In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon celebrate their 300th episode by discussing the importance of giving oneself unplanned moments of joy, inspired by a quote from Agent Dale Cooper of Twin Peaks. They explore the concept of daily presents, sharing personal examples and emphasizing the need to embrace spontaneity in self-care.

In this episode, Rami and Shannon discuss Haruki Murakami's memoir, 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running,' exploring themes of discipline, creativity, and the relationship between physical endurance and mental resilience. They delve into the importance of consistency over motivation, the connection between physical health and mental work, and the acceptance of limitations while focusing on the process rather than the outcome.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami share a simple yet powerful tool for supporting others during stressful moments: asking "Do you want to be helped, heard, or hugged?" They explore how this straightforward question can prevent relationship frustrations and ensure you're meeting people exactly where they need to be met.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the profound idea that "being an adult is choosing a life of regret" - you can't have it all, so you have to decide which regrets you can live with. They share personal examples of tough choices they're facing, from coaching decisions to living arrangements, and discuss how aligning decisions with your values makes regrets easier to carry.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore Michelle Obama's wisdom from "The Light We Carry" about navigating fear, discomfort, and uncertainty in both work and life. They share personal stories about learning to carry fear rather than overcome it, finding growth in uncomfortable moments, and actively cultivating what Michelle calls "gladness" even during challenging times.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the concept of Pyrrhic victories—those wins that feel more like losses because of what you sacrificed to achieve them. They challenge listeners to evaluate their current goals and ask the critical question: are you climbing toward a holistic victory or heading into costly territory where winning might leave you empty?

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into physicist Richard Feynman's powerful approach to building better intuition through simplification, deep understanding, and practice. They explore how trusting your gut isn't mystical—it's actually your brain processing years of experience and pattern recognition at lightning speed.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore lessons from Churchill's secret WWII force - The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare - and how their unconventional tactics can inspire workplace innovation. They discuss the power of adaptability, thinking outside the box, and taking calculated risks to overcome seemingly impossible challenges in both work and life.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the metaphor of "driving through mud" and why sometimes the most productive thing you can do is pause and wait. Through stories of muddy farm fields and wrong hiking trails, they discuss how rushing forward when the ground isn't ready can actually do more damage than simply being patient for clarity to come.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore "addition sickness" - the tendency to solve problems by adding more tasks, responsibilities, or features instead of simplifying. They share why subtraction might be the key to reducing overwhelm and creating more focus, clarity, and effectiveness in both work and life.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore how stress and trauma live in our bodies and show up at work through the four F responses: fight, flight, freeze, and fawn. They share practical, body-based techniques to help you recognize your stress patterns and create a more regulated, supportive work environment for yourself and others.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore Dr. Chatterjee's "Three Fs" framework - feel, feed, and find - to help break the cycle of using work as an escape from uncomfortable emotions. They get real about their own stress and demonstrate how to identify what you're really feeling and find healthier ways to meet those needs beyond overworking.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami introduce the concept of a "pre-victorium" - planning for what happens when everything goes spectacularly right, not just when it all falls apart. They challenge listeners to shift from only preparing for failure to also strategizing how to maximize and sustain overwhelming success.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore how the revolutionary filmmakers of the 1970s - like Scorsese, Spielberg, and Coppola - transformed Hollywood by taking creative risks and challenging studio authority. They discuss what modern creatives can learn about balancing artistic vision with commercial success, and why collaboration beats ego every time.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the five most common regrets shared by people in their final days, as documented by a palliative care nurse. They discuss how to avoid these end-of-life regrets by making intentional changes now to live more authentically, express feelings courageously, and prioritize what truly matters.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami debate a famous John Wooden quote about taking time to do things right the first time versus potentially encouraging perfectionism. They explore whether slowing down and being more intentional with our efforts can actually save us time and energy in the long run.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into a powerful conversation about understanding addiction through the lens of empathy, exploring how pain and coping mechanisms show up in our work lives. Through personal stories and insights from Dr. Gabor Maté's work, they examine how shifting from judgment to curiosity can create healthier workplace cultures and deeper human connections.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore five powerful life lessons from Shannon's 10-year-old daughter Ta'Liyah, who reminds us all to make things fun, embrace imperfection, and know when to slow down. Through Ta'Liyah's simple wisdom, they uncover how sometimes the best life advice comes from the refreshing perspective of a child rather than from experts or self-help books.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the powerful quote "I'm always last to see the beauty I inhabit" and discuss why we often struggle to recognize the beauty within ourselves and our daily moments. Through personal insights and practical tips, they share how to become more present and appreciate life's beauty before it becomes a memory.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami challenge the modern obsession with optimization and explore why our drive to perfect every aspect of life might be holding us back. Through personal examples and candid discussion, they examine how embracing adaptability over constant optimization could lead to greater fulfillment and creativity.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the difference between "having it all" and truly feeling fulfilled, and how to align your goals with your desired emotional state. They dive into the importance of checking in with yourself and prioritizing how you want to feel, rather than just focusing on external achievements.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami chat with Taylor Jacobson, founder of FocusMate, about how virtual co-working can combat procrastination and isolation. Taylor shares the science behind "body doubling" and how having another person present helps regulate your nervous system, making it easier to focus and get things done.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the concept of "plus-ing" - continually improving something that already exists - and how it can be applied to various aspects of life. From Walt Disney's philosophy to personal anecdotes, they dive into the power of iterative improvement and how it can lead to growth and enhancement.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into Byron Katie's transformative book "Loving What Is" and explore how examining our stressful thoughts can lead to greater peace and freedom. Through personal examples and candid discussion, they demonstrate how Katie's four-question method can help shift perspective from resistance to acceptance without resignation.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into three powerful lessons from people over 65 about what they would do differently if they could do life over again. Through personal stories and reflections, they explore how these insights about reflection, risk-taking, and purpose can help us live with fewer regrets.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the three types of courage—creative, moral, and growth—and challenge each other (and you!) to pick one to focus on this week.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the culture of constant hustle and why we struggle to unplug from work. They explore the hidden costs of being "never not working" and share simple, practical ways to set better boundaries—without the guilt.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore a fascinating perspective from Jewish mysticism that reframes gratitude as the experience of pleasure and joy rather than sacrifice. Through personal stories of their religious upbringings, they discuss how this shift in thinking can transform our relationship with gratitude and enjoyment.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami tackle the surprising difference between being polite and being kind, sparked by a shocking statistic about how few people actually tell others when they have food in their teeth. Through personal stories and workplace examples, they explore why choosing kindness over politeness, even when it's awkward, can lead to stronger relationships and better communication.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami chat with upcycling extraordinaire Carli from CravebyCRV. From turning old jackets into backpacks to making art out of kiddie pools, Carli shares how creativity, sustainability, and self-expression can shape both our work and our world.

You can find/follow all the amazing things Carli is up to on her instagram- https://www.instagram.com/cravebycrv/ and website - https://www.cravebycrv.com/.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the challenges and opportunities of working solo, sharing their personal struggles with setting boundaries and maintaining work-life balance while working from home. Through candid conversation, they discuss practical strategies for combating isolation, managing self-doubt, and creating sustainable productivity habits for independent workers.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami challenge the common belief that we need to learn more before making changes in our lives. They explore how sometimes we already have the knowledge we need, and it's building better habits - not acquiring more information - that leads to real transformation.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the "30 seconds or less" rule for giving feedback about physical appearance - if someone can't fix it in 30 seconds, should you mention it at all? They discuss when this rule applies, when it doesn't, and how to be more thoughtful about the feedback we give to others.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the fascinating story behind the creation of Disneyland, from Walt Disney's original vision at a carousel to the park's tumultuous opening day. They explore how Walt's willingness to take risks, face setbacks, and pursue his dreams despite widespread skepticism led to the creation of something truly revolutionary in entertainment.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore whether we're putting too much pressure on our jobs and romantic partners to fulfill all our needs. Drawing from insights by Simon Sinek and Trevor Noah, they discuss how diversifying our sources of meaning and connection might lead to more balanced, fulfilling lives.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the powerful metaphor of "when a flame is lit, move toward it" and discuss how to recognize and act on moments of inspiration before they fade. Through personal stories about semi-truck driving, surfing, and even pizza-making, they examine what it means to pursue the sparks that light up our lives.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore why your net worth might be better measured by your friendships than your bank account. Drawing inspiration from a conversation between Trevor Noah and Simon Sinek, they discuss why the best boat is your friend's boat and how to build deeper connections through vulnerability and trust.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the meaning of embodiment and how it's not just about being calm, but rather about being aware of your body's sensations and signals. Through personal stories about flower shopping and post-hospital experiences, they explore how tuning into our body's "yes" and "no" signals can help us build self-trust and make better choices in our daily lives.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the meaning behind the phrase "standing on a whale while fishing for minnows" and discuss how businesses often chase after small opportunities while overlooking the valuable assets they already have.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into Adam Grant's book "Hidden Potential," exploring the empowering idea that potential isn't measured by how high you've peaked, but by how far you've traveled to get there. Through personal stories, including Shannon learning to drive semi-trucks and Rami's medical school journey, they unpack how talent isn't everything and true potential is unlocked through effort, learning, and strategic growth.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the powerful concept that "observation without evaluation is the highest form of intelligence." They discuss how separating observation from judgment can lead to clearer understanding, better conversations, and stronger relationships both at work and in personal life.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the world of surfing to explore how quick failures can lead to greater success. Drawing parallels between surfing and daily life, they discuss how embracing quick failures, just like surfers waiting for the perfect wave, can help us adjust, learn, and ultimately ride the waves of work and personal challenges more smoothly.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami take a heartfelt look back at 2024, reflecting on their personal and professional highlights, challenges, and growth. They share their intentions and aspirations for 2025, offering listeners a warm year-end hug of inspiration to dream, reflect, and plan with integrity and kindness.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the addictive nature of smartphones and share practical strategies for breaking up with your phone. Inspired by Shannon's personal journey to improve her sleep and overall well-being, the hosts explore how small changes in phone habits can lead to better relationships, mental health, and quality of life.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the inspiring concept of being your own "future self hero." They explore how the actions and decisions you make today shape your future self.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami reflect on the importance of empathy and the reminder that everyone is fighting a battle we can't see. They emphasize offering grace and understanding to those around us, whether it's a stranger or someone we interact with daily.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the fascinating contrast between Japanese architect Tadao Ando's perfectionism and the concept of Wabi-Sabi (the beauty in imperfection), using these opposing philosophies to discuss how we can balance striving for excellence while practicing self-compassion in our personal and professional lives.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami delve into the concept of "integrity versus intensity" in the workplace. They discuss strategies for maintaining a sustainable work pace, identifying signs of working with integrity versus intensity, and why it's important to avoid getting stuck in a pattern of unsustainable intensity, even if occasional bursts of intensity are necessary.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore how people often try to take credit for successes but avoid ownership of failures.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the topic of attention spans and how the constant switching between tasks and screens can be detrimental to productivity and overall well-being. They discuss practical tips from the book Attention Span by Dr. Gloria Mark, and share strategies for healing "squirrel minds" by improving focus and reducing distractions caused by technology.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the concept that "size doesn't matter" when it comes to career and life transitions.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the importance of celebrating small wins.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami continue their exploration of design thinking, focusing on empathy mapping as a tool for better understanding user needs and behaviors. They discuss how empathy mapping involves observing what people say, think, do, and feel, and how this process can guide design decisions, encourage rapid iteration, and build a shared understanding within teams.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon introduce the concept of design thinking, which is focused on solving problems through empathy, creativity, and innovation. They explore the steps of the design thinking process, sharing real-life examples and how designing for one person’s core needs can lead to solutions that benefit the masses, all while emphasizing the importance of quick iteration, feedback, and learning from failure.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the power of reframing limitations by changing "I can't" statements to "I could if I..."

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the concept of working with someone without being able to see them, drawing from an experience Rami had at a children's museum in Arkansas.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami discuss the book "The 20-Minute Networking Meeting" by Marcia Ballinger and Nathan A. Perez. They explore the structure and strategies for conducting effective and efficient networking meetings, especially for those who feel anxious about networking.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami discuss a step-by-step guide for radically changing organizations in one week, based on an article from Harvard Business Review and the book "Move Fast and Fix Things" by Francis Fry and Ann Morris.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the role of feedback in improving movies, drawing examples from "La La Land" and "Moonstruck." They highlight the importance of setting proper expectations at the beginning to enhance the audience's experience and apply these principles to various contexts, emphasizing the value of feedback in driving improvement and ensuring a positive outcome.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami discuss the concept of "ultralearning," based on the book Ultralearning: Master Hard Skills, Outsmart the Competition, and Accelerate Your Career by Scott H. Young. They explore the idea that anyone can rapidly acquire new skills by following specific techniques focused on intensive practice, experimentation, and feedback.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore the concept of "stay interviews" as a proactive approach to employee retention, discussing four key questions to foster satisfaction and engagement in the workplace. They delve into strategies for both employees and leaders to enhance communication and well-being, emphasizing the importance of consistent support and understanding.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the concept of "Stitch Night," inspired by Rami's son's TK class project involving a traveling stuffed animal named Stitch.

In this episode of Workplace Talks, Shannon and Rami delve into the priorities of HR leaders in 2024, focusing on leader and manager development, as well as career management and internal mobility.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami discuss the implications of AI, touching on quotes from industry leaders like Sam Altman and Peter Sheen. They explore the balance between leveraging technology and maintaining human connection, highlighting concerns about humans becoming too mechanized in their interactions.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon share moments of serendipity, reflecting on the magic of unexpected encounters and how every second aligning just right can lead to delightful connections.

In this episode of the Workplace Hugs podcast, Rami and Shannon delve into the concept of failure, exploring the three types: basic, complex, and intelligent. They discuss the importance of fostering a learning culture, drawing parallels to scientific experimentation where failure is not only expected but embraced as a crucial component of growth and innovation.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami delve into the topic of mistakes, inspired by lessons from Shannon's dad. They share personal career mistakes, reflecting on the importance of learning from failures and reframing fear of making mistakes into opportunities for growth and trust.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the concept of time, inspired by the movie "About Time." They explore themes of prioritizing relationships over distractions like phones and emphasize making time for what truly matters.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami delve into the topic of burnout, exploring the lesser-discussed cause of burnout: the collaborative footprint in organizations.

In this episode of the Workplace Hugs podcast, Shannon and Rami explore the concept of HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) as a tool for self-awareness and self-care, drawing parallels between parenting and personal reflection.

In this episode of the Workplace Hugs podcast, Rami and Shannon delve into the importance of accountability and trust in both personal and professional contexts using a quote from the show "Yellowstone" as inspiration.

In this Workplace Hugs episode, Shannon and Rami discuss the book "Never Enough" by Jennifer Kim, focusing on the toxic nature of achievement culture and the cycle of generosity as an alternative.

In this Workplace Hugs episode, Shannon and Rami delve into the importance of making decisions, drawing insights from Seth Godin's blog.

In this Workplace Hugs episode, Shannon and Rami explore the concept of overused tools in relationships, drawing parallels between dull kitchen knives and ineffective communication styles.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon dig into the 6 factors for a healthy relationship to work and how we can all make our relationship to work better.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon delve into the enduring appeal of "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and its lessons on embracing new perspectives, remembering one's core identity, and the importance of experimentation without fully committing to drastic changes.

In this episode of "Workplace Hugs," Rami and Shannon discuss late-night talk show hosts, focusing on Conan O'Brien's tumultuous experience with "The Tonight Show" and the subsequent rise of Jimmy Fallon. They explore the concept of promises made in the workplace and the uncertainty of future opportunities, reflecting on the importance of valuing diverse life experiences beyond just monetary gain.

In this Workplace Hugs episode, Shannon and Rami discuss the concept of creating a healthy work habits checklist. Shannon shares examples of such checklists tailored to different needs, whether it's about establishing boundaries or ramping up productivity, encouraging listeners to create their own personalized lists for accountability and self-care.

In this Workplace Hugs episode, Shannon and Rami discuss how Canva, a company known for its design suite, has integrated empathy into its workplace culture. They explore Canva's emphasis on empathy in communication, work processes, and leadership.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon explore the concept of "Eddie would go," inspired by legendary surfer Eddie Aikau's fearless approach to surfing and saving lives.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami delve into the art of persuasion, offering practical tips on how to influence others effectively without authority, emphasizing the importance of understanding stakeholders, aligning to a shared purpose, crafting a compelling narrative, and playing the long game by nurturing relationships over time.

We are back with part 2 of or recruiter panel In this week's episode of Workplace Hugs. Rami and Shannon are joined again by 4 amazing recruiters again to help you answer the most common questions about the job hunting process. Alma(https://www.linkedin.com/in/almameeker/), Caroline(https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinewilson/), Katelyn(https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelynmcmahan/), and Sarah(https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-shinsky-a46048a/) provide insights on the interview process, what to ask and how to leverage your recruiter, what do about thank yous and how you should negotiate.

In this week's episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon are joined by 4 amazing recruiters to help you answer the most common questions about the job hunting process. Alma(https://www.linkedin.com/in/almameeker/), Caroline(https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinewilson/), Katelyn(https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelynmcmahan/), and Sarah(https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-shinsky-a46048a/) provide insights on the job application process, emphasizing the importance of networking, tailoring resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and avoiding common application mistakes. Next week we'll be back with Part 2 talking about great interview tips and what to do after the interview.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon explore the concept of a learning culture, explaining its benefits and offering practical tips on how to cultivate it in your workplace and even your family life.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon explore the art of diaries through the lens of Julia Child's culinary notes, discussing how diaries reflect priorities, the importance of repetition in mastering skills, and how rejection is an inevitable part of growth.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami discuss comfort strategies, sharing personal insights and tips for finding solace in challenging times. From identifying comfort movies to practicing sensory exploration, they offer practical advice for navigating stress and uncertainty with grace.

In this week's episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon draw intriguing parallels between Charles Dickens and Prince, exploring their shared traits of challenging beginnings, prolific creativity, and the unconventional concept of needing 10,000 hours of consumption for mastery.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon look into the intriguing concept of Occam's Razor—a simple yet powerful problem-solving principle.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami talk about a sensitive topic – navigating work while grieving. Shannon shares personal experiences and offers five practical tips for those dealing with grief.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami delve into the theme of building trust in professional relationships. They explore the evolving expectations of trustworthiness, emphasizing that trust goes beyond just delivering results.

In this week’s episode, Liane Davey, leadership expert and author of "The Good Fight," joins Shannon and Rami on Workplace Hugs. The trio dives deep into the concept of productive conflict, challenging the common notion that disagreement is akin to rowing in opposite directions. Leanne introduces the TARP exercise, a unique approach to team dynamics, urging listeners to redefine their mindset about conflict. To learn more about Liane Davey and what she talked about on today's episode please visit https://www.lianedavey.com/guides/conflict-management/

In this Workplace Hugs episode, Rami and Shannon dive into the art of listening, sharing five tips to become a stellar listener. They discuss the power of giving undivided attention, practicing active listening, avoiding interruptions, clarifying understanding, and empathizing with others.

In this Episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon delve into the concept that a company is not a family, challenging the idea that work relationships should mirror familial bonds. They discuss a quote from Netflix, highlighting the difference between a family and a dream team in the workplace.

In this Workplace Hugs episode, Shannon and Rami explore the idea of achieving anything by discussing the quote, "In order to get something you've never had, you must be willing to do something you've never done." They break down the "get" and "do" energies, favoring an inside-out approach centered on feeling emotions rather than mere action.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon explore the intriguing history of the Academy Awards. Rami, an avid fan of the Oscars, shares insights from a book called "Oscar Wars" by Michael Shulman. Rami identifies three key themes from the book that resonate with workplace and life lessons: the need to beat the system to change it, the importance of fixing things multiple times, and the idea that even the worst ideas can yield valuable insights.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami discuss how to engage a disengaged manager in your career development. They provide a step-by-step approach for employees to proactively assess their skills, have a dialogue with their manager about their career goals and development needs, and work collaboratively to create a development plan.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the concept of people hesitating to speak up about potential problems or issues at work, drawing parallels from "The Lord of the Rings" where characters notice a looming threat but are reluctant to voice their concerns. They explore ways to create a culture where employees feel comfortable sharing their observations and concerns, emphasizing the importance of trust and proactive communication.

In this week's episode, hosts Shannon and Rami discuss the book "Stolen Focus" by Johann Herr and explore the challenges of attention in the modern world filled with constant distractions. They provide eight practical tips and tricks to help listeners reclaim their focus, including adopting a 10-minute rule before checking your phone, using time boxing to schedule tasks, changing app notifications to settings, using a device like the K-Safe to lock away phones, and more.

In this episode of "Workplace Hugs," hosts Shannon and Rami discuss signs that indicate you might be ready for the next opportunity in your career. They offer valuable insights such as exceeding expectations, having student partners who seek your guidance, thinking about the bigger picture, having a clear idea of what you want to pursue next, and reflecting on whether you possess the necessary skills for your future role

In this episode of "Workplace Hugs," Rami and Shannon discuss the phenomenon of doing the wave at sporting events and how it only takes one enthusiastic person to start a movement. They reminisce about the joy of participating in the wave and share insights into how one passionate individual can initiate change or inspire others to join in various activities, from dancing to playing games. The episode encourages listeners to consider the movements they want to start and to embrace enthusiasm as a catalyst for positive change while humorously advising against starting a cult.

In the 200th episode of "Workplace Hugs," Rami and Shannon discuss the book "Anything You Can Imagine" by Ian Nathan, which explores the making of "The Lord of the Rings" by Peter Jackson. They highlight three key lessons: keeping the source material at the heart of your work, finding creative ways to overcome roadblocks, and delegating tasks while trusting your collaborators. Shannon also shares a personal story about her father's approach to trust and delegation.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami dive into the art of initiating a conversation about salary growth. They lay out HR-approved strategies like discussing it during annual reviews and exploring your pay grade. However, the real gem is Shannon's advice to focus on the vision of what you can contribute to the company, aligning your goals with those of your leader and the organization.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon explore the wisdom of a Mark Twain quote that encourages breaking down overwhelming tasks into manageable ones to get ahead. They discuss their personal experiences with this approach, whether it's Shannon organizing her extensive content ideas or Rami managing a complex children's birthday party.

Whether it's at work, in your family, or your hobbies--we all have teams we're a part of. But how do we know if they're healthy? And what can we do to get them healthy if they are not?

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Shannon and Rami explore strategies to overcome career vision and goals block. They discuss techniques such as writing down everything you don't want in your career and then creating an "I'd rather be" list to clarify your desires. They also emphasize the importance of recognizing what skills give you energy and being curious about what piques your interest as indicators of your career direction.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the concept that "the axe forgets, but the tree remembers." They explore how negative experiences, like criticism or shaming, can leave a long-lasting impact on individuals, while those delivering such experiences often forget them quickly.

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the art of waiting in line and share their own experiences of waiting in various lines. They chat about our personal experiences waiting in different lines and discuss the psychology of waiting – how time seems to warp, the impact of our surroundings, and the coping mechanisms we use. Cheers to the art of waiting!

What are the 3 prompts you absolutely must start your day with? Tune in to find out in this short & sweet episode!

In this episode of Workplace Hugs, Rami and Shannon discuss the importance of not gatekeeping knowledge and experiences. They highlight the value of celebrating knowledge transfer and encouraging others to ask questions, fostering a positive learning environment.

We're unpacking the excellent book Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey of the Nap Ministries in this week's episode! Get excited if you want even more encouragement to REST. It's necessary. It's resistance. And self-care is also political. We'll tell you why those are all true in this episode.

We're unpacking the excellent book Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey of the Nap Ministries in this week's episode! Get excited if you want even more encouragement to REST. It's necessary. It's resistance. And self-care is also political. We'll tell you why those are all true in this episode.

In this week's episode, hosts Rami and Shannon discuss the concept of embracing new experiences and connecting with strangers, inspired by a quote from Anthony Bourdain. They share personal anecdotes of stepping out of their comfort zones, engaging with strangers, and savoring life's moments.

In this episode, Rami and Shannon break down some deep moral philosophy inspired by Michael Schur's book "How to Be Perfect," the creative mind behind "The Office" and "Parks and Rec." They get into old-school concepts like deontology (sticking to rules), utilitarianism (doing the most good), existentialism (embracing freedom), and Ubuntu (that universal bond thing). They share thoughts on making good life choices, showing empathy, and even throw in the shopping cart test for some real-world wisdom.

Whether it's because of COVID and changing priorities or something else...we're seeing a lot of people feeling less ambitious than they used to. Worse yet--they're beating themselves up about it! This week we want to offer you a couple of reframes so you can make peace with this shift.

This week we talk about a series of tweets that has advice about public speaking and our own advice for public speaking.

Are you & your partner struggling to get all the things done outside of work? Want some examples on how other couples tackle divvying up the life side of work-life balance? We got you this week!

Do you ever find yourself multi-tasking, speeding, rushing through life and trying to make the most out of every moment? These are just a few signs of hurry sickness! Learn more about it AND how to stop it in this week's episode!

This week we're discussing an interesting concept we came across that made us rethink our approach to negativity. Inspired by a tweet about Thai culture, we explore how we can shift from negative to neutral in various aspects of our lives.

This week we delve into the book "Space Odyssey" that uncovers the dual perspectives of Kubrick and Clarke, revealing their collaboration and the challenges they faced. Plus, we discuss Kubrick's perfectionism, his ability to push people beyond their limits, and the importance of inviting others to share the wealth.

Ever find yourself overcommitting? Shannon's sharing a little acronym she uses to check in with herself before she automatically says YES to requests. Ready to take your T-E-M-P? We're here to tell you what & how!

Knowing where you are (context) is everything, this week Rami reminds us why that is so important in work and when finding new continents!

You've been told you need to ask for help more. But how the heck do you actually do that well? This week we're talking about the book Reinforcements offering practical tips on how to get people to help you.

What if we celebrated our failures & learned from our mistakes? This week we learn about the concept of a failure resume and oops moments meetings in the workplace!

This week we all learn a new german word and see if we can apply the same excitement for our coworkers success that we would if they were our friends IRL, kind of like a real workplace hug!

What are your most memorable purchasing or eating experiences? This week we look at the concept of Unreasonable Hospitality and find out how we can apply it to our work/personal lives to make lasting memories.

How can we take the most mundane days and make them feel special & unique? By romanticizing our lives. This week we'll teach you how to do just that.

Knowing we won't fail is a fun idea but normally it's applied to the big things but this week Rami challenges us to put it to the test in the smaller things in our lives.

Do you identify as an overfunctioner, overworker, or work addict? Then tune in as we talk about how you can shift from a moral to practical view on work and offer tangible actions you can implement today to shift your relationship to work.

What the heck is "cocooning" anyway when it comes to humans? And how do we bust out of that cocoon of reflection & restoration when we've been in it far too long? Let's unpack together!

When you've got a new team you want them to bond and connect, this week we talk about some tactical ways to make that happen!

This week we look at another genius Rami is obsessed with, Albert Einstein. We look at what made him so unique and how we can all learn from him.

What do you do when your to do list is a mile long? When you’re overwhelmed by all that needs to get done maybe before an upcoming vacation? And when all you want to do in the face of it all is PROCRASTINATE! We've got 7 tips to help you break out of a procrastination cycle!

How would you define empathy? This week Rami and Shannon look at their definitions while comparing with Brené Brown and we all learn a bit more about how to be more empathic.

Whether it's a dinner party or a corporate conference did you know there's an art to gathering? This week we dive into 7 themes to make your next gathering a success whether it's personal or professional. Hint: you might have to exclude some people. Say what?!

We love it when our listeners ask great questions! This week we answer a listener submitted question all about how to get unstuck and find motivation again. We've got 5 great tips for you to get the train moving again!

Sports metaphors and making up words aren't something Shannon and Rami normally reference but this week we're talking Sports but only to setup the broader conversation about how to make new things less daunting for everyone.

Music is the background to most of our lives. This week Shannon and Rami try to understand how the recording limitations of Music over history have influenced the way music is produced and performed and how we can leverage those same limitations to maximize our own lives.

Do you often pay attention to the needs of others but neglect your own? Do you say yes when other people ask for help but don't ask for help yourself? It's possible you're overly responsible. And we've got tips for you to shift out of this habit!

Have you ever just had a bad no good day? Like Daniel Powter sings "You had a bad day You're taking one down You sing a sad song just to turn it around" This week Shannon and Rami talk about why its okay that some days just suck.

What makes life worth living? Well...that's a big question! And we're tackling it this week! Today we talk about the 2 most common paths fora. life well lived, 4 different sources we can access meaning from, and tangible next steps to bring more meaning into your life TODAY.

So you got the job...but now what? What should you actually be focused on in your first 30, 60, 90 days in a new job? We've got you! Tune in. for Rami & Shannon's tips on how to manage & think about these early days.

Doing things the same way is so comfortable but could it be better? This week Shannon and Rami talk Switchfoot and how they found a way to change the way they do things to make it better, in their words they will "Dare you to Move".

When you think back on your career how will you remember it? This week Rami and Shannon talk about the band Talking Heads and how although hindsight is 20/20 sometimes its about how you tell the story that people will remember you.

What do you do on days when the news is nothing but shootings, climate crisis, wars, and inequities? How do you stay buoyant amidst the exhaustion or anxiety of world news? Rami & Shannon have tips for you on how to build a good day when the world's day is awful.

Rubber Ducks can help us solve problems? This week Shannon and Rami break down the programming theory of Rubber Duck Debugging to see how we can leverage it when we get stuck.

Rami sat down with Shannon and her husband Nate to answer all of your questions about work & life partners! This week we cover the everyday & big topics including questions like - Whose work is more important? In terms of when your kid is sick, how do you decide who takes care of her? What about finances? Can you walk us through the relationship check ins you do as a couple?

Rami sat down with Shannon and her husband Nate to answer all of your questions about work & life partners! This week we cover communication & transition topics including questions like - How to approach a partner when you see that work may be impacting their health? And how to support a partner who is not happy at work but also not sure where to go?

We all have those people we have deep connections to that we might not be like minded with at all. This week Shannon and Rami explore a concept that Rami is smitten with about being "like hearted".

Confidence. Probably the most common thing we hear people want more of. But HOW? Is there a book you can read? A pill you can take? A spell you can cast? Sadly no...but we do have some thoughts on what you might try instead to cultivate your confidence.

Company Culture is all a function of the principles you put in place but at the end of the day its what you do. This week Shannon and Rami talk about various parts of culture and how you can look to achieve the culture you want in your team or company.

We all want to add to a new job or team immediately but what if we waited? Johnny Greenwood has had an amazing career in music and his time in Radiohead, this week Shannon and Rami talk about his origins in the band and how we all might learn from his experience.

You made it through some hard transitional times. Congrats! You're ready to let yourself settle in...but you're afraid you'll get stuck if you let yourself get too comfortable. This week we're answering our listener submitted question helping you get content without becoming complacent.

What if we’re going about time management all wrong? We focus so much on how we can be more productive or efficient...on how we can fit it all in. But what if the best thing we can do is actually CHOOSE what matters and live by that?

Sometimes we have it all but there are times when we don't. How could we look at those times and find a way to thrive rather than just survive.

So you're a leader of people now! And you want to be a good one. But when do you coach and when do you just straight up manage? ...and honestly...what's the difference anyway? We've got you covered in this episode.

We all might not feel like we are true artists but maybe we all are and can learn how to steal like an artist as well! This week Shannon and Rami discuss the book "Steal Like an Artist" and look at Rami's favorite tips and find ways to apply them to their own lives.

Ok, ok. We know delegation is important and all...but how the heck do you actually do it? And who can you even delegate to? And when? Today we're answering all of your delegation questions. Get excited to get some work off your plate!

The original COVID lockdown was one the of most unique moments in our lives, this week Shannon and Rami look back on that time and talk about why its important for us to be documenting how we spent that time before we forget.

So many people tell you to have a clear sense of who you are and stick to it. But what if that’s wrong? What if authenticity is actually hindering your growth and limiting your impact? Get ready to have your mind blown...

We've all been told that self-care is important. But it can still seem hard to make time for it when it seems so damn....well...unproductive! This week we're explaining how self-care is actually one of the most productive things you can ever do. Don't believe us? Listen in.

We all have that co-worker who never responds. This week Shannon & Rami talk about their worst experiences and share a bunch of helpful tips to get that response when you need it!

Whats the word for the feeling we've all had since the beginning of the pandemic? It's languishing and this week Rami and Shannon break it down and talk about ways to deal with it.

We’re always striving to be more efficient in our lives. This week Shannon & Rami talk about the Swedish activity known as “Plog Jog” and when it makes sense to multitask vs monotask.

Cocooning refers to a phase when we want/need to restore, reflect, and discover the way forward. But how the heck do you make time for it when you still have a full time job? And how do you avoid regret or remorse? We'll tell you step by step in this week's episode.

Did you know you'll spend more of your time moving through a "mucky middle" than riding the high of the mountain tops? In this episode Rami & Shannon break down just how many disruptors and life quakes we face in a life time, the skills you need to prepare, and the ABC's of finding meaning.

So you want to read more books! We did too when we started this podcast. This week we're sharing 8 practical tips for how you can increase the amount of books you read.

Sometimes we don't see whats right in front of our faces because we've been trained too well to do our jobs. This week Rami & Shannon unpack what Inattenational Blindness is and how we can try to avoid it.

So many of us wouldn't be where we are today without the help of others. This week inspired by something that happened to Rami, Shannon and Rami look back on the people that have most impacted their lives.

Failure is a part of life and Chef Jose Andres has an interesting quote that Shannon and Rami Discuss this week on how to think about failure in a different way when thinking about success.

Major career transitions can be so tough! We're talking the kinds where you give up everything and everyone you know and start out in a totally different field. This week Shannon's sharing 5 things she wished somebody would have told her when she made the move from corporate America to entrepreneurship.

So many of us think our minds have the answers. But what if our bodies actually do? Rami & Shannon review the latest evidence on why our bodies are so important and how you can begin tuning in for the wisdom of yours!

Many of us have likely heard of the "5 Love Languages" but this week Rami and Shannon tackle the "5 Apology Languages" and talk about how to best leverage them in your work and life.

When we think of Samurai we likely think of warriors who are focused on combat and their rules, what if we thought of them as poets? This week Shannon and Rami talk about a game Rami played and how we can learn from Samurai how to be better poets.

Alright, Alright, Alright. This week Shannon and Rami dive into Matthew McConaughey's Biography and life statement "Greenlights" to understand the concept of Greenlights and how we can look for them in our lives.

That moment when you made a change or took a stand? We call those pivot points. This episode is all about helping you locate the pivot points in your life and understanding how they might help you get to know...well...YOU!

We've all got a version of that voice inside our heads that critiques everything we do. And today Rami & Shannon have 7 practical and actionable tips on how to deal with that very voice.

We spend so much time trying to find the best strategies for TIME management. But what if energy management is more important? Find out more in this week's episode.

Have you ever thought about all the ways that data can be manipulated to tell a story? Using Kobe Bryant's stats as a jumping point, Shannon and Rami deep dive into data and how to find the best ways to share the data to tell your story.

Think the only way you can grow is through criticism? Rami & Shannon invite you to think again in this episode around a concept called appreciative inquiry!

The idea of being proactive in solving problems has always sounded like a much better way of existing than being perpetually reactive. This week Shannon and Rami talk about the book "Upstream" by Dan Heath and learn about some great examples of how upstream thinking have been successful in the world and how we can learn to look through another person's eyes.

How do you know when it's time to let go? And once you do know...how the heck do you let them down easy? We've got you covered in today's episode.

What does supporting others look like to you? This week Shannon and Rami look at a clip of the Beatles to understand how they supported each other's genius and how we can apply that to ourselves!

We use our minds so much to understand things that sometimes we forget we've got a whole body to EXPERIENCE them as well. With so many folks struggling with mental health, focus, burnout, or a lack of meaning & purpose we're taking an episode to reground in our bodies.

So you're struggling to make progress on that goal you set for yourself. Good news! DOING things isn't the only way to make progress. Did you know there's actually 4 different ways you can support yourself in taking action on a habit or behavior you want to change? Let Shannon introduce you to her acronym DEAR and make progress a lot more possible for you.

Sometimes the morning is a loss, sometimes it's the afternoon. This week Shannon and Rami talk through a new concept about how to make sure you fail small, not big.

Weekly Inventory, Bi-Annual check-in. Whatever you call it, it's a great tool to have to make sure your goals are aligned with how you are investing your time. This week Shannon and Rami use Martin Short's 9 Categories to jumpstart the question and how we can all apply something similar in our own lives.

Shannon and Rami have learned a lot in their careers, as a bookend to last week's episode, this week they discuss the top mistakes they made in their careers so far and how we can all learn from them.

Shannon and Rami have learned a lot in their careers, this week they discuss the top things they were glad they did in their careers so far.

How do I know if I'm burned out? This week Rami & Shannon take another deep dive into the topic of Burnout with the help of Emily & Amelia Nagoski's book by the same title. Dive in to learning all about stress cycles and practical ways to complete them so you can leave the burnout behind!

We all have sly ways of protecting ourselves from the hard truths sometimes. This week Shannon & Rami break down the 6 most common ways we try to defend ourselves. Let's take down the walls and start to see what's actually there!

Is structure good or terrible for creativity? This week Shannon and Rami discuss a quote from Talking Heads Founder David Bryne and try to find the sweet spot to make creativity flourish.

Did you ever wonder if you could break your long held beliefs? This week Shannon and Rami learn about doing just that as well as how to convince someone of something they have strong beliefs against and the importance of a twice a year career check-in.

Everyone wants their presentations to be the best, this week Shannon and Rami talk about the best advice they've received on how to deliver the best presentations.

So we all have good intentions of becoming better listeners someday...but how the hell do you actually DO that? This week we talk about the 3 levels of listening and practical tactics to help you upgrade your listening skills ASAP.

Have you ever fantasized about just dropping everything in your life and starting a new one? So did Chris Knight--the main REAL LIFE character in this book. In this week's episode Rami & Shannon talk about 4 lessons we can learn from his experience living as the last true hermit from 1986 - 2013.

Sometimes to survive you need to leave everything you know and have experienced behind. This week Shannon and Rami talk about smokejumpers(not the movie from entourage) and how our experience can sometimes hold us back!

Ok. So you got the new job. But now how do you prove that you're worthy?! This week Rami & Shannon answer this listener submitted question with a lot of compassion, some practical tips...and (spoiler alert) one swift kick to the butt. Because seriously. They hired you. You're already worthy!

Is it better to have range or to be specialized? As the title of this episode alludes, it is better to have range and Shannon and Rami look at all the different ways to make a case for range in your work and life. They also break down Analogical reasoning, Lateral Thinking and if the Tiger path is the best option.

You know that you're not where you want to be. But you also don't really know what you want to do next either. So...what the heck do you do then? Rami & Shannon answer this listener question giving practical tips for how to navigate those mucky middle moments in your life or career.

Woof. Ok. That just happened. You just got laid off from your job. That totally blows and hey, we've been there before too. Sending you so much compassion! And...in this episode Rami & Shannon share a handful of practical tips on what your very next moves should be.

Episode 100?! Say WHAT?! Hey look mom, we made it! We're taking a minute to roll back the time machine and give listeners a look inside on our 10+ year friendship and early career paths that eventually birthed this freakin' podcast! How did we meet? What did we think of each other? What was it like being managers together? How have our opinions of each other evolved over time? How did it feel being on different sides of the same massive company layoff? And why the heck did we start a podcast? Get ready for some real vulnerable & tender moments...and a few good laughs.

Dry Anger? Wet Anger? Haven't heard of this concept, either had Shannon or Rami and now its a part of their understanding of anger. Join them this week to learn about the two types of anger and why you have to get through one to properly support the other.

How often do you challenge the assumptions that you hold? In this episode, Rami & Shannon talk about David Clutterbuck's suggestion that we challenge one assumption once a month and how you might go about doing just that.

Mike Nichols is one of the most influential directors of Film and Stage of all time, this week Shannon and Rami look at his life and career and take away a few life lessons that can be easily applied to any stage of life.

This week Shannon & Rami take a look at a mathematical principle and try and understand that both Frogs and Birds are important in all workplaces.

What makes a ritual? And how's that different from a habit? And why do you need a blend of both in your life? 3 questions Rami & Shannon unpack in this week's episode.

So we’ve heard about IQ and EQ...but this week we’re talking about a new concept called PQ--positive intelligence. In this week's episode Rami & Shannon talk about what PQ is and how to improve it to get our mind to become as self-supportive as possible.

This week Shannon & Rami Talk about the Song "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard" by Paul Simon and how it can be a good perspective when thinking about the future in your own life.

Sometimes we forget that this is a choice we have available to us! We get to choose if it's time for us to take a rest...or time for us to rally through a difficult season. In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about signs you need rest and signs you're ready to rally. It's up to you to follow through though!

We’ve talked a lot about making pivots throughout your career but we’ve never talked about not hitting your stride until later in life. Nora Ephron is a great example of finding her calling later in life as she didn’t get her first big film until she was 48! This week we talk about how after a certain point your passions become too strong to suppress and maybe, just maybe you have to give in to them!

This week Shannon & Rami talk about the "Sunk Cost Perspective" how to recognize it and tips for how to deal with it and avoid letting it happen to you.

Whether you have a creative job or not we made this episode for you! If you're in a creative rut we want to help get you out with tips, books, and tricks to spark that creative joy in you again!

This week Rami & Shannon talk about why you might want to turn away from that relentless pursuit of self-esteem and trade it in for a pursuit of self-compassion instead. Then they offer practical tips on how to start building your self-compassion muscles.

You're in the process of interviewing for a new organization and don't want to make the mistake of signing up for a place you're not a good fit with. But how the heck do you know if it's a good fit with so little to go off of? In this episode we give practical tips to get to the bottom of this common challenge!

"I will be ambitious with my job and not my career" Although this quote seems like the opposite of what most of us strive for, Rami and Shannon unpack it and find ways to use it as a driver in thinking about your career.

Almost everyone has read "The Alchemist" or knows someone who has and won't stop talking about it. In this episode Shannon and Rami talk about what they've taken from the book and how they are incorporating it into their yearly reading lists.

Sometimes we get so into the groove of things that we forget what it is like to be a beginner, in this episode Shannon and Rami explore the benefits of slowing down to make sure you don't leave others behind.

So you keep charging into the rescue at work. And then you get PISSED about it. And maybe then you start taking it out on everyone else. This is a textbook "drama triangle." A psych concept important for all of us to be aware of and stay the f out of at work. In this episode we walk you through what a drama triangle is and how to get the heck out of the pattern.

We’ve all fantasized about imaginary lives or reinventing ourselves...or that job that would make us feel like we won the career/workplace lottery. But we also hold on, or have a pair of golden handcuffs making it feel impossible to make a change. This week Rami & Shannon talk about how to practically DO & EXPERIMENT your way into that career transition you've been considering.

So your colleague at work just got that big promotion you were hoping for. Now what?! We all have competitive feelings at work sometimes. Here's our top tips on what to do when those feelings arise.

Sometimes the world can feel really big and sometimes it feels really small. This week Shannon and Rami find ways to make the world seem big and just as wondrous as it should feel.

This week Shannon and Rami talk about the book "It Doesn't have to be crazy at work" and take some tactical advice on how to make it so work isn't so crazy all the time.

This week's episode covers a topic that should be relevant to all, how to know if you are an early bird or the early worm that gets eaten by the early bird. It's a concept that has helped Rami avoid quite a few mistakes over his career.

Shannon and Rami fell in love with the Series "Ted Lasso" in 2020 but they found a lot of great learnings from it as well. Join them as they talk about how we can all strive to be an amazing person like Ted Lasso.

Perhaps one of the most empathetic things we can do for ourselves and for our world is to live & work in alignment to our truth, our purpose, our calling. Shannon & Rami talk about finding & listening to our inner teacher following its lead toward a sense of meaning and purpose in our careers (and truly whole lives).

This Week Shannon and Rami talk about Performance Plans, if there is a way back after being put on one and how to make it just a minor bump on your road to success.

This week Shannon and Rami talk about the signs that you need boundaries and tips for how to best establish them.

In this episode Shannon and Rami talk about the secret power of embracing emotions at work. Rami for one of the first times come with an acronym, COINS, and we learn about microactions and how to create safety in the workplace.

Cover Letters! Shannon and Rami came into this episode with a lot of dislike towards them but after going through some advice on how to use them effectively, could they both become champions of cover letters in the future?

We all struggle when we we aren't getting developed enough at work but could that be our fault? In this episode Shannon and Rami talk through their experiences and tips with how to get the development you need and want when your company doesn't go out of it's way to support you.

In this episode, Rami & Shannon discuss Soraya Chemaly's book Rage Becomes Her making a case that anger is not only justified, but an active part of working to solutions. They break down anger fast facts, the reputation of anger, gendered ideas about it, and how we can all start getting more OK with healthy expressions of anger! Because finding conscious & intentional ways to express anger is not only an act of self-empathy but also an act of empathy toward others by advocating for systemic changes!

We all have the boss we just don't click with, in this week's episode Shannon & Rami talk through their advice for making the best of a bad boss situation. if everyone could find a way to work for Michael Scott or Ari Gold, then there's got to be a way to work for your boss, right?

Being heard at work isn't something that Rami and Shannon have struggled with but it is something we have experience with. In this episode we share our best tips to avoid being invisible at work and getting noticed when it matters most!

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about the book Black Card by Chris L. Terry. They start to talk about their ethnic backgrounds and the power of connecting with similar individuals and how important that is. They also talk about important it is that world you grow up in was representative of your ethnicity and culture, and some tips for raising your kids with a world that reflects them.

So we've talked about burnout recovery a lot before on the podcast. But how the hell do we work less and prevent burnout from ever happening in the first place?! In this episode we're giving you some practical & fast tips to get you WORKING LESS in the first place!

We did a LOT of stuff WRONG the first time we led a team. And then we did it different the second time around. In this episode we're giving you all of our hard earned lessons on leadership so you can do it better the second (or first!) time around!

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about The Art of Possibility by Ben & Rosamun Zander. They talk about how literally everything in life is an invention. The number 68? Invented. The letter A? Invented. If you choose to look at your life (or in this case work) in a new way, then your problems may fade or shapeshift into a way that feels solvable.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about really tangible resume tips & tricks including some of the most common mistakes they see folks making in the hundreds of resumes they've seen over the years.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about how you might go about negotiating raises in the form of other benefits (like time off, flexible schedule, etc.). They discuss specific steps to get clear on what you want, expectations, and accountability along the way.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about the Jim Henson Biography by Brian Jay Jones . They discuss the last time they cried and all the amazing things to take away from Jim Henson's life as he was "The Great Appreciator".

In this episode Rami & Shannon try to understand when the right time to leave a job is vs putting up with a difficult season. They discuss the frequency you've felt this and thinking about your future self to try and understand if it's the right time for you.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Major Burnout and Lack of Motivation. They discuss the 3 R's, and how time off and finding what gives you energy can help get you out of that funk.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Decisive by Chip & Dan Heath. Fun fact: it’s estimated the average adult makes 35,000 decisions in a day. We want to support your in making better ones on the big & small stuff by breaking down the author's WRAP framework and offering practical tips for each step.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Imposter Syndrome. They discuss how to break the habitual response that causes Imposter Syndrome as well as other tips to help when it creeps up!

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about the best ways to build trust in the workplace with some tips and tricks they've had work for them.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Bob Iger's autobiography and how his time in ABC sports lead him to the endless pursuit of perfectionist. They discuss ways to let perfection drive you but not prevent you from delivering when you need to as well as some advice on change from the Beastie Boys.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about a very small pivot that can have a huge impact on the way you look at your life and what you get to do in it.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about the downfall of social media and doomscrolling as well as some tips to break the habit.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Atomic Habits by James Clear. They discuss the 4 elements of creating better habits in your life and work. They break down practical tips for each element and share laughs on some of their worst habits...and the best ones they think everyone should try too!

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about the best way to take tough news or critical feedback by setting expectations in advance.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon talk through their experiences with being gaslit at work and advice for how to deal with it.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Herding Tigers: Be the Leader That Creative People Need by Todd Henry. They discuss making the shift from an individual contributor to a people leader. They break down challenge vs stability and how to go from lost to thriving.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon understand the different phases of change and how starting with why can help you inspire others and yourself to action.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon discuss how to make a vacation last forever with sounds, scents and tastes. Doesn't a permanent vacation sound so delightful? Let's hack our way there!

In this episode Rami & Shannon take on a doubleheader putting Michelle Obama's autobiography Becoming against theoretical concepts in The Adult Years by Frederic Hudson. They talk about the many swerves Michelle's career took from attorney to city government to nonprofit to higher ed to hospitals...and how she's a shining example of Frederic Hudson's concept of the cycle of renewal. Lastly, they share highlights of their cyclical career moments reminding all of us career journeys aren't meant to be a straight line.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon discuss the DESC model for giving feedback and a few other tips for when you have to give feedback(which we all agree is terrible!)

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon discuss the way Sommelier's recalibrate their senses and how we can reenergize and recalibrate our own work.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Street Smarts - An All purpose tool kit for Entrepreneurs by Norm Brodsky and Bo Burlingham. They discuss the art of negotiation and how it impacts all aspects of our lives. They break down the four tips for negotiating and explain why listening might be the most important piece of any negotiation.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon discuss the 4 things to consider when you are passed over for a promotion and why it isn't the end of the world even though it really does suck.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon discuss how perspective can change everything and tips for self empathy.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about The Answer to How is Yes by Peter Block. They discuss why HOW questions kill workplace & career ideas way too soon. They break down 3 common how questions to stop asking and what to ask yourself instead and share inspiring stories of folks who said YES to their ideas even when there wasn't a clear answer to "but how?"

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they’re grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon discuss the OPC method and how to stop emergencifying.

In SideHug episodes Rami & Shannon talk about questions they are grappling with, advice they wish they’d had or hacks ALL related to the workplace experience. In this episode Rami & Shannon discuss Part-Time/Contract work and when it makes sense(always as long as you can manage it) and the benefits of networking.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Immunity to Change by Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey. They discuss how we each have an "immunity" to change regardless of how much you do or don't like change. They break down how we can overcome it by identifying our competing commitments & big assumptions and use experimentation to safely challenge both.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Emotional Agility: Get Unstuck, Embrace Change, and Thrive in Work and Life by Susan David. They discuss the four steps to gaining emotional agility and how we better recognize our feelings and prevent them from . They also share examples of how to incorporate the moment of pause to make sure your why is driving your answers and decisions.

In this episode Rami & Shannon talk about Change Your Questions, Change Your Life by Dr. Marilee Adams. They discuss how to shift yourself from a judger mindset to a learner mindset so that you can operate with more empathy & humility in the workplace AND withing yourself (got an inner critic?!). They break down how to spot each mindset and how to make the shift into a learner mindset!

On this episode Rami & Shannon try to find the easiest way to find your "Why" by digging into the book "Find Your Why" By Simon Senek and the article “Find Your Power of Purpose” by Maggie Warrell. They look at why understanding your "Why" is so important and the four/seven questions to answer to figure out your "Why". They also breakdown their own journey to finding their "Why" and advice on how to settle on yours.

Rami & Shannon discuss emotional intelligence (EQ) concepts from the article “Primal Leadership: The Hidden Driver of Great Performance” by Goleman, Boyatzis, and Mckee. They look at why EQ matters, the four components of EQ, reflect on areas when they witnessed leaders with great or not so great EQ levels (themselves included). Lastly, Rami & Shannon offer helpful insights on how you might grow your own emotional intelligence in the workplace.

Rami & Shannon unpack the book “Leonardo Da Vinci: by Walter Issacson and analyze one of Da Vinci’s To-Do lists and compare it to one of Rami’s. They look at how being perpetually curious and infusing your interests into them can make your list of tasks more enjoyable and rewarding.

Rami & Shannon discuss a few key concepts shared in the book Crucial Conversations by Patterson, Greeny, McMillan, and Switzler. They look at what make a conversation crucial, review the 7 key principles outlined in the book, and reflect on past “crucial conversations” of their own that could have been better. Lastly, they share a few tips for talking when stakes are high.

Rami & Shannon discuss the book “Made To Stick” by Chip and Dan Heath and the 6 things that make an idea sticky. They go through one of the Stickiest ideas – JFK speech about landing on the moon and break it down to understand why it was so successful. Shannon and Rami also look at how to apply this to your work life and the novel idea of a personal mission statement.