Learning From Your World
"Learning From Your World" is an invitation to delve deeper into the subjects that shape our lives and the world around us. In each episode, Christina interviews people with diverse backgrounds and experiences to learn about the important aspects of life and explore how we can use what we learn to better our world and the people in it. From the insights and wisdom shared by her guests, listeners will discover practical ways to engage in meaningful conversations and take action to bring positive change to their lives and communities.
Episodes
How Shared Experiences Help Us Learn & Connect | Andrew Cross, CEO of Goosechase
Technology is often blamed for pulling us away from the people and world around us. But can it be designed to do the opposite?
In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Cross, Founder and CEO of Goosechase, to explore how play and shared experiences help us learn, connect, and create stronger memories.
We discuss:
- Why experiences can be more powerful than simply sharing information
- What it looks
Why We Struggle to Speak Up, Listen & Connect | Megan Reitz
What influences whether people choose to speak up, listen, and connect?
In this episode, I sit down with Megan Reitz, Associate Fellow at Oxford University's Saïd Business School, to explore the habits, environments, and ways of paying attention that shape our conversations, relationships, and leadership.
We discuss:
- Why people stay silent, even when they have something important to say.
- How
What's Happening in Today's Job Market? The Economy, AI, and the Future of Work | Connor Lokar
There's a lot of conversation about AI, the economy, and the future of work. But what's actually happening? In this episode, I sit down with Connor Lokar, Senior Forecaster and Keynote Manager at ITR Economics, to discuss why today's job market feels so different, how AI is influencing hiring, and what individuals and organizations can do to prepare for the future.
We discuss:
- Why today's job ma
Rethinking Generational Differences at Work | With Alastair Greener
In this episode, I sit down with Alastair Greener, speaker, author, researcher, and host of the Generationally Speaking podcast.
We discuss:
- Alastair's insights from his research on communication across generations.
- How stereotypes can get in the way of connection.
- Why our formative experiences shape how we see the world, and what it takes to build trust and understanding across differences.
Can This App Help Us Build Real-World Connection? with Brad Steckart, Founder of Sit By Me
In this episode, I sit down with Brad Steckart, founder of Sit By Me, an app designed to help people connect in real life, in real time.
We talk about the story behind the app, why starting conversations can feel harder than it should, and how technology can serve as a bridge to real-world connection rather than a replacement for it. Brad also shares the personal experiences that shaped his work a
How to Build Exceptional Relationships | Carole Robin
Strong relationships are not found, they're built.
In this episode, I talk with relationship expert and leadership educator Carole Robin, former Stanford Graduate School of Business faculty member and co-author of Connect: Building Exceptional Relationships with Family, Friends, and Colleagues. Together, we explore the practical skills that help people build trust, strengthen communication, and cr
Are You in the Right Room? | Allen Hauge on Leadership & Peer Groups
Most leaders struggle because they’re trying to figure it out on their own. In this conversation with Allen Hauge, we talk about what changes when you’re in the right room. After more than 30 years working with CEOs, Allen shares how trust, vulnerability, and the right peer community help leaders gain clarity, and make better decisions.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why leaders make worse decisio
How to Make Friends as an Adult & Build a Community That Lasts | Holly Cooke
Making friends as an adult is hard, especially when you move somewhere new and don’t know anyone.
In this episode, I talk with Holly Cooke, founder of The Lonely Girls Club, about what it actually looks like to build friendships and community as an adult. Holly shares how she started the London Lonely Girls Club, why showing up matters more than confidence, and what it takes to keep going when thi
Why We Can’t Be Happy Alone: The Science of Connection | Nic Marks
Happiness was never meant to be an individual pursuit. In this conversation, Nic Marks, founder of Friday Pulse and creator of the Happy Planet Index, explains why happiness evolved as a social emotion, and why our brains light up in connection with others. We explore why so many of us are stuck in “okay” lives, why individualism has unintentionally disconnected us from what makes us thrive, and h
How Do You Trust Again After Being Hurt? | Tracy A. Malone
What actually helps you trust again after you’ve been hurt or manipulated?
In this episode, author and educator Tracy A. Malone joins me to talk about what it takes to rebuild self-trust after narcissistic abuse. We unpack why awareness alone isn’t enough, how “sweet words” without consistent action break trust, and why self-forgiveness is often the hardest (and most freeing) part of healing.
We e
Is Love Something We Find, Feel, or Do? | Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt (Getting the Love You Want)
Love is not chemistry, compatibility tests, or waiting for someone who magically “gets us.” According to Dr. Harville Hendrix and Dr. Helen LaKelly Hunt, the couple behind Getting the Love You Want, love is a practice that rewires us over time.
In this episode, we talk about how two therapists who literally wrote the book on marriage came within inches of divorce, and why their relationship became
Why We Keep Reliving the Same Relationship Patterns | Karen McMahon
In this episode, divorce coach Karen McMahon and I unpack why the same relationship patterns keep showing up, even when the people change. We look at the childhood dynamics that shape how we communicate, handle conflict, set boundaries, and respond under stress.
Karen breaks down the difference between being victimized and seeing yourself as a victim, why people-pleasing and perfectionism form so
How Do We Bring More Affection Back Into Our Lives? | Dr. Kory Floyd
We often talk about connection, but rarely about affection - the love we give and receive through our words, actions, and touch.
In this conversation, Dr. Kory Floyd, professor and author of The Loneliness Cure, helps make sense of how affection shapes our health and our relationships. We talk about how our families and culture teach us to show love, why the same gesture can land differently with
What We Get Wrong About Connection
We’re not in a connection crisis because we don’t care.
We’re disconnected because our environment (our systems, our tech, and our pace) makes real connection harder than ever.
In this opening episode of The Connection Series, I share the personal and professional journey that led me to the question:
What is real connection, and how do we rebuild it in a world designed for disconnection?
In this
How to Build Character Through Habits, Purpose, and Play With Dr. Arthur Schwartz
In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and a leading voice in moral development, we explore what it really takes to build character and live with purpose.
We discuss:
- What Really Drives Action: Why character is about behavior, not just beliefs, and how to act on what matters most.
- The Power of Purpose: How even simple goals (like a push-up contest) ca
Is Empathy Enough? The Hidden Cost of Good Intentions With Dr. Arthur Schwartz
Is empathy enough to create real change?
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and lifelong advocate for character development, about why empathy alone doesn’t create change, and what it really takes to live with integrity, purpose, and courage.
We discuss:
- Why Empathy Isn’t Enough: What most people get wrong about empathy, and how too much of it can block
Escaping the Linear World: Nonlinear Thinking with Perry Knoppert (Part 2)
What if your mind was never meant to fit the system?
In this episode, Perry Knoppert shares what happened after he gave everything up, and what he built. From living without a home to founding the Octopus Movement, Perry explores the power of nonlinear thinking and creating outside the lines.
*This is Part 2 of our conversation. In Part 1, Perry shares how his journey began.
We talk about:
The
Losing Everything to Learn Everything: Perry Knoppert on Homelessness, Mental Health, and Starting Over (Part 1)
What happens when someone steps outside the system?
In this episode, Perry Knoppert, founder of The Octopus Movement, shares the story of the seven months he spent without a home. What began as a personal decision rooted in curiosity quickly became a deeper experience of disconnection, challenge, and insight.
With honesty and reflection, Perry talks about:
Why he gave everything up, and what happ
The Truth About Narcissists: Why They Manipulate & Distort Reality With Chelsey Brooke Cole
After an overwhelming response to our first conversation, I had to bring Chelsey back for round two! In this follow-up, the licensed psychotherapist and author answers listener questions, breaking down narcissistic behavior and how to heal from toxic relationships.
We explore:
Grandiose vs. covert narcissists - how they manipulate differently.
Why narcissists distort reality and avoid responsib
How Peace Corps Director Dr. Jody Olsen Led 7,000 Volunteers to Safety—And What It Taught Her About Life
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jody Olsen, former Peace Corps Director and global leader, about embracing courage, building trust, and making bold life decisions. From her unexpected leap into the Peace Corps in the 1960s to leading the evacuation of 7,000 volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Olsen shares her journey of stepping into the unknown, making high-stakes decisions, and fosteri
Lead with Vision: How Visual Thinking Transforms Leadership With Todd Cherches
In this episode, I talk with Todd Cherches - CEO of Big Blue Gumball, NYU professor, TEDx speaker, and author of Visual Leadership - to explore how visual thinking transforms leadership, communication, and problem-solving. We explore why leadership isn’t just about titles, but about how you see, think, and connect with others.
We discuss:
Why leadership is about influence - not job titles.
How
The Power of Connection: Healing Anxiety and Despair with Dr. Chinwé Williams
In this episode, I explore the critical role of connection in mental health with Dr. Chinwé Williams - licensed counselor, trauma therapist, and co-author of Beyond the Spiral and Seen. We discuss how anxiety and despair impact the brain, why true healing requires relationships, and how we can foster deeper, more meaningful support systems in our lives.
We discuss:
- Why feeling seen is essentia
The Ninja Mindset: How Martial Arts Builds Confidence, Resilience, and Mental Strength (Part 2)
In this episode, Cheryl Ilov returns to dive deeper into the philosophy of martial arts, the neuroscience of movement, and how training rewires both body and mind. We explore the principles that make Ninpo Taijutsu more than just self-defense - it’s a lifelong practice of resilience, strategy, and adaptability.
We discuss:
Why martial arts builds mental toughness, problem-solving skills, and conf
The Reluctant Ninja: Healing Trauma Through Movement (Part 1)
In this episode, I talk with Cheryl Ilov (movement expert, author, and podcast host) about how training in Ninpo Taijutsu helped her heal from trauma, rebuild her confidence, and redefine her sense of strength. After years of resistance, she discovered that martial arts offered a unique path to empowerment. At 57, she became her teacher’s first female black belt, proving that transformation is pos
Rethinking Burnout: The Power of Energy Management with Avery Thatcher
In this episode, I talk with Avery Thatcher, burnout specialist and former ICU nurse, about rethinking stress management, recovering from burnout, and building sustainable energy resilience.
We discuss:
Why managing energy works better than managing stress—and what most strategies get wrong.
The four types of energy and how they each lead to burnout.
How burnout is shaped by larger societa
The Story Behind Learning From Your World: Connection, Courage, and Curiosity
In this solo episode, I share the backstory of Learning From Your World - why I started this podcast, how it's evolved, and the surprising themes that have emerged from my conversations.
I discuss:
How the book I wrote at 16 led to the podcast.
Why connection and courage are the two forces that shape our lives - and how they reinforce each other.
The "two wheels" analogy - how connection create
Recognizing and Healing from Narcissistic Abuse with Chelsey Brooke Cole
In this episode, I talk with Chelsey Brooke Cole, licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and author, about understanding narcissistic behavior, healing from narcissistic abuse, and fostering personal growth after trauma.
We discuss:
- The difference between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder.
- The cycle of narcissistic abuse and its impact on victims.
- Recogniz
Mastering The Art of Conscious Conversations With Chuck Wisner
In this episode, I talk with Chuck Wisner, author of The Art of Conscious Conversations, to explore how conscious communication can transform our relationships and professional lives.
We discuss:
- The power of internal narratives in shaping our external interactions.
- How to use self-reflection to reveal and adjust our personal biases and judgments.
- Practical strategies for fo
Why Authentic Language Matters With Andy Weins
In this episode, I talk with Andy Weins, author, entrepreneur, and army veteran, about the impact of language on our reality, psychological resilience, and the role of authenticity in personal and professional life.
We discuss:
How the language we use shapes our emotions and actions.
The power of authenticity in building stronger connections and self-acceptance.
How to cultivate a growth mindset
Balancing Health With Traditional and Modern Medicine With Dr. Martha Libster
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Martha Libster, nurse herbalist, historian, and author of Gentle Medicine for Balance in Body and Peace of Mind, about integrating holistic health, traditional medicine, and the power of plants in promoting mental and physical wellbeing.
We discuss:
The balance between modern healthcare and traditional healing methods.
How patterns in nature and Traditional Chine
Simplifying Success: Lisa Bodell’s Secrets to Achieving More by Doing Less
In this episode, I have a conversation with Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and author of 'Why Simple Wins' and 'Kill The Company,' about embracing change, challenging the status quo, and simplifying work for meaningful outcomes.
We discuss:
The importance of saying no and focusing efforts on what truly matters, rather than merely being 'busy'.
Implementing strategies like 'killing stupid rules'
Navigating Anxiety With Anxiety Coach Cynthia Coufal
In this episode, I talk with Cynthia Coufal, an experienced anxiety coach with a rich background in education and counseling.
We cover:
Normalizing anxiety and recognizing how it manifests.
The link between anxiety, connection, and courage.
Strategies to foster emotional regulation and psychological safety.
Challenge: At [54:15], Cynthia challenges us to set aside a daily worry time to better
Quitting Corporate to Pursue Passion: The Tricky Foods Story
In this episode, I talk with Therese Merkel-Hamadi to explore her inspiring journey from leaving the corporate world to establishing her business, Tricky Foods. She dives deep into what she felt, thought, and learned along the way.
We discuss:
Therese's personal transformation and her transition from a demanding corporate job to creating a successful charcuterie and catering business.
The import
Travel with Purpose: Insights from Travel Coach Sahara Rose De Vore
In this episode, Sahara Rose De Vore shares her journey and insights as a travel coach, a role distinct from travel agents focused on helping individuals find deeper meaning and purpose in their travels. Sahara Rose founded the Travel Coach Network, which trains, guides, and certifies travel coaches through an ICF accredited certification program. At TCN, they believe that building a transformativ
Building a Business with Your Best Friend: The Siren Shrub Story
In this episode, I talk with the founders of Siren Shrub, Mindy McCord and Layne Cozzolino, about how they turned a shared passion into a thriving business.
We discuss:
- The unique challenges and incredible benefits of partnering with your best friend in business.
- Creating and maintaining your definition of success despite external pressures.
- The inspiring process of transforming a passion
Building Psychological Fitness With Dr. Karen Doll
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Karen Doll about impactful and applicable strategies to cultivate psychological fitness.
We discuss:
- How societal and cultural factors affect our psychological fitness - and why the year 2012 had a profound impact on our collective mental health.
- How to embrace appropriate vulnerability in a professional setting.
- The single greatest "bang-for-your-buck" way
Most People Don’t _______ With Bart Berkey
In this episode, I talk with Bart Berkey about what makes the difference between becoming the person who does vs. being the person who doesn't.
We discuss:
- Why most people don't and the origin of the trademarked concept.
- The thing that differentiates the people who do vs. the people who don't.
- Bart's theory of "doing distractors" and specific tools to counteract them.
Challenge: At [54
Becoming a Happy Healthy Human With Dan Miller
In this episode, I talk with Dan Miller about how we can live a longer, happier, and healthier life by living more like human animals.
We discuss:
- Why Dan’s goal is to live to 130 and understanding longevity potential.
- Practical ways we can live more like human animals despite the challenges of our current environment.
- The power of community and its impact on our health.
Challenge: At [
Unlocking Potential Using The Subconscious Mind With Jericha Szlo
In this episode, I talk with Jericha Szlo about how we can use neuroscience to reach our full potential.
We discuss:
- Jericha's personal story and pivotal moment that led her to discover the power of the subconscious mind.
- Understanding the subconscious mind and how we can use it to reach our full potential.
- How we can cultivate personal, physical, and online environments that contribute t
So You Want to Write a Book? With Amelia Forczak
In this episode, I talk with Amelia Forczak about what it takes to write your next bestseller. As a bestselling ghostwriter herself, she shares practical insight and tips for aspiring authors to write a book that creates lasting impact.
We discuss:
- The #1 thing that prevents people from writing their book…and how to overcome it.
- How to assess the viability of a book idea.
- How AI and Chat G
Taking Inspired Action With Kyle Willkom
In this episode, I talk with Kyle Willkom about the the ripple effect, the power of naivety in taking action, and the constant chase for productivity in a busy world.
We discuss:
- How a random encounter with a stranger changed led Kyle to kickstart his career in writing and speaking.
- How you can leverage naivety for success.
- Finding balance between drive and contentment.
Challenge: At [34
Unlocking Happiness Through Deliberate Fun With Mike Rucker
In this episode, I talk with Mike Rucker about why crafting deliberate fun could be the key to experiencing more joy and happiness.
We discuss:
- Why we are often less happy, despite having more information and tools for happiness than ever.
- Defining fun and distinguishing the differences between high vs. low arousal fun.
- Understanding the PLAY model: A tool to assess how different types of
Leveraging Somatic Practices and Nervous System Regulation With Cait Murphy
In this episode, I talk with Cait Murphy about how to recognize nervous system dysregulation and apply somatic tools to our everyday life.
We discuss:
- The practices that helped Cait heal and reverse burnout.
- Polyvagal theory and the autonomic ladder.
- Practical tools for regulating your nervous system.
Challenge: At [40:55], Cait shares a somatic practice you can start today to improve aw
Building and Strengthening Authentic Relationships With Brandon Fong
In this episode, I talk with Brandon Fong about how to create, build, and strengthen authentic relationships.
We discuss:
- How to create new connections with the people who are where you want to be.
- Brandon's 3-step strategy to build any relationship.
- What the IKEA effect teaches us about building strong relationships.
Challenge: At [53:50], Brandon shares a simple yet powerful action you
Discovering Your Dream Job and the Power of Storytelling With Mikki Williams
In this episode, Mikki and I talk about the power of storytelling and the tools she created to live a fulfilling life and find her dream job.
We discuss:
- The 4 objectives that led Mikki to find her dream job.
- The experience list she created to live a more fulfilling and exciting life.
- Mikki’s tips to become a great storyteller.
Challenge: At [34:42], Mikki shares something she created c
Finding Your Greatness Zone With Jay Forte
In this episode, Jay and I talk about authenticity and what it means to be in our Greatness Zone.
We discuss:
- What our "greatness zone" is and how stopping and noticing can help you find it.
- How our greatness zone changes over time.
- Why being in your greatness zone improves the lives of the people around you.
Challenge: At [38:28], Jay shares a habit that you can start tonight to interru
A Vow to Live Bigger With Barbara Majeski
In this episode, I talk with TV personality and founder of the MORE Life Collective, Barbara Majeski, about the vow she made to herself after experiencing a Stage III cancer diagnosis and divorce - back to back.
We discuss:
- How Barbara’s childhood experiences have shaped her purpose and who she is today.
- How we can use our experiences to have a positive impact on the people around us.
- Barb
The Art of Peaceful Living With Sid McNairy
In this episode, I talk with Sid McNairy, author, life empowerment coach, meditation teacher, and yoga instructor about peace.
We discuss:
- How Sid went from being a football coach to a meditation teacher.
- Defining peace: the birthplace of love.
- Practical ways to invite peace into our lives.
Challenge: At [37:18], Sid shares a challenge that will help you get closer to living a peaceful l
Vulnerable Action With Aruna Krishnan
In this episode, I talk with Aruna about:
- How taking action helped transform her confidence.
- The hardest part about writing a book: vulnerability.
- Practical recommendations to shift from responding to reacting.
Aruna's Challenge: 35:18
Are You Authentic, Really? With Charles Scott
In this episode, I talk with Executive Mentor and lifelong adventurer, Charles Scott, about what it really means to be authentic.
We discuss:
- What true authenticity really looks like.
- How authenticity changes over time.
- Mimetic Theory and its impact on our ability to remain authentic.
Challenge: At [42:53], Charles shares a challenge that will maximize your everyday vitality with alignme
Make Your Environment a Product of You With Jay Chase
What does it actually mean to “take control of your life?”
In this episode, I talk with Jay Chase about how he went from being a product of his environment to making his environment a product of him. Taking control of your life is more than an inspirational quote. Jay talks about the real emotions and stories that came with the everyday struggle he faced during this process. He shares the prima
Building Mental Wealth With Michael Gilbert
What is mental wealth – and how can I get more of it?
Michael Gilbert is the founder of Lumin-us, a nonprofit start-up with the goal of helping young adults find mental wealth through social therapy and asking questions like “What’s your bright spot?”. Michael and I discuss how we can use social therapy to improve mental wealth in ourselves and the people around us.
In this episode, I also talk
The Key to Lifelong Learning With Ted Neitzke
In this episode, I talk with the CEO of CESA 6 and Mayor of Port Washington about the key to lifelong learning…CURIOSITY. Ted shares how to murder your books and other great tips to help retain the information you learn. He shares easy-to-implement strategies for leaders, parents, teachers, and individuals to leverage learning and create more meaning.
We discuss:
- How to learn every day - witho
Reframe Your Greatest Challenge Into Your Greatest Gift With McKenna Reitz
In this episode, I talk with McKenna Reitz about how she has transformed her experience with Alopecia into an opportunity to pursue her purpose with confidence.
We discuss:
- The internal and external factors that played a role in helping her improve her mindset.
- The psychology and challenges behind reframing your life experiences into opportunities.
- Advice for people before, during, and af
Stop and Notice With Jay Forte
In this episode, Jay and I talk about one small thing that has a huge impact on the way we see and experience the world: noticing.
We discuss:
- How interrupting your busy life through stopping and noticing can improve your health and happiness.
- A new kind of gratitude practice.
- Practical tips to stop living on autopilot.
Challenge: At [30:55], Jay shares a habit that you can start tonigh
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Exposing Workplace Bullying
