When it comes to defining the worth of a person, a better conversation gets past Looks and Performance. In this episode, Landon Saunders shares 5 Undeniable truths that reframe the discussion -- including those we have that tackle our own self image. Five Things That Are Undeniably True About You 1. You are unique, irreplaceable and responsible 2. You are the only person you are guaranteed to spend the rest of your life with. 3. Nothing is more valuable than you. 4. You can change. 5. You are worth more than the way you look or feel.

Summary

Consequential change often begins with the best conversations. However, progress can be slow. This episode explores the idea that having the same conversation over and over again may not lead to change. It introduces a framework for better conversations, characterized by respect, intellectual honesty, curiosity, and bridge-building. The episode concludes by emphasizing the power of conversations to instigate and realize real change.

Takeaways

— Consequential change can be slow, but the right conversation can make a difference.

— Having the same conversation over and over again may not lead to change.

— Better conversations are characterized by respect, intellectual honesty, curiosity, and bridge-building.

— Conversations have the power to instigate and realize real change.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:59 Consequential Change and Slow Progress

04:16 Changing the Conversation

06:11 A Framework for Better Conversations

09:07 Building Bridges for Change

10:37 Characteristics of Better Conversations

11:32 Conclusion

This episode of Chasing Better Conversations focuses on those conversations we often have with ourselves...the ones that have dramatic impact on our self esteem and sense of self worth. We depart from our normal format to bring you a podcast that features the insights and teaching of a dear personal friend -- Landon Saunders. We lost Landon in November of 2023; but his work and wisdom live on in, among other things, This Is Heartbeat: The Podcast...available wherever you get your podcasts. For more ways to tap into resources produced by Heartbeat -- Landon's life's work -- visit www.thisisheartbeat.com.

Julia Freeland, author of 'Take Your Shoes Off First", discusses the concept of 'taking your shoes off' in order to truly understand and connect with others. She shares personal experiences and highlights the need for curiosity and self-awareness in bridging gaps and building connections. Julia also offers insights on leadership and change. To connect with Julia and learn more about her work, visit revolveyou.com.

Summary

Jason Daily, an executive coach, shares his journey from speech pathology to executive coaching and the pivotal conversations that shaped his career and are central to his work today.

He emphasizes the importance of honest conversations with oneself and the need for leaders to understand their values and leadership style. Jason also discusses the challenges of doing more and the importance of focusing on impact rather than output. He provides valuable insights on building a strong culture through effective conversations and offers coaching tips for leaders. Jason works with corporate leaders and teams to enhance their communication skills and emotional intelligence.

Takeaways

• Honest conversations with oneself are crucial for personal and professional growth. Leaders should focus on impact rather than output and find their sweet spot to maximize their effectiveness.
• Building a strong culture requires open and honest conversations that align with the organization's mission and values.
• Curiosity and suspending judgment are key characteristics of quality conversations.

Recommended Book, Key Questions for Leadership Teams

Where to Find Jason Daily -- AnchoredLeadership.com  and on LinkedIn

In Part 2 of our conversation about Artificial Intelligence, Larry Bridgesmith -- lawyer, professor at Vanderbilt School of Law, and legal tech entrepreneur -- shares thoughts on the AI conversations we should not be entertaining, and an approach to AI that can actually encourage greater human connection.

How does one stay abreast of all that is happening in the Generative AI space? Speaking to the challenge, Larry Bridgesmith talks about the daily challenge.  To illustrate the point, consider this news: a vendor reports that it is now possible for one AI to completely execute, sign and transmit an agreement with another AI...no humans involved!

How much should we trust the output of Generative AI? Larry suggests that we are foolish to take any output at face value. Due diligence is essential. 

Highlights of this Conversation:

• What is "generative" AI?
• Where does AI fit in today's professional service firm?
• Is the fear that AI will make me a legitimate fear?
• What are some near term applications of Generative AI in today's professional service organization?
• The power of training Generative AI on a specific data set, and the case for keeping the people in the loop.
• AI and Digital Data Lakes -- like the time and billing data set -- and the impact on higher productivity and greater utilization -- think about the application for a Practice Group Leader
• AI and project / case management
• The practical role of AI in crafting communication
• The difference between Generative AI and Causal AI

Follow Larry Brdgesmith on LinkedIn

Marketing Executive Allen Fuqua discusses personal growth, building and shaping high functioning teams and the three magic questions that will help your pursuit of better conversations. Follow Allen on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/allen-fuqua-ab77741/ Allen Fuqua Strategies — http://www.allenfuqua.com/