What's Next Now!

This week, I welcome Evan Watkins, an expert in emotional intelligence, who helps us unravel a subject that truly resonates with me - emotional intelligence in everyday life! Imagine that your career is sailing smoothly, or perhaps it is facing turbulence with unforeseen changes like a layoff or a surprising new opportunity. How do we navigate such unpredictable turns? Evan helps us break down how emotional intelligence, described simply as the "intelligent use of your emotions," can serve as our compass. He introduces us to the RUM model - Recognize, Understand, and Manage - which provides a framework for emotionally intelligent decisions in both life and work. Think of it not as your typical cocktail but as your emotional cocktail, blending self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management! If you Google "how to control your anger," you will see 1.2 million search results, but Evan humorously points out how many of these just recycle the same age-old advice. Instead, emotional intelligence teaches us to channel emotions like anger, not just control them, harnessing their energy positively in workplaces and beyond. Evan and I discuss intriguing examples such as Max Scherzer, the baseball pitcher whose intentional and controlled anger powers his performance. We also would be remiss to not talk about AI. As we pivot into the rapidly advancing world of technology, Evan shares his musings on how AI and emotional intelligence may intertwine. They’re more intersectional than we often think, with emotion-aware avatars and other tools changing the communication game. I hope that you will dive into this episode filled with wisdom and wit, insights, and practical tips that encourage us all to focus on the human touch in an increasingly digital world. In summary, Evan and I discuss how emotional intelligence can be developed to effectively take on both expected and unexpected life and career changes. Evan emphasizes the practical applications of emotional intelligence in handling workplace dynamics and anger management, while also exploring its intersection with AI technology to enhance communication and interaction. Episode Highlights: [2:45] - Evan lives in Oceanside with his wife, a professor at UCSD, and their border collie Wendell; he surfs daily and is a writer shopping his second book![4:26] - Emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions to improve life and relationships.[7:41] - Soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, are important for generations affected by limited socialization during COVID.[9:05] - Emotional intelligence is learnable; practicing key skills post-COVID can help improve relationships and workplace dynamics.[11:16] - LEADx offers a free, validated emotional intelligence assessment![13:28] - Evan argues that anger, when managed, can improve focus, persistence, and resilience, as shown in various studies.[15:48] - Evan discusses how Max Scherzer uses anger as motivation but ensures it doesn’t overwhelm him, balancing focus and control.[17:34] - Recognizing emotions in real-time can reduce their intensity and improve conflict resolution.[20:46] - Emotional intelligence is essential for adapting to rapid AI advancements, blending with technical skills effectively.[22:47] - Evan points out how future emotional intelligence tools could help refine tone in communication.[25:30] - The LEADx book offers strategies and assessments which help readers develop emotional intelligence and track progress.[28:37] - Evan explains how nudges based on assessments offer tailored strategies for personal and team development in real-time contexts.[31:12] - In closing, emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions to enhance relationships and interactions. Links & Resources: Gary Danoff LinkedIn Evan Watkins LinkedIn LEADX Website LEADx’s EQ Assessment Kevin Kruse & Evan Watkins - Emotional Intelligence (A LEADx Guide)

Is it possible…to go from conflicting ideas, opinions and dug in positions to ultimately finding solutions on our most polarizing issues?  These are places where we have deep conflict. It seems like we are battling so many headwinds these days to imagine such a possibility. Many of the sources we watch or listen to are fed from the outrage industrial complex perpetuating our current culture of fear and blame and the ‘us’ versus ‘them’ mentality. In our conversation, Rob shares his journey from a career in public policy to becoming a thought leader on collaborative problem-solving. Rob and I explore the very real possibility of how the use of collaborative problem solving has the potential for positive outcomes even when it comes to significant differences. This isn’t possible all the time and we talk about why. But the uses are more frequent than most people have thought about so far.  Rob tells stories and we discuss how seemingly impossible agreements are made by people on very opposite sides of tough and gritty issues including healthcare, gun control and recidivism. You’ll be surprised and enlightened to learn how agreements were reached. Perhaps one of the most compelling parts of our discussion is Rob's take on the current loneliness crisis made so much worse by the pandemic and digital communication. He offers valuable insights into how we can rebuild and strengthen relationships, particularly among those in the workforce who have launched their careers during COVID and and grown up in a more digital world. The approach and lessons from the conversation and book apply to those in business, on Boards, in the public sector and in your own community! Episode Highlights: [1:44] - Raised in Poughkeepsie, New York, Rob worked in public policy and now lives in Bethesda, Maryland.[3:12] - Rob credits Mariah Levison, coauthor of From Conflict to Convergence and CEO of Convergence, with adding depth and insight to the book’s lessons.[3:41] - The structure of the book focuses on mindset, building blocks, and processes for conflict resolution.[5:35] - How might the book relate to solving major national problems?[7:06] - Rob believes that bringing people together is possible by applying collaborative, diverse viewpoints.[10:37] - Rob points out that conflict can be constructive and liberating, leading to empathy and better relationships.[13:32] - Building trust and exploring shared values can help people overcome initial negative attitudes and disagreements.[16:32] - Rob discusses how the pandemic and remote work have strained relationships and how fostering connection requires creating supportive communities.[18:22] - Hear how a collaborative project showed that shared goals can overcome differences and result in improvements.[21:37] - I particularly relate to Rob's story’s theme of finding common ground and trust, even with initial differences.[22:28] - Rob advocates for trust, which can develop through deep understanding and dialogue, even between people with opposing views.[25:28] - Bridging divides requires grassroots and top-down efforts; role models and media can help foster cooperation.[28:01] - I suggest using influencers to teach collaborative problem-solving and improve relationships.[29:44] - Cultural change in Congress is challenging, but effective leadership and new models can help foster better communication.[31:31] - Rob advocates for candidates who emphasize working well with others and finding common ground on issues.[33:24] - Data and real conversations potentially reveal that Americans are less divided than the media suggests.[35:12] - Rob adds that honest conversations reveal surprising truths and improve understanding across division.[37:50] - What's next now for Rob? Links & Resources: Email Gary: gary.danoff@lhh.com Gary Danoff LinkedIn Rob Fersh LinkedIn From Conflict to Convergence: Coming Together to Solve Tough Problems Convergence

Joining me for this episode is Ethan Waldman, a leading figure in the tiny house movement. Ethan’s journey from a web designer to a tiny house expert is nothing short of inspiring, and his conversation here with me is definitely one for those of you who are seeking a shift in how you live and impact the planet. Not only does Ethan live in a tiny house, he’s built an entire community around it! The founder of thetinyhouse.net, Ethan is also the author of the guidebook and online course Tiny House Decisions and host of Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast, which recently celebrated its 300th episode! Ethan recounts a transformative bike trip along the Pacific coast. Expecting the journey to be life-changing, he was surprised by his reaction upon returning home. The simplicity of living out of a few bags contrasted with the abundance of stuff he had accumulated, a revelation that pushed him towards tiny house living. Listen as Ethan explores the whys and hows of tiny house living, breaking down the process into actionable steps: understanding your motivation, deciding between a mobile or stationary tiny house, and whether to build it yourself or hire professionals. He also shares the challenges and rewards of DIY construction, providing a realistic perspective on what it takes to create your own tiny home. For those curious about minimalism, Ethan also offers practical tips on decluttering, starting with the easiest area: your wardrobe. He shares how small experiments, like packing lightly for a trip, can be a stepping stone towards embracing a simpler lifestyle. His advice is grounded in real experiences and interviews with minimalism experts, making it accessible for anyone interested in the philosophy. We also discuss the broader implications of the tiny house movement. While there are significant challenges in converting commercial spaces into residential ones, Ethan’s optimism about the movement’s growth is palpable, and he highlights how some states, like California, are already leading the way with progressive legislation that makes it easier to integrate tiny houses into urban landscapes. Ethan, in closing, reflects on his journey and what’s next now for him. With the landscape of online education evolving, he’s contemplating new directions for his business. Whether you’re a tiny house enthusiast or just curious about alternative living, this episode offers a wealth of information and inspiration, so tune in, get inspired, and perhaps take your first step towards a more intentional way of living! Episode Highlights: [1:36] - Ethan reveals that he is a tiny house author, speaker, teacher, and creator of the Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast. [3:04] - Dissatisfied with corporate life, Ethan built a tiny house to pursue entrepreneurship after a sabbatical.[5:47] - I reflect on Ethan's clarity from biking, realizing possessions hinder life’s true desires.[7:47] - Ethan suggests starting decluttering with clothes and recommends trying a minimalist trip for a reset. [10:47] - Ethan defines the tiny house movement as advocating for homes under 450ft² with efficient space use.[13:19] - Ethan notes that converting commercial buildings into housing is challenging due to interior space and construction differences.[15:38] - Ethan notes nonprofit tiny home projects for veterans. [18:56] - Start with why you want a tiny house, and then decide on mobility or permanence.[21:22] - Ethan notes a pandemic-driven surge in tiny house interest, now suggesting lower-priced used options. [24:47] - Ethan discusses options for moving tiny houses and challenges in financing them traditionally. [28:06] - Hear what’s next now for Ethan. [30:07] - Ethan reveals where he can be found online. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn thetinyhouse.net Tiny House Decisions Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast

I am thrilled to welcome Tony McGaharan to the show. Tony is the dynamic founder of People Playbook and has a rich background that spans from Google to coaching basketball in Sweden. Right from the very beginning, Tony's warmth and humility shine through as he shares his background. Proudly from Belfast, he learned the values that drive him: hard work, treating people well, and having the courage to take risks. His transition from a secure job at Google to founding his own company wasn’t easy, and he discusses the courage that it required for him to leave Google. Having recently left Google myself to best serve clients as a coach and mentor, I totally relate to this part of Tony’s journey!  We also touch on the importance of maintaining an identity beyond work, a challenge Tony and I both faced after leaving Google. Tony’s journey also leads us into a fascinating discussion about coaching. He sheds light on the cultural differences in attitudes towards seeking help and support. In places like Belfast, people are more inclined to value personal relationships and community over job titles, a perspective which has deeply influenced Tony's approach to coaching and mentoring, where the focus is on people rather than just business outcomes. We have a great discussion about how men typically (not always) have a harder time asking for help and want to be sure that outcomes can be measured in ways that help advance their career or reason for coming to coaching. To which I say:  of course, yes and absolutely they should expect this.   We also talk about other unexpected benefits clients receive from coaching when it is included as part of a corporate or team kick off in order to help extend the benefits of the event.  Tony’s background in coaching basketball also comes into play as he draws parallels between sports coaching and leadership development.  We also, of course, discuss what’s next now for Tony, with Tony envisioning growth that is thoughtful and sustainable, focusing on working with the right people, including both clients and his team. Tony’s insights into courage, identity, and the value of a supportive community are invaluable for anyone looking to make a significant change in their life or career. Tune in to hear more about his journey and the exciting work he's doing at People Playbook! Episode Highlights: [0:56] - Join me in welcoming Tony McGaharan of People Playbook to the show![1:14] - Tony gives us a little bit of background information about himself.[2:49] - Tony reveals that leaving his secure job at Google took years of struggle, courage, and his mother's trust.[4:51] - Tony’s strong support network taught him that his identity is more than just his job.[7:14] - Tony feels that being from Belfast humbles you.[8:02] - Tony finds his identity in values, mission, and personal passions, not in work status.[10:19] - Tony’s courage to leave Google stemmed from valuing altruism over high earnings.[13:21] - We learn how Tony’s coaching journey in Sweden unexpectedly led him to professional basketball, ultimately shaping his leadership philosophy today.[16:10] - Where did Tony get the name People Playbook?[18:09] - I ask Tony about encouraging male leaders to view coaching as beneficial, despite potential perceptions of weakness.[20:23] - Tony agrees, stressing the need to align coaching benefits with business outcomes for male leaders.[23:56] - Hear about the importance of long-term support for leaders through coaching and mentoring relationships.[26:27] - I highlight the privilege of helping others find their vision and providing support through accountability.[27:31] - Tony emphasizes the importance of company over journey or destination in business growth.[30:59] - Tony explains why he is grateful for my own transition from Google. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Tony McGaharan LinkedIn People Playbook