On the Brink with Andi Simon

Andi Simon
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On the Brink with Andi Simon

On The Brink is a podcast where the goal is to help you better "see, feel and think" about your business, your job, your personal life and your purpose. There will be great interviews and conversations with people who are deeply involved in change—consultants, change agents, managers transforming their teams, entrepreneurs just starting out and CEOs running well-established companies.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    How Can Dr. Robin Hills Teach You How to Grow Your Emotional Intelligence?

    Welcome to On the Brink with Andi Simon, the podcast dedicated to helping you see, feel, and think in new ways so you can thrive in today’s fast-changing world. Each episode, we bring stories and insights designed to spark innovation and personal growth. This episode explores the transformative power of emotional intelligence (EI), featuring insights from a renowned business psychologist, Dr. Robin Hills, who has impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands across the globe. In this episode of "On the Brink," we talk with Dr. Hills, a business psychologist and director of "EI4Change," about the crucial role of emotional intelligence (EI) in today's tech-driven world. We explore how EI aids personal and professional growth, especially amidst AI advancements and the pandemic's impact. Robin shares his journey into EI, emphasizing its importance in navigating emotions and relationships. Of great importance in understanding EI today is the generational challenges, the influence of technology on emotional skills, and the need for comprehensive EI education. The episode underscores the irreplaceable human qualities of empathy, creativity, and emotional awareness. If you prefer to watch the video, click here: Let’s dig further into EI. Emotional intelligence is about being smart with your feelings—combining thinking and emotions to make sound decisions and build authentic relationships. At its core, it involves self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. Developing EI is a lifelong journey, and it starts with recognizing your emotions and understanding how they influence your decisions and relationships. With practice, individuals can learn to respond wisely to emotions, even in challenging situations. Emotional Intelligence is essential to succeed in today's fast-changing world. In today’s world, EI plays a critical role in navigating the complexities of life and work. As technology continues to advance, our emotional intelligence becomes even more essential, setting us apart from artificial intelligence. While AI can enhance our capabilities, it cannot replicate human creativity, empathy, or the ability to build meaningful connections. By embracing technology as a complement to our human skills, we can unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. Developing EI requires a conscious effort to manage distractions, such as digital devices, and prioritize real-world interactions. It’s important to foster emotional learning at all stages of life and create environments that value and nurture emotional intelligence. This includes teaching children the importance of empathy and social skills, as well as encouraging adults to reflect on their behaviors and adapt to changing circumstances. Key takeaways from this episode include: Cultivate self-awareness by regularly reflecting on your emotions and behaviors. Practice self-regulation by pausing before reacting and choosing responses that align with your values. Foster empathy and connection by actively listening and seeking to understand others. Listeners are encouraged to explore additional resources on emotional intelligence and consider how they can apply these principles in their own lives. Dr. Hills has two books available: "The Authority Guide to Emotional Resilience in Business" and "The Authority Guide to Emotional Resilience in Business," both published in The Authority Guide Series. By improving your emotional intelligence, you can lead more effectively, build stronger relationships, and adapt to the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. Thank you for joining this episode of On the Brink with Andi Simon. Remember, change begins with seeing, feeling, and thinking differently. For more insights, explore books like On the Brink, Rethink, and Women Mean Business. Together, let’s turn observations into innovations and unlock our potential for growth and success. Until next time, have a wonderful day! Reach out and contact us if you want to see how a little anthropology can help your business grow.  Let's Talk! From Observation to Innovation,   Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    35 min

  2. 4 DAYS AGO

    Join Kevin Cirilli to Meet the Future

    In this compelling episode of On the Brink with Andi Simon, I welcome Kevin Cirilli, a visiting media fellow at the Atlantic Council, an accomplished journalist, and a futurist thinker and founder of mtf.tv's meet the future.. Kevin shares his remarkable journey from a young journalist covering high-profile stories to becoming a thought leader in technology, and global innovation, and creator of mtf.tv's meet the future. Our conversation is further enriched by the presence of Edie Fraser, my co-author of Women Mean Business, who introduces Kevin with a heartfelt endorsement of his forward-thinking leadership. A Journey Rooted in Integrity and Passion Kevin begins by recounting his upbringing in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, where he developed an early fascination with news, technology, and storytelling. His journey into journalism was unexpected but transformative. While attending Penn State University, he joined the Daily Collegian, where he discovered his passion for reporting. Covering crime stories and student government campaigns, Kevin honed his storytelling skills and learned the importance of trust and integrity in journalism. He shares a pivotal moment when his coverage of the Penn State child abuse scandal led to his first professional opportunity with Politico. Despite initial challenges, Kevin’s dedication to seeing stories through to completion—and his commitment to truth—earned him recognition as a rising star in journalism. If you prefer to watch our podcast, click here: The Unexpected Path to Covering Trump Kevin discusses his unique experience covering Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. What began as an assignment to cover Trump’s hacked Twitter account evolved into a historic role as he followed the candidate across the country. Kevin shares anecdotes about the whirlwind nature of Trump rallies and the moment he realized the profound impact of his reporting when Trump won the presidency. He reflects on his time as Bloomberg’s Chief Washington Correspondent, where he reported on the intersection of global business and politics, gaining unparalleled insights into world affairs. A Shift Toward Geopolitics and Technology As Kevin’s career progressed, he felt a growing desire to explore broader issues beyond traditional politics. His fellowship with the Atlantic Council allowed him to focus on the intersection of geopolitics, technology, and security. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how emerging technologies like AI, space exploration, and quantum computing are reshaping global dynamics. Kevin advocates for freedom and ethical innovation, stressing the need to ensure that the creators of critical technologies share democratic values. Introducing “Meet the Future” Kevin introduces his latest venture,, mtf.tv's meet the future, a platform dedicated to fostering dialogue about the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. Initially starting as a mentorship program,  mtf.tv's meet the future has quickly established itself at the intersection of all things future -- markets, crypto, robots, space, quantum computing, workforce, artificial intelligence, and more. His newsletter mtf NOW is one of the most read daily future tipsheets and mtf's young professionals fellowship program mentors students from five different universities. mtf has partnered with tech platforms, think tanks, non-profits, and media platforms. Kevin says the mission for mtf.tv's meet the future is clear: embrace freedom to meet the future's challenges and opportunities. He envisions mtf.tv's meet the future as a platform that inspires the next generation of leaders while sparking meaningful conversations about the technologies shaping our lives. Kevin Cirilli's  Passion for Storytelling In a surprising twist, Kevin reveals his foray into theater with the creation of a new play, The Man in the Red Hat. This creative endeavor reflects his deep commitment to storytelling and his belief in the power of narrative to inspire change. While details remain under wraps, Kevin describes the writing process as a joyful and transformative experience, offering a new medium for him to explore his ideas. Lessons and Takeaways Throughout the episode, Kevin shares valuable lessons from his journey: Follow Your Interests: Pursue what excites you, even if the path is unconventional. Embrace Change: Be willing to pivot when opportunities arise. Prioritize Integrity: Success comes from staying true to your values. Have Fun: Joy and passion are essential for long-term fulfillment. Final Reflections As the conversation concludes, Andi and Edie celebrate Kevin’s inspiring vision for the future. They highlight his ability to translate complex global issues into accessible insights, emphasizing the importance of embracing freedom, innovation, and collaboration. Kevin’s journey, filled with unexpected doors and transformative experiences, serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on shaping the future. To learn more about Kevin Cirilli and subscribe to his Meet the Future newsletter, visit MTF.tv. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in geopolitics, technology, and the transformative power of storytelling. Kevin Cirilli’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge, making it a perfect fit for the On the Brink with Andi Simon audience. Reach out and contact us if you want to see how a little anthropology can help your business grow.  Let's Talk! From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    52 min

  3. 12/29/2024

    Jennifer Leslie: Transform your Business with Self Awareness

    Self-awareness is a game-changer in leadership, and Jennifer Leslie is proof of that. In this episode, Jennifer, a human resources executive, author, and meditation teacher, shares her inspiring journey and groundbreaking work in creating conscious leadership programs. Her message is simple but powerful: to lead others effectively, you must first understand and lead yourself. Jennifer's unique perspective on leadership, rooted in her early career in catering and event management, is truly enlightening. Managing teams of up to 250 individuals, she developed a fascination with understanding people’s strengths and creating environments where everyone could thrive. Transitioning into HR, Jennifer combined her operational expertise with a deep passion for empowering individuals to excel. Check out Jennifer's video podcast here:  Five years ago, Jennifer's leadership approach underwent a pivotal transformation when she enrolled in the Inner MBA program. This collaborative initiative by Sounds True, NYU, and Wisdom 2.0 emphasizes conscious business practices, encouraging leaders to prioritize self-care as a foundation for better leadership. Jennifer took this mindset back to her organization, where she developed a 12-workshop leadership program designed to foster listening, tough conversations, and feedback skills—cornerstones of effective leadership in today’s fast-paced workplace. Jennifer's workshops play a crucial role in empowering leaders to navigate the pressures of modern work environments. She observes that leaders are often afraid to confront tough situations, but Jennifer’s workshops equip them to face challenges with courage and authenticity. By teaching leaders to embrace discomfort, Jennifer ensures they can have honest, impactful conversations that drive growth and build trust. Jennifer's work is a testament to the power of collaboration. In addition to her workshops, Jennifer contributed to the book Leading with Self-Awareness, a collaborative effort by the Changing Work Collective. In her chapter, Jennifer shares a transformative moment that occurred while listening to a sermon from her father, an Episcopal priest. Inspired by the phrase “Be bold,” she reexamined her career and committed to stepping outside her comfort zone. Her chapter provides practical tools to help others do the same, making the book a powerful resource for anyone seeking personal and professional growth. Jennifer’s story reminds us that leadership is not just about commanding teams but about creating connections, fostering inclusion, and empowering others to succeed. Her approach aligns with modern leadership principles emphasizing humility, transparency, and collaboration over command-and-control methods. For Jennifer, being bold means rethinking her leadership style and helping others reimagine theirs. She encourages leaders to ask themselves, “What are you giving up if you don’t take a step forward today?” Her message resonates in a world where work and leadership are rapidly evolving. Jennifer’s work demonstrates that conscious leadership is about more than just achieving business goals—it’s about transforming workplaces into environments where individuals can truly thrive. Her innovative leadership programs and insights from Leading with Self-Awareness provide a roadmap for anyone ready to embrace change, take bold steps, and lead with intention. Key Takeaways: Self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership. Listening and tough conversations are essential skills for creating inclusive and successful teams. Being bold means stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing change with courage. Leadership is about creating environments where everyone feels valued and can contribute their best. Reach out and contact us if you want to become a woman entrepreneur with a business that has both great profits and significance.  Let's Talk! From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Award-Winning Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    29 min

  4. 12/16/2024

    Sue Willoughby: Transforming Lives with Equus Coaching

    This podcast for On the Brink with Andi Simon is about how Sue Willoughby helps women over 40 transform their lives using her approach, Equus Coaching.Sue Willoughby is on a mission to help women over 40 tackle their challenges and build better lives. Through her business, Willoughby Coaching, she uses a unique method called Equus Coaching, where clients work with horses to learn more about themselves. These sessions focus on non-verbal communication, leadership, and personal growth, helping women make big changes in their lives. Sue Willoughby's Journey to Equus Coaching has not been Easy Sue’s journey hasn’t been easy. She grew up with a single parent who struggled with alcoholism. This taught her to be strong and face tough situations, even when she didn’t feel confident. Coming out as gay at 17 was another challenge, and by 19, she faced such deep struggles that she attempted suicide. For a while, her life felt like it was spinning out of control. Things turned around in the 1990s when Sue met her partner. They moved across the country, and Sue started to rebuild her life. She went back to school, found a new career, bought a home, and became a real estate investor. During this time, she reconnected with her love for horses, which had always been a source of comfort during tough times. Her Goal is to Guide Other Women Today, Sue uses what she’s learned to guide others. Through Equus Coaching, she helps women understand themselves better and overcome what’s holding them back. Horses, she says, are amazing teachers because they respond to how we act and feel, even when we don’t say a word. Sue also practices what she teaches. She’s done all kinds of exciting things, like being a DJ, stand-up comedian, actor, pilot, and Roller Derby referee. These experiences help her connect with her clients, showing them how stepping out of their comfort zones can lead to amazing growth. Now living near Seattle, Sue shares her life with a horse named Moose, two Dachshunds named Benny and Buddy, and a VW Bus she calls Arlo. Her story is proof that it’s never too late to make a change and live the life you want. If you prefer to watch our podcast, click here Other Podcasts you will enjoy include: 411: TaRita Johnson Tackling the Challenges of DEI and Belonging 406: The Greatest Journey of a Woman Entrepreneur in Mental Health: Dr. Barbara Brown’s Story 414: Ilene Rosenthal: Inspiring a Revolution in Children’s Education Additional resources for you My two award-winning books: Rethink: Smashing The Myths of Women in Business and On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights Our latest book, Women Mean Business: Over 500 Insights from Extraordinary Leaders to Spark Your Success, coauthored with Edie Fraser and Robyn Freedman Spizman Our website: Simon Associates Management Consultants Reach out and contact us if you want to become a woman entrepreneur with a business that has both great profits and significance.  Let's Talk! From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    30 min

  5. 12/09/2024

    Lotus Buckner

    In this episode of On the Brink with Andi Simon, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lotus Buckner, founder and CEO of HLB Talent Solutions and author of The Joy of HR. Lotus is a dynamic leader in the human resources field with experience spanning corporate environments, startups, and everything in between. Her insights on HR's evolution and intentional leadership are essential for understanding today’s workplace. Lotus Buckner's Transformational HR Journey Lotus’s path to HR began during college when she stumbled upon a management and HR concentration. After taking her first HR class, she discovered her passion and launched a career that has spanned nonprofits, healthcare, universities, and startups. Her first role at a nonprofit hospital turned into an 11-year journey where she advanced from intern to head of HR, managing significant growth and leading efforts through the COVID-19 pandemic. Her experiences have shaped her understanding of how HR functions differ across industries. From resource-heavy corporations to scrappy startups, she emphasizes how organizations require distinct approaches to people management. This adaptability is a key theme in her book. If you prefer to watch our podcast, click here: Finding Joy In the Corporate vs. Startup HR In larger organizations, HR often revolves around specialization, with leaders focusing on well-defined roles. In contrast, startups demand versatility and a generalist mindset, with employees wearing multiple hats. Lotus embraced this shift when she transitioned to leading HR for Chowbus, a food delivery tech startup. She describes startups as spaces where creativity and adaptability are paramount, which prepared her to establish her consulting business. During her corporate career, Lotus often encountered leaders who viewed HR as the solution to culture change. She notes, however, that true cultural shifts require the engagement of everyone in the organization, not just HR. Reach out and contact us if you need work on becoming a woman entrepreneur with a business that has both great profits and significance.  Let’s Talk! XfwsFCuF4RtszJp9ovnh   From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    36 min

  6. 12/02/2024

    Nori Jabba Shares with Women How to Master Your Voice

    I love to bring back great guests to our podcast, On the Brink with Andi Simon. Recently,  I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Nori Jabba, an insightful author, speaker, and advocate for empowering women through their communication skills. With her extensive experience and deep understanding of the challenges women face in leadership roles, Nori's insights are invaluable. In 2023, she joined our podcast to discuss her groundbreaking first book, Keeping Your Seat at the Table, which shed light on the unique obstacles women face in leadership and offered actionable strategies to overcome them. Women, It is Time to Master Your Voice Now she has a chapter in a new book, OWN YOUR STORY that is available today on Amazon and Barnes and Noble, among others. Her chapter is about how women have to go beyond finding their voice to mastering that voice. During our conversation, Nori shared her journey, highlighting the importance of resilience, confidence, and, most notably, the power of voice. Her work encourages women not only to find their voice but also to master it. This mastery, Nori argues, is essential for women to lead and influence others effectively. Her current research focuses on how the way women speak directly affects how they are perceived, heard, and followed in professional settings, providing practical strategies for improvement. One of the key takeaways from our discussion was Nori's exploration of "verbal mastery." Her latest work emphasizes that it's not just about speaking up but mastering how we communicate. Verbal mastery goes beyond just having a voice at the table. It's about how women can manage or lead depending on how they verbally present themselves—whether they speak with authority or empathy or engage others confidently or openly. This work is particularly relevant in today's professional world, where effective communication is one key essential to a woman's success. Why Mastery? People Hear What They Want To! In her chapter, Nori explains that verbal mastery matters in leadership because people hear what they want to hear. When women speak, others are constantly evaluating whether they trust them, whether they'll follow them, and whether they believe in what they're saying. The challenge for women leaders is to recognize this dynamic and adapt their communication accordingly, not only to be heard but also to inspire trust and command respect. If you prefer to watch the video, Nori Jabba: Women How to Master Your Voice Reach out and contact us if you want to become a woman entrepreneur with a business that has both great profits and significance.  Let’s Talk! From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    29 min

  7. 11/18/2024

    Kimber L. Maderazzo: A Personal Journey to Enhance the Lives of Others

    In a recent episode of On the Brink with Andi Simon, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kimber Maderazzo, a remarkable leader whose journey through the Beauty and Cosmetics industry is nothing short of inspiring. Kimber's story is one of perseverance, talent, and an unyielding drive to succeed despite daunting challenges. A Journey of Innovation and Leadership Kimber's career spans over 25 years in the Beauty and Cosmetics industry, a field where she has worn many hats—from starting out at a makeup counter at the age of 14 to eventually finding herself in the boardroom of the world's leading acne brand. Her path was not linear or easy, but it was driven by a clear vision and a love for what she does. Kimber has consistently delivered innovation-driven revenue growth throughout her career in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Fortune-ranked companies. She has successfully defended against industry giants with significantly larger budgets, staged an 8-point market share comeback, and modernized business models to resonate with younger audiences, resulting in a nine-digit top-line impact. These achievements are not just numbers on a balance sheet—they are milestones that reflect Kimber's deep understanding of market dynamics and her ability to anticipate and adapt to changes. One of the most notable aspects of Kimber's career is her success in developing global expansion strategies, particularly in the lucrative Mexican and Chinese markets. This international perspective indicates Kimber's broader approach to business—one that is calculated, focused, and always focused on the long-term impact. If you prefer to watch our podcast, click here: Finding Your Way at Every Stage in Your Life's Journey While many in the business world often rush to achieve academic credentials early in their careers, Kimber's journey was different. She earned her MBA in her 40s, long after she had already begun making significant contributions to her industry. Kimber's journey is a powerful reminder that success is not tied to a specific timeline. Her experience shows that talent, hard work, and a willingness to take calculated risks can propel you forward, even if you need to follow the traditional path. Kimber's story particularly resonates with those who may feel like they are "late bloomers." Her message is clear: it is never too late to pursue your goals, and you should always appreciate the value of your experiences, no matter when they occur in your life. Learn more about Kimber Maderazzo here: Kimber L. Maderazzo Profile: linkedin.com/in/kimbermaderazzo Website: c200.org/   Reach out and contact us if you want to become a woman entrepreneur with a business that has both great profits and significance.  Let's Talk! From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    32 min

  8. 11/10/2024

    Ilene Rosenthal: Inspiring a Revolution in Children's Education

    In a recent episode of On the Brink with Andi Simon, I welcomed Ilene Rosenthal, the visionary CEO and founder of Footsteps2Brilliance, an educational technology company redefining early literacy and financial education for students across the U.S. Ilene and I explored how technology is revolutionizing the education sector, enabling transformative learning opportunities that bridge gaps and engage students in innovative ways. Bringing Education into the Fifth Industrial Revolution Ilene’s journey led her to create “Learn With Me,” the first transmedia educational program, eventually nominated for an Emmy. This innovation bridged educational media and interactive learning, setting the foundation for Footsteps2Brilliance. With her extensive background, Ilene has scaled her vision nationwide, serving over a million children to date. She has designed the Footsteps2Brilliance platform to be device-agnostic, ensuring accessibility on smartphones, tablets, and computers—essential for reaching diverse student populations in both urban and rural communities. If you prefer to watch her video, you will love her story. Click here I you would like to listen to other podcasts about women entrepreneurs creating companies of purpose: 412: Why is the Lipstick Journey Such an Awesome Company Helping Cancer Patients Thrive 406: The Greatest Journey of a Woman Entrepreneur in Mental Health: Dr. Barbara Brown’s Story Reach out and contact us if you need work on becoming a woman entrepreneur with a business that has both great profits and significance.  Let's Talk! From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn

    34 min
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About

On The Brink is a podcast where the goal is to help you better "see, feel and think" about your business, your job, your personal life and your purpose. There will be great interviews and conversations with people who are deeply involved in change—consultants, change agents, managers transforming their teams, entrepreneurs just starting out and CEOs running well-established companies.

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