The Daily Helping

We sit down with Wes Adams—CEO of SV Consulting Group and positive psychology researcher at UPenn—and Tamara Myles—speaker, author, professor, and researcher at UPenn—to unpack their new book, Meaningful Work. Together, they argue that what makes work feel worthwhile isn’t a lofty mission on a wall; it’s the daily experience we create. Their research shows leaders and environments account for nearly half of our sense of meaning at work, and they translate that into a practical playbook we can use right away.We explore their three sources of meaning—community, contribution, and challenge—and how small actions compound. Ask about life outside of work and remember the answers to build real community. Tell impact stories so every teammate can see how their efforts help others. Pair stretch assignments with high support to create growth without burnout. And don’t overlook gratitude: a sincere “thank you” once a week can dramatically cut disengagement and burnout. This episode is a reminder that when we design for meaningful moments, performance follows.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayMeaning isn’t abstract—it lives in small, repeatable moments: connect with someone, notice the impact of your work, and seek growth; then amplify it with specific, weekly gratitude that tells people why their work matters.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Learn more at meaningfulwork.comRead Meaningful WorkConnect with Tamara Myles on LinkedInConnect with Wes Adams on LinkedInProduced by NOVA

Valerie J. Walsh is a bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and transformational leader whose work turns personal tragedy into a mission to help others rise. Through her memoir Shattered to the Core and her follow-up, CoreAgeous, she invites us into the real work of healing—naming trauma, telling the truth, and leading from the heart. We explore her journey from fitness professional to aviation leader and mental health advocate, and how journaling her way through loss and cancer recovery became the foundation for her books.What resonated most was Valerie’s CORE philosophy of authentic leadership and the practical courage it takes to let go, say no, and pivot. We talk about moving from “work hard, play hard” to sober, intentional living; why language matters (she says “died by suicide” to reduce stigma); and how trauma shows up differently for everyone. Her stories remind us that our self-worth can’t live in any single role, relationship, or result—and that small daily actions change everything.We left this conversation believing that reinvention isn’t a grand gesture; it’s a repeatable habit. If you’ve been waiting for permission to start over, this is it.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayIt’s never too late to pivot. Begin with one small step every day toward who you want to become—and keep going.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Learn more at valeriejwalsh.comRead Shattered to the Core by Valerie J. WalshRead CoreAgeous by Valerie J. WalshFollow Valerie J. Walsh on Instagram: @valeriejwalshauthorConnect with Valerie J. Walsh on LinkedInProduced by NOVA

We sit down with Dr. Reza Zahedi—civil engineer, international real estate leader, and author of Self-Made Maverick—whose story begins as a child refugee from Iran and evolves into a career built from scratch across Europe. What struck us wasn’t the highlight reel, but the mindset shift he credits for everything: believing he could build something from nothing and change his destiny despite the doubters.Dr. Reza challenges the Instagram myth of overnight success. He reframes failure as a daily teacher, not a verdict, and calls out five persistent myths that stall founders—from “you need rich parents” to “money is the most important thing.” We also explore how a clear why and a durable brand make sacrifices bearable, and why today’s entrepreneurs can’t hide behind screens: real-world reps, relationships, and proof of work matter more than ever. The throughline is gritty, values-driven execution—showing up when no one’s clapping so impact outlasts image.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayNever give up—treat failure as part of the path, keep showing up, and let persistence do the compounding.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Learn more at DrRezaZahedi.comRead Self-Made Maverick by Dr. Reza ZahediConnect with Dr. Reza on LinkedInFollow Dr. Reza on Instagram: @drrezazahediiProduced by NOVA

Content Warning: This episode contains detailed accounts of domestic violence, emotional abuse, and the murder of a parent. It may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Please use discretion and take care of yourself while listening.In part two of our conversation with filmmaker, podcaster, and speaker Collier Landry, we continue the extraordinary story that began when he was just 11 years old. After testifying against his father for the murder of his mother, Collier was left without family support, navigating foster care and the painful isolation of being defined by tragedy. Yet rather than succumbing to the weight of trauma, he forged a path of resilience, action, and self-determination.Collier reflects on testifying in court, confronting his father, and ultimately learning the power of forgiveness—not as a gift to the man who hurt him, but as a way to reclaim his own life. He also shares how he turned his pain into purpose, first as the subject of the acclaimed documentary A Murder in Mansfield and now through his podcast The Collier Landry Show, where he explores resilience, healing, and moving forward. His journey shows us that while violence leaves deep scars, it can also illuminate the strength of the human spirit.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayYou have the power to construct your own narrative. No matter what happens to you, you are not defined by tragedy—you have the choice to move forward and build a life on your terms.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Collier Landry’s WebsiteA Murder in Mansfield – Official TrailerThe Collier Landry Show PodcastFinding Mom’s Killer PodcastFollow Collier Landry on InstagramFollow Collier Landry on X/TwitterProduced by NOVA

Content Warning: This episode contains detailed accounts of domestic violence, emotional abuse, and the murder of a parent. It may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Please use discretion and take care of yourself while listening.At just 11 years old, Collier Landry’s life was upended when his father murdered his mother. Refusing to remain silent, he gathered evidence, testified against his father, and became the key witness in a case that would change his life forever. Abandoned by much of his family, Collier learned resilience and self-reliance at an age when most kids are thinking about school and friends—not survival.Now a filmmaker, podcaster, and speaker, Collier uses his story to inspire conversations about perseverance, self-determination, and healing. His acclaimed documentary A Murder in Mansfield, directed by Oscar winner Barbara Kopple, and his podcasts The Collier Landry Show and Finding Mom’s Killer explore the journey of overcoming trauma and reclaiming personal power.In this gripping first of a two-part conversation, Collier takes us back to 1989, walking us through the events leading up to his mother’s disappearance and the harrowing days that followed—days in which an 11-year-old boy had to choose between silence and the truth.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Collier Landry’s WebsiteA Murder in Mansfield – Official TrailerThe Collier Landry Show PodcastFinding Mom’s Killer PodcastFollow Collier Landry on InstagramFollow Collier Landry on X/TwitterProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Scott Hutcheson, a biosocial scientist and senior lecturer at Purdue University, whose work with hundreds of organizations has redefined how we understand leadership. Dr. Hutcheson’s new book, Biohacking Leadership, takes a unique look at how leadership is rooted in biology and behavior—demonstrating that how we feel at work is shaped less by the job itself and more by the signals sent by our leaders.Dr. Hutcheson shares how his background in theater led to his innovative approach, showing that effective leadership is all about behavioral signals—what he calls “biomarkers”—clustered into warmth, competence, and gravitas. Instead of fixed rules, he encourages leaders to experiment and refine their approach, learning from every interaction. By dialing into the neurobiology of connection, story, and conversation, we can shift team chemistry and drive meaningful performance, regardless of role or generation.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayYou learn to be a leader through experimentation and refinement. Every leadership interaction is an opportunity to try new approaches, observe the results, and adjust your signals—growing through trial, error, and adaptation.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Scott Hutcheson’s websiteOrder Biohacking LeadershipScott Hutcheson on LinkedInProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Swift, an innovative organizational consultant and the author of Work Here Now: Think Like a Human and Build a Powerhouse Workplace. Having worked with global giants like Mercer and Deloitte, Melissa brings a data-driven yet deeply human perspective to understanding what’s broken about modern work—and how we can actually fix it. Her book unpacks the three types of “broken work” and introduces the “work anxiety monster,” but what truly sets Melissa apart is her focus on actionable strategies. She challenges us to rethink everything from the pace of our to-do lists to how many people really need to be in that next meeting, revealing just how much of our stress is self-inflicted by outdated systems and unexamined routines.We dive into the surprising truth that pouring billions into technology often creates more headaches than solutions, and Melissa makes a compelling case for “couples counseling” between humans and their tech. Our conversation explores why genuine progress at work is less about grand gestures and more about attending to the day-to-day basics: how we collaborate, communicate, and set boundaries. It’s a hopeful, practical look at what it will take to shape a future of work that’s healthier, more productive, and actually human.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayMelissa urges us to challenge the belief that “the work is the work.” It’s not only okay, but necessary, to step back and evaluate which activities are meaningful and which are not. That simple mindset shift, she says, can change everything.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Connect with Melissa Swift on LinkedInLearn more at Anthrome InsightRead Work Here Now: Think Like a Human and Build a Powerhouse WorkplaceProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we’re joined by Susanne Madsen, a globally recognized executive coach, award-winning author, and specialist in transformational leadership for complex organizations. With nearly 30 years of experience working with global leaders at companies like JP Morgan, Citigroup, and Lego, Susanne has dedicated her career to helping people rethink how they lead—and, more importantly, how they show up for themselves. Her latest book, How to Do the Inner Work, explores why genuine transformation starts with self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the courage to look inward, even when it’s uncomfortable.Susanne guides us through the journey of doing the inner work, beginning with self-compassion and small acts of kindness toward ourselves. She shares how foundational practices—like reflection, breathwork, and meditation—help us regulate our emotions and make space for growth. Drawing from her own story and years of coaching, she emphasizes that real change doesn’t require dramatic life overhauls. Instead, it’s about identifying our core values, finding overlaps in our passions, and making small, meaningful tweaks that align our inner and outer worlds. When we stop seeking solutions outside ourselves and focus on our own mindset and actions, the world often meets us differently.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayBe kind to yourself. When we extend kindness inward, it becomes much easier to offer it to others—and that’s where true change begins.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Learn more at SusanneMadsen.co.ukRead How to Do the Inner Work by Susanne MadsenRead The Power of Project Leadership by Susanne MadsenRead The Project Management Coaching Workbook by Susanne MadsenFollow Susanne on Instagram: @susannemadsen1Produced by NOVA

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Alexandra Miles, founder and CEO of Project Blackbird, a nonprofit organization that champions mental health awareness and access in Washington, D.C., and beyond. Alexandra brings a wealth of experience, from her dual degrees in business and fine arts to her leadership in producing impactful mental health programming and films. Her work, which includes screenings at global events such as Sundance and Cannes, focuses on reducing stigma and connecting youth—especially those from underrepresented communities—with free therapy and practical resources.Our conversation uncovers Alexandra’s deeply personal journey with an eating disorder, highlighting how shame and silence once kept her from healing. By openly sharing her own struggles, Alexandra has found strength and purpose in creating spaces for vulnerability, honesty, and support. We explore how Project Blackbird’s innovative programming pairs powerful storytelling, lived experiences from public figures, and immediate access to care. Together, we reflect on the importance of daily self-check-ins, community-driven resource fairs, and fostering real connections. Alexandra’s approach is a reminder that addressing mental health is not about fitting into a diagnosis but about seeing the human behind every struggle—and making it safe for others to seek help.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayIf you’re not the most peaceful and happiest version of yourself right now, don’t rush to diagnose or label—just get curious. By honestly sharing what you’re going through, you make it safer for others to open up too.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Project BlackbirdProject Blackbird on InstagramProject Blackbird on FacebookProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we reconnect with Mark Monchek, founder and Chief Opportunity Officer of the Opportunity Lab, whose clients include global leaders like Google, Apple, GE, and the United Nations. Mark’s journey sits at the crossroads of business, art, and psychology, and his latest book, Opportunity Intelligence: How to Thrive in an Age of Radical Disruption, is both timely and personal—shaped by a legacy of resilience from a family that endured some of the 20th century’s most profound upheavals.Mark’s central message is that opportunity isn’t inherently good or bad; it’s simply reality. Our response, mindset, and the stories we tell ourselves are what shape outcomes. He breaks down a powerful framework: start with an “opportunity mindset,” see challenges with fresh eyes, and focus on cultivating networks rooted in abundance, generosity, and collaboration. Through personal anecdotes—like rebuilding his vandalized home through community support—Mark illustrates that resilience comes from recognizing underused resources, embracing uncertainty, and fostering genuine connections. His work is a call to move beyond competition and scarcity thinking, inviting us to create more by supporting each other, both in business and in life.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayAsk for help when you need it—and recognize that asking is a gift to others. When we ask and offer support, we heal, connect, and bring the world closer together.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Read Opportunity Intelligence: How to Thrive in an Age of Radical Disruption by Mark MonchekRead Culture of Opportunity: How to Grow Your Business in an Age of Disruption by Mark MonchekListen: Episode 196: Creating a Culture of Opportunity | with Mark MonchekVisit Opportunity Lab to learn more about Mark’s consulting and eventsFollow Mark Monchek on LinkedInUnConference NYCSupport Asheville RisingProduced by NOVA

For this episode, we’re honored to welcome Diane Kahn, founding member and executive director of Humans of San Quentin. Diane’s journey began with a simple curiosity that blossomed into a life-changing mission: helping incarcerated people share their stories with the world. Over seven years volunteering at San Quentin, she’s been deeply moved by the vulnerability and emotional intelligence of the men she works with—seeing firsthand how storytelling, art, and letter writing can bridge the gap between those inside and outside the prison walls.Throughout our conversation, Diane challenges the stigmas and assumptions so many people have about those who are incarcerated. She shares powerful stories that reveal hope, redemption, and an eagerness among incarcerated individuals to give back and make amends. What’s most striking is the transformative power of being heard—how simply listening and sharing a memory can spark profound growth and emotional insight. Diane reminds us that, in many ways, we all crave connection, understanding, and a chance to be seen for who we really are.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important Takeaway“Don’t judge. Listen to someone. Look inside of them. Try to erase the judgment.”--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Learn more at Humans of San Quentin WebsiteFollow HoSQ on Instagram: @humansofsanquentinConnect with HoSQ on LinkedInHumans of San Quentin PodcastProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we sit down with Jim Poole, CEO of NuCalm, a leader in neuroscience-based wellness and performance. Jim’s journey is rooted in a family dedicated to helping others, shaped by parents who were both psychotherapists and a mother who was a true force of nature. Today, he channels that legacy into pioneering technology that allows people to manage their mental state on demand—without drugs or side effects. NuCalm, once a $6,000 FDA-regulated device used in dental surgeries, has evolved into a user-friendly mobile app designed to bring powerful, science-backed brainwave management to anyone, anywhere.Jim helps us unpack why so many of us are overwhelmed by stress, especially in a post-pandemic world. He breaks down the clash between our “reptile brain” (the amygdala) and our more evolved prefrontal cortex, revealing how chronic stress robs us of the presence and patience we need to thrive. As a society, we’re becoming more aware of our mental health needs, but the proliferation of “silver bullet” wellness apps often falls short. What sets NuCalm apart is decades of research, rigorous FDA approval, and real-world results—helping users tap into healing brainwave states at the press of a button. We come away with a deeper understanding of how practical neuroscience can empower us to take control of our stress and well-being, even amidst life’s chaos.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayTake care of yourself. Just because you can’t see, smell, taste, or touch stress doesn’t mean it isn’t impacting you every single day. Do something—anything—to manage your stress, because if you don’t, you won’t like the consequences of stress managing you.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Learn more about NuCalm and try a free 7-day trial at NuCalm.comUse the coupon code DRRICHARD at checkout for 15% off any NuCalm subscriptionProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we’re joined by Thomas G. Waites—acclaimed actor, playwright, musician, and star of the raw and riveting one-man show Lucky Man, A Warrior’s Journey, currently playing in New York and produced by Emmy and Golden Globe winner John Goodman. With a storied career spanning film, television, and stage—including cult classics like The Warriors and The Thing—Tom pulls back the curtain on his rollercoaster life, sharing openly about both meteoric highs and hard-won lessons in redemption.We journey with Tom through his early struggles, the car accident that changed his trajectory, and the drive that led him from the wrong side of the tracks to Juilliard and beyond. But fame wasn’t the final destination—instead, it was his battles with addiction and eventual recovery that truly reshaped his life. Tom’s story is a testament to the messy, nonlinear path of transformation, showing how setbacks, loss, and even self-destruction can become fertile ground for reinvention. Today, he channels his hard-earned wisdom into his art, his teaching, and his commitment to service—reminding us that real success is about who we become and how we help others along the way.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important Takeaway“Love others into being and you will be.”--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Learn more about Thomas’ work at thomasgwaites.comFollow Thomas’ band on Instagram: @heartbreakwaitesProduced by NOVA

Dr. Paul J. Zak, acclaimed neuroscientist and bestselling author of The Little Book of Happiness, returns to The Daily Helping to share groundbreaking insights on how connection and fulfillment truly shape our well-being. As a professor and pioneer in behavioral neuroscience, Dr. Zak has spent decades studying what it takes for people to thrive, developing tools that help us measure and build more meaningful lives.In this episode, Dr. Zak discusses his innovative SIX app, which uses data from everyday smartwatches to track our most valuable, emotionally resonant moments. His research shows that fulfillment isn’t about minimizing stress or chasing endless self-improvement—it’s about being present, nurturing relationships, and making small, positive impacts on those around us.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayMake a point to add love to the world. Strive to make every interaction “love plus”—bringing kindness and care to those around you, even if they aren’t always able to do the same. The simple act of connecting with and helping others is at the core of lasting happiness.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Read The Little Book of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Living Better by Paul J. ZakImmersion Neuroscience: immersionneuro.comSIX App: your6.comFollow Dr. Paul J. Zak on LinkedInListen: Ep. 1: Love, The Moral Molecule & Trust | with Paul J. Zak (AKA Dr. Love)Produced by NOVA

On this episode of The Daily Helping, we’re joined by Paul Johnson and Larry Aldrich, two accomplished leaders who have spent decades shaping policy and championing individual rights. Paul, former mayor of Phoenix and host of The Optimistic American podcast, brings deep experience from his roles in business, politics, and international development. Larry, a federal antitrust prosecutor and newspaper CEO, has long defended First Amendment rights and innovation in media. Together, they bring a unique, bipartisan lens to the question: Is America’s future as bright as its past?As we reflect on their conversation, it’s clear how much negativity and fear dominate the news and our feeds, making it harder for people to feel empowered or hopeful about the future. Paul and Larry remind us that the founders built this country on the power and responsibility of individuals, not institutions, and that our national fabric is woven from courage, imagination, grit, generosity, and optimism. Through stories like Rosa Parks’s compassion and lessons from history, they show us that when we focus on agency and human connection, we not only enrich our own lives but also strengthen our communities.The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important TakeawayPaul Johnson:The differences we had writing this book forced us to communicate, and there’s real joy in that. If you want to find purpose, it’s very hard to do that if you start from a pessimistic point of view. The goal is to find agency, and the good news is, you live in the greatest nation in history. Whatever you do, don’t exclude people from your life just because they don’t think like you. That’s a huge mistake.Larry Aldrich:The story of America wasn’t written by institutions—it was written by individuals. Look around your community and find places where you see courage, grit, generosity, and joy every day, because that’s where America shines and where its future lies.--Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.Resources:Read: What's Right with America: …And How We Can Keep It That Way!The Optimistic American PodcastThe New FrontiersLarry Aldrich on LinkedInPaul Johnson on LinkedInProduced by NOVA