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READ: Menopause Belongs in Workplace Conversations—Comprehensive Call of Action for Systemic Change#worldmenopauseday #worldmenopauseday2025Please share with your networks to increase knowledge and to inspire action! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Titus 1-3New Living TranslationGreetings from Paul1 This letter is from Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. I have been sent to proclaim faith to[a] those God has chosen and to teach them to know the truth that shows them how to live godly lives. 2 This truth gives them confidence that they have eternal life, which God—who does not lie—promised them before the world began. 3 And now at just the right time he has revealed this message, which we announce to everyone. It is by the command of God our Savior that I have been entrusted with this work for him.4 I am writing to Titus, my true son in the faith that we share.May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior give you grace and peace.Titus’s Work in Crete5 I left you on the island of Crete so you could complete our work there and appoint elders in each town as I instructed you. 6 An elder must live a blameless life. He must be faithful to his wife,[b] and his children must be believers who don’t have a reputation for being wild or rebellious. 7 A church leader[c] is a manager of God’s household, so he must live a blameless life. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered; he must not be a heavy drinker,[d] violent, or dishonest with money.8 Rather, he must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must love what is good. He must live wisely and be just. He must live a devout and disciplined life. 9 He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught; then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong.10 For there are many rebellious people who engage in useless talk and deceive others. This is especially true of those who insist on circumcision for salvation. 11 They must be silenced, because they are turning whole families away from the truth by their false teaching. And they do it only for money. 12 Even one of their own men, a prophet from Crete, has said about them, “The people of Crete are all liars, cruel animals, and lazy gluttons.”[e] 13 This is true. So reprimand them sternly to make them strong in the faith. 14 They must stop listening to Jewish myths and the commands of people who have turned away from the truth.15 Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. But nothing is pure to those who are corrupt and unbelieving, because their minds and consciences are corrupted. 16 Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good.Promote Right Teaching2 As for you, Titus, promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. 2 Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience.3 Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers.[f] Instead, they should teach others what is good. 4 These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, 5 to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes,[g] to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God.6 In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. 7 And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. 8 Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.9 Slaves must always obey their masters and do their best to please them. They must not talk back 10 or steal, but must show themselves to be entirely trustworthy and good. Then they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive in every way.11 For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. 12 And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, 13 while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. 14 He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.15 You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them. You have the authority to correct them when necessary, so don’t let anyone disregard what you say.Do What Is Good3 Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. 2 They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.3 Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy, and we hated each other. 4 But—When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.[h] 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.8 This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.9 Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees[i] or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time. 10 If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. 11 For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own sins condemn them.Paul’s Final Remarks and Greetings12 I am planning to send either Artemas or Tychicus to you. As soon as one of them arrives, do your best to meet me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to stay there for the winter. 13 Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. 14 Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive.15 Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers—all who love us.May God’s grace be with you all. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Here are the slides. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/strategic-leadership-what-s-your-leadership-style-and-how-do-you-flex-it-when-the-stakes-are-high/283617799 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
2 Corinthians 1-5 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
2 Corinthians 6-13 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
1CORINTHIANS 9-16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
LUKE 1John 11 In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.2 He existed in the beginning with God.3 God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.4 The Word gave life to everything that was created,[a] and his life brought light to everyone.5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.[b]6 God sent a man, John the Baptist,[c] 7 to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. 8 John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. 9 The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.10 He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. 11 He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. 12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.14 So the Word became human[d] and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.[e] And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.15 John testified about him when he shouted to the crowds, “This is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’”16 From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another.[f] 17 For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ.18 No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God,[g] is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us.The Testimony of John the Baptist19 This was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants[h]from Jerusalem to ask John, “Who are you?” 20 He came right out and said, “I am not the Messiah.”21 “Well then, who are you?” they asked. “Are you Elijah?”“No,” he replied.“Are you the Prophet we are expecting?”[i]“No.”22 “Then who are you? We need an answer for those who sent us. What do you have to say about yourself?”23 John replied in the words of the prophet Isaiah:“I am a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Clear the way for the Lord’s coming!’”[j]24 Then the Pharisees who had been sent 25 asked him, “If you aren’t the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet, what right do you have to baptize?”26 John told them, “I baptize with[k] water, but right here in the crowd is someone you do not recognize. 27 Though his ministry follows mine, I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal.”28 This encounter took place in Bethany, an area east of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing.Jesus, the Lamb of God29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 He is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’ 31 I did not recognize him as the Messiah, but I have been baptizing with water so that he might be revealed to Israel.”32 Then John testified, “I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon him. 33 I didn’t know he was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, ‘The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God.[l]”Isaiah 53Daniel 9 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
1CORINTHIANS 1-8 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
ROMANS 8-16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Daniel 10-12Daniel 10–12 contains some of the most apocalyptic and prophetic material in the Old Testament, and it closely parallels themes found in Revelation and other New Testament apocalyptic passages. Here is a breakdown of key parallels between Daniel 10–12, the Book of Revelation, and other NT scriptures:1. Angelic Visitation and Spiritual WarfareDaniel 10:1–21* Daniel receives a vision after 21 days of fasting. An angel (possibly Gabriel) explains that he was delayed by the "prince of Persia" and assisted by Michael.Parallels:* Revelation 12:7–9: Michael and his angels fight the dragon (Satan) and his angels in heaven.* Ephesians 6:12: Paul speaks of wrestling not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.Key Themes:* Spiritual warfare behind geopolitical events* Angels and principalities interacting in unseen realms2. The Vision of Future Conflicts (Kings of the North and South)Daniel 11* A detailed prophecy of wars between northern and southern kingdoms (interpreted historically as Seleucids and Ptolemies, and typologically as ongoing conflicts leading to the Antichrist).Daniel 11:30 “For warships from western coastlands will scare him off, and he will withdraw and return home. But he will vent his anger against the people of the holy covenant and reward those who forsake the covenant.”"Kittim" (Hebrew: כִּתִּים) is an ancient term used to describe western maritime powers.It originally referred to Cyprus, but later also came to symbolize western regions, especially the Mediterranean seafaring powers—and by the time of Daniel, often Rome. The king's frustration turns toward the holy covenant — usually interpreted as the Jewish faith and people in Daniel’s time. He lashes out by persecuting the faithful.Ships of Kittim today—US., EU, NATO, or Western powersThe King/Leader—A rising Middle Eastern, Eurasian, or globalist figure (Antichrist-type)Holy Covenant—Israel, or the covenant people (Jews/Christians)Reward those who forsake the covenant* Co-opting compromised religious leaders, politicians, or even nations who abandon biblical values for gain.* Forming alliances with apostate or secularized entities who undermine biblical truth, both within Israel and globally.Parallels:* Revelation 13: Rise of the beast from the sea (political power) and the beast from the earth (religious power).* Matthew 24:6–7: Jesus speaks of "wars and rumors of wars," aligning with Daniel's ongoing conflict theme.* Antichrist — a future world leader who:* Makes a deceptive peace with Israel (Daniel 9:27),* Breaks that covenant mid-way,* Persecutes the faithful.3. The Abomination of DesolationDaniel 11:31; Daniel 12:11* Reference to the stopping of daily sacrifices and the setting up of the "abomination that causes desolation."Parallels:* Matthew 24:15: Jesus references this exact phrase from Daniel, linking it to the end times.* 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4: Paul describes the "man of lawlessness" who sets himself up in God’s temple.* Revelation 13:14–15: The beast sets up an image to be worshiped under penalty of death.4. The Time of Great TribulationDaniel 12:1* "There shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been..."Parallels:* Matthew 24:21: Jesus: "Then there will be great tribulation..."* Revelation 7:14: "These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation..."* Revelation 6–16: Series of judgments during the tribulation period5. Resurrection and Final JudgmentDaniel 12:2–3* Multitudes asleep in the dust will awake—some to everlasting life, others to shame.Parallels:* John 5:28–29: Jesus: "Those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned."* Revelation 20:11–15: Great white throne judgment; resurrection of the dead and final separation* 1 Corinthians 15:52: The resurrection at the last trumpet6. Sealed Book and Mystery of the EndDaniel 12:4, 9* Daniel is told to “seal up the words” until the time of the end.Parallels:* Revelation 5:1–5: A sealed scroll is presented; only the Lamb can open it.* Revelation 10:4: John is told not to write what the seven thunders said.* Revelation 22:10: Unlike Daniel, John is told not to seal the prophecy—“the time is near.” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Download the Team Happiness Habits Planner The lecture is based on Alexia Georghiou’s book, The Future of Work is Human and the Future of Success is Happiness on Amazon Prime. Order your copy HERE. Schedule a discovery call with Alexia Georghiou for a Happiness Habits Keynote for your event HERE. Take our Strategic Leadership Course for 2.5 PDC for SHRM CP and SCP Recertification Activities: https://knoxvillehappinesscoalition.systeme.iohttps://www.knoxvillehappinesscoalition.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Alexia Georghiou is a recognized leadership and organizational development consultant who partners with executives to implement values-driven strategies that strengthen culture, enhance performance, and sustain organizational resilience. She is the founder of the Knoxville Happiness Coalition—SHRM Recertification Provider for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP®. Her book, The Future of Work is Human and the Future of Success is Happiness has been featured at SHRM25, SHRM Talent, TN HR Conference and Expo. Through her V.A.L.U.E.S. Model—Vision, Action, Leadership, Unity, Engagement, and Synthesis—Alexia helps leaders align performance with purpose. She advises executives and HR leaders, writes, and speaks on human-centered leadership rooted in positive psychology.https://www.knoxvillehappinesscoalition.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Daniel 9* "He" = Antichrist* The 70th week is a yet-future 7-year tribulation period.* Antichrist makes a false covenant with Israel, breaks it halfway through (3.5 years), and causes the "abomination of desolation."* This view often includes the Rapture, the rebuilding of the Temple, and the rise of a global leader. Aligns with Revelation (chapters 6–19) and Jesus' words in Matthew 24Key Themes and Connections:* Covenant: Daniel 9:27 begins with a deceptive peace treaty made by the Antichrist.* Abomination of Desolation: Central turning point — aligns with Jesus’ warning in Matthew 24:15.* 3.5 years + 3.5 years: Common division in both Daniel (9:27; 7:25; 12:7) and Revelation (11:2–3; 12:6; 13:5).* Global Leader: The Antichrist mirrors the Beast in Revelation 13.* Temple Rebuilt: Implied by need for sacrifices to be stopped (Dan. 9:27). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Daniel 8Persecuting Power“A little horn… grew exceedingly great…”(Dan 8:9–12)“The beast was given a mouth uttering haughty and blasphemous words…” (Rev 13:5–7)“The man of lawlessness… opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god…” (2 Thess 2:3–4)Desecration of the Temple/Sanctuary“…the place of his sanctuary was overthrown…” (Dan 8:11)“…but do not measure the court outside the temple… it is given over to the nations…” (Rev 11:1–2)“…standing in the holy place, the abomination of desolation…” (Matt 24:15)Stopping of Sacrifices / Worship“…it will take away the regular burnt offering…”(Dan 8:11)“…it was allowed to make war on the saints and to conquer them…”(Rev 13:7)“…offering false worship… in the temple of God…” (2 Thess 2:4)Blasphemy / Exalting Himself“…he shall even rise up against the Prince of princes…”(Dan 8:25)“It opened its mouth to utter blasphemies against God…” (Rev 13:6)“…exalts himself… proclaiming himself to be God…” (2 Thess 2:4)Tribulation Time Period“For 2,300 evenings and mornings…”(Dan 8:14)“...they will trample the holy city for 42 months…” (Rev 11:2); “…1,260 days…” (Rev 12:6)“…time, times, and half a time…”(Dan 7:25; Rev 12:14)Antichrist Figure / ArchetypeLittle horn as type of Antiochus, foreshadowing Antichrist (Dan 8:23–25)Beast from the sea as a global ruler empowered by Satan (Rev 13:1–8)“The antichrist… is coming, and now many antichrists have come.”(1 John 2:18)Divine Judgment and End“He shall be broken—but by no human hand.” (Dan 8:25)“The beast was captured… thrown alive into the lake of fire…” (Rev 19:20)“Whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth…” (2 Thess 2:8)Heavenly Interpretation / Angelic GuideGabriel explains the vision (Dan 8:15–26)John is guided by angels throughout(Rev 1:1; 17:1; 21:9)Jesus foretells events with clarity and authority (Matt 24; Luke 21)Conflict Between KingdomsRam = Medo-Persia; Goat = Greece (Dan 8:20–21)Beasts represent kingdoms (Rome, revived empire?)(Rev 13, 17)“The kings of the earth will make war on the Lamb…”(Rev 17:14; cf. Acts 4:26) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Daniel 7Revelation This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Daniel 6 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Daniel 5 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe
Why Empathy in Layoffs Isn’t Just Kindness — It’s Smart BusinessBy Alexia GeorghiouAs artificial intelligence and automation continue to reshape the economy, layoffs have become an unsettling new normal. Across industries, companies face tough decisions to reduce headcount in order to stay competitive, adapt to new technologies, and survive economic disruptions. But how organizations handle these layoffs can be the difference between short-term survival and long-term decline.When Airbnb’s co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky announced a painful 25% workforce reduction in 2020, he did so with a level of transparency, empathy, and accountability that set a new standard. His letter was not just a message — it was a leadership lesson for every executive navigating this era of rapid change.Why does this matter?Layoffs don’t just affect the individuals losing their jobs — they ripple across the entire organization, impacting morale, trust, and productivity. Research from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) underscores that empathetic, transparent communication during layoffs reduces employee turnover by up to 25%, lowers legal risks, and increases overall engagement and profitability.Brian Chesky’s approach to layoffs exemplifies eight key leadership principles that all leaders should embrace:* Be Transparent: Chesky openly explained the business realities that forced Airbnb’s layoffs. Employees deserve honesty about the “why” behind layoffs — this reduces fear, speculation, and rumor.* Acknowledge Emotions: Chesky recognized the emotional toll layoffs take and affirmed that affected employees were not at fault. Honoring the human cost preserves dignity and prevents long-term resentment.* Communicate Thoughtfully: He delivered the news with care and respect, recognizing that tone, timing, and method matter. Thoughtful communication builds goodwill even in difficult times.* Provide Real Support: Airbnb offered severance, healthcare benefits, and outplacement resources. Offering tangible support is both compassionate and strategic, easing financial stress and protecting company reputation.* Reinforce Purpose: Chesky connected the layoffs back to Airbnb’s mission of belonging and connection, helping those remaining find meaning and motivation in the transition.* Show Gratitude: He thanked both departing and remaining employees sincerely, fostering loyalty and resilience at a vulnerable moment.* Engage the Remaining Team: Chesky committed to ongoing communication and visibility post-layoffs to rebuild trust and maintain focus. This prevents “survivor syndrome” and disengagement.* Own the Decision: Chesky took full personal responsibility for the layoffs, demonstrating leadership accountability — essential for restoring credibility.As automation and AI reshape the workforce, the challenge for leaders is not just whether to downsize, but how to do it responsibly. Companies that invest in empathetic layoffs can expect stronger alumni networks, which often lead to future business partnerships, rehires, and positive word-of-mouth that benefit brand reputation.Moreover, handling layoffs with humanity supports mental health and reduces burnout among remaining employees, helping organizations maintain productivity during times of upheaval. This approach also signals to customers, investors, and the public that the company values people as much as profits—an increasingly important factor in consumer trust and long-term success.In the coming years, leaders who prioritize empathy during workforce transitions will set themselves apart as forward-thinking and resilient. The way we treat employees in their most vulnerable moments will become a defining measure of leadership and organizational strength.The question is no longer just about adapting to change but about leading change with compassion. That mindset will determine which companies thrive in the age of AI—and which become relics of a less human era.Make Empathy the cool thing by supporting my proposal for SXSW. Just click the ❤️Exit with Empathy: Rethinking Layoffs This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit alexia.substack.com/subscribe