Water Cooler Wisdom

Ever found yourself in a meeting where ideas flow endlessly, but decisions seem impossible to make? Or worse—someone reopens a discussion just when you thought a decision was final? In this insightful webinar, hosts Jake Blocker and Rachael Grail introduce Open-Narrow-Close, a powerful framework that streamlines group discussions and decision-making. They'll break down how structuring conversations into three distinct phases—Opening (idea generation), Narrowing (organizing and prioritizing), and Closing (final decision-making)—can keep your team aligned, engaged, and productive. Whether you're leading strategy sessions, brainstorming new initiatives, or just trying to avoid meeting fatigue, this tool will help you make discussions more efficient and less frustrating.

In this fun and thought-provoking episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, hosts Jake Blocker and Rachael Grail take on the role of workplace trend judges in their newest segment, "Is It In or Out?" From artificial intelligence revolutionizing our workflows to the return of office Christmas parties and the evolution of the hybrid workplace, they dive into whether these trends deserve a spot on the "in" list or are better left behind. Along the way, Jake and Rachael share personal anecdotes, weigh the pros and cons, and reflect on the cultural shifts shaping modern work. Is AI really a tool for good, or does it signal darker implications? Are office holiday parties making a comeback, and do they help or hinder workplace dynamics? And is the hybrid workplace the best of both worlds, or just another compromise? Join the conversation as they debate hot-button topics with humor, insight, and a healthy dose of reality. Whether you're working from home, in the office, or somewhere in between, this episode is sure to spark a conversation around your (real or virtual) water cooler. Don't forget to subscribe to Water Cooler Wisdom and follow us for more workplace banter and insights. Let's make work, work better—together!

In this episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, hosts Jake Blocker and Rachael Grail explore the delicate art of authentic listening when tensions run high. With insights drawn from neuroscience and their own professional experiences, Jake and Rachael share practical strategies to help you stay present and collaborative, even in the most challenging discussions. Learn how to manage your physiological responses, challenge your assumptions, and use mindfulness techniques like "rubbing your fingers together" to stay grounded. They also delve into the power of curiosity, the pitfalls of over-preparation, and how self-awareness can transform your workplace dynamics. Whether you're navigating tough conversations at work or striving to create a safe and inclusive team environment, this episode is packed with actionable tips and thought-provoking perspectives. Tune in for a conversation that will leave you better equipped to handle conflicts with clarity and care.

In this IA Chat episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, Jake surprises Rachael with a lively conversation about the rise of LinkedIn influencers. Once a hub for job hunting and networking, LinkedIn has evolved into a content-driven platform. But is this shift for better or worse? Jake dives into the good, the bad, and the downright quirky aspects of LinkedIn's transformation—from valuable insights shared by industry experts to questionable clickbait posts. Together, Jake and Rachael explore how personal branding, authenticity, and algorithmic pressures are reshaping the way we interact on the platform. Tune in to hear their candid thoughts and some lighthearted takes on everything from "hustle culture" to the bizarre posts that make you go, "What even is this?" It's an honest, fun, and relatable chat about navigating the new LinkedIn landscape.

In this episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, we're kicking off a brand-new format: Tool Time! Hosts Jake Blocker and Rachael Grail break down one of Interaction Associates' most effective tools—the Building Agreements framework. Rachael guides us through this practical, four-step process designed to make collaboration seamless and agreements rock solid. Whether it's presenting a proposal, checking for understanding, securing agreement, or documenting it all, this model has you covered. Plus, we dive into real-world examples (including why airline exit rows are a masterclass in agreement building) and even tackle advanced techniques for handling disagreements. Get ready to walk away with actionable strategies that you can immediately apply at work, at home, or even at the taco stand. Tune in for your 10-minute crash course to elevate your collaboration game!

In this episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, we're joined by leadership coach Susan DeGenring to explore how the ancient traditions of mindfulness and the Enneagram can be used to enhance leadership and personal development. Susan shares insights on how these tools help leaders and individuals better understand their personality patterns, improve self-awareness, and navigate challenges in the workplace. Tune in to discover practical strategies for integrating mindfulness and the Enneagram into your leadership toolkit.

In this episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, hosts Jake Blocker and Rachael Grail explore the art of facilitation. Whether you're leading a meeting or guiding a discussion, managing group dynamics can be challenging. Rachael, a seasoned facilitator, tackles common questions about handling dominant voices, managing senior leaders in meetings, and dealing with disruptive participants. Rachael shares practical techniques to ensure every voice is heard and the discussion remains productive. She emphasizes the importance of preparation, setting clear participation guidelines, and staying curious about the group's needs. Whether you're new to facilitation or experienced, this episode offers tips to enhance your skills and create more effective meetings.

In this episode of "Water Cooler Wisdom," we sit down with Stacy Ferratti, a seasoned coach from Interaction Associates, renowned for enhancing presentation skills. Stacy delves into the challenge of stage fright, explaining its roots in our evolutionary fear of rejection and offering practical tips to overcome it. Discover why silence during presentations can feel daunting and how embracing pauses can enhance your message. Learn about the importance of body language, breathing techniques, and mental shifts that can transform your public speaking approach. Stacy shares effective strategies, such as engaging with the audience early and practicing with video feedback. Join us for this insightful conversation and equip yourself with tools to boost your confidence and effectiveness on stage. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or looking to overcome your fear of public speaking, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration to elevate your stage presence. References: Expensify [https://www.expensify.com/]

On this episode, Jake and Rachael dive into the world of corporate buzzwords, starting with the quintessential term: "Synergy." Join us as we explore the origins of this powerful word, its journey through different contexts—from theological cooperation to medical marvels and finally to the business lexicon. Jake and Rachel discuss how synergy has been both a beacon of collaborative potential and an overused crutch in corporate jargon. Through an insightful and humorous conversation, they shed light on its true meaning, its misuse, and whether it still holds relevance in today's business environment. Tune in for a refreshing take on synergy, complete with historical insights, real-world examples, and practical advice on using language more effectively in the workplace. Whether you're a synergy skeptic or a true believer, this episode promises to offer valuable perspectives and a few laughs along the way.

In this enlightening episode of "Water Cooler Wisdom," we sit down with Anne Baker, a career and performance coach with over two decades of experience. Anne shares her invaluable insights on navigating the dynamic job market, leveraging your unique superpowers, and becoming the CEO of your career. Whether you're considering a career change, seeking new opportunities, or looking to enhance your professional journey, Anne's practical advice and strategic tips will empower you to take control and thrive.  Tune in to discover how to identify your core values, build a resilient network, and effectively market yourself in today's competitive landscape. Plus, Anne discusses the impact of AI on job requirements and the hidden job market, offering a fresh perspective on finding meaningful work in an ever-evolving world. References: Getting to Yes - William Ury [https://www.williamury.com/getting-to-yes/]

Join us on "Water Cooler Wisdom" as we delve into the state of leadership coaching with Executive Coach Rachel Bassignani. Rachel, founder of Catalyst, brings her 15 years of experience in scaling global organizations to discuss the challenges leaders face today.  From layoffs and strategic shifts to the rise of AI, discover how executive coaching can empower leaders to excel amidst change. Learn how Rachel's expertise in organizational development and entrepreneurship helps high-growth tech founders and venture capital firms retain top talent. Resources Mentioned: Grammarly App [https://www.grammarly.com/] Books by Carl Jung [https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/carl-jung]

In this episode we dive into the topic of mindfulness at work with special guest Larry Rosenberg, a senior consultant at Interaction Associates. Larry brings over 30 years of experience in leadership coaching, change management, and business process improvement. Feeling overwhelmed and burnt out at work? Larry shares insights on why many of us feel constantly stressed and how mindfulness can help us regain control and improve our well-being. From defining what it means to be mindful to exploring practical tips like mindful breathing, yoga, and meditation, this episode offers valuable strategies to help you stay present and effective in your daily life. Larry also highlights the impact of chronic stress on our bodies and minds and discusses the benefits of incorporating mindfulness practices into our routines. Whether you're new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your practice, this conversation provides a comprehensive guide to managing stress and enhancing your overall productivity and health. Resources Mentioned: WorkFlowy App [https://workflowy.com/] Be Your Future Self Now by Dr. Benjamin Hardy [https://www.hayhouse.com/be-your-future-self-now-paperback] The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey [https://www.franklincovey.com/the-7-habits/]

In this episode we'll explore the challenge of giving feedback to your boss with Beth O'Neill, a seasoned coach and leader. Beth shares strategies for building trust, framing feedback effectively, and handling defensiveness. Learn to navigate this delicate process and improve your workplace communication. Tune in and enhance your workplace communication skills! References from Episode: Genius Scan App [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scanner-app-genius-scan/id377672876] Atomic Habits - James Clear [https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits]

In this episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, we welcome Jay Cone and Lisa Weaver, co-founders of Unstuck Minds, to explore the essential leadership skill of Attention Agility. Jay and Lisa bring their extensive experience in organizational change and executive coaching to discuss how leaders can adeptly navigate complex and uncertain environments. Learn about the SCAN framework, designed to enhance decision-making and strategic thinking by broadening leaders' perspectives beyond conventional approaches.  This discussion is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to lead more effectively in today's dynamic world. References in this Episode: Pi.ai (link [https://pi.ai/onboarding]) Synchronicity - Joseph Jaworski (link [https://josephjaworskisynchronicity.com/]) Man Search for Meaning - Viktor E. Frankl (link [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mans-search-for-meaning-viktor-e-frankl/1116930713])

In this episode we welcome back Chris Williams, Chief Operating Officer at Interaction Associates, to redefine what it means to be truly productive in today's fast-paced world.  Chris discusses his unique perspective on productivity as a state of achieving significant and valuable results, rather than just a measure of time spent on tasks. With intriguing examples from various industries, Chris illustrates how productivity should focus on outcomes, not just activities. Gain a fresh understanding of productivity through the "RPR framework" and how it can be applied across different sectors. Tune in to transform your approach to work and start producing results that truly matter. References for Episode: Getting Things Done - David Allen [https://gettingthingsdone.com/] Cal Newport Books [https://calnewport.com/writing/] 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey [http://www.franklincovey.com/books/the-7-habits-of-highly-effective-people/] The Four Hour Work Week - Tim Ferriss [https://fourhourworkweek.com/] Atomic Habits - James Clear [https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits] Drive - Daniel Pink [https://www.danpink.com/books/drive/]

In this enlightening episode of "Water Cooler Wisdom," we delve deep into the impactful realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives with experts Davida Sharpe and Eve Keller. Reflecting on pivotal moments like the Me Too movement and the murder of George Floyd, our guests explore how these events have reshaped organizational attitudes towards the treatment of women and people of color. This conversation navigates through the evolution of DEI efforts, the added dimension of belonging, and the tangible ways in which organizations are adapting to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment. Join us as we dissect the successes, challenges, and the path forward in embedding DEI into the corporate ethos, ensuring every voice is heard, valued, and understood. References from the episode: Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent - Isabel Wilkerson [https://www.isabelwilkerson.com/] Power of Habits - Charles Duhigg [https://www.charlesduhigg.com/the-power-of-habit] Atomic Habits - James Clear [https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits] The Compound Effect - Darren Hardy [https://store.darrenhardy.com/products/the-compound-effect]

Join us on "Water Cooler Wisdom" as we delve into visual facilitation with Rachel Thompson from Daring Studios. Rachel, a certified visual facilitator, brings meetings to life with imagery that captures and maintains attention, enhancing team collaboration. We'll explore how this innovative method can sharpen focus and enrich interaction in your sessions. Rachel's expertise, certified by the IAF and showcased through NOVAScribes Meetup, offers a new dimension to meeting engagement. Learn how to invigorate your team's dialogue at daringstudios.com and follow her at @rachelbedaring. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less - Greg McKeown [https://www.amazon.com/Essentialism-Disciplined-Pursuit-Greg-McKeown/dp/0804137382] The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters - Priya Parker [https://www.amazon.com/Art-Gathering-How-Meet-Matters-ebook/dp/B07637KVXL/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10RATU9HGWU4E&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KOZgG4amY1T_96qqiy_Yi4jeFcLd-IHYyCq76LhLsx0HuYnaGqRKAH33j5uVci7Nl_Rl79vFdrwGqwP2gGHC09oROiL-l8Wnhl4l7ZldNwfhJs3f9GXgIDthImNNO8KfaQASbYnQYkxKDkE050XE-rkEvcy6X_yxisDEhInK8a7l3SVEBNzruJc7UrG88NkpRXpKuuzSvEhJHMhV7axV7_Kx7fUUenJbzcMdtNUGlxI.fEqXUke9ePLlqyGJKWfQkM8owno6uz9uO_q4DkHmzCw&dib_tag=se&keywords=Art+of+Gathering&qid=1711675828&s=books&sprefix=art+of+gathering+%2Cstripbooks%2C674&sr=1-1] Apartment Therapy Complete and Happy Home - Maxwell Ryan, Janel Laban, Melanie Acevedo [https://www.amazon.com/Apartment-Therapy-Complete-Happy-Home/dp/0770434452] Binaural Beats: Focus Spotify Playlist [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX7EF8wVxBVhG]

In this thought-provoking episode of "Water Cooler Wisdom," hosts Rachael and Jake explore the perennial question: Could this meeting have been an email? Delving into the dynamics of modern meetings, they share their personal experiences with the highs and lows of remote work communications. The conversation takes an insightful turn with the introduction of Michael Reedy, a master facilitator from Interaction Associates. With his deep expertise in effective collaboration and communication, Michael unravels the essence of making meetings meaningful. Together, they discuss strategies for transforming meetings into powerful tools for innovation, leveraging the richness of human connection beyond the inbox. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their meeting culture and foster genuine engagement in a digital-first workplace. Leadership Without Easy Answers [https://www.amazon.com/Leadership-Without-Answers-Ronald-Heifetz/dp/0674518586] - Ronald A. Heifetz The Untethered Soul - Michael A. Singer [https://www.amazon.com/Untethered-Soul-Journey-Beyond-Yourself-ebook/dp/B003TU29WA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8LWBHN8KMTWC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lIqU7RtepCmfI4tCsuyY6eB8p0RHrZV-ZvwLw1mqzNVsxluSdaXq8dDWVwgin2vPKf09NGiIkBLmTtiv9A90g2KXhuD7nZTEdPcjx4iRMvJY58Z3uM3cPUd8rZcRRJPsmoidEXQO3JZhQ8LMOZwSDq1Nj5x2zx8OwWFEGwlayVE7SV-8UKThzfhQYn-aNnvNd6clFX8nTn34Iq7T2MSDwSxsOxXgIJGmi6gGJ6uytKI.jaEdh-ZTVswG-zVcsjwj6IEWnuZQx-Zi49RBCzbEiXk&dib_tag=se&keywords=untethered+soul+by+michael+singer&qid=1710437887&s=books&sprefix=Unteathered%2Cstripbooks%2C179&sr=1-1] The Song of Achilles - Madeline Miller [https://www.amazon.com/Song-Achilles-Enhanced-Novel-ebook/dp/B00723IP9Q/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35E7SI0QD14MC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TlHev-i_N24MIklkj1ga3DFLIBYUrAwWda7zv5uOZJ4E3Y7XUYtY6XQISVZl_oAHq0KbPzpXYDnHRhbWa8GmNu3c6jhs4uRUPHMqjDUFrH7OohDqM4688NwA7lRTjcFN_B-s3RUo8XtsqwhFTLJGORx7iJxV-SVya7bsraBGHQpdz81UmS0BdINVosMiZmp4LQjQBd2zKhOUgZM2JQPTWUebasewZmBXJYVYxcmAsBY.JEL5hsCLPkv55j_8e6VRMzKnz_IfF9IUkFW_TFvyLIk&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+song+of+achilles&qid=1710437928&s=books&sprefix=The+Song+of+A%2Cstripbooks%2C188&sr=1-1] Classical LoFI Spotify Playlist [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0ncqzBq2Bcq9eKTxqPY9jQ?si=d87871f37a2f4c29]

In this episode of Water Cooler Wisdom, we sit down with Susan DeGenring and Barry Rosen, seasoned experts in the training and development field, to dive into the heart of Collaborative Intelligence. They explore this critical aspect of modern teamwork, emphasizing the PACT framework—Purposeful, Adaptive, Considerate, and Trustworthy—as a guide to enhancing collaborative efforts in any organization. Through engaging discussion, Susan and Barry highlight the role of emotional intelligence in collaboration, the power of diverse perspectives, and effective strategies for building a culture where respect and shared objectives lead to innovation and achievement. This episode offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to improve collaborative skills and harness the collective power of teams for remarkable outcomes.

In this lively episode of "Water Cooler Wisdom," hosts Jake Blocker and Rachel Grail put the spotlight on one of "The Office"'s most memorable moments from Season 4, Episode 16: "Did I Stutter?!" Dive into the heart of workplace comedy as we dissect the dynamics between Michael Scott and Stanley, revealing the laughter and lessons buried in office conflicts. Join us as we navigate the misadventures of Dunder Mifflin's finest, exploring what happens when leadership missteps meet bold confrontations. We'll uncover the truth behind the chuckles—how direct communication, respect, and a bit of emotional intelligence can transform our work environments.