Life Fulfilled Podcast — Rethinking Leadership for Sustainable Performance

Can you be an authentic leader and still drive top performance? Host Bernie Borges explains five ways to lead with authenticity to achieve fulfilled leadership, and performance results. Watch this episode of the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube 🗝️ Here are 3 key takeaways on leading with authenticity: 1️⃣ Know and live your values: Document your core values and make decisions that reflect them. Consistency in values builds trust, inspires teams, and provides a foundation for both fulfillment and results. 2️⃣ Lead with head and heart: Go beyond the surface and build real connections. Recognize your team's humanity, invite genuine conversations, and be present for your people, not just in a performative leadership role. 3️⃣ Embrace openness and accountability: Share failures and lessons learned. Take ownership when things don’t go as planned and engage your team in honest discussions about how to improve, demonstrating that authenticity isn’t about perfection. Main takeaway:Authentic leadership is the gateway to both fulfilled teams and strong performance. Leading with presence, openness, and genuine care creates trust and inspires people to do their best work. Try the Employee Engagement Fund ROI Calculator. You’ll get a clear view of what turnover is really costing your business, and how much you could save by investing in employee engagement and retention strategies. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Music attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Bernie Borges is joined by returning guest Heike Yates, coach and author of "Pursue Your Spark." If you've ever felt stuck, burned out, or unfulfilled at work or in life, this conversation is packed with insight on how the real block might be a disconnection from your own inner spark, the energy and drive that fuels possibility. Watch this episode with visual elements for story enhancement on YouTube.  Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone ready to reclaim their spark: 1️⃣ Acknowledge Your GapMany people feel unfulfilled because there's a gap between where they are and where they want to be. Recognizing this gap is the crucial first step to moving forward. 2️⃣ Start Small and Set BoundariesProgress doesn't require huge leaps. Small, intentional actions like shifting your mindset from “I have to” to “I choose to,” or simply setting a boundary such as a hard-stop time at work can make a big difference in restoring your sense of agency. 3️⃣ Lead Yourself FirstSelf-leadership isn't about job titles, it's about influence. We're all leaders across different areas of our lives. Rediscovering your spark often begins by taking responsibility for your own choices and energy, which in turn amplifies your impact on others. 🎯 Main takeaway:If your inner spark feels dim, it’s not always about the job or other people, it’s often about how connected you are to yourself. Small steps, mindful choices, and curiosity about what’s possible can help you reignite that spark, bringing fulfillment and energy back into your work and life. Are you ready to pursue your spark?  Connect with Heike Yates  Website: https://www.heikeyates.comPursue Your Spark Book: https://heikeyates.com/midlife-mindset-book-pursue-your-spark/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heike-yates/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heikeyates/ Try the Employee Engagement Fund ROI Calculator. You’ll get a clear view of what turnover is really costing your business, and how much you could save through employee engagement and retention strategies. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Music attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch this episode of the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube Host Bernie Borges breaks down the risks of job hugging; when employees stick around not out of engagement but because leaving feels riskier than staying. He highlights how this quiet disengagement carries costs that don’t show up in retention metrics but can erode performance across the board. This episode also explores how leaders can recognize the signs, audit their teams, and invest in leadership strategies that prioritize fulfillment as a driver of sustainable results. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1️⃣ Why Disengagement Is More Dangerous than AttritionMany “job huggers” aren’t quitting or causing visible problems, but they’re also not innovating, driving outcomes, or bringing a winning mindset to work. As Bernie Borges points out, slower execution and missed goals are the warning signs you won’t catch in your standard retention metrics. 2️⃣ Job Hugging: The Hidden Behavior Costing You GrowthEmployees who stay out of risk aversion—not engagement—appear loyal but lead to “silent erosion” of business performance. You’re paying full salaries for partial output, and this cost hides inside your metrics. 3️⃣ Outdated Leadership Systems Need a RefreshOld leadership models optimized for control and compliance simply don’t cut it anymore. Fulfillment-centric leadership, as taught by Bernie Borges, treats fulfillment as the backbone of sustainable performance—fueling energy, ownership, and results. Main Takeaway:Disengagement rarely shows up in dashboards, but it’s quietly draining momentum, profit, and morale. The antidote? Shifting to a fulfillment-based leadership operating system that supports employees’ health, career, relationships, and legacy for measurable business impact. Try the Employee Engagement Fund ROI Calculator. You’ll get a clear view of what turnover is really costing your business, and how much you could save by investing in employee engagement and retention strategies. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Music attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch this episode of the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube Host Bernie Borges guides you through a conversation about the power of self-discovery as the true foundation of fulfillment far beyond changing jobs, relationships, or chasing shiny new achievements. You'll learn why transitions, not reinventions, spark the right questions; how misalignment in your core life pillars—health, family, career, relationships, and legacy—can keep you stuck; and why clarity is the missing link to moving forward.  Bernie draws on his personal journey and practical metaphors to explore how fulfillment is built from the inside out, starting with honest self-reflection and proactively clearing the "fog" that blurs your sense of self. Three key insights: 1️⃣ Fulfillment starts inside: Chasing external fixes (new job, new relationships, etc.) isn’t the answer. The real shift begins with self-discovery and getting clear on what matters most to you today. 2️⃣ Transitions trigger growth: Life’s transitions, both pleasant and challenging, are opportunities to reflect, not just react. The process of asking the right questions during these shifts helps reveal where your values and reality are misaligned. 3️⃣ Build, don’t chase, fulfillment: True fulfillment is something you build by aligning your health, career, relationships, fitness, and legacy pillars with your values. It’s a process that starts with clarity, not reinvention. Main takeaway:Don’t settle for "foggy glasses." Give yourself permission to gain clarity through self-discovery, recognize misalignments, and intentionally build the fulfillment you deserve in every area of life. Try the Employee Engagement Fund ROI Calculator. You’ll get a clear view of what turnover is really costing your business, and how much you could save by investing in employee engagement and retention strategies. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Music attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watch this episode of the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube Host Bernie Borges passionately explores what it means to be self-aware and how this crucial attribute is the foundation for authentic leadership. Challenging the common belief that leadership is tied to titles or roles, Bernie shares personal stories and powerful insights, demonstrating that real leadership starts with how you show up and influence those around you. Three key insights: 1️⃣ Leadership Starts with You: Most people think leadership is all about formal roles or titles, but Bernie reminds us that leadership begins with leading yourself. If you can’t authentically lead yourself, it’s unlikely others will follow. According to a Harvard study Bernie cites, only 15% of people are sufficiently self-aware, a skill essential for genuine leadership and influence. 2️⃣ Influence Is More Than Words: Leadership isn't limited to the C-suite. It’s about the influence you have in every setting, whether at work, at home, or in your community. Influence happens not only through what you say, but mostly in how you show up: your attitude, demeanor, and even body language. Bernie's personal stories illustrate how self-awareness can reshape the way people perceive you and the respect they give in return. 3️⃣ Authenticity Builds Trust: Sharing your challenges authentically (instead of pretending everything is fine) helps your team empathize and maintains mutual respect. Whether you’re facing a tough day due to personal stress or leading a team through a challenge, acknowledging your feelings builds trust. Bernie shares scenarios where leaders either own their feelings or suppress them, affecting team morale and trust. Main Takeaway:Being self-aware isn’t just a “nice to have”— it’s a core competency for anyone wanting to positively influence others, regardless of title. When you show up authentically and with purpose, you not only grow your own fulfillment, but you help others experience it too. Ready to lead with fulfillment?Catch the full episode for more tips, personal stories, and tools to boost your self-awareness and create a lasting positive impact wherever you lead. Try the Employee Engagement Fund ROI Calculator. You’ll get a clear view of what turnover is really costing your business, and how much you could save by investing in employee engagement and retention strategies. The Harvard study citing that only 15% of us are sufficiently self-aware.  Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Music attribution:Old Bossa Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Bernie Borges welcomes Myriam Del Angel, a trailblazing first-generation Latina leader whose journey through corporate is as inspiring as it is instructive. Born in Chicago to parents from Mexico and Colombia, Myriam shares her multicultural upbringing and the unique perspective it gave her, never feeling fully Mexican, Colombian, or American, but instead forging her own path. Their conversation explores the power of cultural intelligence in global organizations, the importance of speaking up and building confidence, and finding fulfillment in a rapidly changing workplace driven by technology and AI. Here are three key takeaways : 1️⃣ Embracing Cultural Intelligence: Success in today’s global workplace means understanding and respecting differences not just across borders, but in how we relate to each other every day. Myriam Del Angel shared how building trust and empathy allows leaders to create more inclusive and dynamic teams. 2️⃣ The Power of Resilience and Self-Advocacy: As a first-generation college graduate, Myriam Del Angel emphasized the importance of staying curious, speaking up, and seeking out mentors and sponsors. Confidence isn’t always handed to you; sometimes you have to build it yourself, one challenge at a time. 3️⃣ AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement: With HR and other fields facing disruption from AI, Myriam Del Angel pointed out that while tech can streamline processes, human connection and leadership are irreplaceable. The organizations that value both are the ones that truly thrive. Main Takeaway:This episode is a masterclass in how empathy and cultural intelligence elevate leadership in today’s complex workplace. Through Myriam Del Angel’s lived experience and HR expertise, we learn that true leadership isn’t just about strategy. It’s about understanding people. From navigating multicultural identity to building trust across global teams and embracing technology without losing the human touch, Myriam shows that empathy isn’t optional; it’s foundational to fulfilled, resilient leadership. Connect with Myriam Del Angel  Website & Book: https://www.latinasincorporate.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mdmiranda/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myriamhrlatina  Try the Employee Engagement Fund ROI Calculator. You’ll get a clear view of what turnover is really costing your business, and how much you could save by investing in employee engagement and retention strategies. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution: Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Bernie Borges is joined by Matt Poepsel, PhD, a Marine veteran, accomplished corporate leader, and author of "Expand the Circle." Three key takeaways for leaders and professionals: 1️⃣ Enlightened Leadership Requires RewiringOutdated leadership models don’t serve today’s fast-evolving world. Matt Poepsel, PhD, explained how drawing on mindfulness practices and looking beyond hierarchical thinking helps leaders find purpose and make a broader impact. 2️⃣ Self-Awareness is the Cornerstone of GrowthBoth Matt and Bernie highlighted the importance of self-awareness for leadership success. Only 10-15% of people are truly self-aware, so giving ourselves permission to look inward and accept feedback is crucial to becoming better leaders and teammates. 3️⃣ Talent Optimization Demands IntegrationSuccessful organizations blend business strategy and people practices. As Matt Poepsel, PhD, shared, optimizing talent isn’t just about performance. It’s also about engagement, well-being, and meaning at work. Main Takeaway:Lasting fulfillment and leadership impact come from cultivating self-awareness, embracing change, and expanding your sense of purpose beyond personal ambitions. How are you challenging outdated patterns in your career or leadership journey? Connect with Matt Poepsel, PhD  Website: https://www.mattpoepsel.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/  Try the Employee Engagement Fund ROI Calculator. You’ll get a clear view of what turnover is really costing your business, and how much you could save by investing in employee engagement and retention strategies. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Bernie Borges sits down with Liza Marie Garcia, a dynamic entrepreneur, publisher, marathon runner, and competitive pickleball player who brings an energetic blend of discipline, passion, and purpose to every area of her life. In this conversation, Liza Marie opens up about how fitness is far more than just a health routine; it’s a vital connector to fulfillment in her career, family, faith, and legacy. Three Key Discussion Points: 1️⃣ Fitness as a Catalyst for Success: Liza Marie shares how a lifelong commitment to sports modeled by her marathon-running father became the foundation for her professional achievements and positive mindset. Fitness isn’t an optional activity for Liza Marie; it’s a “mission-critical” component that drives her energy, discipline, and goal-setting throughout all areas of her life. 2️⃣ The Overlap of Faith, Discipline, and Career: Faith is an ever-present force for Liza Marie. She explains that her identity as a faith-based professional isn’t compartmentalized. Her values carry through the boardroom, the pickleball court, and at home. Discipline, accountability, and grace (for herself and others) are recurring themes in her business and her athletic pursuits. 3️⃣ Embracing Failure and the Power of Resilience: From losing matches to overcoming business setbacks, Liza Marie sees “failures” as crucial steps on any successful journey. Drawing parallels between sports and life, she encourages us to value the lessons from setbacks and to be grateful for every win, big or small. Main Takeaway:For Liza Marie, fitness isn’t just about staying healthy. It’s about fueling every pillar of her life. Whether it’s career, relationships, faith, or legacy, her fitness routine creates momentum, joy, and resilience. As Liza Marie puts it, fitness is her “place of happiness,” a source of energy and fun that supports everything else she does. Connect with Liza Marie Garcia Website: https://ceobookpublishing.now.site/home LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizamariegarcia/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizamariegarciaceo   Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comSubscribe to the Fulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to explore:Hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.A tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Thanksgiving week episode, host Bernie Borges explores the transformative power of thankfulness, not just as a reaction to good fortune, but as a daily mindset. Bernie shares how cultivating thankfulness can shift your perspective, help you find meaning in life’s struggles, and deepen your sense of fulfillment. Through personal reflection and practical insight, Bernie invites you to look beyond the surface of your experiences and discover the beauty in the messy, imperfect moments that shape our lives. Three Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Thankfulness Is a Choice, Not a Reaction While gratitude often follows a positive event, thankfulness is a proactive mindset that helps you appreciate life, even in its most difficult seasons. 2️⃣ Fulfillment Is Found in the Journey, Not Just the Milestones Bernie shares a personal story of sacrifice and perseverance, revealing how moments of struggle can become the most deeply fulfilling chapters of your life. 3️⃣ Daily Thankfulness Enhances Emotional and Physical Wellbeing Research supports that consistent thankfulness leads to better health, stronger relationships, and greater life satisfaction, making it a key to a fulfilled life. Main TakeawayThankfulness is a mindset that empowers you to find meaning and fulfillment in every stage of life, even during setbacks. By choosing to see beauty in the messiness, you shift from scarcity to abundance, from striving to appreciating. This daily posture of thankfulness becomes a powerful foundation for living a truly fulfilled life, rooted not in perfection but in presence and perspective. Ready to unlock more clarity and fulfillment?Get your free copy of the guide. Carve out a few minutes this week for yourself, and see what insights await you. Connect with Bernie Borges Book Bernie Borges to speak at your next offsite or leadership event: https://fulfilledatworkacademy.com/speaking/  LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest episode, host Bernie Borges invites you into a crucial conversation about self-awareness, why it's vital for effective leadership, and how you can develop this skill for more fulfillment in every area of your life. Three key discussion points from the episode: 1️⃣ The Surprising Self-Awareness Gap Among LeadersAccording to a Harvard Business Publishing study, only 10–15% of people are sufficiently self-aware, with less than a 30% correlation between actual and self-perceived competence. This gap negatively impacts decision-making, collaboration, and conflict management, whether at work, at home, or in your community. 2️⃣ The Values and Fulfillment Alignment GuideBernie shares his own journey, revealing that even when external life looked successful, he felt “off.” This led him to create the Values and Fulfillment Alignment Guide, a framework to help you rate fulfillment across health, fitness, career, relationships, and legacy, and align these with your personal values. The guide is free and designed to bring life-changing clarity, often in less than an hour. 3️⃣ Action Steps for Lasting ImpactThe five-step guide asks you to: Rate your fulfillment in the five life pillars Identify your top values Assess your alignment with those values Reflect on insights gained Commit to one actionable change By embracing self-reflection with structure, leaders can foster meaningful change not just for themselves, but also for their teams, families, and broader communities. Main Takeaway:Becoming a self-aware leader isn’t reserved for CEOs or those with psychology degrees. It’s available to anyone willing to reflect and realign with their values. Start your journey to clarity with the Values and Fulfillment Alignment Guide. Ready to unlock more clarity and fulfillment?Get your free copy of the guide. Carve out a few minutes this week for yourself, and see what insights await you. Connect with Bernie Borges Book Bernie Borges to speak at your next offsite or leadership event: https://fulfilledatworkacademy.com/speaking/  LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution: Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In episode 260, host Bernie Borges dives deep into one of the most overlooked (yet powerful) drivers of workplace engagement: recognition. If you’re looking to boost morale, deepen connections, and foster true fulfillment at work, this episode is for you. Three Key Insights from the Episode: 1️⃣ Recognition is More Than Rewards: Bernie highlights the difference between recognition and rewards. While rewards are transactional (think hitting sales targets), recognition is relational. It’s about genuinely seeing and valuing the effort, growth, and care people put into their work. 2️⃣ Peer-to-Peer and Self-Recognition Matter: Recognition isn’t just top-down. Some of the most meaningful moments often come from peers. A simple thank you or acknowledgment can quickly transform team culture. Plus, self-recognition helps us appreciate our own growth, quieting the constant urge to keep moving without reflection. 3️⃣ Authentic Recognition Powers Retention: Bernie makes it clear: recognition, when consistent and authentic, builds identity and belonging. When people feel seen, loyalty and engagement rise. He shares that training leaders in this skill is essential for truly impactful recognition. Main Takeaway:Recognition isn’t a “nice to have." It’s a low-cost, high-impact lever for engagement, culture, and retention. Make it a habit, not just a holiday! Calculate the ROI of employee engagement with our ROI Calculatorhttps://fulfilledatworkacademy.com/services/employee-engagement-fund-roi-calculator/ Connect with Bernie Borges Book Bernie Borges to speak at your next offsite or leadership event: https://fulfilledatworkacademy.com/speaking/  LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Life Fulfilled Podcast, Bernie Borges explores how fulfillment at work takes shape across seven distinct career paths from physical labor and healthcare to tech, public service, retail/hospitality, manufacturing, and services. Drawing from years of insight and conversations with professionals from all walks of life, Bernie reveals that fulfillment is more than just loving your job, it’s about connecting to purpose, pride, and impact, no matter your industry. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, serving your community, or working with your hands, this episode will help you reflect on what really drives your sense of meaning at work. Three Key Takeaway Points: 1️⃣ Purpose Fuels Fulfillment, Regardless of the Job Even in physically demanding or high-pressure roles like law enforcement, healthcare, or manufacturing, fulfillment often stems from a deep sense of purpose. When individuals reconnect with why they do what they do, they unlock motivation that goes beyond a paycheck. 2️⃣ Each Career Path Has Its Own Fulfillment Triggers What fuels fulfillment in tech might differ from what fuels it in public service, such as community trust or long-term contribution. Bernie shows how identifying your own “fulfillment trigger” helps you thrive in any career environment. 3️⃣ Change is Inevitable, but Fulfillment Can Evolve With industries constantly disrupted by technology, automation, and societal shifts, careers evolve, and so can your fulfillment. Bernie encourages listeners to proactively shape their path by reflecting on how their skills and passions can adapt in a changing world. Summary: This episode takes listeners on a reflective journey across seven career sectors to uncover how people find meaning, satisfaction, and pride in their work. From burnout in healthcare to innovation in tech, Bernie frames fulfillment not as a static achievement but as a dynamic strategy for long-term success and happiness. Whether you're reevaluating your job, exploring new roles, or supporting others in their career journey, this episode offers timely insights into building a career that truly fulfills you. Connect with Bernie Borges Book Bernie Borges to speak at your next offsite or leadership event: https://fulfilledatworkacademy.com/speaking/  LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Bernie Borges zooms out to explore quiet quitting through the lens of workplace culture.  Here are three key discussion points you won’t want to miss: 1. The State of Employee Engagement: According to Gallup, global employee engagement dropped from 23% to 21% in 2024. That means nearly 79% of workers worldwide are disengaged, costing the global economy $8.8 trillion each year. For Bernie, fulfillment isn’t a perk, it’s essential to organizational performance. 2. The Real Power of Culture and Leadership: Quiet quitting doesn’t start or end with perks and policies. It’s rooted in leadership and a deeply ingrained culture. Bernie challenges leaders to ask themselves brutally honest questions: When did you last have a real human conversation with a team member? Do your people feel safe bringing you feedback? Is their work connected to a bigger purpose? These questions are at the heart of engagement and fulfillment. 3. Five Timeless Steps for Leaders (and Employees) to Rekindle Engagement: Bernie explains five action steps any leader can start implementing today: Check-in Weekly Recognize Often Create Clarity Model the Behavior You Want Stay Humble Even if you’re not in a traditional leadership role, Bernie encourages listeners to influence culture within their immediate circles because quiet quitting spreads silently, but so does positive energy! Main Takeaway: Fulfillment at work isn’t a luxury; it’s the fuel for your best work and your best life. Whether you’re leading a team or looking to reinvigorate your own engagement, you do have the power to spark positive change and move the needle toward a thriving culture. Ready to move the needle?Bernie invites you to take the free Fulfilled@Work Scorecard™ to assess your own workplace fulfillment and to schedule a complimentary strategy call if you’re ready to take actionable steps as a leader. Don’t settle for a culture of survival. Build one where people thrive. Take the FREE Fulfilled@Work Scorecard Connect with Bernie Borges Schedule a complimentary strategy call with Bernie: https://fulfilledatworkacademy.com/contact/  LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the second of three episodes on quiet quitting, host Bernie Borges dives deep into why fulfillment matters and how it’s connected to the growing issue of quiet quitting. Whether you’re an employee feeling disengaged or a leader trying to inspire your team, there are practical steps you can take today to bring meaning back to your work life. Here are 3 key takeaways: 1️⃣ Alignment is Everything: True fulfillment at work isn’t about “having it all.” It’s about the alignment between your personal values and your everyday reality. When those are out of sync, disengagement and quiet quitting become almost inevitable. 2️⃣ Small Steps Spark Change: Employees don’t need a massive career overhaul to reclaim fulfillment. Sometimes, asking yourself what energized you in the past, volunteering for a new project, or having a candid conversation with your manager is enough to trigger a positive shift. 3️⃣ Leaders Set the Tone: 70% of team engagement is directly tied to manager behavior. Leaders who listen, provide clarity, and foster genuine connections create environments where team members stay engaged and motivated instead of slipping into autopilot. Main takeaway: Fulfillment at work isn’t a luxury; it’s foundational to purpose and achievement. Whether you’re an individual contributor or a leader, self-awareness and small, intentional actions can turn the tide on quiet quitting. Looking for ways to measure where you stand? Try the Fulfilled@Work Scorecard, and see where you’re thriving, or where you might need a spark. Take the FREE Fulfilled@Work Scorecard Stay tuned for the next episode (3 of 3), where Bernie digs deeper into quiet quitting and the impact on culture. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Life Fulfilled podcast, host Bernie Borges kicks off a three-part series all about quiet quitting. He explains what it really is, why it matters, and what you can do if you realize you’re in the middle of it. Bernie opens with the tough question: How do you show up at work? Are you still motivated, or are you just going through the motions? Turns out, quiet quitting (emotional withdrawal—not open revolt or laziness!) is incredibly common, and it comes with a big cost, not just for your job performance, but for your energy, health, and relationships. Three Key Discussion Points: 1️⃣ What is Quiet Quitting?Quiet quitting isn’t about slacking off; it’s a serious disconnect where work no longer feels meaningful, often driven by layoffs, lack of recognition, or unfulfilling roles. Bernie connects the dots to fulfillment: when your work doesn’t align with your values or energize you, you’re at risk. 2️⃣ The Impact is HUGE:Bernie shares alarming data: according to Gallup, 59% of workers globally are quiet quitters, costing the economy trillions in lost productivity. Teams with high engagement see 78% less absenteeism and 14% higher productivity! 3️⃣ Simple Actions You Can Take:Whether you’re an employee, leader, or self-employed, Bernie gives actionable advice: reflect on what you enjoy, identify where fulfillment is leaking, and take small steps, like meaningful conversations or tackling new projects, to reignite purpose. Leaders, especially, must ask “How are you doing, really?” and listen without an agenda. Main Takeaway:Quiet quitting is a wake-up call because fulfillment at work matters deeply, not just for you, but for your team and your organization. When you reconnect with purpose, even in small ways, you reclaim your energy and potential. Take the FREE Fulfilled@Work Scorecard Stay tuned for the next episode (2 of 3), where Bernie digs deeper into how fulfillment fuels both employees and the health of organizations, and how you can turn things around, one intentional step at a time. Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, host Bernie Borges speaks with Chief People Officer Shamayne Braman, a fellow speaker at the upcoming HR Wellness and Executive Summit. They explore what it really means to experience career fulfillment, moving beyond titles, compensation, and prestige. Here are three powerful takeaways from their conversation: 1️⃣ Redefining Failure and Building Resilience Early in her career, Shamayne joined Teach for America expecting to connect effortlessly with her students. Instead, she faced unexpected rejection, an experience that tested her assumptions and pushed her to build trust through humility, grit, and self-awareness. These early lessons became a foundation for her leadership journey across industries. 2️⃣ Leading with Genuine Care and Human Connection Across roles in education, healthcare, retail, and tech, Shamayne’s leadership has been grounded in deep care for people. Whether supporting students or leading HR teams, she focuses on unlocking individual potential and closing the gap between where people are and where they can go. 3️⃣ Wellness as a Professional Advantage Shamayne shares how her personal health and fitness practices, including mental well-being, fuel her performance as a leader. By prioritizing self-care, embracing stillness, and rejecting the stigma around mental health, she ensures she leads from a place of strength, clarity, and empathy. One Main Takeaway: Career fulfillment isn’t defined by what’s on your résumé. Through resilience, authentic relationships, and intentional self-care, we build a living legacy that’s felt in every interaction, not just remembered after we’re gone. This episode is brought to you by the HR Leadership & Wellness Summit in Atlanta, GA, October 12-14.  This invite-only experience brings together senior HR professionals from companies like Warner Bros., Morgan Stanley, Paramount, and more for three days of transformative conversations, strategic networking, and actionable insights. Apply for a complimentary invitation to the HR Leadership & Wellness and Culture & Engagement Executive Summits. https://bit.ly/lifefulfilledxopal  Connect with Shamayne Braman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shamaynebraman/ 75 Hard Challenge Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Take the FREE Fulfilled@Work Scorecard Email: bernie@midlifefulfilled.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker.Explore a tailored workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution: Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, executive coach and author Danielle Baldwin joins us for an eye-opening conversation about the transformative power of inspiration. Danielle shares why inspiration isn't just an emotional spark, but the force behind greater fulfillment, peak performance, and a deeper sense of purpose in both life and work. Three impactful insights from our conversation: 1️⃣ Why Inspiration Is More Powerful Than Motivation While motivation relies on external goals or internal discipline, inspiration taps into something deeper. Danielle explains how true inspiration ignites intrinsic energy and clarity that drives people to go beyond what’s expected. Inspired individuals don’t just perform, they excel and find meaning in the process. 2️⃣ The CHART Framework: A Blueprint for Inspiring Stories From her forthcoming book, Sparking Greatness, Danielle introduces the CHART framework—Courage, Hardship, Authenticity, Resilience, and Transformation—as the five core elements of stories that spark genuine inspiration. Whether in leadership, teams, or personal development, CHART helps people connect to their “why” and channel inspiration into purposeful action. 3️⃣ Inspiration as a Remedy for Burnout and Disconnection Danielle dives into the difference between being overwhelmed and truly burned out, describing burnout as a place where energy and purpose feel completely drained. Her approach: help people create intentional space—mental and emotional—for inspiration to re-emerge. When we feel inspired, we reconnect with our purpose and build the resilience needed to thrive long-term. Main Takeaway: Inspiration isn’t accidental. It’s not just about creativity or temporary motivation; it’s a sustainable force that fuels fulfillment, performance, and purpose. When we intentionally create conditions for inspiration, stillness, reflection, and meaningful storytelling, we unlock our true potential and reignite our vision for what’s possible. Connect with Danielle BaldwinWebsite: https://daniellebbaldwin.com/ Book: Sparking Greatness: https://daniellebbaldwin.com/sparking-greatness/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-bruno-baldwin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_dbbaldwin  Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Take the FREE Fulfilled@Work Assessment Email: bernie@midlifefulfilled.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.Explore a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attr Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 253 features Heather A. Campbell, an entrepreneur, author, and founder of Ready, Set, Recover. If you’ve ever faced a surgical procedure with a sense of dread, this conversation will change your approach. Here’s a quick recap of our three key discussion points: 1️⃣ Turning Anxiety into Empowerment:When Heather faced surgery herself, she found the typical advice lacking (“just take pain meds or do PT later”). Drawing from her wellness background, she developed a holistic preparation plan. Her surgeon noticed her great recovery and wished all patients could do the same. This sparked Heather’s mission to help others approach surgery feeling empowered, not anxious. 2️⃣ Creating Win-Win Solutions in Healthcare:Ready, Set, Recover isn’t just focused on patient wellbeing. Heather designed it to benefit hospitals, insurers, and employers, too. It's for anyone invested in better health outcomes and lower stress. Her approach connects patients to practical steps and helps organizations improve their bottom line. Win-win-win! 3️⃣ Celebrating Milestones and Everyday Progress:Heather’s philosophy, and her book Good is Amazing, encourages us to celebrate incremental progress, not just final achievements. Whether recovering from surgery, writing a book, or looking for a new job, she reminds us to honor the small wins and give ourselves permission to feel fulfilled along the way. Main Takeaway:We often underestimate our control over challenging times like surgery or big life changes. Heather’s message is about recognizing your agency, advocating for yourself, and celebrating the journey, not just the outcome. By reframing our stories and giving ourselves permission to savor small victories, fulfillment becomes an everyday reality. Connect with Heather CampbellWebsite: ReadySetRecoverWebsite: HeatherCampbell AuthorLinkedIn Connect with Bernie BorgesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite Take the FREE Fulfilled@Work Assessment Email: bernie@midlifefulfilled.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.Explore a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features Kristin Pascual, VP of Communications, Culture, and Community at Seagate Technology. Kristin shares the story of how Seagate faced a massive market downturn, losing 50% of revenue and 35% of its workforce, yet emerged stronger, with a renewed sense of purpose and record-high employee engagement. Here are 3 key takeaways from our conversation: 1️⃣ Authentic, Transparent Communication Builds Trust: Even when news was tough, Seagate’s leadership prioritized in-person “Connect Sessions,” open dialogue, and myth-busting dashboards, forging trust through transparency. Leaders showed up with empathy, even admitting when they didn’t have all the answers. 2️⃣ Fulfillment Grows from Connection and Recognition: Fulfillment isn’t just a buzzword; it’s fueled by creating spaces where every employee feels seen and valued, from engineers to supporting staff. Seagate’s new recognition platform celebrated 15,000+ “moments that matter” in its first month, reinforcing community and belonging even in challenging times. 3️⃣ Human Skills are Leadership Skills: Connection, trust, and transparency aren’t “soft skills,” they’re essential leadership capabilities. Real impact comes from meeting employees where they are, actively listening, and ensuring managers recognize achievements at every level. 💡 Main takeaway: Fulfillment at work is not a destination; it's a journey shaped by struggle, growth, ownership, and shared purpose. Seagate’s experience shows that when organizations lead with empathy and genuine connection, both people and performance thrive. This episode is brought to you by the HR Leadership & Wellness Summit in Atlanta, GA, October 12-14.  This invite-only experience brings together senior HR professionals from companies like Warner Bros., Morgan Stanley, Paramount, and more for three days of transformative conversations, strategic networking, and actionable insights. Apply for a complimentary invitation to the HR Leadership & Wellness and Culture & Engagement Executive Summits in Atlanta, GA, October 12-14. https://bit.ly/lifefulfilledxopal  Connect with Kristin Pascual   WebsiteLinkedIn Connect with Bernie Borges LinkedInInstagramWebsite Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.comFulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring Bernie as a keynote speaker at your next event.Explore a tailored training workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin MusicomSuno Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week features the leadership and organizational development experts from Global Ascent Consulting Corporation (GACC). This episode explores the powerful synergy shared between GACC and the host's Fulfilled@Work Academy in bringing best practices and solutions for cultivating fulfillment in the workplace. Joined by CEO and Founder Fredrick Smith, President Amber Heckert, Senior Consultant Loretta Monroe Calvin, and Senior Business Optimizer Billie Welchman, this episode dives into how leaders can cultivate fulfillment in their teams amidst uncertainty, focusing on the critical balance between the need for agility and the human need for stability.  Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Cultivating Trust and Psychological Safety as Core Foundations: The experts at GACC emphasize that establishing trust and transparency is the "first and most important thing" in building resilient teams. This foundation leads directly to psychological safety, empowering individuals to be "open" and "willing to try new things to innovate."  2️⃣ Balancing Agility with Human Well-being and Stability: GACC underscores that focusing on employee well-being and helping organizations stabilize the people part of the business is paramount. Forgetting the human element leads to unsustainable growth, burnout, and attrition. People cannot "innovate, adapt, or thrive if they are constantly bracing for the next wave of disruption without a foundation to stand on. 3️⃣ Fulfillment: An Integral Part of Organizational DNA Both GACC and the Fulfilled@Work Academy strongly emphasize that fulfillment is not a perk, but is "part of the DNA of the organization." Their shared mission and approach center on "human well-being" and building "a culture where everybody feels valued." This combined effort aims to cultivate "discretionary effort" where employees go the extra mile because they are in a culture that embraces them as individuals, not just members of a herd.  Summary of the Conversation: The experts from GACC highlight that establishing trust and transparency is paramount, creating the psychological safety necessary for teams to innovate and thrive. The conversation underscores that when employees feel valued, it leads to increased engagement, discretionary effort, and ultimately, sustainable business results.  Connect with GACC  Website   GACC's Leadership Strategy Starter Kit LinkedIn: Fredrick Smith: (forthcoming)Amber Heckert   Loretta Monroe Calvin  Billie Welchman   Connect with Bernie Borges LinkedInInstagramWebsite Get in touch with Bernie to:Explore hiring Bernie as a keynote speaker or a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.Watch the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast on YouTubeMusic attribution:Old Bossa Twin Musicom Text us your feedback on the podcast. Get the Weekly Fulfill weekly newsletter and never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices