Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Society & Culture
Business
Sports
Health & Fitness
Technology
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
00:00 / 00:00
Podjoint Logo
US
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts211/v4/f9/06/b6/f906b637-e36a-265a-a996-e9e9a7dcdc7c/mza_1402734206418226794.jpeg/600x600bb.jpg
Tough Day Podcast
Katherine von Jan and Everywhere Ventures
24 episodes
2 months ago
Welcome to the Tough Day podcast, hosted by Katherine von Jan, CEO and co-founder of Tough Day. This podcast is dedicated to helping workers at all levels navigate tricky situations in the workplace. In each episode, we interview experts—from exceptional managers and HR professionals to leaders in various fields—sharing authentic stories and insights from the real world of work. When work gets tough, the tough get working. Join us and let’s tackle these challenges together.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show more...
Entrepreneurship
Business
RSS
All content for Tough Day Podcast is the property of Katherine von Jan and Everywhere Ventures 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.
Welcome to the Tough Day podcast, hosted by Katherine von Jan, CEO and co-founder of Tough Day. This podcast is dedicated to helping workers at all levels navigate tricky situations in the workplace. In each episode, we interview experts—from exceptional managers and HR professionals to leaders in various fields—sharing authentic stories and insights from the real world of work. When work gets tough, the tough get working. Join us and let’s tackle these challenges together.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show more...
Entrepreneurship
Business
Episodes (20/24)
Tough Day Podcast
From Bad Bosses to Great Leaders

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:

  • What inspired Mita to turn her “burn book” into a leadership guide
  • The difference between trust and neglect in leadership
  • When kindness hides incompetence — and what to do about it
  • How to deal with manipulative gossip in the workplace
  • Why team agreements and coaching moments matter

📚 Pre-order Mita’s new book, The Devil Emails at Midnight

Coming September 30, 2025

👉 Order here

🔗 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.

Show more...
2 months ago
37 minutes 55 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Management as Caregiving

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:


  • Management as caregiving: why it’s a mindset shift, not just a skill set
  • Burnout, bandwidth, and balancing emotional labor at work
  • The sandwich generation of managers—why middle managers are stretched thin
  • How our early life systems shape leadership behavior
  • Why men and women need to solve workplace problems together
  • DEI backlash and the danger of excluding cis het white men from the conversation
  • Real talk about invisible labor, emotional tolls, and why it’s okay to name the tension
  • Personal brand alignment: leading with authenticity and clarity
  • Why humor, storytelling, and honesty are the unsung tools of good leadership





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.

Show more...
3 months ago
54 minutes 7 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
The Power of the Pack

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:


  • Why feminine leadership traits like empathy and collaboration are critical
  • How The FQ fosters inclusive spaces and business opportunities
  • The evolution from the Girls’ Lounge to the Equality Lounge to global transformation work
  • The importance of designing workplaces for caregivers and the “messy middle”
  • The danger of unconscious bias and the importance of conscious leadership
  • Why DEI must be embedded in company strategy, not relegated to HR


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.

Show more...
5 months ago
46 minutes 46 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Cultivating an Everywhere Mindset

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:


  • Shifts in services and workforce are fueling global entrepreneurship.
  • How to balance bold thinking with job security, build resilience, and cultivate agency.
  • Why being "mildly entertaining" at work is a legit superpower
  • Innovating at work, even when companies resist change or focus on short-term wins.
  • The Everywhere Mindset: why global thinking matters today.



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.

Show more...
5 months ago
38 minutes 41 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Shift Happens: Embracing Change at Work

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:


  • The role of leaders in navigating change and uncertainty.
  • Importance of communication and transparency during transitions.
  • Strategies for individuals to embrace and adapt to change.
  • The impact of technology and AI on workplace dynamics.
  • Recognizing the emotional aspects of change and identity.
  • The significance of building relationships in a changing environment.
  • Practical tips for fostering a growth mindset among teams.


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.

Show more...
6 months ago
49 minutes 31 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Leading with Empathy

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:


  • When caring too much can hold you back—and how to set boundaries.
  • The power of inquiry to unlock deeper connections.
  • The seven empathy styles and how they shape leadership.
  • Can technology help us perspective-take better?
  • How emotional intelligence is the secret weapon in an increasingly divided world.



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.

Show more...
7 months ago
52 minutes 59 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
From Leadership to Teamship

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:


  • The shift from leadership to teamship and why it matters
  • How workplace collaboration has evolved over the past 20 years
  • How to overcome conflict avoidance in an organization
  • The importance of psychological safety in teams
  • Practical strategies for team resilience and shared accountability
  • The future of work: AI, self-managed teams, and networked organizations
  • Why traditional management structures are becoming obsolete
  • How to balance speed and collaboration in a fast-paced environment


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.

Show more...
7 months ago
36 minutes 1 second

Tough Day Podcast
Wired for Resilience

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:


  • Defining resilience and how it shapes success in a fast-changing workplace.
  • Training your brain to stay calm, focused, and adaptable under pressure.
  • The science behind stress and why it impacts decision-making.
  • The power of accountability and how mindset shifts drive career success.
  • AI and neurotechnology reshaping how we approach resilience.
  • Small daily habits that help rewire your brain for resilience.
  • How to navigate uncertainty and take control of your professional trajectory.
  • Leading change effectively by giving teams ownership and reducing resistance.
  • Why upskilling is the best strategy for staying competitive in evolving industries.



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.

Show more...
8 months ago
51 minutes 45 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Mirror, Mirror - the Power of Reflection

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:


  • Why self-reflection is your secret weapon in the workplace.
  • The role of professional assessments: tool or trap?
  • How to balance authenticity with adaptability.
  • Feedback: how to give it, take it, and actually use it.
  • The sales skills you never knew you had (and why they matter)
  • What makes a great leader? (hint: it’s not just being the loudest in the room)




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.

Show more...
8 months ago
1 hour 8 minutes

Tough Day Podcast
Unbossed: Mastering Self-Leadership in Today's Work Culture

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:


  • Defining self-leadership, the key to unlocking career growth.
  • How to ask for visibility, high-impact projects, and mentorship.
  • Navigating hierarchy while advocating for career advancement.
  • The “unbossing” trend reshaping self-managed teams.
  • How to thrive in remote and hybrid work environments.
  • Effective ways to seek feedback and prove you’re a high performer.
  • Handling micromanaging bosses while building trust and autonomy.
  • How to track and communicate achievements without feeling like you're bragging.


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.

Show more...
8 months ago
58 minutes 45 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Beyond Happiness in the Workplace

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:


  • Burnout 101: Why it happens and how to stop it
  • The difference between work-life balance vs. work-life alignment
  • How to cultivate happiness at work—without faking it
  • Burnout, boundaries, and why you’re exhausted (plus, how to fix it)
  • AI, stress, and the fear of losing your job—how to stay ahead



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.

Show more...
8 months ago
51 minutes 21 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Cracking the Curiosity Code

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:


  • Defining curiosity as a value and a skill.
  • The role of curiosity in building trust, empathy, and engagement.
  • Strategies for fostering curiosity in yourself and others.
  • Tools for leaders to balance curiosity with action and execution.
  • Frameworks to measure curiosity within organizations.
  • Using values assessments to align personal and professional goals.
  • Encouraging leaders to build psychological safety and seek genuine feedback.



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.

Show more...
9 months ago
53 minutes 54 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Work in the Trump Era

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:


  • Anticipated policy shifts under the Trump administration, such as labor laws and immigration reforms.
  • The return-to-office push: cultural, legal, and practical implications.
  • Balancing regulation and innovation in AI adoption.
  • Do’s and Don’ts for leaders to adapt to policy and technological changes.
  • How to prepare for workforce changes due to mergers, AI, and layoffs.
  • Strategies for managers to foster respectful and collaborative environments.


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.

Show more...
9 months ago
1 hour 9 minutes 10 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
How to Flex for Workforce Success

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:


  • How distributed work shaped Brian’s leadership approach decades before it was a trend.
  • Why employees crave flexibility and autonomy—and how leaders can meet them halfway.
  • Busting myths about productivity in remote vs. hybrid setups.
  • How to combat feelings of isolation as a remote worker.
  • What to do when your office is more “cubicle island” than collaborative space.
  • Tips for team leaders: Anchor days, quarterly meetups, and boosting engagement.



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.

Show more...
10 months ago
46 minutes 22 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
How to Create a Culture That Works

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:


  • The role of storytelling in showcasing company culture during the hiring process. 


  • How leaders can serve as culture champions and inspire employees. 


  • Impact of subcultures within teams on broader organizational goals. 


  • Practical steps for employees to influence and shift workplace culture. 


  • Tips for managing polarizing topics and fostering inclusivity in diverse teams. 


  • Value of defining core values to guide decision-making and employee behavior. 


  • Strategies for using data and technology to personalize employee experiences.


  • How to measure the ROI of a strong corporate culture through engagement and retention metrics. 




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.

Show more...
10 months ago
54 minutes 56 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Creativity at Work

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:


  • Balancing risk, messiness, and brand alignment.


  • Clear priorities: distinguishing between brand "deposits" and "withdrawals.


  • How Imagineering integrates diverse teams for big bets


  • Strategies for balancing innovation with practicality.


  • Leadership transparency and prioritization’s role in fostering trust.


  • How to get buy-in for bold ideas without watering them down.


  • Managing creative frustrations under restrictive leadership.




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.

Show more...
11 months ago
55 minutes 46 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Practice and Performance

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:


  • How to build a feedback-driven, performance-oriented culture. 
  • Tips for leading high-stakes projects and keeping your team motivated. 
  • Strategies for fostering accountability and aligning teams with company goals. 
  • Alyene’s insights on handling tough feedback and using it for growth. 
  • Practical ways to define and operationalize core company values.
  • The role of a Chief Performance Officer in shaping a resilient workplace. 





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.

Show more...
11 months ago
52 minutes 24 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Policy Playbook

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:


  • Discover how handbooks went from bare-bones manuals to culture-setters for companies.
  • Why digital, easy-to-navigate handbooks are the way forward.
  • How to integrate your company’s real culture and values.
  • Advocating handbooks that don’t read like “rulebooks” 
  • Hybrid work models and AI-use policies making employee handbooks more dynamic than ever.





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.

Show more...
12 months ago
54 minutes 3 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Communication Gaps, Gaffes and Glory

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:

  • Real-life stories of workplace communication gone wrong (and right). 
  • Joe’s insights on using storytelling to build stronger teams. 
  • Kully’s expert advice on handling tough conversations with emotional intelligence. 
  • The impact of remote work on team communication and collaboration. 
  • Strategies for giving and receiving feedback effectively. 
  • How to create connection and trust with your colleagues, even in virtual settings.
  • Role of leadership in crafting a clear and compelling vision. 



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.

Show more...
1 year ago
1 hour 6 minutes 46 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Giving and Receiving Feedback

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:



  •  Overcoming the fear of giving difficult feedback.


  •  Real-life examples of feedback in high-pressure roles.


  •  The importance of specificity in feedback.


  •  How to balance positive and critical feedback.


  •  Strategies for managing feedback resistance.


  •  Gender differences in receiving and acting on feedback.


  •  Role of executive coaching in improving feedback skills.


  •  Tips for asking for and receiving feedback as a leader.


  •  Creating inclusive feedback rituals in teams. 


  •  Insights on managing upward feedback.





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.

Show more...
1 year ago
1 hour 13 minutes 15 seconds

Tough Day Podcast
Welcome to the Tough Day podcast, hosted by Katherine von Jan, CEO and co-founder of Tough Day. This podcast is dedicated to helping workers at all levels navigate tricky situations in the workplace. In each episode, we interview experts—from exceptional managers and HR professionals to leaders in various fields—sharing authentic stories and insights from the real world of work. When work gets tough, the tough get working. Join us and let’s tackle these challenges together.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.