The SMARTA Podcast

Sonia Marta
  • 1.0 (1)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Hosted by Sonia Marta, The SMARTA Podcast features TED speakers, bestselling authors, keynote speakers, podcasters, Harvard Law lecturers and doctors of philosophy. The show provides you with all the scientifically based tools to start your journey to success. Take control of your life starting today with industry-leading experts' daily habits and the right goals you can implement today in your routine. Sonia is the Amazon bestselling co-author of 'Women Leading the Way' an award-winning author and podcaster. Find out more at www.soniamarta.com

  1. 15h ago

    AI is Making Us Lazy: How to Reclaim Your Critical Thinking! - Dr. Katie Trowbridge

    What if the reason you stopped asking questions has nothing to do with curiosity — and everything to do with confidence? In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Katie Trowbridg, educator, TEDx speaker, leadership researcher, and author of Lead Boldly, Think Deeply for a conversation that is going to completely rewire the way you think about leadership, learning, and what it actually means to grow. What you will learn in this episode: The myth of "lost curiosity" and the real reason people choose to quietly quit.Why we don't have a leadership crisis today—we have a thinking crisis.The "C.R.E.A.T.E. Method" to rewire your brain for innovation and risk-taking.Why leaders need to stop acting like task managers and start acting like great teachers.The "Recess Rule": Why mandatory playtime is the ultimate hack for high-performing teams. Dr. Katie Trowbridge is an author, TEDx speaker, and leadership expert who spent over two decades in the education system studying how people learn, think, and grow. She saw firsthand how the pressure for perfect grades and immediate results destroyed critical thinking. Now, she is taking the ultimate lessons from the classroom into the boardroom, teaching executives and young professionals alike how to lead boldly, think deeply, and rebuild human connection in the age of AI. In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction & The Top 3 Takeaways03:47 - The Nun Who Kicked Katie Out of Class (The Origin of Curiosity)06:07 - The Truth: We Didn't Lose Curiosity, We Lost Confidence09:00 - Fixing the Generational Gap: Gen Z vs. Boomers at Work12:42 - Why the School System Crushes Critical Thinking15:47 - Stop Managing Tasks and Start Mentoring Thoughts24:50 - The AI Trap: Using Tech Without Turning Off Your Brain31:18 - The "F" Grade That Changed Everything (Redefining Failure)38:18 - The Mandatory "Recess" Rule for Corporate Teams46:22 - Escaping the Corporate "Fire Drill" Mentality55:37 - The C.R.E.A.T.E. Method Explained01:00:50 - Final Advice: How to Truly Think For Yourself If this episode made you rethink how you show up at school or work, share it with one friend, teacher, or mentor who needs to hear it today. And hit that subscribe button so you never miss a conversation that equips you to challenge the process!

    1h 4m

  2. Jun 14

    Former CEO: “Scared Does NOT Mean Disqualified” with Patty Azarello

    What if the only thing standing between you and the opportunity of a lifetime is the belief that you’re not ready? In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with former CEO, executive coach, keynote speaker, and bestselling author Patty Azzarello, who became Hewlett-Packard’s youngest General Manager at 33, ran a billion-dollar software business at 35, and became a CEO by 38. But behind the impressive titles was a woman battling self-doubt, imposter syndrome, workplace bullies, and the feeling that she didn’t belong in the room. Patty shares the unfiltered lessons from her new book, Why Is She Still Here?, revealing how confidence is built after action, why most people disqualify themselves too early, and how kindness can become your greatest leadership advantage. In this conversation, you’ll learn: ✓ Why confidence is an outcome, not a prerequisite✓ How to overcome imposter syndrome and self-doubt✓ The surprising reason executives seem more confident than they are✓ How women can navigate low expectations in leadership✓ Patty’s strategy for dealing with workplace bullies✓ Why being kind doesn’t make you weak✓ How to protect your energy and avoid burnout✓ The career advice that nearly changed everything for Patty✓ How to stop disqualifying yourself from opportunities About Patty Azzarello: Patty Azzarello is a former Silicon Valley CEO, executive coach, speaker, and bestselling author. She became Hewlett-Packard’s youngest General Manager at age 33, led a billion-dollar software business by 35, and later served as CEO. Today, she helps leaders achieve greater impact without sacrificing themselves in the process. Connect with Patty:Website: pattyazzarello.comLinkedIn: Patty Azzarello ⏱ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction01:36 The 3 lessons everyone needs to hear03:00 Imposter syndrome and why everyone is bluffing07:08 Childhood bullying and overcoming insecurity10:03 The executive meeting that changed Patty’s life13:21 Why being “all business” can hurt your career15:36 Confidence is an outcome, not a prerequisite18:20 Women in leadership and low expectations19:54 The “smart rats vs stupid rats” experiment24:00 Mentorship and finding people who believe in you26:01 How to survive rooms where you feel unwelcome30:52 Why kindness is not weakness31:14 Patty’s strategy for dealing with bullies35:52 Work as an exchange of life force for money37:12 Ruthless priorities and avoiding burnout40:06 Recovery time and guilt-free rest42:16 The opportunity Patty almost missed45:58 Never disqualify yourself46:45 The 3-part career growth framework49:06 Patty’s definition of success49:59 Books that changed her life51:27 What Patty would tell her younger self53:07 Final advice for building a successful career If this episode helped you rethink confidence, leadership, or your career path, subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast and share this episode with someone who needs the reminder: Scared does not mean disqualified.

    53 min

  3. Jun 9

    The Hidden Business Lessons From Luxury Hotels with Peter Prinsloo

    What if the career you’re looking for isn’t a destination—but a passport? Most people think hospitality is about hotels, luxury, and customer service. But what if it’s actually one of the greatest leadership schools in the world? In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Peter Prinsloo, General Manager of The Heritage Resort Ireland, to explore what it really takes to lead people, build exceptional customer experiences, navigate uncertainty, and create a culture where both employees and guests thrive. From growing up homeschooled in Zimbabwe and Mozambique to managing some of Ireland’s most respected luxury hotels, Peter’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and leadership. If you’re interested in leadership, personal growth, customer experience, hospitality, business, or simply learning how world-class organizations create exceptional experiences, this conversation is for you. • Why hospitality can open doors anywhere in the world• What separates good service from exceptional service• The leadership lesson that transformed Peter’s career• Why personalization matters more than luxury• The hidden realities behind running a luxury hotel• How to build strong teams that genuinely care• The future of wellness-focused hospitality• Why your background does not determine your future• How to make better decisions in life and business• The surprising power of relationships and human connection Peter Prinsloo is the General Manager of The Heritage Resort, one of Ireland’s leading luxury destinations. His career has taken him from Zimbabwe and Mozambique to leadership roles across some of Ireland’s most respected hospitality brands, including Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa and The Doyle Collection. Today, he leads one of Ireland’s premier resort destinations, overseeing luxury hospitality, wellness experiences, conferences, events, golf, spa operations, and guest experience. LinkedIn: Peter PrinslooWebsite: The Heritage Resort Ireland 00:00 Introduction00:35 Peter’s Top 3 Career Lessons02:27 Hospitality, Travel & Human Connection04:12 Growing Up in Zimbabwe & Mozambique05:18 The Decision That Changed Everything07:34 Adaptability & Solving Problems Under Pressure10:09 What Happens Behind Luxury Hotels12:40 Good Service vs Exceptional Service16:37 The Power of Guest Experience17:18 Leadership Lessons from Hospitality19:52 What Modern Travelers Want Today24:35 Why The Heritage Resort Is Unique26:09 Wellness, Spa & The Future of Hospitality28:31 Advice for Young People Entering Hospitality31:30 Building Strong Teams33:29 Funny Guest Requests & Hotel Stories34:11 Books That Changed Peter’s Life40:27 Advice to His 18-Year-Old Self42:55 The Biggest Leadership Lesson Hospitality Teaches45:19 Final Message for Young People46:56 Closing Thoughts If you enjoyed this conversation, share it with someone interested in leadership, hospitality, business, travel, or customer experience. Subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast for weekly conversations with world-class leaders, bestselling authors, entrepreneurs, and experts. And remember: The future doesn’t belong to people with perfect plans. It belongs to people willing to open doors, serve others, and keep saying yes to opportunities.

    47 min

  4. May 26

    #1 Speaking Coach: "This Is Destroying Your Confidence!" Deborah Grayson Riegel

    Most people think communication is about sounding smart. But what if the real secret is learning how to make people feel heard? In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Deborah Riegel, executive coach, leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, and author for a powerful conversation about confidence, difficult conversations, emotional intelligence, and the communication skills nobody teaches you in school. This episode is packed with practical advice that can completely transform the way you lead, connect, and communicate. We talk about why people struggle with feedback, how to become a better listener, why curiosity changes conversations, and the small communication habits that can strengthen relationships both personally and professionally. If you’ve ever overthought a difficult conversation, struggled to express yourself clearly, or wanted to communicate with more confidence and authenticity this episode is for you. Because great communication isn’t about perfection. What You’ll Learn: • Why communication starts with listening, not speaking • How curiosity can transform difficult conversations • The biggest mistakes people make when giving feedback • Why emotional intelligence matters more than ever • How to communicate with more confidence and clarity • The difference between reacting and responding • Practical tools for stronger relationships and leadership Who Is Deborah Riegel? Deborah Riegel is a leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, executive coach, and educator who helps individuals and organisations improve how they communicate, lead, and connect with others. She is known for her work on feedback, communication strategy, emotional intelligence, and leadership development. You can find Deb through her books, speaking engagements, workshops, LinkedIn, and professional coaching platforms. In this episode: 00:00 – Welcome 02:12 – Why Communication Is More Than Words 05:30 – The Biggest Communication Mistakes People Make 09:18 – Listening vs Waiting to Speak 13:42 – How Curiosity Changes Conversations 17:50 – Why Feedback Feels So Personal 22:14 – Difficult Conversations at Work & In Life 27:08 – Emotional Intelligence & Leadership 31:45 – Confidence in Communication 36:20 – Responding Instead of Reacting 40:06 – The Power of Empathy 44:18 – Advice for Young Professionals 47:42 – Deb’s Definition of Success 50:00 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways If this episode made you think differently about communication, leadership, or relationships, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast for conversations with world-class experts, authors, and leaders. And next time you walk into a conversation: Listen fully. Lead with curiosity. And remember, people may forget your words, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.

    40 min

  5. May 18

    Why Gen Z Language Isn’t “Bad English” with Valerie Fridland

    If you’ve ever felt insecure about your voice, your accent, or the way you communicate, this episode is for you. Have you ever wondered why the new generations always text differently? Or why accents exist, or why people judge the way others talk, and how social media is transforming language in real time? In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Valerie Fridland, professor of sociolinguistics and bestselling author of Why We Talk Funny, for one of the most fascinating conversations we’ve had about language, identity, accents, communication, and human connection. We also talk about Gen Z slang, the psychology of accents, identity, belonging, confidence, and the hidden science behind every conversation you have. Communication is far less about perfection… and far more about connection. What You’ll Learn: • Why every single person has an accent • The psychology behind why people judge speech patterns • How social media is changing language globally • Why communication is about connection, not perfection • How accents shape identity and belonging • Why Gen Z language is evolution — not “bad English” • The surprising science behind the way humans communicate Valerie Fridland is a professor of sociolinguistics, researcher, speaker, and author of books including Like, Literally, Dude and Why We Talk Funny. Her work explores the relationship between language, identity, social behaviour, and communication — helping people better understand not just how we speak, but why we speak the way we do. You can find Valerie through her books, speaking engagements, and academic work in linguistics and communication. In this episode: 00:00 – Welcome 02:30 – Why We Judge The Way People Speak 05:18 – What are accents? 08:02 – Why Humans Notice Accents 12:00 – Why Older Generations Criticise New Language 15:50 – What Sociolinguistics Really Means 20:04 – The Myth of “Bad English” 26:46 – How Social Media Is Changing Language 30:00 – Are Regional Accents Disappearing? 31:34 – Should You Adapt Your Accent to Fit In? 35:00 – Language, Identity & Perception 39:48 – Why We’re Too Hard on Ourselves 41:00 – Phones vs Real Human Connection 43:00 – Valerie’s Definition of Success 48:39 – Why Failure Shapes You More Than Success 51:28 – Final Advice: Stop Sweating the Small Stuff If this episode made you think differently about communication, identity, or connection — share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast for conversations with world-class thinkers, authors, and experts. And next time you speak to someone: Look them in the eye. Ask a question. And remember, connection matters more than sounding perfect.

    53 min

  6. May 11

    10,849 Days of Silent Mental Health Struggles with David Beeney

    What if the thing you’ve spent years hiding… could become the thing that changes your life? For over 10,849 days, David silently battled panic attacks and anxiety while building a successful corporate career. No one knew. Not his colleagues. Not his friends. Not even his family. Then, in 2016, he made one decision that changed everything: he spoke up. Today marks nearly 10 years since David first broke the silence around his mental health, a moment that transformed not only his own life, but the lives of thousands of people he has helped since. This episode is about vulnerability, burnout, kindness, self-compassion, and the courage to stop pretending you’re okay when you’re not. And honestly? I think every teenager, parent, leader, and employee needs to hear this conversation. 🔥 What You’ll Learn • Why vulnerability can become your greatest strength • The hidden signs of burnout most people ignore • Why “it’s okay not to be okay” matters more than ever • How self-compassion improves performance and creativity • The mental health framework everyone should know • Why kindness changes careers, teams, and lives • How David rebuilt his life after decades of silence David Beeney is a mental health speaker, therapist, workplace wellbeing advocate, and the author of Breaking the Silence. After spending over 36 years silently struggling with panic attacks and anxiety, David made it his mission to normalize conversations around mental health and help workplaces create cultures built on empathy, support, and openness. Today, he speaks globally on burnout, leadership, vulnerability, and wellbeing. In this episode: 00:00 – Why This Conversation Matters 02:10 – The Turning Point That Changed David’s Life 05:40 – Living 10,849 Days in Silence 08:20 – Why Vulnerability Makes You Stronger 12:00 – The Truth About Panic Attacks 17:10 – How Anxiety Secretly Shaped His Career 21:00 – Burnout & The “Boiling Frog” Story 27:00 – The Early Signs People Ignore 31:30 – Sleep, Exercise & Mental Wellbeing 35:10 – The Power of Kindness & Good People 39:00 – Supporting Friends Through Mental Health Struggles 41:40 – Breaking the Silence Book Story 43:00 – Advice for Teenagers Today 45:00 – The Story of Ben 48:50 – Final Message to Anyone Struggling If this episode touched you in any way, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you’re struggling silently right now: Please remember, you are not weak for opening up. You are human. Subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast for more conversations that challenge, inspire, and remind us what truly matters.

    51 min

  7. May 4

    The Science of Happiness Will Shock You (It's Not What You Think!) with Dr. Mark Henry

    If you’re deciding where to live, study, or build your future, this episode might completely change your perspective. In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, we break down one of the biggest misconceptions about success, countries, and your future: why the happiest places in the world aren’t what you think, and what that means for you. I’m joined by Dr. Mark Henry, expert in psychology, history, and national well-being, to unpack what actually drives happiness at both a global and personal level. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: The 6 key factors that determine national happinessWhy “life satisfaction” matters more than temporary happinessHow your environment shapes your success (more than you think)The real reason young people are becoming less happy in developed countriesA blueprint you can apply to design a happier, more successful life We cover topics like: Why countries like Finland consistently rank #1 in the world as happiest country (and what they’re doing differently)The surprising truth about Latin America’s happiness advantageThe hidden factors shaping your future happiness (that no one teaches you in school)Whether governments should be responsible for your happinessWhy social media might be silently sabotaging your mental healthAnd what Ireland’s 100-year transformation can teach you about building a successful life ABOUT DR. MARK HENRY Dr. Mark Henry is a leading voice on national well-being, author of In Fact: An Optimist’s Guide to Ireland at 100, and Chief Communications & Marketing Officer at Technological University Dublin. With a background in psychology, history, and leadership, his work challenges negative narratives and replaces them with data-driven optimism. In this episode: 00:00 - Welcome 01:54 – The 3 things you’ll learn in this episode 02:30 – Happiest countries in the world (and the least happy) 04:50 – Why Finland keeps winning 06:54 – The shocking decline in youth happiness 09:05 – Is social media making you depressed? 11:00 – How happiness is actually measured 14:00 – The 6 factors that determine a happy country 18:00 – Should governments be responsible for happiness? 21:30 – Ireland: one of the happiest countries? 25:00 – How Ireland transformed in 100 years 30:00 – Lessons YOU can apply to your life 33:30 – Intrinsic vs extrinsic happiness 36:00 – Books that will change your worldview 39:00 – Advice for your 18-year-old self 42:20 – Final message: the truth about social media If this episode made you rethink your future, share it with one person who needs to hear this. And if you’re serious about building a smarter, more intentional life, subscribe, because every week we bring you the people shaping the future.

    46 min

  8. Apr 27

    Why Everybody has Something to Hide with Guy Kawasaki

    What if the secret to building a remarkable life isn’t chasing a personal brand… but making the world better first? In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Guy Kawasaki, bestselling author, entrepreneur, former chief evangelist of Apple, host of Remarkable People, and one of the most respected voices in innovation, influence, and entrepreneurship. This conversation goes far beyond business. We talk about what truly makes someone remarkable, why young people should focus on interests over pressure-filled passions, the truth about personal branding, the mistakes that shape success, and how to make the world better in your own way. We also dive into privacy, digital security, creativity, books that change lives, and the brutally honest advice Guy would give his 18-year-old self. If you’re ambitious, building something, or trying to stand out in a noisy world, this episode is a masterclass. What You’ll Learn • Why personal brands are a result, not a goal • What makes a person truly remarkable • Why mistakes may shape you more than success • How to pursue interests instead of forced passions • Why privacy matters more than most people realise • The 3-word philosophy Guy believes is the secret to life • How to make the world better starting small Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist of Canva, host of the Remarkable People podcast, and author of nineteen books including Everybody Has Something to Hide, Think Remarkable, and Wiser Guy. He is an adjunct professor of UC Santa Cruz, and trustee of the University of Hawaii Foundation. He was the chief evangelist of Apple, trustee of the Wikimedia Foundation, and brand ambassador of Mercedes-Benz. Kawasaki has a BA from Stanford University, an MBA from UCLA, and an honorary doctorate from Babson College. In this episode: 00:00 – What Makes Someone Remarkable? 02:30 – Meet Guy Kawasaki 05:10 – Why Personal Branding Is Backwards 09:00 – Build Accomplishments, Not Image 13:00 – Privacy Mistakes Young People Make 17:30 – Why Signal & Security Matter 22:00 – Passion vs Interests Debate 26:00 – Entrepreneurship Advice for Young People 31:40 – The Truth About Personal Brands 35:00 – “Do Good Sh*t” Philosophy 37:10 – 2 Books That Changed Guy’s Life 40:10 – Advice to His 18-Year-Old Self 41:59 – How to Make the World Better 43:00 – Final Thoughts & Surfing Exit AD This episode is brought to you by InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest—the perfect stay in the heart of Bucharest, where elegance meets history and luxury intertwines with charm. If this episode challenged the way you think about success, branding, or impact, share it with someone who needs it. And if it made you rethink how you approach your goals, share it with someone who needs the reminder to stop waiting and start creating. And if you’re enjoying these conversations with world-class thinkers, entrepreneurs, and authors, make sure to subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast for weekly insights on leadership, mindset, and building a meaningful life. And remember: Don’t chase being impressive. Chase being useful.

    45 min
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About

Hosted by Sonia Marta, The SMARTA Podcast features TED speakers, bestselling authors, keynote speakers, podcasters, Harvard Law lecturers and doctors of philosophy. The show provides you with all the scientifically based tools to start your journey to success. Take control of your life starting today with industry-leading experts' daily habits and the right goals you can implement today in your routine. Sonia is the Amazon bestselling co-author of 'Women Leading the Way' an award-winning author and podcaster. Find out more at www.soniamarta.com

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