the courage to quit your job, make more money, work where you want, and change the world is a number one bestseller for a reason. There are a lot of people who pay a lot of money to have the conversation with Amy that you’re about to hear. The future of businesses native digital in yourself will thank you for listening to this episode. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Amy Porterfield, the Category Queen of Digital Community Online Marketing We start the conversation with a brief background as to what Amy Porterfield does in the online business field. As Amy puts it, she teaches people how to start online businesses, specifically how to turn their knowledge, know-how, and skill set into a profitable digital course that they can launch over and over again. And when it comes to digital resources, careers, or businesses that one can have access to, there’s a lot in the online sphere. Her courses teach you these options, so you can decide which ones you need to learn for your business, and which ones you might choose to delegate for efficiency. Amy Porterfield on the magic of Digital Courses Amy then highlights the benefits and advantages of digital courses. Both discuss from their POV the transformation that occurs when shifting from a product-focused marketing mindset to a teacher mindset. They highlight the scalability of digital courses, allowing creators and businesses to reach a larger audience and achieve greater freedom and financial success. Amy emphasizes how digital courses can establish thought leaders and put individuals or companies on the map within their respective industries. Furthermore, digital courses help potential customers understand the value and power of a product, service, or brand, making it easier for them to buy in and become part of a community. Teaching through digital courses is seen as a powerful strategy to educate and engage customers, ultimately leading to business growth. The use of digital courses in a product-driven business Amy then talks about the role of digital courses in educating people about innovative products or services and facilitating buy-in from potential customers. Amy highlights the value of digital courses in helping individuals understand the power and benefits of a business’s offerings, leading to increased interest and engagement. Christopher adds that the more groundbreaking the product or service, the greater the need for education to bridge the gap between the new concept and the target audience. He mentions the importance of teaching and providing knowledge within digital courses to support the adoption of new ideas. Digital courses are an effective medium for educating and empowering users and businesses alike. They enable businesses to demonstrate their expertise, build trust, and highlight the value they can offer. Businesses can establish themselves as thought leaders and attract a dedicated community of followers by teaching first and providing valuable content. Because they provide a structured and accessible format for learners to grasp new information, digital courses can be especially effective for introducing innovative or complex concepts. Overall, digital courses can be used by businesses to educate and engage their audiences, resulting in increased awareness, customer loyalty, and business growth. To hear more from Amy and how to build a Legendary Native Digital business, download and listen to this episode. Bio Amy Porterfield Amy Porterfield is an ex-corporate girl turned online marketing expert and CEO of her own multimillion-dollar business. Through her best-selling courses and top-ranked marketing podcast Online Marketing Made Easy, Amy has helped hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs to trade burnout for freedom, income, and impact and find professional autonomy, independence, and success far beyond what a corporate glass ceiling would traditionally allow. She has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, CNBC, Business Insider, Entrepreneur, and her company has twice been awarded the Inc. 5000 Award as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S.

Today, we are living in a world where access to all of the knowledge of humanity is getting easier, faster, and more accessible to all. This means that know what and how to ask questions to obtain the required answers have become a skill onto itself. On this episode, we have a dialogue with Jon Berghoff about the power of questions, and how to know if you’re asking the right questions. Jon Berghoff is the founder of XCHANGE Approach, a company that delivers legendary group learning experiences designed to blow open exponential thinking, and exponential results. Jon’s a living legend for a reason, and he’s a ton of fun. We promise you; your brain will thank you for listening to this dialogue today. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Jon Berghoff on creating an experience where people feel safe The conversation starts off with a question for Jon, particularly on how he could create successful digital events in a world where people don’t fully subscribe to them yet. Jon shares that he drew his drive from his own experience back in high school, where he felt like he was left out and was disconnected for other people. In time, he realized that breaking through this disconnect is one of the important details in getting people excited for conversations, meetings, or on his case, digital events. Because they have a place where they feel safe and where they feel they belong. Jon Berghoff on the role of questions The next part of the dialogue focuses on the importance of asking the right questions and creating meaningful experiences in meetings and gatherings. Christopher recognizes that a company’s success is attributed to asking the right questions, listening, and creating a positive experience, and Jon is an expert at asking questions and creating a safe environment. They then talk about the difficulty of adapting to a rapidly changing world and how it relates to ineffective meetings. Jon emphasizes the importance of designing meetings that address complex issues and move away from the notion that a few people have all the answers. The Ego-centric design of meetings The conversation then shifts to the ego-centric design in meetings and conversations. Christopher observes that some meetings have the feel of dictatorial ego-centric events in which a few people present their vision and have all the answers. Jon agrees and explains that many meetings are unconsciously designed with an ego-centric approach, in which either a few people have all the answers or participants are more concerned with convincing each other of their own ideas. They do, however, recognize the need to tap into collective intelligence and shift the paradigm to engage everyone’s thinking. Jon emphasizes the importance of questions in this process, stating that the world’s complexity requires less emphasis on having all the answers and more emphasis on asking the right questions. He refers to John Kelly’s view that future intelligence will be measured by the ability to ask the right questions rather than what one knows. To hear more from Jon Berghoff and the power of questions in today’s knowledge-driven world, download and listen to this episode. Bio Jon Berghoff is the founder of the XCHANGE Approach, a scientific approach to unlocking collective wisdom in any group. These are extraordinary times, which call for exponential conversations. Which is why innovative leaders have run to XCHANGE as the solution for bringing together companies, communities, customers in powerful ways. Before COVID-19, XCHANGE was leaned on by companies like Facebook, BMW, Costco, to facilitate powerful, large-scale conversations… when the stakes were highest. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, change agents of every type: coaches, consultants and thought leaders… are using XCHANGE to create connection, community and accelerated learning in every imaginable environment. All of it digitally, of course. Links Connect with Jon Berghoff! XCHANGE Approach | LinkedIn We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!

Women’s Health is a topic everyone cares about, and sexual health is an important part of living a legendary life. But it can also be a tough topic for both women and men to address. On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we go deep into the topic of Women’s Health with our guest, Dr. Christi Pramudji. Dr. Christi Pramudji, MD is a fascinating doctor because she followed her different to become one of the very few Urologist-Gynecologist. Dr. Christi is considered to be a true pioneer in Pelvic Health and Regeneration. By the end of this episode, you’ll gain real insights into why Dr. Christi says orgasm is a right, how the female orgasm works, and what it takes for women to have them. She also presents a holistic approach, including some new recent medical interventions that help women have breakthroughs in their sexual health. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Christi Pramudji on niching down The conversation starts off with the question as to why Dr. Christi decided to niche down to being a urologist for women, rather than a more general practice. Dr. Christi clarifies that she still has male clients from time to time, though looking at the overall clientele, 99.5% of it would be women. She explains that once clients found out that there was a female urologist, they all started flocking to her practice. Over time, she grew to love the role, and it became her specialty. “When I got into practice, it immediately became female. As soon as women learned that there was a woman urologist, they wanted to come see me. And I kind of fought against it for a couple years. And then I decided that I really like this part of urology and I wanted to embrace it, and I just wanted to be really great at it.” – Dr. Christi Pramudji Why Women prefer female urologists When asked why women tend to prefer female urologists over male urologists. Dr. Christi explains that many women feel more comfortable discussing private and intimate issues with a female doctor. Conditions like a leaky bladder can make women feel less feminine and embarrassed, leading them to prefer talking to a female urologist. While most male urologists are easy to talk to and have a good sense of humor, women may still worry about feeling uncomfortable. Dr. Christi also mentions that a sense of humor and a warm, down-to-earth demeanor can help put patients at ease when discussing such personal matters, regardless of gender. They also share an example of a doctor with a unique bedside manner who is well-respected and successful in his field. Dr. Christi Pramudji on the female orgasm The topic then shifts to female orgasms and the numerous misconceptions about it. Dr. Christi explains that female orgasm is frequently portrayed in the media as easy to achieve during intercourse, which is unusual. Orgasm in women typically requires clitoral stimulation as well as full integration of the body and mind. Dr. Christi also mentions how the lack of effective treatment options for female orgasm issues makes dealing with the issue difficult. She emphasizes that, unlike men, female orgasm is not required for procreation and is considered a sex bonus. Christopher then asks if women can experience pleasure without orgasm, and Dr. Christi emphasizes that sex should be pleasurable even without orgasm. She does, however, clarify that the clitoris is the primary pleasure organ for women, and that most women require direct stimulation of the clitoris to experience intense pleasure. To hear more from Dr. Christi Pramudji and other topics regarding women’s health, download and listen to this episode. Bio Dr. Christi Pramudji is a Urologist-Gynecologist whose expertise is unmatched as a true pioneer in pelvic health and regeneration and has helped thousands of women heal and get their fulfilling sex lives back.“ The clitoris is made for pleasure, and we must tap into that. Every woman deserves an enjoyable sex life and the tremendously positive effects an orgasm has on the body, from increased mood and decreased stress levels to strengthening relationships,” says Pramudji. Dr Pramudji advocates that women should be enjoying sex at all stages of their lives, and encourages them to take back their sex life, as this can have a profound effect on women’s overall health, wellness, and happiness. While there are many ways to treat libido changes due to menopause and female sexual dysfunction post-menopause, the most exciting is a treatment called Cliovana, a gentle, non-invasive alternative to rejuvenation surgery, which Dr Pramudji describes as a game changer. Links Connect with Dr. Christi Pramudji! ChristiMD Medical Group | LinkedIn | Youtube We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel fre

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a dialogue with Mike Maples Jr. on how artificial intelligence is changing startups and venture capital. Mike Maples Jr. is the co-founder of Floodgate, one of the highest profile early stage venture capitalists. He also has a podcast called Starting Greatness, and it is one of my absolute favorites. By the end of it, we hope that you’ll gain a new way to think about both technical risk for startups and market risk. And why in an AI world, you must either be radically different or radically disintermediate something. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Mike Maples Jr. on AI We begin the discussion on the topic of challenges of making sense of the rapidly evolving field of AI. Mike also talks about the traditional funding model of startups, where the primary focus was taking out technical risk, and how the LAMP stack, which commoditized what was once expensive, made it easier to start a startup. Mike notes that the nature of the LAMP stack changed what startups were funded for. “What I like to say is that the LAMP stack was deflationary in terms of the cost of starting startup. And so what does that mean? It meant that what you were funding was different, because if Kevin Rose can start dig for $1,500, over a weekend, there’s no technical risks there. I mean, he hired a contractor to do it that he didn’t even know at the time.” – Mike Maples Jr. Who gets Product Market Fit first The conversation then moves on to the changing dynamics of venture capital investment. The discussion continues with the notion that technical risk and market risk are inversely related. Solving a technically difficult problem that is valuable to society will create a market; if the problem is easy to solve technically, it will all come down to who achieves product-market fit first. To add value to the business, Floodgate and YC have taken the approach of funding market risk takedown. As technology becomes more commoditized and innovations become more accessible, the person who creates something people want the quickest wins. This is why YC was so successful: it offered young people $100,000 to either take market risks or leave. He also mentions that the traditional venture capital model may not be appropriate for all businesses and that deflationary factors such as content, code, and data may change the way businesses are built. Mike Maples Jr. on AI and the future of Venture Capital Mike Maples Jr. then returns to the topic of artificial intelligence and its implications for the future of venture capital. Here, Mike emphasizes two ends of the risk spectrum: high technical risk and high market risk. On the one hand, some projects require large amounts of funding for mass computation in order to build massive models that have the potential to change humanity. On the other hand, AI is being used in a variety of fields, including content generation for marketing, customer service chatbots, and lead generation, resulting in a deflationary effect on content, code, and data. According to Mike, some businesses may not require traditional venture capital funding and should instead focus on achieving $50 million in revenue with a small team and minimal funding. There is also speculation that the current billion-dollar funds may be providing the wrong incentives to these companies. To hear more from Mike Maples Jr. and how AI can affect the future of startups and venture capital, download and listen to this episode. Bio Mike Maples Jr. is an entrepreneur turned venture capitalist. He’s co-founder of Silicon Valley based, early-stage VC Floodgate. And the host of the popular “Starting Greatness” podcast. Investments include Twitter, Lyft, Bazaarvoice, Sparefoot, Ayasdi, Xamarin, Doubledutch, Twitch.tv, Playdom, Chegg, Demandforce, Rappi, Smule, and Outreach. Link Connect with Mike Maples Jr.! Floodgate | Twitter | LinkedIn | Starting Greatness Podcast We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on iTunes!