True Talk Cafe Podcast

True Talk Cafe

Welcome to the True Talk Cafe Podcast! We're looking forward to discussing everyday topics and getting real about some of the most common challenges for many of us, all the while enjoying a few laughs along the way. Join Anna Garcia, Karla DeCuir, Lollie Ramirez-Bennett and Renee Stewart Tuesday mornings @ 10:00 am CST starting September 7th. Talk soon!

  1. Sep 18

    S5 Ep. 36 - Emotional Agility with Dr. Karla

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we unpack emotional agility and why leaders don't need to be emotionless—they need to be emotionally steady, especially during change, conflict, feedback, and difficult conversations. We’re Talking About: Responding instead of reacting when emotions run highNavigating resistance during organizational changeStaying composed during challenging performance conversationsRecognizing and naming your emotions before respondingLeading with intention—even when you're frustratedThe 3-Second Leadership Test: Pause. Name it. Choose it. Pause before you react. Name what you're feeling. Choose your response based on the leader you want to be—not the emotion you're experiencing. In summary, leadership gets emotional. The question is whether your emotions are running the meeting—or informing your response.  You want to feel the emotion. but don't become the emotion because when leadership gets hot… keep your cool. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 36 - Emotional Agility with Dr. Karla
  2. Sep 10

    S5 Ep. 35 - Scarcity vs Abundance with Lollie

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when loss changes the way you see everything? In this deeply personal episode, Lollie explores Scarcity vs. Abundance through the lens of grief, love, and loss. She shares how losing her beloved husband, Dave, made the feeling of “what’s missing” impossible to ignore—but also revealed a powerful truth: abundance isn’t always about having more. Sometimes, it’s recognizing how much you already had. This conversation explores: • Why scarcity focuses on what’s missing while abundance honors what remains • How grief and gratitude can exist at the same time • Finding abundance in ordinary moments and everyday relationships • The importance of receiving love and support from others • Why we shouldn’t wait for loss to appreciate what we have today True Talk Café Challenge: Don’t wait for loss to teach you the value of what you have. Say “I love you.” Take the picture. Have dinner together. Forgive when you can. Stop postponing the moments that matter. In summary, an abundant life isn’t a life without loss. It’s a life where love was present, love was shared, and love continues to leave its mark. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 35 - Scarcity vs Abundance with Lollie
  3. Sep 10

    S5 Ep. 34 - Future Self with Host: Renee

    Send us Fan Mail Your future isn’t something that simply happens—it’s something you create through the decisions you make today. In this episode of True Talk Café, we explore the person you’re becoming and challenge you to ask: Would your future self thank you for what you’re doing today? From the habits you’re building to the risks you’re taking—or avoiding—your daily choices are shaping your future identity. Action Step: Write a letter from your future self describing the decisions that changed everything. The question isn’t just, “What do I want?” It’s: “Who do I need to become to get there?” In summary, your future isn't waiting for you. It's being built right now. And eventually, you're going to have to live inside what you've built. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 34 - Future Self with Host: Renee
  4. Aug 27

    S5 Ep. 33 - Presence: Make Your Presence Known, Your Absence Felt

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of True Talk Café, we explore what it really means to make your presence known and your absence felt. Presence isn't about being the loudest person in the room, commanding attention, or constantly proving your value. It's about how you show up, communicate, lead, and make people feel when you're there and what changes when you're not. Whether you're leading a team, building your career, navigating corporate America, or growing your personal brand, your presence is part of your leadership currency. In This Episode, We Explore: What authentic presence actually looks likeWhy being visible isn't the same as being impactfulHow confidence, communication, and consistency shape your presenceThe connection between presence and leadership influenceWhy your absence can reveal the true value of your contributionPractical ways to become more intentional about how you show upThe Big Takeaway Presence is not about demanding attention. It's about creating impact. When you consistently bring clarity, confidence, authenticity, and value to the room, people notice. And when you're not there, they notice that too. The goal isn't simply to be seen. It's to be remembered for the value you bring. In summary, when you walk into a room, what do people experience and when you leave, what do they miss? That answer may tell you more about your leadership presence than your job title ever will. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 33 - Presence: Make Your Presence Known, Your Absence Felt
  5. Aug 13

    S5 Ep. 32 - Influence with Anna

    Send us Fan Mail In this True Talk Café micro-episode, Anna explores what it really means to lead with influence—whether you have a formal leadership title or not. Influence is built through your actions, your credibility, and the way people experience your leadership. In This Episode, Anna Shares: How to recognize whether you are truly leading with influenceWhy people should seek your perspective—not simply follow your instructionsHow sharing your knowledge can make others more capable and confidentWhy consistently following through builds credibilityThe power of asking questions before jumping in with solutionsWhy giving credit publicly and feedback privately mattersHow influential leaders use their access to create access for othersWhy influence doesn't require a title—it requires intentionThe Influence Test You may be leading with influence when: ✔ People seek your perspective even when they don't report to you ✔ People trust you enough to bring you challenges—not just polished updates ✔ People act on your recommendations because they value your judgment ✔ People continue applying what they learned from you—even when you're no longer in the room This Week's True Talk Challenge Pay attention to how people respond to your leadership. Are they simply complying with your direction, or do they trust your example? Then choose one person to intentionally mentor, encourage, connect, or develop. Share a resource. Make an introduction. Offer meaningful feedback. Or advocate for an opportunity they're ready to receive. Because sometimes influence looks like speaking someone's name in a room they haven't entered yet. In summary, your title may describe your position, but your influence reveals your leadership. No title required. Just intention, consistency, credibility and a willingness to use your influence to help others rise. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 32 - Influence with Anna
  6. Aug 6

    S5 Ep. 31 - Self-Trust with Lollie

    Send us Fan Mail In this week's True Talk Café Micro-Episode, Lollie explores one of the most important—and often overlooked—relationships you'll ever have: the one with yourself. Many of us spend years seeking validation from others, second-guessing our decisions, and questioning our instincts. But real confidence isn't about always making the perfect choice. It's about believing you'll learn, adapt, and move forward no matter what happens. Join Lollie as she shares why self-trust is the foundation for confident leadership, personal growth, and resilience. Through practical insights and thought-provoking questions, you'll discover how to quiet self-doubt, reconnect with your inner voice, and begin rebuilding confidence one small decision at a time. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What self-trust really means—and what it doesn't.Why so many people lose confidence in themselves.How outside opinions can quietly replace your own intuition.Practical ways to rebuild self-trust through everyday actions.Why confidence follows action—not the other way around.A simple mindset shift that can change how you approach challenges.This Week's Reflection Ask yourself: If your best friend spoke to themselves the way you sometimes speak to yourself... would you let them continue? Now consider what needs to change. This Week's Challenge The next time you catch yourself asking: "Can I do this?" Pause and replace it with: "Why not me?" Or even better: "I've overcome difficult things before. I can handle whatever comes next." Every small decision to believe in yourself strengthens the foundation of self-trust. In summary, self-trust isn't built in one defining moment. It's built through hundreds of small choices where you choose courage over fear, progress over perfection, and belief over doubt. Those small choices eventually change everything. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 31 - Self-Trust with Lollie
  7. Jul 30

    S5 Ep. 30 - Decision Fatigue with Renee

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of True Talk Café, Renee explores why making countless decisions throughout the day quietly drains your mental energy, impacts your leadership effectiveness, and leaves even the most capable professionals feeling exhausted. You'll learn why decision fatigue affects executives, managers, and high-performing professionals alike—and discover practical strategies to preserve your mental energy for the decisions that matter most. If you're constantly juggling priorities, leading teams, or navigating complex workplace challenges, this episode is for you. In This Episode What decision fatigue really isWhy leaders experience it more than most professionalsHow mental overload impacts decision qualityThe hidden signs you're running on emptyThree practical ways to reduce decision fatigueWhy delegation is a leadership strategy—not a weaknessHow creating systems can improve your decision-making and your team's performanceKey Takeaways ✔ Every decision requires mental energy. ✔ Decision fatigue leads to procrastination, avoidance, and rushed decisions. ✔ Not every decision deserves the same level of attention. ✔ Routines eliminate unnecessary choices and conserve brainpower. ✔ Schedule your most important decisions during your peak energy hours. ✔ Great leaders don't make every decision—they develop teams that can make good decisions without them. Today's True Talk Takeaway Decision fatigue doesn't mean you're weak. It usually means you've been carrying too much for too long. Instead of asking yourself how to make more decisions, ask: "What decision am I making repeatedly that could become a process instead?" Small systems create significant mental freedom. Action Challenge This week, identify one recurring decision you make every day. Then create a simple process, routine, or delegation plan that eliminates the need to rethink it tomorrow. In summary, protecting your mental energy is one of the smartest leadership decisions you'll ever make. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 30 - Decision Fatigue with Renee
  8. Jul 24

    S5 Ep. 29 - Energy Management with Dr. Karla

    Send us Fan Mail In this week's True Talk Café micro-episode, Dr. Karla explores why managing your energy is even more important than managing your time. Inspired by Jon Gordon's The Energy Bus, she shares practical strategies for protecting your peace, setting healthy boundaries, and surrounding yourself with people who fuel your purpose instead of draining your potential.  Whether you're leading a team, navigating workplace challenges, or simply striving to become your best self, this episode will help you become more intentional about the energy you allow into your life. In This Episode You'll Learn  Why energy—not time—is your most valuable resource  How to identify "energy vampires"  The importance of healthy workplace boundaries  How positive people influence performance and leadership  Why your environment impacts your mindset  Practical ways to protect your peace without losing compassion  One powerful question every leader should ask themselves:  Am I an energy giver or an energy vampire?This Week's True Talk Challenge This week, pay attention to your conversations. Ask yourself: ✔ Who fills your tank? ✔ Who drains your energy? ✔ How can you spend more time with people who fuel your purpose? Remember… You are the driver of your bus. Choose your passengers wisely. Protect your energy. Share your positivity generously. Lead with purpose.  In summary, energy is contagious. The people you spend the most time with will influence the way you think, feel, and perform. Join us on a live show! - learn how you can join us on a live show. You'll find the instructions on our Facebook page pinned to the top of the newsfeed:  click here Call To Action! Like us on the social media platforms below: Instagram – @truetalkcafe Facebook - @truetalkcafeTikTok - @truetalkcafeUse hashtags:  #truetalkcafe #TTCTalks #TrueTalkTuesdays #NoFluff #NoFilters #JustTrueTalk Don’t forget to like us, rate us and leave a review.  We value your feedback.  We want to ensure that we are provide content that resonates with you.  So, please don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts. So, from all of us here at True Talk Café, stay tuned for another engaging episode!  Talk soon...

    S5 Ep. 29 - Energy Management with Dr. Karla

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to the True Talk Cafe Podcast! We're looking forward to discussing everyday topics and getting real about some of the most common challenges for many of us, all the while enjoying a few laughs along the way. Join Anna Garcia, Karla DeCuir, Lollie Ramirez-Bennett and Renee Stewart Tuesday mornings @ 10:00 am CST starting September 7th. Talk soon!