Strengths On Fire

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Strengths On Fire

Bill Dippel and Sarah Collins

51 episodes

5 days ago

Strengths on Fire is where dynamic strengths coaching meets real, relatable conversations. Hosted by Bill, a Gen X with a wealth of experience, and Sarah Collins, an elder millennial with fresh perspectives, we bring together our shared CliftonStrengths—WOO, Activator, Developer, and Harmony—to ignite engaging and entertaining discussions. Whether we’re laughing, learning, or diving deep into our guests’ top 10 strengths, we’re here to show you how to turn strengths into your secret weapon at work and in life. Expect professional development with a twist—because growth should be fun!

All content for Strengths On Fire is the property of Bill Dippel and Sarah Collins and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Episodes (20/51)

Strengths On Fire

Ideation Overload, Do You Have to Chase Every Idea?: with Carrie Chandler

When inspiration strikes, some people grab a notebook. Others start a podcast. (Looking at you, Sarah and Bill.)

This week, the Strengths on Fire crew dives headfirst into the buzzing, brilliant, and sometimes overwhelming world of Ideation—joined by HR Director and CliftonStrengths enthusiast Carrie Chandler.

Carrie brings a powerful mix of Learner, Futuristic, Woo, and Ideation to the mic as she opens up about what it’s like to live inside a mind that never stops. From social media rabbit holes and “popcorn brain” moments to managing a people-pleasing past and leading as an HR exec, Carrie shares how she’s learned to harness her creativity without burning out.

Along the way, Sarah gets real about her own Activator tendencies (“I start before I think!”), Bill brings up the red-vine diplomacy of HR, and the group debates when to share an idea, when to park it, and when to just sing Sweet Caroline to clear your mind.

Whether you’re the person who’s constantly dreaming up new projects—or working with someone who can’t stop saying “What if?”—this episode will help you recognize the beauty (and chaos) of a fast-thinking brain and how to channel it for good.

💡 Main Takeaways

Ideation can feel like popcorn popping—exciting, but nonstop. Learn how to turn it down without losing your spark.
People with high Ideation need filters, not limits—use Strategic, Arranger, or Analytical to prioritize.
Activator ≠ Ideation: One starts; one dreams. When they work together, magic happens.
“Popcorn brains” love possibility but need rest to recharge creativity.
Boundaries help brilliant thinkers stay productive instead of perpetually inspired.
Pairing Ideation with Responsibility can turn dreamers into doers.
Great leaders don’t chase every idea—they curate them.

🔥 Sound Bites

“Just because it’s a good idea doesn’t mean it’s your idea to do.”
“Ideation is a party in your brain—until nobody cleans up afterward.”
“Social media is Disneyland for Ideation… and sometimes you need to leave the park.”
“If you have Activator and Ideation in the same room, somebody’s building a rocket.”
“Sometimes the best idea is the one you let rest.”
“Popcorn brains need butter—aka focus.”
“I should all over her—and learned my lesson.”
“With great ideas come great responsibility.”

🎧 Listen Now

Strengths on Fire — Season 2: The Great Strengths Debate
Episode: Ideation Overload: Do You Have to Chase Every Idea?

💻 strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

GET MORE FROM BILL AND SARAH
Bill's info: https://billdippel.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamdippel/ https://www.instagram.com/billdippelcoach/

Sarah's info: https://www.wearecollinsco.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/ https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

5 days ago

1 hour

Strengths On Fire

Can Harmony Handle Hard Conversations: with Maggie Meylor

Harmony gets a bad rap as the “peacekeeper” theme—the one that avoids conflict, smooths things over, and keeps everyone rowing in the same direction. But is that the whole story?

This week, Sarah and Bill welcome Maggie Meylor, executive coach, Gallup-certified strengths facilitator, and positivity powerhouse, for an honest and surprisingly funny conversation about what happens when Harmony meets hard conversations. From spinach-in-your-teeth analogies to buffalo-in-the-storm metaphors, the trio dig into the raw and mature sides of Harmony—how it can both hinder and supercharge leadership, relationships, and even parenting.

Along the way, Maggie drops unforgettable “Maggie-isms,” Bill compares Harmony to a rowing crew, and Sarah confesses to wanting to run from political conversations entirely. Whether you lead with Harmony, work with someone who does, or simply want to understand this often-misunderstood theme, this episode will shift how you see conflict—and how Harmony can actually become a master at navigating it.

Main Takeaways
Raw Harmony avoids conflict at all costs; mature Harmony leans into it for the sake of relationships.
Leaders with Harmony can create consensus—but must balance it with clarity.
Harmony + Responsibility can step up to say the hard thing, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Conflict avoidance can backfire—like “running from the storm” only to stay stuck in it longer.
When Harmony is invested in, it becomes a superpower for peacemaking, consensus, and clarity.
Harmony and Empathy overlap—but differ: Empathy feels others’ emotions, while Harmony reads them.
High Harmony leaders thrive when they remember: clear is kind.

Sound Bites
“Clear is kind—even if it feels hard in the moment.”
“Feelings are real, but they’re not always true.”
“Sometimes Harmony needs to take the back seat—or be left at the truck stop.”
“Harmony can read the room—but it doesn’t have to own other people’s emotions.”
“Avoiding the storm just keeps it on your back. Mature Harmony walks straight into it like a buffalo.”
“Recognition is water, not champagne—you need it daily, not just on special occasions.”
“When Harmony matures, it becomes the bridge between conflict and connection.”
“Half as much as you want, and twice as nice—that’s how to use Communication with Harmony.”
“With great Harmony comes great responsibility.”
“Every strength has its raw side. Harmony’s raw side can be one of the most detrimental—but its mature side is one of the most powerful.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths 1) Individualization 2) Developer 3) Activator 4) Woo 5) Restorative 6) Empathy 7) Harmony 8) Connectedness 9) Relator 10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths 1) Positivity 2) Woo 3) Communication 4) Harmony 5) Activator 6) Developer 7) Input 8) Individualization 9) Responsibility 10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

GET MORE FROM BILL AND SARAH: Bill's info: https://billdippel.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamdippel/ https://www.instagram.com/billdippelcoach/

Sarah's info: https://www.wearecollinsco.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/ https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

1 week ago

56 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Does Empathy Belong in the C-Suite: with Pamela Nelson

What happens when you bring heart into the highest levels of leadership? This week, Sarah and Bill welcome Pamela Nelson—Gallup-certified coach, counselor, podcaster, grandmother of six, and author of the Sticky Stories children’s book series—for a rich and heartfelt conversation about empathy in leadership.

From Star Trek metaphors to sticky mantras like “I made a mistake. I’m not a mistake. If I think I’m a mistake, I’m mistaken,” Pamela brings wisdom, warmth, and wit to the question: Does empathy belong in the C-suite?

Together, the trio explore why empathy is often undervalued at work (even though 92% of employees say it’s essential), how leaders can set boundaries around their emotional energy, and what it takes to balance head trust and heart trust. With stories from coaching, counseling, and corporate life, this episode will make you rethink what it means to lead with both strategy and compassion.

Main Takeaways

Empathy in leadership is powerful—but without boundaries, it can feel heavy and overwhelming.
Mature empathy means caring without carrying everything.
Head trust without heart trust feels cold; heart trust without head trust feels risky. Leaders need both.
Empathy is data about people—and people are every business’s bottom line.
Leaders who make space for honest dialogue build trust across silos and reduce toxicity.
Conflict resolution requires more than keeping peace—it requires being a peacemaker, not just a peacekeeper.
Empathy isn’t the only path to great leadership, but leaders who dismiss it risk losing both people and performance.

Sound Bites

“I care, but I don’t need to carry.”
“Empathy is data about people—and people drive the bottom line.”
“We can’t tame what we won’t name.”
“Head trust without heart trust feels cold. Heart trust without head trust feels risky.”
“Sometimes empathy is magnetic—people are drawn to leaders who truly see them.”
“With great power comes great responsibility—especially when your power is empathy.”
“Quieter voices speak up when they feel safe—and empathy creates that safety.”
“Every strength can work in the C-suite—what matters is maturity and dynamic partnerships.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

2 weeks ago

56 minutes

Strengths On Fire

The One Strength That Would Make the World Better: with Megan Baker

If you had to pick just one CliftonStrengths theme to change the world, which would it be? That’s the impossible—and surprisingly hilarious—question Sarah and Bill debate this week with Megan Baker, strengths enthusiast, leader, and unapologetic Achiever.

From “petty hills to die on” to tall-people problems to soapbox moments (yes, Sarah drops an f-bomb), this episode proves that a big question can spark both laughter and real insight. Together, the trio wrestle with whether Empathy, Developer, Includer—or maybe even Communication or Self-Assurance—could truly make the world better. Along the way, they explore how themes supercharge each other, why every strength has both upside and risk, and how our personal biases shape which talents we think the world needs most.

Whether you’re a coach, a leader, or just a human who’s ever wished people would follow through, listen better, or throw fewer “truck nuts” on the highway, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about what the world really needs.

Main Takeaways

Every strength could make the world better—but only if it’s invested in and applied intentionally.
Developer considers other people first, but can backfire if unsolicited.
Includer fuels belonging and dissolves assumptions—but can stretch people (and teams) too thin.
Empathy could drive connection and compassion—but unchecked, it risks overwhelm.
Communication isn’t always “good communication”—but clarity beats silence.
Strengths supercharge each other: Woo + Communication, Relator + Responsibility, Achiever + Learner.
The poll results are in: LinkedIn voters overwhelmingly chose Empathy (68%) as the strength that would make the world better.
Balance matters—if everyone had the same strength, we’d create new problems.

Sound Bites

“If we all had Includer, I’d have so many party invites I wouldn’t know what to do with myself.”
“Woo has to eat—but not at home.”
“Empathy is a superpower, but with great power comes great responsibility.”
“Developer means considering other people first—but not everyone wants to be developed.”
“Communication doesn’t equal good communication—it can just be word vomit.”
“My husband says I have a daily word quota to meet.”
“If we all had Self-Assurance, I don’t think our heads would fit in the world.”
“Connectedness reminds us we’re a ripple effect—we’re all in this together.”
“Every strength has value—but too much of any one is probably too much.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

3 weeks ago

58 minutes

Strengths On Fire

When Context Keeps You Stuck in the Past: with Olivia Leigh

What happens when Context is your #1 strength—or your dead-last #34? In this episode, Sarah and Bill sit down with Olivia Leigh, data analyst, coach, and co-founder of Tradewinds Leadership, to explore how Context shows up in work, relationships, and decision-making.

From constipation jokes to car shows, from systems trauma to six-hour road trips filled with ideation, this conversation proves that Context is so much more than “being stuck in the past.” Olivia shares how Context fuels her curiosity, relationships, and innovation—while Bill confesses to having Context envy (and zero memory for names).

You’ll hear how Olivia balances her top Context with Input, Ideation, and Activator, why she loathes making the same mistake twice, and how she and her husband (aka her favorite storytelling partner) use their opposite strengths to fuel purpose-driven work in high-stakes industries like construction and mining.

Main Takeaways

Context isn’t about clinging to the past—it’s about informing the present through the past.
People with high Context often crave understanding the “why” before they can move forward.
Context paired with Individualization creates powerful curiosity about people’s stories.
Input + Context fuels research and recall—but can spiral into 1,500 open browser tabs.
Activator + Context can mean “storming the hill without the troops” if you don’t slow down to communicate.
Partnerships thrive when one person brings historical depth and the other brings in-the-moment adaptability.
Comfort with what’s familiar is often why people resist change, even when the new way is easier.
Context envy is real—those without it often feel shame about poor recall or memory gaps.

Sound Bites

“I loathe making the same mistake twice. If there’s a hole in the sidewalk, I want to see it once—not five times.”
“Context is the iceberg. People only see the tip—but I know everything underneath that got us here.”
“Storming the hill without the troops—that’s my Activator hijacking Context.”
“Systems trauma is real. Don’t tell me the new CRM will be better. I know my 50 clicks.”
“Sometimes Context gets mislabeled as being stuck in the past. For me, it’s fuel for innovation.”
“When I’m in flow, it’s Ideation + Significance: finding the nugget that inspires people to act.”
“My husband used to resist me—now he knows if I say, ‘trust me on this,’ he listens.”
“Input says: park the Ferrari. You can’t drive every good idea today.”
“You’re not paying for the tip of the iceberg—you’re paying for everything the coach has gathered underneath.”
“Context envy is real—some of us just don’t remember names, even if we remember faces.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

1 month ago

1 hour 1 minute

Strengths On Fire

What's the Best Strength to Build a Business: with Stasi Grenfell

If you’ve ever wondered whether certain strengths are “must-haves” for entrepreneurs, this episode challenges that assumption and flips it on its head. Serial entrepreneur and women’s health innovator Stasi Grenfell joins Sarah and Bill for a candid, energizing conversation about building businesses, leading franchises, and the strengths that fuel it all.

From Achiever grit to Competition resilience, from Activator’s momentum to Strategic vision, Stasi shares how her strengths have evolved across seasons of consulting, franchising, and motherhood—and why the “best” strength is often the one you already have. Along the way, Sarah and Bill add their coaching perspectives, drawing out the power (and pitfalls) of different strengths in the entrepreneurial journey.

Whether you’re running a startup, leading a franchise, or just curious how your own talents could shape a business, this episode will leave you with insights, laughs, and a new appreciation for how strengths fuel success.

Main Takeaways

There’s no single “best” strength for entrepreneurship—it’s about how you use the ones you have.
Competition + Achiever can drive resilience through failure—but also risk burnout if unchecked.
Franchise success often depends less on vision and more on execution, adaptability, and relationships.
“Sleeping giant” strengths like Responsibility, Consistency, and Focus can be underrated business builders.
Strengths evolve with life stage and business needs—muscles grow where you use them most.
Building a business isn’t a solo act: complementary partners and team members fill the gaps.
Emotional connection and relationship-building drive customer loyalty more than “big picture vision.”

Sound Bites

“Resilience is everything—you’re going to fail in business, but Achiever and Competition help you get back up.”
“Sometimes you’ve got to put the cart before the horse just to get the momentum going.”
“If you want to run a franchise, you don’t need to ideate—you need to execute.”
“Responsibility might be the most underrated strength in business—it’s the one that makes sure things actually get done.”
“High Competition in marriage? Let’s just say we’ve burned ourselves out competing with each other.”
“Entrepreneur and business owner aren’t always the same thing—and that’s okay.”
“Franchising is perfect for executors: you don’t need to invent, you need to deliver.”
“Muscles change over time—my influencing strengths grew as my business needed them to.”
“People stay because of relationships. Just like in work, if you have a best friend at the gym, you’ll keep showing up.”
“I want people to remember that they felt empowered, emboldened, and capable of excellence after working with me.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

1 month ago

1 hour 5 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Clifton Strengths, One and Done or Rerun? Should You Retest?: With Melissa Ortiz

In this engaging episode, hosts Melissa Ortiz, Sarah Collins, and Bill Dippel dive into the world of strengths and personal development. The conversation pivots around the CliftonStrengths assessment, exploring whether it's a "one and done" or worth a rerun. Melissa shares her journey with strengths, emphasizing the importance of meeting people where they are and using tools that resonate with them. The trio discusses the nuances of strengths, the impact of life changes on assessments, and the value of focusing on core strengths. With lively anecdotes and insightful debates, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal growth and team dynamics.

Main Takeaways:

Understanding Strengths: The CliftonStrengths assessment helps individuals identify and leverage their core strengths for personal and professional growth.
Retesting Considerations: While some advocate for retesting during different life stages, the initial assessment results are often seen as enduring and valid.
Personalized Approaches: It's crucial to meet people where they are, using tools and methods that resonate with their unique needs and preferences.
Impact of Life Changes: Life changes can influence the expression of strengths, with adaptability often becoming more prominent during challenging times.
Focus on Core Strengths: Prioritizing the development of core strengths over weaker areas can lead to more significant personal and team achievements.
Pragmatism in Assessments: The emphasis should be on practical application and action rather than getting caught up in the semantics of assessments.
Dynamic Teamwork: Understanding and utilizing each team member's strengths can enhance collaboration and drive collective success

Sound Bites

1. "Understanding your strengths is the first step to unlocking your potential."

2. "Retesting isn't always necessary; your core strengths often remain constant."

3. "Meet people where they are, and use tools that resonate with them."

4. "Life changes can shift how our strengths show up, but the core remains the same."

5. "Focus on developing your core strengths for the greatest impact."

6. "Don't get lost in the semantics; it's about what you do with your strengths."

7. "Adaptability can become a key strength during challenging life phases."

8. "Investing in strengths yields better results than trying to fix weaknesses."

9. "Dynamic teamwork thrives when each member's strengths are understood and utilized."

10. "Your strengths tell your story; let them guide your actions."

11. "The best tools are those that align with your personal journey."

12. "In the end, it's not about the test; it's about the transformation."

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

1 month ago

58 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Is Positivity Powerful or Pollyanna: with Sam Kennelly

If you’ve ever wondered whether your optimism is a superpower or something others dismiss as naive, this episode will reframe everything. Gallup-certified coach Samantha Kennelly joins Sarah and Bill to explore the CliftonStrengths theme of Positivity—not just as cheerfulness, but as an energy source, an influence strategy, and a form of quiet resilience.

Together, they explore how positivity operates in real life and real work—from leadership and team coaching to parenting, grief, and self-regulation. Whether you have high Positivity, work with someone who does, or just want to stop being drained by negativity, this episode offers powerful insights on how to protect your energy, hold space for others, and lead with hope without sugarcoating reality.

Main Takeaways

Positivity isn’t just about being cheerful—it’s a strength rooted in hope, resilience, and energy.
Without boundaries, high Positivity can become a people-pleasing trap that leads to burnout.
Positivity and empathy together can create deep connection—but can also make it hard to separate others’ feelings from your own.
Influence doesn’t have to be loud or direct—relational strengths can be powerful drivers of impact.
Self-awareness is essential for using Positivity maturely, especially in emotionally charged situations.
It’s okay to set limits around draining people or environments—Positivity needs recharging too.
You don’t have to fix everything—sometimes, Positivity’s greatest power is simply holding space.

Sound Bites

“Positivity isn’t blind cheerfulness—it’s hope that survives the hard stuff.”
“Sometimes the best use of Positivity is silence and presence.”
“I’m not here to sugarcoat—but I am here to help you see what’s possible.”
“People with Positivity light up rooms—but they can also crash hard when no one’s watching.”
“You can’t be the sunshine for everyone every day—especially if it’s sucking you dry.”
“I used to think I had to hide my Positivity to be taken seriously in the workplace.”
“Woo and Positivity together? It’s like emotional confetti—fun, but it needs a cleanup plan.”
“Sometimes your greatest strength needs to ride in the backseat, not drive the car.”
“I can be a riot at a funeral… because I don’t always know how to let people sit in sadness.”
“I had to ask myself—am I being authentic, or just uncomfortable with conflict?”
“Being a coach doesn’t mean you push all the time—sometimes, you sit, celebrate, or listen.”
“You’re not the anti-venom to negativity—you’re a person with limits too.”
“Positivity wants to fix—but empathy reminds you to first feel.”
“Your strengths are only as helpful as your ability to regulate them.”
“It’s okay to say, ‘I’m not okay today’—even if you usually bring the sunshine.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

1 month ago

1 hour 12 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Maximizer vs. Perfectionism, Where's the Line: With Jamal Cornelious

If you’ve ever pushed yourself—or others—to make something “just a little better” until it became overwhelming, this episode is your invitation to step back, breathe, and rethink what better actually means. Gallup-certified coach and all-around dynamic human Jamal Cornelious joins Sarah and Bill for a refreshingly honest and often hilarious deep dive into the difference between Maximizer and Perfectionism.

You’ll hear how this strength shows up in parenting, partnership, coaching, and team dynamics—and how to avoid burnout when your inner perfectionist just won’t quit. Whether you have Maximizer or just hold yourself (and others) to high standards, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, challenged, and equipped with tools to move forward with more intention and a little more grace.

Main Takeaways

Maximizer can be a powerful driver of excellence—but left unchecked, it can cross into unsustainable perfectionism.
The difference between improving and over-perfecting often lies in asking, “Am I making it better, or just different?”
High standards don’t have to equal high pressure—when you individualize expectations, people feel empowered, not overwhelmed.
Having no executing strengths in your top 10 doesn’t mean you can’t execute—it means you do it differently.
Trusted feedback partners are essential for Maximizers to know when to stop iterating and start shipping.
At home and at work, our strengths show up differently—but both spaces deserve our intentional talent.
Letting go of someone’s potential is hard—but honoring their chosen pace is a powerful act of respect.

Sound Bites

“You can’t let perfect be the enemy of good.”
“If you’re the one, you’re the one—and if not, we can leave now.”
“My Maximizer won’t even let me start unless it sees potential for greatness.”
“Sometimes, the MVP is the most excellent version of ‘good enough.’”
“I challenge while processing and accepting—yes, and I’ll still debate you on the way there.”
“My wife calls me a hundred-percenter—if I’m in, I’m all in.”
“Competition and Maximizer together? That’s wanting to be the best—and better than the rest.”
“I coach people to give 100% of what they have today—not some ideal version of themselves.”
“Some kids want feedback—others just want to do cartwheels and pick dandelions.”
“I have a lot of tabs open—figuratively and literally.”
“I don’t start unless I believe it can become great. Mediocrity doesn’t motivate me.”
“Parenting is like the movie Everything Everywhere All At Once—chaotic and constant.”
“If someone won’t reach for the potential I see in them, I have to work hard not to hold it against them.”
“When I procrastinate and still expect excellence—that’s my dumpster fire moment.”
“You can execute with any strengths—it’s just a matter of how you do it.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

2 months ago

1 hour 1 minute

Strengths On Fire

Futuristic vs. Present Moment, the Tension is Real: with Kay Markovic

Do you love setting long-term goals—or do you just want to survive the week? In this insightful and refreshingly real conversation, Gallup-certified coach and educator Kay Markovic joins Sarah and Bill to unpack the Futuristic strength and how it plays out in the classroom, at home, and in everyday decision-making.

If you’ve ever struggled with staying present while planning for the future—or you live so in-the-moment you forget to vision cast—this episode is for you. Through laughter, coaching insight, and lived experience, Kay offers a candid look at how her futuristic mindset has helped shape young leaders, inspired curriculum innovation, and sometimes run faster than others can follow. You’ll walk away understanding your own time orientation better—and how to work better with those who don’t share it.

Takeaways

Futuristic thinkers often bring vision and momentum—but without self-awareness, they can unintentionally overwhelm others.
Living in the present doesn’t mean lacking ambition; it often means grounding vision in what’s real and actionable today.
CliftonStrengths can transform classrooms by helping students and teachers understand how they naturally learn and lead.
Ideation paired with Futuristic can generate endless ideas—but without a container, it risks burnout or chaos.
Group energy, connection, and facilitating change often activate Kay’s most fulfilling moments.
Personal growth sometimes requires slowing down, stepping back, and learning how your strengths impact others.
Understanding your time orientation—whether future-focused or present-centered—improves collaboration, communication, and compassion.

Sound Bites

“My brain moves faster than my mouth—and that’s how I know I’m deep in my Futuristic.”
“I used to teach like a squirrel on espresso… now I use Scrum to slow my pace for the students.”
“Ideation is like popcorn in my brain—once it starts, I can’t stop the popping.”
“You don’t need to daydream about everything—sometimes, you just need to do the thing.”
“Connectedness is my personal guidance system—it’s the one strength I’d never give up.”
“Futuristic is a gift—but without regulation, it can bulldoze people in the present.”
“My students would say, ‘Wait, do you actually want us to finish this?’ And I’d say, ‘Yes, yesterday.’”
“The future pulls me, but the classroom grounds me.”
“Being a visionary leader is great—unless no one else knows where you’re going.”
“I was burning out because I lived in autopilot with my top strengths.”
“You can’t force people to take your advice just because you’re excited to help.”
“Present-moment people keep me anchored—they ask, ‘What do we need right now?’”
“I realized I was living a curriculum built for 1995, not 2025.”
“When the student is ready, the teacher appears… even if the teacher has a million ideas.”
“My futuristic wants to plan my daughter’s entire college career… she just wants a backpack.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

2 months ago

1 hour 1 minute

Strengths On Fire

Relator vs. Woo, The Connection Throw Down: with Anna Pressler

Ever wondered why some people thrive in big, bubbly social circles while others guard their inner circle like it’s VIP only? This episode brings the debate (and laughs) as Sarah (high Woo), Bill (both Woo + Relator), and guest Anna Pressler (high Relator) unpack what it really means to connect—quickly, deeply, or both.

Whether you’re someone who thrives on new connections or prefers to go deep with a few, this episode helps you better understand your style of connection—and how to appreciate others who connect differently. Through hilarious stories, friendship moments, and real talk about trust, depth, and relational standards, you’ll walk away with insight into how to build (and keep) meaningful relationships at work and in life.

Main Takeaways

Woo builds connection through charisma and energy, while Relator goes deep through trust and consistency.
Relators aren’t closed off—they’re intentional and discerning in who they build deep relationships with.
High Woo often means fast connection—but without intention, it can struggle to sustain long-term bonds.
Relators may appear slow to warm, but once you’re in their circle, loyalty runs deep.
The best relationships often come from partnerships that balance both breadth and depth of connection.
Strengths like competition, achiever, and significance can influence how and why someone builds relationships.
Friendship, like teamwork, thrives when we learn to value each other’s styles instead of judging them.

Sound Bites

“If your strengths had a group chat, mine would be full of drama.”
“Woo comes in hot—Relator needs time and confetti puppy chow.”
“Just because I hug someone in a coffee shop doesn’t mean I know their name.”
“Relator gets the reputation of being exclusive—but we’re just intentional.”
“My Woo wanted friends; Anna’s Relator wanted peace and quiet.”
“Relators hold people to a higher standard—and that’s not a bad thing.”
“I collect relators… I’m drawn to people who feel ‘hard to get.’”
“Deep connection is a human need—we just get there in different ways.”
“Sometimes I feel itchy when my Woo friends start talking to everyone around us.”
“Woo is the glitter; Relator is the superglue.”
“I don’t want people to just like me—I want them to think I’m a good friend.”
“If you try to be everything, you’ll be mediocre at most things.”
“Our friendship worked because we had time together—and snacks.”
“I use my strengths differently at work—my competition and significance drive me to connect even when it’s not natural.”
“Relator doesn’t mean unfriendly—it means deliberate connection with depth and loyalty.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

2 months ago

1 hour 6 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Is CliftonStrengths Too "Nice" for Real Workplace Conflict?: with Tara Gronhovd

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the nuances of CliftonStrengths and its application in workplace conflict. They discuss the importance of personal stories in coaching, the role of curiosity, and the significance of preparing for conflict through strategies like conflict charters. Tara Gronhovd shares her experiences with the Shift Leadership Event and emphasizes the need for clarity and understanding in team dynamics. The discussion highlights the potential misuse of strengths assessments and the importance of using them effectively to foster growth and collaboration.

Takeaways

CliftonStrengths can be a powerful tool for conflict resolution.
Personal stories enhance the coaching experience.
Conflict is a natural part of relationships and should be embraced.
Curiosity is key to understanding team dynamics.
Feedback should focus on intent and impact.
Conflict charters can help teams navigate disagreements.
Strengths assessments should not be used as hiring tools.
Practicing conflict in low-stake situations builds skills.
Misuse of strengths can lead to negative outcomes.
Firework moments in coaching come from operating in one's strengths.

Sound Bites

"It's always a beautiful Friday morning."
"It's a communication tool, not manipulation."
"We can use our failures as learning moments."

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

2 months ago

1 hour 2 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Can Competition Ruin the Culture: with Jessica Novich

Ever worked somewhere that felt like a leaderboard instead of a team? If you’ve ever felt tension around competitiveness at work—or wondered how some teams manage to make it energizing instead of exhausting—this episode is for you.

In today’s conversation, Sarah and Bill welcome Jessica Novich, COO of Full Tilt Logistics, a fast-growing family-run company where three of the five leadership team members have high Competition in their CliftonStrengths—and she doesn’t. Jessica brings a refreshing take on how family, fun, and feedback can turn competition into connection, and how strengths-based coaching helped transform potential tension into team trust. Whether you work with family, lead a competitive team, or just want to build a healthier culture, you’ll walk away with insights, laughter, and ideas to apply right away.

🔥 7 Main Takeaways:

Competition isn’t inherently toxic—but it must be coached and contextualized to help a culture thrive.
Jessica’s harmony and positivity balance out high competition in her leadership team, showing how complementary strengths matter.
Working with family adds complexity—but can also deepen trust and communication if the roles and vision are clear.
Fun rituals like cornhole tournaments and “Monarch of Brokerage” awards turn competitiveness into camaraderie.
Coaching and strengths awareness help surface misalignment before it turns into resentment or silos.
Every strength can be a firework or a dumpster fire—self-awareness is the difference.
Culture trickles down from the top; how leaders use their strengths directly influences how people show up at work.

💥 Sound Bites:

“Competition doesn’t ruin cultures—unmanaged competition does.”
“You can walk out of a job, but you can’t walk out of family.”
“My first reaction to your org chart was fear… and also fascination.”
“We work hard, play hard, and sometimes fight hard—but always come back to trust.”
“I’m not strategic, and that’s okay—because someone else on the team is.”
“If you can leverage competition to build community, not a leaderboard, you’re doing it right.”
“We’ve created a workplace where it’s okay to be blunt—and that honesty keeps resentment low.”
“I show up to meetings like, ‘Good morning!’ even when the tension’s high—and that changes the tone.”
“My positivity and harmony are like bubble wrap around the sharp edges of competition.”
“I oversee HR and I have Harmony… which means write-ups are my personal nightmare.”
“We crowned someone ‘Most Likely to Clap When the Plane Lands’—because culture should have a sense of humor.”
“Our culture works because we put people in the right seats and actually understand what they need.”
“Sometimes, the competition shows up as subtle ranking… and sometimes it’s a full-on cornhole trophy.”
“My husband has Harmony and Competition in his top five—and honestly, that’s a mystery I’m still trying to solve.”
“Strengths don’t ruin culture—misalignment and miscommunication do.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

2 months ago

1 hour

Strengths On Fire

Can Woo Be Annoying?: with Rachel Kagay

In this bold and hilarious episode, Sarah and Bill are joined by guest Rachel Kagay—a coach, speaker, and unapologetic Woo—to ask the question so many have wondered: Can Woo be annoying? Together, they dig into the reputation, realities, and power of the CliftonStrengths theme Woo (Winning Others Over). Rachel brings humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom as she shares what it’s like to lead with Woo in a world that doesn’t always embrace high energy, visibility, or emotional expression. From awkward introductions to deep connections, they explore how Woo can be misunderstood—and how, when used with intention, it becomes a tool for trust-building, momentum, and genuine human connection.

Main Takeaways

Woo isn’t just about being outgoing—it’s about connection, momentum, and emotional awareness.
People with Woo can unintentionally come off as overwhelming or performative in the wrong setting.
Mature Woo learns to read the room and doesn’t need to be the center of it.
Woo builds trust quickly, which can be a massive asset in coaching, leadership, and sales.
The dark side of Woo is using energy to mask insecurity or avoid depth.
Woo and Relator often get compared, but both are powerful in their own way.
With self-awareness, Woo becomes less about being liked—and more about making people feel seen

Sound Bites

“Can Woo be annoying? Uh… yeah. Especially when it’s immature or unconscious.”
“I can’t help it—I want everyone in the room to like me. But I’m working on that.”
“Woo walks in with ‘party starter’ energy… and sometimes that’s not what the room needs.”
“You don’t outgrow Woo—but you can outgrow needing to be loved by everyone.”
“I had to learn that silence doesn’t mean I failed to connect—it just means people connect differently.”
“Woo isn’t about talking—it’s about reading people.”
“When used well, Woo makes people feel welcome, important, and remembered.”
“If you’ve got Woo and no self-awareness, you might just be draining the room.”
“Woo wants to win people over… but mature Woo asks, ‘Why? For what purpose?’”
“Relator and Woo aren’t opposites—they’re just different timelines of connection.”
“I used to chase being liked. Now I focus on making people feel seen.”
“The tension isn’t Woo vs. depth—it’s Woo without intention vs. Woo with purpose.”
“Woo helps you open the door… but you still have to walk through it with something real.”
“The best compliment to Woo is someone who grounds you and helps you aim it.”
“Woo isn’t shallow—it just likes to start at the surface before diving deeper.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

3 months ago

1 hour 7 minutes

Strengths On Fire

The Best Strength For Starting Something New?: with Natalie Becerra

In this episode, we explore the dynamic role of the CliftonStrengths theme "Woo" in initiating new projects. Join hosts Sarah and Bill as they dive into insightful discussions with guest Natalie Becerra, a CliftonStrengths coach and career specialist. Discover how Woo, along with other strengths, can energize and influence the start of new ventures, and learn strategies to harness these strengths effectively. Whether you're a leader, coach, or simply curious about personal development, this episode offers valuable perspectives on leveraging strengths to kickstart success.

Takeaways:

Understanding Woo's Influence: The Woo strength is instrumental in energizing and influencing others, making it a powerful asset when starting new projects. It helps in breaking the ice and building relationships, which are crucial for project initiation.

Balancing Strengths: While Woo is impactful, combining it with other strengths like Individualization and Relator can enhance its effectiveness. This combination allows for matching energy levels and building deeper connections with team members.

Strategic Partnerships: The episode highlights the importance of partnering with individuals who have complementary strengths. For instance, those with strategic thinking themes can provide direction, while those with executing themes can ensure tasks are completed efficiently.

Adapting to Personal and Professional Life: Strengths like Woo can be applied beyond professional settings. They can help in personal development, such as creating routines or adapting to new environments, by leveraging the energy and influence they bring.

Empathy and Relationship Building: Empathy and other relationship-building strengths are vital for understanding client needs and fostering collaboration. They play a significant role in creating a supportive and engaging environment for project success.

Soundbites:

"Woo is the energy whisperer that opens doors and gets things started in any new project."

"Combining Woo with Individualization and Relator creates a superpower for building strong, effective teams."

"Strategic partnerships are key: leverage different strengths to ensure both direction and execution in your projects."

"Empathy isn't just a strength; it's a leadership superpower that connects and inspires teams to achieve more."

"In both personal and professional life, understanding and applying your strengths can transform how you approach new challenges."

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

3 months ago

1 hour 3 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Are We Overhyping Achiever?: with Token Barnthouse

In this conversation, Bill Dippel and Sarah Collins discuss the nuances of coaching, the impact of the Achiever strength, and the importance of balancing productivity with personal well-being. They explore personal shifts in their coaching practices, the cultural implications of the Achiever strength, and the need for reflection and celebration in both personal and professional contexts. Token Barnthouse shares his experiences as an Achiever, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's why and the potential pitfalls of overemphasizing achievement.

Takeaways

Coaching is about watching people improve and grow.
Keynote speaking can be a powerful way to engage audiences.
Achiever strength is often overhyped in a hustle culture.
It's important to check your why behind achievements.
Celebrating successes is crucial for personal well-being.
Achievers often struggle with burnout due to high expectations.
Cultural perspectives on achievement vary significantly.
Reflection and self-care are essential for Achievers.
Empathy can be a challenge for those with high Achiever strength.
Finding balance between achievement and personal fulfillment is key.

Sound Bites

"Achiever can get in people's way."
"Don't be a loose rubber band."
"Check your why."

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

3 months ago

59 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Can Strengths Make You A Better Parent/Partner: with Dr. Kelly Dries

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the intersection of leadership, coaching, and parenting through the lens of personal strengths. They discuss the importance of self-awareness in recognizing blind spots, the role of coaching in leadership development, and how understanding one's strengths can enhance parenting and relationships. The conversation is filled with personal anecdotes, insights on navigating challenges, and the significance of positivity and emotional intelligence in both parenting and partnerships.

Takeaways

Leaders often overlook their own blind spots.
Coaching can lead to significant growth and development.
Investing in people is more cost-effective than hiring new staff.
Parenting can serve as a master class in personal growth.
Self-awareness is crucial for effective parenting.
Strengths can enhance parenting and partnership dynamics.
Strength spotting can help identify children's talents early on.
Don't let your strengths become a source of pressure.
It's important to balance personal strengths with parenting needs.
Recognizing and celebrating small victories in parenting is essential.

Sound Bites

"Investing in people is worth it!"
"Parenting is a master class!"
"Don't shoot on yourself!"

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

3 months ago

1 hour 14 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Is Responsibility Heavy AF? With Becky Murway

Is your sense of duty lifting you—or crushing you?

If you’ve ever felt the weight of always being the one people count on, this episode is your permission slip to pause. We’re diving into the CliftonStrengths theme of Responsibility, especially when it shows up in overdrive. Sarah and Bill welcome Becky Murway—Director of Operations, former business owner, and all-around executing powerhouse—whose #1 strength is Responsibility.

Becky opens up about the pressures of showing up for everyone, the struggle to delegate, and how saying “yes” too often can quietly lead to burnout. Through real stories and coaching moments, she shares how she’s learning to reframe delegation, protect her energy, and celebrate her growth. Together, we unpack why Responsibility is a strength that shines—but also one that needs boundaries, strategy, and sometimes, a really great coach.

If you’ve ever felt like the lost-and-found bin of your office or home, carrying the weight others drop, this episode is your reminder: you are not alone—and you’re allowed to carry less.

💡 7 Main Takeaways

Responsibility + Achiever = Doer overload—a powerful combo that can lead to burnout if not managed intentionally.
High Responsibility often means prioritizing others at your own expense.
Coaching offers essential perspective and accountability for Responsibility-driven leaders.
Delegating isn’t a weakness—it’s leadership.
Strategic thinking time feels unproductive to executors, but it’s crucial for growth.
You need an “offensive line”—people or boundaries—to protect your capacity.
Responsibility shines brightest when it’s aimed at the right things, not everything.

🔥 Sound Bites

“If I say I’ll do it, I will—even if it breaks me.”
“Responsibility is my superpower… and my kryptonite.”
“Just because I can carry it doesn’t mean I should.”
“I’m not the lost and found anymore. I’m a carry-on bag.”
“Responsibility without boundaries is a fast track to burnout.”
“I used to think delegation was a dirty word.”
“I’m learning to lead, not just to do.”
“Coaching helps me stop, reflect, and actually celebrate.”
“When your 10 is someone else’s 15, you’ve got to recalibrate.”
“I used to say yes to everything—and it cost me more than I realized.”
“Saying yes to everyone else often means saying no to yourself.”
“Responsibility made me a rockstar… until it made me exhausted.”
“My boss told me, ‘Pick one role.’ I wanted to pick five.”
“Being good at everything doesn’t mean you should do everything.”
“High Responsibility needs high intention.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

4 months ago

1 hour 7 minutes

Strengths On Fire

Is Competition A Superpower At Work - Or A Secret Liability? with Brandon Miller

Ever worked with someone so driven to win it feels inspiring… or maybe exhausting?

Brandon, whose top 10 strengths include a power-packed stack of influencing themes (including Competition, Command, and Woo), makes a compelling case for why Competition, when coached well, can elevate an entire team’s performance.

In this episode of Strengths on Fire, Sarah and Bill dive into a bold, energizing debate with fellow strengths coach Brandon Miller. You’ll hear stories from Brandon’s life as a coach, dad, and leader, including what pickleball taught him about performance, and why a driven eighth grader became his most inspiring MVP. They explore how Competition fuels preparation, why some of the best performers make the worst coaches, and how to spot the line between healthy drive and team disruption.

Plus, if Competition is nowhere in your top 10, don’t worry—this episode is packed with insight into how other strengths (like Woo, Achiever, or Relator) can help you compete in your own way. Whether you love the thrill of winning or avoid competition at all costs, this conversation will give you a fresh lens on leadership, motivation, and how to work with (and coach) the driven people around you.

7 Main Takeaways

Conflict on strong teams is normal and healthy—avoidance is more dangerous than disagreement.
Competition thrives on preparation, not just performance, and that’s where its power lies.
Everyone has the potential to lead, but finding the right role for your leadership matters.
High Competition can uplift a team—or derail it—depending on maturity and coaching.
Woo and Competition together create a drive to win people over and win in general.
Great competitors aren’t always great coaches; self-awareness is key in leadership roles.
Strengths don’t operate in isolation—context, maturity, and pairing with other themes shape behavior.

Sound Bites

“Strong teams don’t avoid conflict—they work through it.”
“Competition is a superpower when it’s mature, focused, and others-oriented.”
“The best competitors are also the best preparers.”
“Everyone wants to win, but not everyone is wired to need the win.”
“High competition without maturity is just ego on display.”
“Influencing themes like Competition are designed to bring people with you, not just beat them.”
“Immature competition says ‘me first’; mature competition says ‘let’s rise together.’”
“Great competitors show what’s possible—they raise the bar for everyone.”
“Coaching a competitor is easy—just show them how to win and they’re in.”
“A competitor with achiever next door is a podium threat every time.”
“Losing isn’t always the worst thing for a team—it’s sometimes the greatest teacher.”
“Control is the real culprit behind many dumpster fire moments, not just one strength.”
“Your strengths don’t make you great—how you manage them does.”
“Sometimes the best place for a high competitor isn’t on a team—it’s as an individual contributor.”
“A great coach doesn’t say ‘do it like I did’—they say ‘let’s do it your way, but better.’”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

4 months ago

1 hour 2 minutes

Strengths On Fire

What If You Hate Your Strengths? with Jen Werner

Ever looked at your CliftonStrengths results and thought, “Ugh, I don’t like these?” You’re not alone.

In this honest and energizing episode, Sarah Collins and Bill Dippel sit down with special guest Jen Werner to explore what it really takes to embrace your strengths—especially when they don’t show up the way you expected. Jen shares her personal journey from resisting her strengths to recognizing their power, and the trio dives into the messy, beautiful work of self-awareness, coaching, and growth.You’ll hear real talk about what it’s like to dislike your results, why individualization matters, and how your strengths shape (and sometimes strain) your personal and professional relationships. Whether you’re a coach, a team leader, or someone still figuring out how to own what makes you unique, this episode will leave you feeling seen—and maybe even a little more proud of your quirks.

🔥 7 Main Takeaways

Strengths culture doesn’t happen by accident.
Ambassadors and in-house coaches are game-changers.
You can’t outsource culture. Bringing in a coach is powerful, but without internal commitment and leadership modeling, strengths won’t transform your team.
Skeptics aren’t the problem—silence is.
Professional development needs consistency.
Curiosity is your secret weapon. When team dynamics get sticky, leading with curiosity over criticism builds trust and opens doors.
One-size-fits-all doesn’t work. Strengths-based development is most effective when it’s tailored to the team’s culture, goals, and internal rhythms.

💥 Sound Bites

“You can’t call it culture after one workshop.”
“Awareness is the spark. Application is the fire.”
“Ambassadors make the magic last.”
“If your team’s growth is outsourced, it’s not sustainable.”
“The goal isn’t to make everyone a coach—it’s to make coaching normal.”
“A good ambassador doesn’t have all the answers—they ask better questions.”
“Curiosity creates culture. Criticism shuts it down.”
“Skeptics can actually sharpen the system—if you let them talk.”
“One workshop is a start, not a solution.”
“Strengths work isn’t a checklist—it’s a commitment.”
“Don’t expect culture change if no one’s following up.”
“If we’re not building muscle, we’re just giving pep talks.”
“Leaders don’t need to be the loudest—they need to be the most consistent.”
“A coaching culture means strengths live in the day-to-day, not just the kickoff.”
“If you want strengths to stick, give the work to the people—not just the facilitator.”

Bill's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Individualization

2) Developer

3) Activator

4) Woo

5) Restorative

6) Empathy

7) Harmony

8) Connectedness

9) Relator

10) Learner

Sarah's Top 10 CliftonStrengths

1) Positivity

2) Woo

3) Communication

4) Harmony

5) Activator

6) Developer

7) Input

8) Individualization

9) Responsibility

10) Arranger

Official Strengths On Fire Website: https://strengthsonfire.transistor.fm

Sarah's info:
https://www.wearecollinsco.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcoachcollins/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahcoachcollins/

4 months ago

56 minutes