The Tessa Tubbs Podcast

Tessa Tubbs
  • 5.0 (3)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

My podcast is dedicated to mid-level and senior professionals aspiring to become exceptional leaders. In-Depth Solo Episodes and Expert Interviews The podcast features in-depth solo episodes, expert interviews, and panel discussions focusing on leadership development, coaching, and personal growth. Evolving Content for Comprehensive Perspectives Initially focusing on solo narratives, the podcast evolves to include diverse perspectives from leading professionals, enriching the listener’s experience with varied insights. Practical Insights for Leadership Transformation https://tessatubbs.com

  1. The Most Productive Thing You’re Not Doing with guest Adam Tanaka

    16H AGO

    The Most Productive Thing You’re Not Doing with guest Adam Tanaka

    Burnout is normalized. Productivity is glorified. And many high-functioning people are quietly exhausted, doing all the “right” things while sensing something is off. In this episode of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast, Tessa sits down with Adam Tanaka: founder, serial entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and a vocal challenger of burnout culture who helps leaders rediscover unstructured play as a catalyst for creativity, collaboration, and mental wellbeing. After building and selling his first company after 17 years, Adam expected celebration, but instead found himself pulled back into the same overwork rhythm. What followed became a defining reset: a mirror from his partner, a trip to Iceland, and a moment of breaking down in a rental car surrounded by breathtaking beauty, realizing he was losing his sense of self. Together, Tessa and Adam explore: The identity trap of “Founder Adam” and the journey back to Kid Adam: adventure, freedom, creativity Why the path to thriving as an adult sometimes starts by reconnecting with who you were as a kid How to stop waiting for permission or validation and make choices from agency instead The daily “Take Five” practice: five minutes of play with no end result, just nervous-system relief and reset Why environment matters, and what it looks like to choose a new season (including Adam’s move from Nashville to Asheville) This episode is an invitation to slow down long enough to notice what’s asking for your attention, name one truth you’ve been avoiding, and take one small step toward a life built with intention instead of autopilot. 🔗 Connect with Adam Website: https://adamtanaka.comKids brand: https://cavehousesupply.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamtanaka/Instagram: @adamtanaka

    37 min
  2. Leading Yourself Through Discomfort: Stay Present, Stop Avoiding

    MAR 3

    Leading Yourself Through Discomfort: Stay Present, Stop Avoiding

    In this solo episode of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast, Tessa shares practical, real-life strategies for leading yourself through discomfort without numbing out, spiraling, or escaping into overwork, overeating, shopping, scrolling, or people-pleasing. You’ll learn how to tell the difference between: Moments where you need to stay present and work the plan, and Moments where you genuinely need to soothe your system and regroup Tessa walks through her personal “go-to” tools, including: Changing your scenery to reset your nervous system Warmth and touch cues (a warm mug, a soft blanket) to calm the body and stay grounded Journaling to get thoughts out of your head and back into reality (and rewrite the narrative) Talking it out with a trusted person, and how AI can support reflection in the moment Prayer as an anchor for those who are people of faith If you’ve been trying to “push through” discomfort by outrunning it, this episode will help you build self-leadership that’s honest, grounded, and sustainable. 🎧 Listen now and practice staying present, telling the truth, and choosing what you need on purpose.

    4 min
  3. Who Are You After the Defining Moment with Former First-Round NFL Draft Pick Dr. Kevin Dyson

    FEB 24

    Who Are You After the Defining Moment with Former First-Round NFL Draft Pick Dr. Kevin Dyson

    This season of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast marks a shift. We’re moving beyond tactics and titles and into Self-Leadership: how we come to know ourselves accurately, take ownership of our choices, and live in alignment with what we know to be true. In this episode, Tessa sits down with Dr. Kevin Dyson, former NFL wide receiver turned educator, leader, and founder. While Kevin is widely known for unforgettable moments on the field, this conversation focuses on what he’s built beyond the spotlight: a life shaped by growth, humility, reinvention, and service. Together, they explore: How early lessons from Kevin’s mother shaped his work ethic and values (and why “you can’t skip steps” still matters) What happens when you achieve the dream early, and then have to start over at 30 The identity shift from public success to purpose, impact, and legacy in education How adversity and career-ending injuries created perspective and reinvention Why “letting go” of past hurts, guilt, resentment, and self-punishment is often the doorway to growth Kevin also shares the “full circle” moment of keeping a promise he made at 12 years old: using his success to create stability and freedom for his mom. This is a powerful conversation about choice, identity, legacy, and becoming—and an invitation to take one honest step toward alignment. Learn more about Kevin’s work: Kevin Dyson: https://kevindyson.comMusic City Academy: https://musiccityacademy.org (donate + learn more)Social media: @ktdyson87

    46 min
  4. 3 Myths That Hold Us Back From Receiving Feedback with Nigel Bristow

    JAN 15

    3 Myths That Hold Us Back From Receiving Feedback with Nigel Bristow

    🎙️ Episode Description: 3 Myths That Hold Us Back From Receiving Feedback (with Nigel Bristow) Feedback can be one of the most powerful accelerators of leadership growth… and one of the most emotionally complicated. In this episode of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast, Tessa is joined by Nigel Bristow (bestselling author, speaker, and feedback thought leader, and author of Feedback Breakthrough) for a practical, deeply human conversation about why receiving feedback is often harder than giving it and how to build the resilience to use feedback as fuel instead of friction. Together, they unpack three common myths that keep leaders stuck, defensive, or discouraged and offer reframes and practices to help you approach feedback with more clarity, humility, and confidence. Why even confident, self-aware leaders still struggle to receive feedback well How “inaccurate” feedback can still be useful and reveal your real-world impact Why discomfort doesn’t mean failure; it often means growth is happening Practical ways to build resilience so feedback becomes a source of strength, not stress If you’ve ever felt your nervous system spike when feedback comes your way, this episode will help you shift from protecting your ego to growing your leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why even confident, self-aware leaders still struggle to receive feedback well How “inaccurate” feedback can still be useful and reveal your real-world impact Why discomfort doesn’t mean failure; it often means growth is happening Practical ways to build resilience so feedback becomes a source of strength, not stress If you’ve ever felt your nervous system spike when feedback comes your way, this episode will help you shift from protecting your ego to growing your leadership. About Nigel: Nigel Bristow has a bachelor’s degree in economics and a master’s in organizational behavior. As the founder of Targeted Learning, Nigel had the privilege of consulting with, and developing leadership programs for, several outstanding Fortune 500 companies, including 3M, Microsoft, Boeing, Textron, and ConocoPhillips. Nigel retired several years ago after selling Targeted Learning—only to come out of retirement in 2025 with the publication of his best-selling book, The Feedback Breakthrough: Harness the Gift of Feedback and Bring Your A-Game to Life. Nigel is currently the founder and president of Feedback HQ, LLC. The mission of Feedback HQ is to help leaders harness the power of feedback to win—as individuals, teams, and organizations.  FdbkHQ.com

    47 min
  5. 360° Feedback That Drives Real Change

    11/12/2025

    360° Feedback That Drives Real Change

    Most leaders have experienced a 360° feedback process — but how often does it actually change behavior? In this episode of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast, Tessa sits down with Bruce Bennett, Founder and CEO of Star 360 Feedback, to explore how to turn data into meaningful development. With decades of experience designing feedback systems for organizations worldwide, Bruce has helped transform how leaders interpret and act on feedback. Together, they unpack: Why most 360° processes fail to drive change — and how to fix them. How to integrate action planning into every stage of feedback. The importance of starting with strengths to build confidence and momentum. A powerful story of how a Nobel Prize–winning scientist transformed his leadership habits through intentional practice. Practical ways to turn insights into 30-, 60-, and 90-day growth plans that actually stick. Whether you’re a leader, coach, or HR professional, this conversation will change how you view feedback — not as criticism, but as a catalyst for growth. 🎧 Listen now to learn how to make feedback meaningful, actionable, and transformative. 📘 Get the free resource: Unlock the 360° Feedback That Drives Real Change Resource Guide → https://tessatubbs.com/360-degree-feedback-that-drives-real-change-resource-guide/ About Bruce: Bruce Bennett, founder and CEO of STAR360feedback, has spent decades at the forefront of innovation in feedback systems and leadership development. He’s partnered with hundreds of organizations worldwide to design evidence-based technologies and feedback processes that drive measurable, lasting behavioral change. Widely recognized as an expert in turning insight into action, Bruce knows how to transform feedback into lasting growth for leaders and organizations alike. Guest Links: 🌐 Star 360 Feedback 📺 Star 360 YouTube Channel 📍Bruce's LinkedIn

    31 min
  6. Leading Your Career with Intention with Gavin Naimer

    10/14/2025

    Leading Your Career with Intention with Gavin Naimer

    How do you lead your career—before it leads you? In this episode of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast, Tessa sits down with Gavin Naimer, Founder and President of Granite International Executive Search, to explore what it means to approach your career with clarity, courage, and intention. With decades of experience helping senior executives navigate high-stakes transitions, Gavin shares practical wisdom on how to: Identify what truly energizes and satisfies you in your work. Have honest career conversations—especially when your manager isn’t supportive. Build trusted networks both inside and outside your organization. Involve your family early when major career decisions are on the table. Make smart pivots—even when it means taking a step sideways or back to move forward. This episode is filled with grounded, actionable advice for anyone who’s ever felt “stuck” or uncertain about what’s next. Whether you’re an emerging leader or a seasoned executive, Gavin’s perspective will help you align your work with your values—and your ambition with your authentic self. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to lead your career with greater purpose, balance, and intentionality. Download the free companion resource "Leading Your Career Before It Leads You: A practical guide to taking charge of your professional journey" https://tessatubbs.com/leading-your-career-before-it-leads-you-guide/ About Gavin Naimer: Gavin is the Founder and President of Granite International Executive Search, a retained executive search firm specializing in hiring senior executives for the insurance industry. Granite international conducts global and North American searches for its clients across all corporate functions. Over the years, Gavin has recruited many accomplished leaders, enabling his clients to drive innovation, remain competitive, and achieve their business goals.   Gavin established Granite International over 20 years ago with a commitment to providing trusted counsel to clients in senior leadership recruitment and offering candid advice to candidates in the management of their careers. Gavin previously held senior positions at both boutique and global executive search firms. He began his career as a trial lawyer at a highly respected Toronto law firm.   Gavin holds a BA with Great Distinction in Political Science from McGill University, along with dual law degrees in Civil and Common Law from McGill’s Faculty of Law. He is also a member of the Law Society of Ontario. Outside the boardroom, Gavin is passionate about education and community service — having served on the Board of Directors at Leo Baeck Day School and chaired its Human Resources Committee. He has also been an avid coach of youth hockey and basketball. Visit www.graniteintl.com to learn more about Granite International Executive Search

    32 min

  7. 09/30/2025 · BONUS

    How Do We Engage Employee Well-Being?

    In this solo episode of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast, Tessa explores how leaders can move beyond surface-level benefits and meaningfully invest in the health, happiness, and engagement of their teams. Especially in hybrid and remote workplaces, connection and intentionality matter more than ever. You’ll learn: Why well-being begins with relationships and trust. How to support the whole person at every stage of their career. Why loneliness has become a workplace epidemic—and what leaders can do about it. Practical steps to create environments where employees feel seen, valued, and motivated to thrive. Whether you’re leading a large organization or a small team, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you engage employee well-being in ways that improve both culture and performance. 🎧 Tune in now and discover how to lead with greater care and intentionality.

    3 min

  8. 09/22/2025

    What Really Keeps Me Motivated

    What keeps you going when the challenges keep stacking up? In this solo special episode of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast, Tessa pulls back the curtain on what truly fuels her motivation. Spoiler: it’s not hustle or external rewards—it’s the play of strategic thinking. From solving complex problems over a cup of coffee to navigating client resistance, entrepreneurship, and even family dynamics, Tessa reveals why leaning into complexity actually unlocks her creativity. You’ll discover: How creativity emerges when you stop chasing it. Why complexity can be a playground instead of a burden. Practical ways to create space for reflection, problem-solving, and breakthrough insights. Whether you’re leading a team, growing a business, or managing life’s messy dynamics, this episode offers fresh perspective on how to stay energized and engaged in the face of complexity. 🎧 Listen now and explore what might keep you motivated when things get challenging.

    3 min
See All (32)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

My podcast is dedicated to mid-level and senior professionals aspiring to become exceptional leaders. In-Depth Solo Episodes and Expert Interviews The podcast features in-depth solo episodes, expert interviews, and panel discussions focusing on leadership development, coaching, and personal growth. Evolving Content for Comprehensive Perspectives Initially focusing on solo narratives, the podcast evolves to include diverse perspectives from leading professionals, enriching the listener’s experience with varied insights. Practical Insights for Leadership Transformation https://tessatubbs.com

Information

  • Creator
    Tessa Tubbs
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Tessa Tubbs
  • Show Website
    The Tessa Tubbs Podcast