Mentoring IRL

Mentoring IRL
  • 4.5 (8)
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Discover how transformative mentoring relationships are built from both sides of the table. Whether you're looking to guide others or accelerate your own growth, this podcast reveals the art and science behind meaningful mentorship. Each episode combines actionable strategies with compelling real-world stories, showing you how to navigate difficult conversations, set clear expectations, and create lasting professional relationships that benefit everyone involved. From first-time mentors learning to give effective feedback to ambitious mentees maximizing every interaction, we explore what separates good mentoring from great mentoring—and how both parties can thrive in the process.

  1. 1D AGO

    Ep #21: Propel Your Career with Advocates

    Contact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.com Keywords mentors, advocates, career growth, workplace relationships, professional development, leadership, visibility, networking, advocacy strategies, career advancement Summary In this episode, Angela and Bill explore the critical roles of mentors and advocates in career development. They discuss the differences between the two, how to find advocates in the workplace, and strategies for building a reputation that attracts advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of access, credibility, and the willingness of advocates to support individuals in their career advancement. They also highlight actionable steps for creating opportunities for advocacy, such as engaging with senior leaders and participating in initiatives that showcase individual contributions. Takeaways A mentor supports personal career growth and development. An advocate provides visibility and opportunities for advancement. Access, credibility, and willingness are key to finding advocates. You can gain advocacy even without a mentor connection. Being a valuable team member can attract advocates. Engage with senior leaders during briefings and initiatives. Create opportunities for informal interactions with leadership. Poster sessions can facilitate connections with advocates. Mentors can help identify potential advocates in the organization. Advocates are essential for career advancement. They can champion you. Sound bites "A mentor helps you to be ready." "An advocate helps you to be chosen." "Mentors can also advocate for you." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Mentors and Advocates 05:49 Finding Advocates in the Workplace 11:51 The Three Non-Negotiables of Advocacy 17:15 Creating Opportunities for Advocacy 23:07 The Importance of Advocates for Career Advancement

    24 min

  2. FEB 16

    Ep #20: Living By Core Values in Personal and Professional Life

    Contact us:  mentoringirl@gmail.com Keywords values, alignment, personal growth, professional development, self-reflection, decision making, integrity, fulfillment, leadership, emotional intelligence Summary In this episode, Angela and Bill discuss the importance of aligning personal and professional values. They explore indicators of misalignment, strategies for identifying core values, and methods to maintain alignment in both personal and professional contexts. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-reflection, consistency, and the impact of values on overall fulfillment and leadership effectiveness. Takeaways It's essential to recognize when you're not aligned with your values. Chronic feelings of irritation can indicate misalignment. Procrastination on important tasks may signal a lack of alignment with values. Identifying core values can be done through self-reflection and analysis. Values should be visible and discussed with others to reinforce commitment. Navigating value conflicts requires pre-planning and prioritization. Regular reflection helps maintain alignment with values over time. Living by your values is about progress, not perfection. Your values influence your decision-making and identity. Creating a supportive environment is crucial for living your values. Chapters 00:00 Aligning Personal and Professional Values 02:52 Indicators of Misalignment 05:51 Identifying Core Values 08:53 Strategies for Staying Aligned 12:12 Making Values Visible 14:56 Navigating Value Conflicts 18:07 Reflection and Consistency

    38 min

  3. FEB 9

    Ep #19: GUEST - Mel Yokoyama, Founder and Chair of Malama Ka'u Foundation

    Contact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.com Referenced in Episode: YouScience.Com, https://www.youscience.com/ Keywords mentorship, military, leadership, Native Hawaiian, career development, personal growth, community, business, values, relationships Summary In this episode, Angela and Bill engage with Mel Yokoyama, a retired Navy captain and mentor, discussing the profound impact of mentorship on personal and professional growth. Mel shares his journey from growing up in a close-knit Hawaiian community to navigating the military and eventually transitioning into the business world. He emphasizes the importance of finding the right mentors, the differences between military and industry mentorship, and the value of shared core values in these relationships. The conversation highlights the natural progression from being mentored to becoming a mentor, and the responsibilities that come with it. Takeaways Mentorship is a long-term investment that shapes character. Growing up in a supportive community fosters mentorship. Military mentorship is structured, while industry mentorship is more fluid. Finding the right mentor is crucial for success. Shared core values enhance the mentor-protégé relationship. Mentorship should happen naturally, not be forced. Understanding expectations is key in mentorship. The mentor-protégé relationship is akin to a marriage. Mentors should pass on wisdom and judgment responsibly. It's important to seek mentors who align with your goals. Sound bites "Mentorship is a long-term investment." "Mentorship happens naturally, not forced." "Finding the right role model is crucial." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mel Yokoyama 02:40 The Impact of Mentorship on Career 04:44 Growing Up in Hawaii: Community and Mentorship 07:31 Transitioning to the Navy: Seeking Mentorship 11:47 Navigating the Military: Finding Guidance 14:38 Becoming a Mentor: The Natural Transition 16:21 Mentoring in the Military vs. Industry 18:43 The Value Exchange in Mentor-Protege Relationships 22:42 Matching Values: Personal and Business Mentorship 25:23 Avoiding Pitfalls in Mentorship 26:33 Conclusion and Future Discussions

    32 min

  4. FEB 2

    Ep #18: You Got Promoted—Why Your Health Started to Suffer (and how leaders fix it)

    Contact us:  mentoringirl@gmail.com Summary In this episode of "Mentoring in Real Life," hosts Bill Bonwit and Angela Falcini delve into the critical topic of health and wellness in the workplace, emphasizing its importance for both mentors and mentees. They discuss how maintaining health goals is essential not only for personal well-being but also for professional effectiveness. The conversation highlights the challenges leaders face as they climb the corporate ladder, including increased responsibilities and diminished control over their schedules, which often leads to neglecting personal health. The hosts share personal anecdotes and practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries, managing time effectively, and prioritizing wellness amidst demanding work environments. Bill and Angela stress that health should not be viewed as a luxury but as a fundamental aspect of sustainable career success. They advocate for creating non-negotiable habits, such as regular workouts and healthy eating, and suggest integrating wellness into daily routines to combat the pressures of leadership. The episode concludes with a strong reminder that prioritizing health is essential for long-term success in both personal and professional realms, urging listeners to take actionable steps towards better health management. Keywords health and wellness, leadership, work-life balance, mentoring, career success, time management, personal well-being, sustainable habits, productivity, boundaries Takeaways Health and wellness are crucial for both mentors and mentees. Setting reasonable boundaries is essential for maintaining health. Leaders often neglect their health due to increased responsibilities. Creating non-negotiable habits can help sustain health amidst busy schedules. Prioritizing health is key to long-term career success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Health and Wellness in Leadership 02:20 The Importance of Setting Boundaries 06:43 Managing Time and Energy as a Leader 12:32 Reframing Health Responsibilities 18:02 Practical Strategies for Health Management 25:21 Minimum Effective Habits for Busy Leaders 30:58 Redefining Health at Higher Levels 37:20 Conclusion: Prioritizing Health for Sustainable Success

    38 min

  5. JAN 26

    Ep #17: What Is Reverse Mentoring and How Is It Used Effectively?

    Contact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.com Keywords reverse mentoring, leadership, organizational culture, feedback, generational insights, customer behavior, psychological safety, mentoring programs, technology adaptation, employee engagement Summary This conversation explores the concept of reverse mentoring, where junior employees mentor senior leaders, fostering a two-way learning relationship. The discussion emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of feedback, understanding generational gaps, and enhancing customer insights through this mentoring approach. The speakers share personal experiences and historical context, highlighting the need for psychological safety and the common pitfalls to avoid in reverse mentoring programs. Ultimately, effective reverse mentoring can lead to improved leadership, decision-making, and organizational culture. Takeaways Reverse mentoring is a structured learning relationship. It's essential for senior leaders to seek feedback from junior employees. Cultural change is necessary for effective reverse mentoring. Informal mentoring often yields better results than formal programs. Leaders must demonstrate vulnerability to foster psychological safety. Understanding generational differences enhances team dynamics. Reverse mentoring can bridge gaps in technology and customer insights. Effective mentoring improves decision-making and leadership styles. Leaders should avoid common pitfalls in mentoring relationships. Reverse mentoring is fundamentally about mutual growth and learning. Sound bites "I've never been this happy." "Reading is overrated." "Be curious, not judgmental." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Reverse Mentoring 01:47 Defining Reverse Mentoring 04:38 The Importance of Psychological Safety 07:01 Use Cases for Reverse Mentoring 11:45 Historical Context and Examples 15:04 Bridging Generational Gaps 18:23 Improving Inclusion and Understanding 21:56 Staying Close to Customers 24:43 Making Reverse Mentoring Effective 28:56 Common Pitfalls to Avoid 30:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    31 min

  6. JAN 19

    Ep #16 - GUEST: Jeannie Affelder, Board Chair for Friends of the Children, Chicago

    Contact us:  mentoringirl@gmail.com Keywords mentoring, youth development, Friends of the Children, nonprofit, community support, education, Chicago, mentorship, social impact, long-term commitment Summary In this episode of Mentoring Real Life, hosts Angela and Bill engage with Jeannie Affelder, board chair of Friends of the Children in Chicago. They discuss the innovative mentoring model of the organization, which focuses on long-term support for children facing significant challenges. Jeannie shares insights on measuring success, adapting to local needs, and the personal impact of mentoring. The conversation highlights the importance of passion in nonprofit work and the value of building a supportive network for board members. Takeaways Friends of the Children focuses on long-term mentoring for at-risk youth. The program assigns paid professional mentors to children. Mentors work with children for 12.5 years, from kindergarten to high school graduation. Success is measured through both quantitative and qualitative metrics. The organization adapts its model to meet local community needs. Personal stories illustrate the transformative impact of mentoring. Board members play a crucial role in nonprofit success. Finding a cause that resonates is essential for nonprofit board members. Resources like Board Source (boardsource.org) can aid in nonprofit governance. Building a support network is vital for effective leadership. Additional resources mentioned: Exponent Philanthropy (https://exponentphilanthropy.org/) Duncan Campbell Ted Talk (Breaking the generational cycle of poverty, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tK2OPkz2LTM**)** ****Duncan Campell book (The Art of Being There: Creating Change, One Child at a Time, https://www.amazon.com/Art-Being-There-Creating-Change-ebook/dp/B01FJ3NAC2?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1) Nadine Burke Harris Ted Talk (How childhood trauma affects health across a lifetime, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95ovIJ3dsNk) Nadine Burke Harris book (The Deepest Well: Healing the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Trauma and Adversity―A Transformative Guide to Understanding Childhood Trauma and Health, https://www.amazon.com/Deepest-Well-Long-Term-Childhood-Adversity/dp/132850266X?crid=2Y1PQM9F8T60N&keywords=Nadine+Burke+Harris&qid=1669064262&sprefix=nadine+burke+harris,aps,260&sr=8-2&linkCode=sl1&tag=americanprogramb&linkId=718573e2ed37c20c1df5570994f80820&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)

    35 min

  7. JAN 12

    Ep #15: Giving Feedback When You're A People-Pleaser

    Contact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.com The conversation delves into the challenges of people-pleasing behavior in mentoring, the impact of feedback delivery, and the importance of creating a comfortable environment for feedback. It emphasizes the need for actionable and structured feedback to help mentees grow and the role of trust in effective mentoring relationships. Takeaways People-pleasing as a mentor can hinder the development of menteesFeedback delivery is crucial for mentors to overcome people-pleasing tendencies Chapters 00:00 The Pitfalls of People-Pleasing as a Mentor06:02 The Importance of Timing and Delivery in Feedback13:40 Discomfort vs. Harm in Feedback19:36 Avoiding Apologies and Over-Praising in Feedback25:18 Creating a Comfortable Environment for Feedback

    29 min

  8. JAN 5

    Ep #14 - Who Defines Career Goals?

    Contact us:  mentoringirl@gmail.com keywords financial freedom, mentoring, career development, personal finance, goal setting, work-life balance, career aspirations, mentor-mentee relationship, trade-offs, risks summary In this episode, Angela and Bill discuss some parallels between financial freedom and career mentoring. They explore how mentors can guide mentees in defining their career goals without imposing their own judgments. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding personal aspirations, balancing life and work, and the role of mentors in helping mentees navigate their career paths. They also touch on the significance of refining goals and recognizing the trade-offs involved in career decisions. takeaways Financial freedom and robust career planning are complementary for many individuals.Mentors should avoid judging mentees' career goals.Mentees own their career direction and decisions.Mentors help mentees clarify their goals.Time and energy are finite resources that must be managed, so balancing life and career goals, and managing the timing for both is critical.Mentors can help mentees see potential they may not recognize.Trade-offs and risks must be considered in career planning. Mentors should help mentees recognize the likely intended and unintended consequences of their decisions.Mentors should facilitate goal setting without imposing their views.The mentee sets the destination, and the mentor provides the map.Chapters 00:00Introduction to Financial Freedom and Career Success 03:32 The Role of Mentorship in Career Development 06:32 Understanding Personal Goals and Career Aspirations 09:25 Balancing Life Phases and Career Goals 12:20 The Influence of Status on Career Choices 15:00 Defining Goals: Mentee Ownership and Mentor Guidance 17:49 The Power of Language in Mentorship 20:37 Refining Goals and Realistic Timelines 23:29 Trade-offs and Consequences in Career Decisions 26:39 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

    27 min
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4.5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Discover how transformative mentoring relationships are built from both sides of the table. Whether you're looking to guide others or accelerate your own growth, this podcast reveals the art and science behind meaningful mentorship. Each episode combines actionable strategies with compelling real-world stories, showing you how to navigate difficult conversations, set clear expectations, and create lasting professional relationships that benefit everyone involved. From first-time mentors learning to give effective feedback to ambitious mentees maximizing every interaction, we explore what separates good mentoring from great mentoring—and how both parties can thrive in the process.

Information

  • Creator
    Mentoring IRL
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Mentoring IRL
  • Show Website
    Mentoring IRL