Shine A Light

Christine Miles
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Shine A Light with Christine Miles is a leadership podcast about the power of listening. Hosted by keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder of The Listening Path, Christine shares practical tools and interviews with powerful communicators to help leaders ask better questions, listen to understand, and make people feel truly heard. When you shine a light, clarity emerges, culture strengthens, and performance follows.

Episodes

  1. 12H AGO

    Disrupting HR, Rewriting Workplace Culture | #12

    What if everything you've been taught about leadership, HR, and workplace culture is wrong? In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Lauran Starr—a bold, unapologetic disruptor redefining what it means to lead people and build culture. From growing up in poverty to becoming a Chief People Officer with multiple doctorates, Lauran shares how her lived experience shaped her fearless approach to challenging broken systems—and why "people and culture" must replace traditional HR if organizations want to survive. Together, they unpack the uncomfortable truth: most companies aren't struggling with communication—they're suffering from a lack of real listening, critical thinking, and accountability. And fixing it requires more than good intentions—it requires disruption with purpose. In this episode, you'll learn: Why traditional HR is becoming obsolete—and what must replace it How conflict, when handled right, becomes a catalyst for growth The difference between performative change and real transformation in culture and leadership This conversation will challenge how you think, lead, and listen—and invite you to step into a more intentional, impactful way of showing up. Because real change doesn't come from staying comfortable. It comes from shining a light on what others avoid. Host: Christine Miles – Host of Shine a Light Guest: Dr. Lauran Starr – Chief People Officer, Author, Disruptive Thought Leader

    57 min

  2. MAR 18

    Learning Is the Ultimate Career Insurance | #11

    What if the thing you think disqualifies you… is actually the start of your greatest strength? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Keith Keating, Chief Learning Officer at BDO, workforce futurist, and author of The Trusted Learning Advisor and Hidden Value. Keith shares his powerful journey from being a high school dropout navigating homelessness and self-doubt to earning a doctorate and becoming a global leader in learning and development. Together, Christine and Keith unpack why traditional ideas about success, education, and job security are rapidly changing—and why learning may be the most powerful skill you can build for the future. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why "job security" is a myth—and what actually protects your career • How learning can unlock confidence, purpose, and opportunity • The difference between the old knowledge economy and today's value economy Keith's story is proof that success isn't defined by where you start—it's defined by your willingness to keep learning and keep going. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to pivot, grow, or reinvent yourself, this conversation will change how you see your path. Connect with Us Host: Christine Miles – Creator of The Listening Path LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles/ Guest: Dr. Keith Keating – Chief Learning Officer, Workforce Futurist, Author Website: https://keithkeating.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithkeating/

    48 min

  3. MAR 11

    Why Kids (and Teams) Stop Listening | #10

    What if the biggest problem in our classrooms, companies, and families isn't communication—but the fact that no one is actually listening? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with longtime educator and school leader Sue Szczepkowski, who has spent more than 30 years shaping how students, teachers, and families learn and grow. From the athletic fields to the classroom to leadership teams, Sue shares what she's learned about building cultures where people feel seen, understood, and motivated to do their best work. Together, they unpack the hidden leadership lessons behind great teaching, why curiosity matters more than control, and what parents and leaders must understand about the modern distractions shaping today's kids. In this episode, you'll learn: Why winning isn't about the scoreboard—it's about the lessons along the way How great leaders earn trust by knowing people's stories The surprising reason teachers—and leaders—are really in sales What parents should know about screens, attention, and raising curious kids How listening and curiosity can transform classrooms, teams, and relationships If you care about leadership, parenting, education, or building stronger human connections, this conversation will challenge the way you think about listening and influence. Because when you truly understand someone's story… everything changes. Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles Connect with Sue Szczepkowski:  Lower School Head, Germantown Academy | Educator & Leadership Mentor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-szczepkowski

    53 min

  4. MAR 4

    Two Is Greater Than Four with Beth Zhang | #9

    What if the real math crisis isn't about numbers — but about identity? In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with national education leader and math expert Beth Zhang to unpack America's math crisis — and why so many of us still believe, "I'm just not a math person." Beth shares her unexpected journey from political science major to leading K–12 math transformation efforts across the country, revealing how mindset, listening, and instructional shifts can radically change outcomes for students. Together, they explore why math anxiety is often a story we inherit — and how educators, parents, and leaders can rewrite it. In this episode, you'll discover: Why "listening to" is more powerful than "listening for" answers How growth mindset transforms math identity — for kids and adults The alarming data behind America's math crisis — and what can actually fix it Why math is less about formulas and more about confidence If you've ever said, "I'm not a math person," this conversation might just change your mind. Because when we shift the narrative, we don't just improve outcomes — we unlock potential. Connect with Us: Host: Christine Miles – Creator of The Listening Path® LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemiles Guest: Beth Zhang – National Education Leader & Math Expert, Lavinia Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethzhang

    51 min

  5. FEB 25

    The Hidden Reason Transformations Fail | #8

    Most leaders think they're emotionally intelligent — the data says otherwise. In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Ekta Vyas, Chief Human Resources Officer at Keck Medical of USC and expert in organizational transformation, to unpack why emotional intelligence is declining at the exact moment leaders need it most. Drawing from global research, real-world leadership experience, and her own personal journey from India to the executive suite, Dr. Vyas reveals why EQ isn't a "soft skill," but the deciding factor in whether people — and transformations — succeed or fail. Together, Christine and Ekta explore what emotional intelligence actually is, why most leaders misunderstand it, and how listening, awareness, and intentional response can radically change outcomes at work and at home. In this episode, you'll learn: Why 70% of organizational transformations still fail The critical difference between reacting and responding How emotional intelligence shapes trust, culture, and leadership impact If you've ever wondered why smart strategies fall apart — or how to lead with clarity in emotionally charged environments — this conversation will change how you think about leadership, listening, and yourself. ✨ This is your invitation to slow down, listen deeper, and lead with intention. Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles Connect with Guest Dr. Ekta Vyas, PhD Chief Human Resources Officer, Keck Medical of USC LinkedIn: Dr. Ekta Vyas Website: https://ektavyasphd.com

    55 min

  6. FEB 18

    Stuck Is More Expensive: The Irreversible Step | #7

    What if the decision you're avoiding is the one that changes everything? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Amy Lessinger, former President of RE/MAX and creator of The Irreversible Step, to unpack how leaders make bold decisions when the stakes are high and certainty is nowhere in sight. From building a billion-dollar real estate brokerage during the Great Recession to walking away from success to find deeper impact, Amy shares what it really takes to lead with clarity, courage, and conviction. Together, Christine and Amy explore what happens when leaders slow down long enough to truly listen - to themselves, to their teams, and to what's actually true—before taking action. In this episode, you'll learn: Why indecision always carries a cost and why it gets heavier over time How listening builds performance, trust, and resilience in leaders and teams What an "irreversible step" really is and how to take the right one If you're standing at a crossroads, feeling stuck, or sensing it's time for a change but don't know what comes next, this conversation will help you shine a light on the decision that matters most. Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles Connect with Guest Amy Lessinger Former President of RE/MAX | Leadership & Decision-Making Strategist 🌐 https://amylesinger.com 🌐 https://theirreversiblestep.com

    40 min

  7. FEB 11

    Which Voice Are You Listening To? | #6

    What if the voice guiding your life isn't the one you should trust? In this powerful conversation, Christine Miles sits down with bestselling author and intuition teacher Happy Ali, whose life was transformed by a near-death experience at 17—and later tested by unimaginable loss. Happy shares how learning to distinguish between the soul, the mind, and the body can change how we make decisions, heal from trauma, and create a life rooted in clarity instead of fear. Together, Christine and Happy explore why most people think they're listening—to others and themselves—but are actually following the wrong signals, and how self-awareness becomes the gateway to real transformation. In this episode, you'll learn: How to tell the difference between intuition, fear, and conditioning Why your brain is constantly reinforcing what you already believe How conscious listening can shift your choices, energy, and direction If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure which inner voice to trust, this episode will help you shine a light on what's really guiding you—and choose differently.   Connect with Christine  Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles Connect with the Guest Happy Ali Bestselling Author & Creator of Soul Tapping 🌐 https://happyinsights.net

    42 min

  8. FEB 4

    What a Near-Death Experience Revealed | #5

    A single moment can rewrite everything you believe about life — and Ray Catania learned that firsthand. After surviving a near-death experience at 20, Ray spent decades wrestling with what he saw, felt, and understood on the other side. That journey eventually unlocked intuitive abilities, a new understanding of consciousness, and a mission to help people break free from the subconscious patterns that limit them. In this conversation, Ray and Christine explore how trauma, belief, and perception shape our lives — and how we can rewrite the story. In this episode, Ray shares: How his NDE shattered atheism and opened intuitive abilities Why most of our decisions come from subconscious programming His "Say It Three Ways" method for manifesting real change How emotion and frequency shape what you attract The courage required to pursue your true path Ray's story is a reminder that you can retrain your mind, reshape your life, and become truly limitless — if you're willing to listen within. Connect with Ray Catania: Website: raycatania.com Books & Programs: The Atheist and the Afterlife, You're Still Alive—Now Act Like It, Say It Three Ways Course Connect with Host Christine Miles: Website: christinemiles.com Instagram: @christinemiles

    33 min

  9. JAN 28

    Leading With Heart in the Age of AI | #4

    AI may be transforming marketing, but the teams behind it still rise—or fall—on human connection. In this episode, two-time CMO and AI-driven go-to-market strategist Lisa Sharapata shares how her early dream of becoming an astronaut unexpectedly shaped her leadership philosophy, her career in marketing, and her ability to align teams like mission control. Lisa opens up about using AI responsibly, fostering psychological safety, and the real conversations leaders must have to bring out the best in their people. In this conversation, Lisa and Christine explore: How AI is reshaping the buyer's journey—and why humans matter more than ever What great leaders do to build cultures of accountability and trust Practical ways to create psychological safety and unlock team innovation Lisa's story is a reminder that when leaders explore boldly and communicate authentically, teams can achieve lift-off together. Tune in to be inspired. Connect with Lisa Sharapata: LinkedIn: lisasharapata

    41 min

  10. JAN 21

    The Curse of Good Enough: Breaking Free from "Success" | #3

    What if the life that looks perfect on paper is quietly draining your soul? In this powerful conversation, Jeff Munn—a former lawyer turned transformational coach—opens up about the invisible walls that keep high achievers trapped in careers and relationships that no longer fit. From panic attacks in law school to the courage to walk away from "good enough," Jeff shares how learning to listen to himself changed everything. Together, he and Christine Miles unpack what it really means to live authentically, how fear disguises itself as practicality, and why calm doesn't mean losing your edge. Key Takeaways: Why "success" can become its own kind of prison The moment Jeff found the courage to be disliked How calm and creativity can coexist in high-performance lives This episode will make you pause, reflect, and ask yourself: What's that thing you know you need to do? 🎙 Guest: Jeff Munn — Transformational Coach & Creator of "Extraordinary Futures" 🔗 linkedin.com/in/jeffmunn 🌟 Host: Christine Miles — CEO of EQuipt and Creator of "The Listening Path" 🔗 christinemiles.com

    46 min

  11. JAN 14

    Slow Down to Speed Up Your Leadership | #2

    What if the fastest way to change your culture is to stop rushing through the conversations that matter most? In this episode, Christine Miles—author, keynote speaker, and creator of The Listening Path—shares a powerful real-world story of an HR team that went from burnout and frustration to becoming strategic leaders inside their organization. Through practical tools, honest reflection, and a transformative "slow down to speed up" mindset, Christine reveals how listening to understand can shift credibility, rebuild trust, and unlock true influence. Key Takeaways: Why most teams start conversations "in the middle"—and how to get the full story The six essential questions that uncover what people really mean How leaders can earn credibility through understanding, not force A real example of listening tools solving a high-stakes crisis By the end, you'll see how shining a light on the whole story changes the way people relate, communicate, and lead.

    25 min

  12. JAN 7

    Why Listening Fails and How to Fix It | #1

    What if everything you've been taught about listening is wrong? In this powerful episode, Christine Miles—therapist turned executive coach and creator of The Listening Path—reveals how a childhood shaped by her mother's hidden pain taught her the deeper truth about human connection. She shares the emotional story behind her life's work and breaks down the three steps that transform listening from a passive habit into a leadership superpower. You'll learn why most people start their stories in the middle, why "I understand" almost never communicates understanding, and how shining a light on someone's experience can change the way you lead, parent, and connect. In this episode, Christine breaks down: The emotional moment that revealed the high cost of not listening Why only 2% of people have formal listening training The 3-step Listening Path that helps teams communicate with clarity How to uncover insights people can't articulate themselves Why real listening isn't silence — it's direction If you want to build stronger teams, deeper relationships, and a more aligned culture, this conversation will change how you communicate forever.

    23 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Shine A Light with Christine Miles is a leadership podcast about the power of listening. Hosted by keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder of The Listening Path, Christine shares practical tools and interviews with powerful communicators to help leaders ask better questions, listen to understand, and make people feel truly heard. When you shine a light, clarity emerges, culture strengthens, and performance follows.

Information

  • Creator
    Christine Miles
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Shine A Light