Claim OwnershipSharpen 2.0: The Podcast for Professionals
Subscribed: 17Played: 867
Subscribe
© Kirby Green
Description
"As iron sharpens iron so one man sharpens another." Sharpen is the podcast for young professionals to sharpen their gifts and influence in the workplace and beyond.
134 Episodes
Reverse
What does it look like to cultivate a work environment where you are not only leading to the best of your ability but also following to the best of your ability? We often think of how we can better portray our leadership skills, but one of the most beneficial things we can do is support the best ideas that come forth, whether they stem from us or someone else in our organization.
In this episode, we dive into how to practically grow as a human both in our work and personal life, and how the two work together. We learn how to become a better leader, a better listener, and someone that has a lot to offer in the workplace. Charlie dives into how we need to take ownership of our future, and lays out some practical step to start doing that where you are at.
We live in a world drowning in information—but starving for action. In this episode, we challenge the old G.I. Joe saying and talk about why knowing something isn’t even close to half the battle. You can read all the books, watch all the videos, and listen to all the podcasts, but if you don’t do something with it, nothing changes. Growth happens when knowledge meets execution. So the next time you say, “Yeah, I know,” ask yourself—“But am I doing anything about it?”
Decision fatigue is real—especially when you’re juggling work, family, and everything in between. In this episode, we talk about how learning to say “no for now” can help protect your focus, energy, and best yeses for later. Not every question needs an instant answer, and not every opportunity deserves your time right away. Giving yourself permission to pause creates clarity and keeps your priorities in check. Sometimes the smartest move isn’t yes or no—it’s not yet.
October isn’t just harvest season on the farm—it’s harvest season for your life, too. In this episode, we talk about why this time of year is perfect for reflection and goal-setting before the chaos of the holidays hits. By October, you’ve got ten months of data—what worked, what didn’t, and what needs to change. Think of it as your personal “start, stop, keep” audit to set up next year’s wins. Just like farmers plan the next crop before winter, professionals should plant the seeds for their next season now.
Clear communication is like using a turn signal. It prevents confusion, avoids accidents, and sets everyone up for success.In this episode, we break down why communicating where you’re headed is one of the simplest yet most overlooked skills in the workplace. Not everything needs to be said to everyone, but the right message at the right time can change how a team works together.From small reminders to big-picture updates, thoughtful communication is a career game-changer. If you want to stop leaving people guessing and start leading with clarity, this one’s for you.
In a world that celebrates hustle and constant motion, calm can feel rare and powerful.This episode explores why being the steady, grounded presence at work is more than just a nice trait; it’s a true leadership advantage. Calm leaders aren’t checked out, they bring clarity, perspective, and stability when teams need it most.For young professionals climbing in their careers, learning to embody ease and peace can be the difference between chaos and focus. Consider this your reminder that calm isn’t weakness, it’s a superpower.
We’ve all sat through meetings that drained the life out of us, but it doesn’t have to be that way.In this episode, we talk about how to cut the fluff, use time wisely, and make meetings actually valuable. You’ll hear why shorter sessions with real conversations beat bloated one-hour blocks every time.It’s about preparation, clarity, and respecting people’s time, because not everything needs a meeting. If you’re tired of the “this could have been an email” vibe, this one’s for you.
Winging it every day only takes you so far, but having a game plan changes everything.In this episode, we talk about why taking just five minutes the night before can set you up for success the next day. From daily routines to monthly check-ins and even yearly reflections, game planning keeps you focused and less overwhelmed.Life won’t always go according to plan, but having one gives you direction and confidence when things get messy. This is about being proactive, not reactive, and building momentum one plan at a time.
Motivation fades fast, but systems keep you moving. In this episode, we talk about how building simple, repeatable habits can help you actually hit your goals instead of just talking about them. It’s not about overloading yourself with endless to-do lists or outsourcing everything, it’s about finding that middle ground where structure makes life easier. From running marathons to just remembering to take the trash out, systems are what keep the chaos in check. If you’re ready to work smarter instead of harder, this one’s for you.
Yes, I get hyped about email organization. And no, I don't care if that's weird. In this kickoff to Can Y'all Not Make Fun of Me?, I walk through my full system for managing the madness of texts, emails, and everything in between. We're talking inbox zero every day. If email runs your life, this one's for you.
We're great at starting, but terrible at stopping. Inspired by the work of Dr. Henry Cloud, this episode of Sharpen 2.0 tackles the uncomfortable truth: some things need to end, not because they're bad, but because they've run their course. Join me as we unpack why we avoid endings, why "stop" belongs on your to-do list, and how to let go of things that no longer serve your future.
Discipline isn't a prison, it's freedom! But only when it's built to serve you and your current season. In this episode of Sharpen 2.0, we challenge the idea that every good discipline is good for you right now. Some things are a "not yet," not a "never." Let's talk about making sure your habits serve your goals, not distract you from them.
Everything in life is and iteration from your skills and projects, to your business and mindset. In this episode of Sharpen 2.0, we break down why updates aren't signs of failure, they're signs of progress. Even this podcast itself is an iteration! Hit play and let's talk about why the version you're building right now matters.
In this episode of the Sharpen 2.0, we revisit the classic productivity book Getting Things Done and explore its timeless advice on organizing life through intentional “zones.” From digital clutter like overflowing inboxes to muddy boots at the back door, learn how assigning everything a place can bring peace, clarity, and efficiency to your busy mid-professional life.What’s one area of your life—digital or physical—that could use a clearly defined zone to reduce your daily overwhelm?
In this episode of Sharpen 2.0, we’re revisiting a powerful and often overlooked skill that can drastically improve how we show up at work and in life: active listening. From meetings to mentoring to tough conversations, mastering this five-step skill can elevate our relationships, our clarity, and our impact.What’s one habit you can change this week to become a more present and active listener?
In this episode of Sharpen 2.0, we dive into the often-overlooked superpower of focus. With distractions at every turn—from devices to daily noise—sharpening our ability to concentrate can be a game-changer in both our careers and personal lives.What’s one distraction you could reduce this week to reclaim your focus and move with more purpose?
In this episode of Sharpen 2.0, we’re talking about one of the most underrated truths in career growth: the secret to getting better is simply to keep going. Whether you’re early in your career or navigating mid-professional life, repetition, intentionality, and consistency are your greatest allies when building new skills.What’s one area of your life—digital or physical—that could use a clearly defined zone to reduce your daily overwhelm?
I got this concept from a book titled, "Outlive." The book mainly focuses on health but this phrase really hit home. Sometimes, just like in our college days, we Major in things and we Minor in things. But the key is to not lose focus on the Major in spite of the Minor.
I have to remind myself sometimes that the little flub I made in a meeting, or how I misspoke in an email is not what lingers in everyone else's minds. What seems huge in my mind has already been forgotten by everyone else. This can be very freeing, especially in the workplace to help everyone shift gears and move on with the day.
If I've learned anything as a mom it's been to always explain why we're doing something before the what. The kids will always ask why and, honestly, we're not much different as adults. When we know the "why" behind a career task, oftentimes we're more motivated to complete it.
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States