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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
You know that boss who sends emails at 12:03 AM? The one who’s always in a fire drill? Or the beloved, well-meaning leader who… doesn’t actually know how to lead? In this episode of Tough Day, host KVJ sits down with Mita Mallick, bestselling author and workplace culture expert, to unpack some of the most common (and quietly dangerous) archetypes of bad bosses — and what good leaders can learn from them.
Mita shares stories and insights from her upcoming book, The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses, including how to spot macro managers, navigate kind-but-incompetent bosses, and protect yourself from gossipy higher-ups. Whether you’ve had a bad boss or been one, this conversation will help you lead and work better — starting now.
✨ What we cover:
📚 Pre-order Mita’s new book, The Devil Emails at Midnight
Coming September 30, 2025
🔗 Connect with Mita Mallick:
🌐 Website: https://www.mitamallick.com
📘 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mitamallick
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this refreshing and eye-opening convo, KVJ sits down with powerhouse strategist and founder Janna Meyrowitz Turner to unpack what it really means to manage with care. From her early days building StyleHouse to launching her new venture, Antenna Up, Janna walks us through how caregiving and leadership aren’t opposites—they’re deeply connected.
They talk about burnout, invisible labor, DEI misfires, and how men and women can (and must) work together to fix broken systems at work. Plus, the two design the perfect ice cream flavor for leaders trying to balance power and compassion (spoiler: it’s minty, meaningful, and definitely cool to care).
If you've ever felt like managing people shouldn’t feel this hard, this one's for you.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Janna Turner | Antenna Up
Website: https://www.jannamturner.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jannaturner
Instagram: @jannamturner
Learn more about Antenna Up and Buoys Club via Sinistry Capital (note: Antenna Up launches publicly in Fall 2025)
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Feeling stuck in outdated workplace systems? In this episode of Tough Day, host KVJ sits down with Shelley Zalis—CEO, founder, and Chief Troublemaker of The Female Quotient—to talk about rewriting the rules of work for a more inclusive, human-centered future. Shelley shares her zigzag career journey, from breaking into market research by accident to sparking a global movement for equality in business. Together, they unpack why traditional systems are failing caregivers, why empathy is a power skill, and how conscious leadership can drive real transformation. Shelley also tackles workplace DEI fatigue, toxic culture, and why it's time to stop fixing women and start fixing the system.
Tune in for real talk, bold insights, and the unapologetic leadership energy we need now more than ever.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Shelley Zalis | The Female Quotient
Website: https://www.thefemalequotient.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyzalis
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode of Tough Day, KVJ hangs out with the one and only Jenny Fielding—aka the queen of the Everywhere Mindset. Jenny’s launched hundreds of startups and traveled to over 100 countries (yep, she’s got the passport stamps to prove it). She shares why being globally curious isn’t just for digital nomads—it’s actually a career game-changer. We get into her new book "Venture Everywhere", talk about why grit and guts (aka “resilience” and “moxie”) matter more than ever, and hear some wild founder stories from unexpected places—like Waterdrop in China and Kareem in the Middle East. Buckle up, it’s a fun ride.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Jenny Fielding | Everywhere VC
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyfielding/
Website: https://everywhere.vc/
Twitter: @jefielding
Venture Everywhere book: https://www.jennyfielding.com/venture-everywhere
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Feeling overwhelmed by the whirlwind of change at work? In this episode, host KVJ tackles the art of managing change and uncertainty with expert Pete Gerend, Partner at Bain & Company. Together, they explore the nuances of navigating workplace transformations, from the historical roots of change management to the modern challenges posed by technology and AI. Pete shares invaluable insights on how leaders can foster a growth mindset, the importance of communication during transitions, and practical strategies for individuals to embrace change.
Tune in for this enlightening conversation, your essential toolkit for thriving amidst the complexities of the evolving workplace!
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Pete Gerend | Bain & Company
Website: https://www.bain.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-gerend/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ever felt like you're carrying everyone else’s stress at work? Today on Tough Day, we’re diving into the power (and pitfalls) of empathy in leadership and teamwork with Michael Ventura—founder, advisor, educator, and author of Applied Empathy. Michael shares how cognitive empathy (not just "being nice") can create high-performing teams, the seven archetypes of empathy, and why asking better questions might be the key to your next career breakthrough.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Michael Ventura:
Website: https://www.michaelventura.co/
Applied Empathy book: https://www.amazon.com/Applied-Empathy-New-Language-Leadership/dp/1501182854
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ready to shake up the way we work? In this episode, host KVJ sits down with leadership expert and bestselling author Keith Ferrazzi to explore the radical shift from leadership to teamship. They dive into the biggest workplace transformations, the power of collaboration, and why traditional management is on its way out. Keith shares strategies for fostering candor and building resilient teams.
Tune in for a conversation packed with practical insights and bold ideas—because the future of work is here, and it’s all about working smarter, together.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Keith Ferrazzi | Ferrazzi Greenlight
Website: https://www.keithferrazzi.com
Website: https://www.connectedsuccess.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithferrazzi
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How do you build resilience and stay ahead in today’s fast-changing work environment? In this episode, KVJ dives into the neuroscience of resilience with Sarah Baldeo, CEO of ID Quotient and a leading expert in AI and human behavior. Sarah breaks down how to rewire your brain for adaptability, navigate stress, and future-proof your career in an era of uncertainty. Plus, she tackles real-world challenges, from navigating layoffs and burnout to leading change without resistance.
Tune in for this must-hear conversation—your go-to guide for mastering resilience and thriving in the face of change!
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Sarah Baldeo | ID Quotient
Website: https://sarahbaldeo.com/
Website (ID Quotient): https://www.idqinc.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbaldeo/details/experience/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesarahbaldeo/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ever feel like work is just an endless game of selling chocolate bars? (Spoiler: It kind of is.) In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ sits down with leadership expert Beata Lewis, Founder of Bridging Lives, LLC to talk about self-reflection, professional assessments, and why knowing your superpowers is the ultimate career hack. We’re diving into the good, the bad, and the cringeworthy sides of feedback—how to take it, how to use it, and why it’s not just about making yourself feel good. Plus, we tackle the big question: Are assessments a tool for growth or just a trap?
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Beata Lewis | Bridging Lives, LLC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatalewis/
Website: https://bridginglives.com/index.html
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How do you take charge of your career and set yourself up for success? In this episode, KVJ dives into the power of self-leadership with Kelly Mooney, CEO of Equipt Women Co. and a champion for women’s career growth. Kelly breaks down what it really means to lead yourself, sharing strategies for standing out at work, breaking through career roadblocks, and mastering the mindset shifts that set top performers apart. Plus, she tackles situations on self-advocacy, team tension, and thriving in remote work.
Tune in for this must-hear conversation—your go-to guide for taking control of your career and stepping into leadership with confidence!
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Kelly Mooney | Equipt Women Co.
Website: https://equiptwomen.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkmooney/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Work getting you down? Stuck in the grind and wondering if there's more to life than endless emails and meetings? In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ chats with bestselling author and workplace happiness expert Jenn Lim to uncover the secret to finding fulfillment—even in the most soul-sucking jobs. From redefining happiness to embracing the greenhouse model of self-growth, Jenn drops game-changing wisdom on how to create a work-life that actually works for you.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Jenn Lim:
Website: https://jennlim.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byjennlim/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Who knew? Curiosity isn’t just for cats—it’s the secret sauce for thriving leaders! In this episode, KVJ sits down with Mike O'Reilly—a former CFO turned executive coach—to explore how curiosity can fuel great leadership, create vibrant workplace cultures, and inspire personal growth. Mike dives into the transformative power of curiosity as both a value and a skill, sharing compelling stories, actionable insights, and practical advice for professionals at any stage of their career.
With plenty of relatable moments and hands-on tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their leadership game!
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Mike O'Reilly:
LinkedIn (Mike O’Reilly): https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-o-reilly-tu/
Website (The Preston Associates): https://www.theprestonassociates.com/
LinkedIn (The Preston Associates): https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-preston-associates/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ready to decode the chaos of work in politically charged times? In this episode, host KVJ tackles the twists and turns of working through ever-changing political tides. Legal and workplace pros Benjamin Ebbink and Rick Grimaldi join the chat, unpacking upcoming shifts in workplace policies, labor relations, and the game-changing impact of AI on jobs. Plus, they dish out savvy strategies for navigating political divides in the office.
Tune in for this essential discussion, your ultimate guide to thriving in any workplace, no matter how unpredictable it may be!
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Rick Grimaldi & Ben Ebbink | Fisher Phillips
Website (Fisher Phillips): https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/index.html
Website (Rick Grimaldi): https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/people/rick-grimaldi.html?tab=overview
Website ( Ben Ebbink): https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/people/benjamin-m-ebbink.html?tab=overview
LinkedIn (Ben Ebbink): https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminebbink/
LinkedIn (Rick Grimaldi): https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickegrimaldi/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Workplace woes got you feeling stuck? In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ chats with workplace wizard Brian Elliott, CEO of Work Forward and one of Forbes' Future of Work 50. Brian brings 25 years of experience as a startup CEO and exec at Google and Slack to the table. He’s also worked with Future Forum and BCG and is the bestselling author of ‘How the Future Works.’ Together, they’re diving into the highs and lows of flexible work, employee engagement, and tackling real-world workplace challenges—like navigating the awkward happy hour invite or overcoming the isolation of remote work.
Whether you’re a leader, a team player, or just someone dreaming of a co-working stipend, this episode has something for you. Listen and join the conversation about the future of work that works for everyone!
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Brian Elliott | Work Forward
Website: https://www.work-forward.co/
LinkedIn (Brian Elliott): https://www.linkedin.com/in/belliott
LinkedIn: (Work Forward): https://www.linkedin.com/company/work-forward-co/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Description: KVJ chats with Jill Unikel, Head of Product Management at Sapta, about building strong corporate cultures, navigating workplace challenges, and creating environments where diverse teams thrive.
In this episode of the Tough Day, KVJ chats with Jill Unikel, Head of Product Management at Sapta, about the ins and outs of building an awesome corporate culture. Jill shares her inspiring journey from starting out as a temp to leading top-notch teams, dishing out practical tips on defining company values, keeping employees engaged, and making culture a real part of everyday work.
Discover practical strategies like empowering leaders, leveraging tech, and celebrating wins, while also tackling tricky topics like managing multicultural teams and handling tough workplace dynamics.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Jill Unikel | Sapta Inc
Website: https://www.sapta.io/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jillunikel
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Explore the intersection of creativity and innovation as KVJ chats with Craig Russell, former leader at Walt Disney Imagineering. Known for delivering groundbreaking attractions like Shanghai Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean, Frozen-themed experiences, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Craig offers an insider’s perspective on crafting the seemingly impossible.
Join us as Craig unpacks the messy yet rewarding process of creativity, the balance between bold ideas and business realities, and the magic of collaboration. He also shares leadership lessons from his time co-leading Imagineering and insights into fostering innovation in any workplace. Plus, we dive into his post-Disney journey, including advisory roles with creative companies like Meow Wolf.
Whether you're a dreamer, a doer, or both, this episode is packed with inspiration for unleashing creativity under any constraint.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Craig Russell | Walt Disney Imagineering
Website: https://sites.disney.com/waltdisneyimagineering/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-russell-36b73713/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Brace yourself for insights and laughs as KVJ and Alyene Schneidewind unpack the secrets to turning workplace woes into wins! In today’s episode, they dive into the art of building a performance-focused culture that thrives on honest feedback and continuous growth. Alyene shares her experiences as Chief Performance Officer, offering advice on navigating high-stakes projects, fostering accountability, and inspiring teams to aim higher.
Whether you’re a new manager or a seasoned leader, you’ll find practical tips to make even the toughest days at work a little smoother.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Alyene Schneidewind
Website: https://www.logicmonitor.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alyenes
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
KVJ chats with Colin Calvert, attorney and partner at Fisher Phillips, about making employee handbooks surprisingly engaging. He offers practical tips on how organizations can transform their handbooks from dry rulebooks into resources that feel more relatable and human.
Get ready for a surprisingly fun deep dive into… employee handbooks! In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ chats with Colin Calvert—an attorney and partner at Fisher Phillips, a top international labor and employment law firm. Colin, a labor law expert, believes handbooks don’t have to be dull. He shares stories, surprising handbook history, and practical tips for making these workplace “rule books” more human and a lot less boring.
Tune in to learn why handbooks matter and how they can be more than just “office wallpaper.”
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Colin Calvert
Website: https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/people/colin-p-calvert.html?tab=overview
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-calvert-09a43628
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, KVJ welcomes Joe Lazer, Fractional Head of Content at A.Team and bestselling co-author of The Storytelling Edge, along with Kully Jaswal, a career and executive coach and founder of Ignition Coaching LLC. Joe shares insights on storytelling in the workplace, while Kully draws from her 15 years of business experience to offer advice on resilience, emotional intelligence, and leadership communication.
Effective communication at work can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be a mystery! In this episode of the Tough Day, KVJ is joined by storytelling expert Joe Lazer and leadership coach Kully Jaswal to break down the real reasons behind workplace miscommunication.
They share personal stories, actionable advice, and explore the impact of remote work on effective collaboration. Joe reveals how crafting the right narrative can unite teams, while Kully offers strategies for navigating tough conversations and building trust.
Whether you’re leading a team or just trying to survive your inbox, this episode is packed with tips to improve your workplace communication skills!
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Joe Lazer:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joe-lazer-lazauskas-8b442026
Website: https://www.a.team/
Learn more about Kully Jaswal:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kully-jaswal
Website: https://www.ignition-coaching.com/
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ interviews Lori Marcus, executive coach and board member, and Angelique Bellmer Krembs, advisor and board director, about the complexities of giving and receiving feedback. They share personal experiences, discussing both successful and uncomfortable feedback situations. They also cover how to build a culture of constructive feedback, address workplace biases, and improve communication strategies. Gain practical tips for navigating tough conversations and fostering professional growth.
In this episode, you will hear:
Learn more about Lori Marcus
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/loritaubermarcus
Book: https://www.amazon.com/You-Should-Smile-More-Dismantle/dp/1947951521
Learn more about Angelique Bellmer Krembs | A.Team
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/angeliquebellmerkrembs
Website: https://www.a.team/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/You-Should-Smile-More-Dismantle/dp/1947951521
Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day
Website: https://tough.day/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.