Work From The Inside Out

This week, Tammy welcomes back author and executive coach Jacqueline Wales, whose new book Fear Intelligence: A Practical Framework for Leading Beyond Fear offers a powerful, compassionate roadmap for understanding how fears shape our lives and our leadership style. Drawing on her two plus decades of coaching executives, professionals, and creatives, Jacqueline explains how fear, often misunderstood or ignored, offers a deeply influential emotional signal that calls for our attention.In the conversation, Jacqueline shares the evolution of her work, beginning with her early books The Fearless Factor and The Fearless Factor at Work, and leading to her latest framework, a four-part acronym: Face It, Explore It, Act on It, Rise with It. She and Tammy discuss how fear shows up in our behaviors, especially as avoidance, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or over-functioning, and how intergenerational stories can quietly shape our sense of safety and self-worth. Jacqueline illustrates how fear often runs “in the background,” like a CPU, until we learn to pause, question, and explore what it’s actually signaling.Listeners will gain a fresh understanding of fear as data, not destiny. Jacqueline emphasizes that growth is not about becoming fearless, a myth she debunks. Becoming fear intelligent  means choosing honesty over avoidance and conscious action over self-sabotage. Practical tools, reflective questions, and stories from her coaching practice illuminate how anyone can begin clearing the “old stories” that block their potential and open up space for the life they truly want.In this week’s Work from the Inside Out podcast, learn more about:What Fear Intelligence is and why it matters for leaders and professionalsThe four-step F.E.A.R. Framework: Face It, Explore It, Act on It, Rise with ItHow fear shapes behavior through avoidance, perfectionism, and people-pleasingWhy fear is often intergenerational, and how those stories get passed alongViewing fear as data rather than danger — and how that shift empowers actionHow to identify the stories that quietly reinforce “I’m not good enough”Why uncertainty is unavoidable, and why choosing discomfort can open new pathsJacqueline’s personal journey from hardship to transformationTools, exercises, and real-life examples from her new book Fear IntelligenceHow to begin building a more honest, compassionate relationship with yourselfLearn more about Jacqueline:Read: Fear Intelligence: A practical framework for leading beyond fear Visit JacquelineWales.comVisit fearintelligence.coLinkedIn: Jacqueline WalesStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletterSubscribe to YouTube: @tammygoolerloeb

In this week’s episode of Work from the Inside Out, Tammy welcomes longtime friend and mission-driven leader Steve Zuckerman, whose multifaceted career spans private equity, economic justice work, and co-founding Stroke Onward, the nonprofit he founded with his wife, author and professor Debra Meyerson. Steve shares how his grounded upbringing, infused with values of service and perseverance, informed the choices he made throughout his professional and personal life.Steve walks us through his career journey, from his entry into consulting, to private equity, to becoming a stay-at-home dad during a major life shift, and eventually pivoting to non-profit leadership. He describes his ‘strategically opportunistic’ mindset which developed over time. Steve reflected on how this approach enabled him to see opportunities beyond conventional pathways and engage with both planned and unexpected situations. In 2010, the unexpected occurred when Steve’s wife, Deb experienced a life threatening stroke Debra, leaving her with a paralyzed right side and no speech at all. We discuss her continual recovery efforts, limitations imposed by her aphasia, and their collaborative mission to expand the conversation around identity loss and rebuilding after stroke. Steve shares how this experience reshaped his career priorities, leading to the founding of Stroke Onward and the second edition of Deb’s book Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves After Stroke. Their goal: transform how the medical and rehabilitation systems support the long-term emotional journey of recovery.In this week’s Work from the Inside Out podcast, learn more about:How Steve’s childhood values shaped his lifelong commitment to service and purpose-driven work.Why he turned down traditional career pathways in favor of roles aligned with his values.The philosophy of being “strategically opportunistic” and how it can guide career decisions.The year-long Mediterranean family sailing adventure that changed their perspective on life.Deb’s stroke, her life with aphasia, and how Steve supports her identity rebuilding.How the book Identity Theft evolved into a second edition and the founding of Stroke Onward.The systemic gaps in stroke recovery and why emotional healing needs long-term support.Steve’s advice for making career decisions rooted in clarity, compassion, and self-awareness.Learn more about Steve:Learn more about Stroke Onward Follow on Instagram: @strokeonwardFollow on Facebook: Stroke Onward’Follow Steve on LinkedInSubscribe on YouTube: @strokeonwardRead: Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves After StrokeListen to the audiobook: Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves After StrokeRead: Identity Theft: Second EditionStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletterSubscribe to YouTube: @tammygoolerloeb

This week on Work From The Inside Out, I am joined by Lt. Col. (Ret.) Ken Corigliano, known widely as Air Force Ken. His story is one of extraordinary contrast: early years filled with love and community, followed by intense personal upheaval, homelessness, and loss. Ken’s path could easily have gone in a very different direction, but a pivotal encounter with a sharp-eyed recruiter and the devastating death of his sister sparked an internal shift that changed everything. What followed was a relentless commitment to service, personal responsibility, and rebuilding himself from the ground up.Ken went on to become an award-winning enlisted Airman, a commissioned officer, an intelligence leader supporting Air Force One, a triathlete striving for the Olympics, and ultimately a decorated lieutenant colonel. But his journey was far from linear. A catastrophic accident derailed his athletic aspirations and left him with an undiagnosed traumatic brain injury that he quietly navigated for seven years while still serving. His recovery, physical, cognitive, and emotional, unfolded slowly and unexpectedly, culminating in breakthrough results from peptide therapy through Transcend, the company he now serves as an executive.Today, Ken channels his life experience, scientific curiosity, and unmatchable resilience into helping others restore their health, energy, and quality of life. In this conversation, he opens up about trauma, service, rebuilding identity, the limitations of grit, and the importance of choosing the “hardest things” for the sake of becoming who we’re truly meant to be. His story is energizing, humbling, and an unforgettable reminder that transformation is always possible.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:How early childhood shaped Ken’s belief in community, nature, and connectionThe unraveling he experienced during adolescence and the turning point that changed his lifeThe recruiter whose tough honesty set Ken on a path of service and growthKen’s rise from struggling student to award-winning Airman and commissioned officerHis near-Olympic pursuit in triathlon and the extreme dedication behind itThe life-changing accident that caused a traumatic brain injury—and the seven years he hid itHow he navigated military service while dealing with cognitive and physical challengesHis remarkable recovery through peptide therapy and why it transformed everythingKen’s work at Transcend and how advanced therapies are helping people regain their vitalityThe philosophy behind his “Seven Gates” leadership model and what drives his passion for hard challengesLearn more about Ken:Read: State of Being by Ken CoriglianoWatch Ken’s story on YouTubeWatch the Ultimate Beastmaster on NetflixVisit: Transcend FoundationVisit: Transcend CompanyInstagram: @airforcekenLinkedIn: Ken Corigliano Stay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletterSubscribe to YouTube: @tammygoolerloeb

This week on Work From the Inside Out, I had the pleasure of speaking with Casey Berman, a strategic advisor, writer, and career transition expert. Casey is best known for his platform, Leave Law Behind, which has helped countless attorneys move beyond the legal field into roles that truly meet their interests. Today, he extends that mission more broadly through CaseyBerman.com, guiding professionals of various backgrounds to discover their “unique genius,” the blend of skills and talents that makes them valuable.Casey’s own story is one of persistence, pivots, and discovery. Though pushed into law school by well-meaning advice, he quickly realized the traditional path of practicing law wasn’t for him. After failing the bar exam once, and later passing, Casey’s career took an unexpected turn when he joined a startup during the dot-com era. There, he began to recognize and develop strengths he didn’t even know he had, communication, negotiating, and leadership. Casey saw how he could leverage those skills to shape a career beyond law.Now based in Maui, Casey helps people identify their invisible strengths, what he calls Casper the Friendly Ghost skills, and bring them to life in both meaningful and sustainable ways. From founding his own businesses to launching an AI-powered coaching tool, Casey models what it means to embrace risk, trust the process, and build a career that truly fits.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:Discover your unique genius — Your most valuable strengths may not be obvious; ask others what they notice in you.Don’t just do what you’re good at. Do what you enjoy. Success and fulfillment meet at the intersection of skill and passion.Redefine career paths as multi-dimensional. You don’t have to stay in one lane; your career can reflect many ways of creating value.Do it your own way. Frameworks and advice are useful, but the most authentic and sustainable path is the one that fits you.Learn more about Casey:Website: www.caseyberman.comX: @caseybermanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseybermansf/Facebook: https://facebook.com/caseybermansfStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInFollow Tammy on InstagramBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletterSubscribe to YouTube: @tammygoolerloeb

In this week’s episode of Work From The Inside Out, I had the pleasure of speaking with Doug Hall, author, inventor, and founder of Eureka Ranch and Brain Brew Distillery. Named one of America’s top innovation experts, Doug has spent his career turning big ideas into practical, reproducible systems for organizations worldwide. His journey began as a curious kid in Maine, supported by his family who encouraged his inventiveness, which set the stage for a lifetime of discovery and problem-solving.Doug shared how his father’s introduction to Dr. W. Edwards Deming’s systems thinking completely transformed his perspective on work. At Procter & Gamble, Doug applied these principles to bridge departments, optimize processes, and launch groundbreaking products. Eventually, he walked away from corporate life to found Eureka Ranch, where he pioneered approaches to innovation that were data-driven, scalable, and effective.Today, Doug is passionate about teaching organizations and individuals how to find joy in their work by eliminating waste, engaging employees, and encouraging curiosity. His latest book, Proactive Problem Solving, captures decades of experience and provides accessible tools for managers and frontline workers alike. Doug reminds us that growth, learning, and curiosity are the essential ingredients of meaningful work.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:How curiosity drives innovation: Staying curious opens doors to lifelong learning and reinvention.Fixing systems, not people. Most problems lie in broken processes, not individual shortcomings.Why small wins create big engagement: Eliminating everyday frustrations helps employees find pride in their work.Keep asking if you’re growing. Regularly reflect on whether you’re smarter than you were six months ago.Meaningful work fuels joy. Fulfillment comes from work that matters, not just tasks that keep us busy.Learn more about Doug:Visit Doug’s website at doughall.comVisit Eureka Ranch’s website at eurekaranch.comVisit Brain Brew DistilleryStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInFollow Tammy on InstagramBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletterSubscribe to YouTube: @tammygoolerloeb

I’m back! Though in many ways, I never really left. After taking a pause from Work from the Inside Out and my usual online presence, I wanted to share what this time away has taught me. The pause was prompted by the loss of my father, an experience that brought deep reflection, and ultimately, gratitude.In this solo episode, I talk about what it means to allow ourselves to pause and to stop pushing; and instead, allow life to unfold into its own rhythm. I’ve learned that stepping back doesn’t mean giving up; it’s an act of honoring what’s happening and trusting that healing and clarity can come in their own time.I also revisit the stories of past guests who have inspired me through their own transformative experiences; people like Michael O’Brien, Luis Velasquez, and Jenny Lisk. Each of them found new meaning after their lives changed in unexpected ways. Their stories and my own, remind me that when we allow life’s pauses to do their work, they often guide us toward growth and deeper purpose.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:Why I chose to take a pause and what it taught meHow grief can reveal new layers of gratitude and insightThe unexpected gifts that come with slowing downThe resilience and reinvention of past guests Michael O’Brien, Luis Velasquez, and Jenny LiskHow honoring life’s pauses can help you live and work with more meaningRevisit Past Episodes:6: Hitting the Pause Button with Michael O'Brien35: Adapt and Thrive with Luis Velasquez113: From Grief to Giving, One Step at a Time with Jenny LiskStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInFollow Tammy on InstagramBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletterSubscribe to YouTube: @tammygoolerloeb

On Work from the Inside Out, episode 280, I spoke with Camilla Kring, an engineer turned expert in work-life balance and circadian rhythms. With a PhD in work-life balance and decades of experience across the globe, Camilla has dedicated her career to helping individuals and organizations create flexible cultures that honor people’s natural rhythms.In our conversation, she explained how identifying your chronotype, whether you’re an early bird, night owl, or somewhere in between, can transform productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. She shared her journey of writing, researching, and working during her peak energy hours, even if they didn’t fit the traditional nine-to-five mold.Through her company, Super Navigators, and nonprofit, The B-Society, Camilla has led change in both workplaces and schools. Her mission is clear: to empower us to live in sync with our rhythms, embrace self-compassion, and design lives that are sustainable, healthy, and fulfilling.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:Understanding biological clocks, being an early bird or night owl, and how this impacts productivity and health.Tools and frameworks to intentionally design time, goals, and rhythms for a fulfilling life.How organizations can support diverse schedules, build trust, and boost employee well-being and performance.Advocacy for later school start times and the need to align societal norms with natural rhythms.Accepting one’s natural rhythm, releasing guilt from societal pressures, and embracing authenticity.Learn more about Camilla:Visit Super NavigatorsVisit B-SocietyRead Unleashed by Anne Morriss and Frances FreiSubscribe to YouTube: @camillakringFollow Camilla on LinkedIn: Camilla Kring, PhDRead: Life Navigation ConceptDownload ebook: Life Navigation: Tools to Improve Your Work-Life BalanceRead: Chronoleadership: How to create healthier and more productive rhythms in your work and lifeVisit: Bodyclock.HealthSubscribe: Life Navigation NewsletterVisit: Applied ChronobiologyTest your ChronotypeStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInFollow Tammy on InstagramBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide, which may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening.In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, I’m so excited to bring you my dear friend and colleague, Dr. Christina Guthier. Christina is an occupational health psychologist who has studied burnout and exhaustion for over a decade. What makes her perspective unique is her discovery of something she calls joyful exhaustion—a state of being physically tired, yet emotionally fulfilled, because the work feels meaningful and worthwhile.In our conversation, Christina opens up about the personal experiences that shaped her research journey, including the contrasting ways her grandparents and father experienced work, and the tragic loss of her godfather, which left a deep impression on her understanding of burnout. She also shares how her academic path was shaped by both serendipity and deep reflection, leading to her award-winning research and upcoming book, Joyfully Exhausted.What I loved most about this interview is Christina’s grounded, compassionate take on what it means to live and work in sustainable, satisfying ways. If you’ve ever felt wiped out but fulfilled, or burned out and stuck, this episode will help you reflect on what truly makes your efforts feel worthwhile. And stay tuned for more when the English translation of her book launches in the U.S.!In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:Discover the concept of joyful exhaustion, where tiredness comes from meaningful effort, not depletion.Understand how personal history and family dynamics can shape our experience of work and burnout.Learn why recovery is essential, even when you love what you do.Hear the powerful story of how Christina’s godfather’s death influenced her mission to humanize work.Get a sneak peek into Christina’s upcoming book and how she’s helping people reframe burnout through science-backed insights.Learn more about Christina:Visit Christina’s WebsiteConnect on LinkedinFollow Christina on Instagram: @christinaguthierWatch Christina’s TEDx talk: Let’s Talk About the Bright Side of ExhaustionStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, I’m so excited to welcome back Kathy Oneto. Kathy is the founder of Sustainable Ambition, a coach, speaker, and now the author of Sustainable Ambition: How to Prioritize What Matters to Thrive in Life and Work. Her new book is a thoughtful and deeply practical guide for redefining what success and ambition can look like on your own terms. In our conversation, Kathy shares how the idea for the book was born out of years of reflection, coaching, and personal experience. We talk about what it means to honor your ambitions not just in work, but in all areas of life.One of the biggest takeaways for me was how Kathy differentiates between staying busy and being intentional. She reminds us that ambition isn’t only about professional goals, it’s also about creating a fulfilling life. From nurturing creativity to becoming a better sleeper, she offers a broader and more compassionate view of what it means to pursue something meaningful. Kathy walks us through her process of writing the book with sustainability in mind, and the power of pacing, spaciousness, and grace along the way.We also explored how so many people are operating on autopilot, rushing from one thing to the next without asking why. Kathy encourages us to pause, reflect, and claim the ambitions that genuinely matter to us right now. Her work is a refreshing reminder that slowing down isn’t a weakness. It’s a strategy. If you’re seeking clarity, realignment, or simply a more nourishing path forward, I know this conversation will speak to you. And don’t forget—her book launched last June 10th!In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:Generating your own ideas for success: Break through old habits of following what others suggest and focus on what matters most and feels right to you.How taking it slower can help you clarify your direction: It can help you to focus your thoughts, feel less stressed, and enjoy what you're doing.Why life goals are just as important to your ambitions as school or work: Wanting to be a better friend, developing hobbies, or improving sleep are all important ambitions.How asking yourself “why” can help you focus your choices in more authentic ways: By pausing to think before acting, you will choose what you want, not just what others expect.How simple tools can help you reach your goals: Kathy shares fun and easy exercises in her book to help you figure out what you want and how to get there.Learn more about Kathy:Visit Sustainable AmbitionListen to the Sustainable Ambition PodcastFollow Kathy on Instagram: @koneto12Follow Kathy on LinkedIn: Kathy OnetoRead: Sustainable Ambition: How to Prioritize What Matters to Thrive in Life and WorkStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, I spoke with Sabina Nawaz, executive coach and author of You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be and Others Need. She brings with her decades of wisdom gained from leading executive development at Microsoft and later coaching C-suite leaders around the globe. But it’s not just her impressive credentials that left an impact, it’s her honesty and clarity about what shapes us, both the difficult and the delightful.Sabina took us back to her early days in Calcutta, where adults trusted her with decisions at just eight years old, and where living in a home affected by domestic violence sharpened her intuitive grasp of human behavior. She attributes her extraordinary ability to read people to the influence of these childhood experiences, which now helps her support leaders facing the pressures of power and performance. Her journey from a successful software engineer to a sought-after leadership coach was anything but linear, and that's exactly what makes it so inspiring.We talked about how she made the leap from a corporate powerhouse role, including advising Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer, to starting her own business while starting her family, in search of a life where she could be in charge of her own time. Sabina’s wisdom around power, pressure, and presence is powerful for anyone seeking fulfillment and navigating a path to leadership. If you’re wondering how to best identify your strengths, or how to show up as a leader without losing yourself, you’ll want to take in Sabina’s insights.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:How Sabina’s early life shaped her leadership lens Why getting promoted can be the riskiest moment in your career, and how to navigate the shift in how others perceive you as you take on more authority.Why it’s pressure—not power—that can derail leaders, and how recognizing your emotional patterns under stress is key to leading with integrity.The power of leaning into your strengths—and how Sabina used her gifts in communication, ideation, and connection to pivot from tech to leadership development.Why embracing experimentation can transform your career, from saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities to launching a global coaching practice while seven months pregnant.Learn more about Sabina:Read You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be (and Others Need)Download free book guidesVisit: sabinanawaz.comFollow: LinkedInFollow: InstagramStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, Dr. Gian Varbaro, MD, MBA–Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Ambulatory Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, New Jersey–shares a deeply personal and inspiring story of how grit, curiosity, and a relentless drive for justice shaped his career in healthcare leadership. From humble beginnings working in construction alongside his immigrant father to earning his MD from NYU and an MBA from Yale, Gian’s story is a testament to the power of intention, adaptability, and standing up for what matters. Today, as Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Ambulatory Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, he leads with empathy, insight, and a clear vision for health equity and organizational transformation.Gian opens up about his early resistance to following his father’s dream of him becoming a doctor, his disillusionment with medical education, and how unexpected opportunities, and even moments of failure, led him to forge a unique path as a changemaker in hospital medicine. He also reflects on the mentors who shaped his leadership, the importance of learning from both positive and ineffective examples, and the role of intentionality in making meaningful career decisions. Whether you're in healthcare or navigating a different career journey, this episode is filled with practical wisdom and heart.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:How frustration can be a powerful catalyst for discovering purpose and direction in your careerWhy intentionality matters and how to approach your next move with a sense of clarity and a strategyThe value of learning from both positive and ineffective leaders to shape your leadership styleThe evolving role of the hospitalist and how Dr. Varbaro helped pioneer hospital-based careThe importance of mentorship and being mentored—even in unconventional or informal waysWhy equity and trust are essential to transforming institutions and rebuilding moraleLearn more about Dr. Gian Varbaro:Follow on Facebook Follow on LinkedIn Follow on InstagramStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

In this episode of Work From the Inside Out, I sit down with executive coach, organizational psychologist, and Harvard Business Review contributor Irina Cozma, PhD. From the volleyball courts of Romania to leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies, Irina has followed a powerful inner voice throughout her life: when she wants something, she takes action. No overthinking. No perfectionism. Just clear intention and bold movement. We talk about how this mindset helped her navigate international moves, earn multiple advanced degrees, a corporate career, and ultimately the launch of her coaching practice.Irina shares how overthinking and perfectionism are two of the biggest challenges she sees in her clients and how developing direction can change everything. Whether you’re exploring a major career shift or simply trying to get unstuck, Irina’s story offers a refreshing and practical reminder: clarity beats complexity, and action beats anxiety. Tune in to hear how she helps others close the gap between “I want” and “I do” and how you can do the same.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:How embracing clarity, direction, and intentional action can supersede overthinking and perfectionism.Why having a strong sense of “what you want” makes decision-making easier, even when the path forward is uncertain.The power of following curiosity and interest as a compass for career choices, rather than chasing traditional markers of success.What it looks like to reinvent your career across industries, countries, and interests.Learn more about Irina:Visit irinacozma.comLinkedIn: @irinacozmaYouTube: @irina-cozmaStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

On Work from the Inside Out, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ora Grodsky, co-founder of Just Works Consulting and author of Justice, Love, and Organizational Healing: A Guide to Transformational Consulting. Ora’s journey is one of deep purpose and profound transformation. From restaurant work and starting a food co-op to becoming an acupuncturist, and academic dean at her acupuncture school to co-founding a holistic AIDS clinic, Ora has always been guided by her commitment to healing. Today, she brings more than 25 years of experience in helping mission-driven organizations align their values with their work.Ora and I talked about how her roots in a social justice-focused family shaped her worldview and inspired a lifelong inquiry: How can we work toward a more just and sustainable world while honoring our own well-being? As she navigated her career choices, motherhood, and leadership development, Ora stayed true to her internal compass. Her journey exquisitely illustrates that meaningful careers don’t always follow a straight line and that listening inward can lead to powerful change and professional fulfillment.We also explored practical tools from Ora’s consulting work, like the POP framework (Purpose, Outcomes, Process), and discussed the importance of nervous system regulation in navigating leadership and organizational challenges. This conversation is full of wisdom for anyone starting something new, leading change, or searching for more purpose in their work. I hope you find it as inspiring and grounding as I did.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Discover how clarifying your personal values can guide more meaningful career and organizational decisions.How Ora’s journey from acupuncturist to organizational consultant demonstrates the value of following purpose over predictability.Understand how Purpose, Outcomes, and Process (POP) can ground meetings, planning, and change initiatives in clarity and intention.Explore how self-awareness and emotional regulation support effective leadership decisions, especially during times of transformation.Gain insights into how equity, compassion, and healing can be embedded into the culture and systems of any workplace.Learn more about Ora:Read Justice, Love, and Organizational Healing: A Guide to Transformational ConsultingInstagram: @oragrodsky​LinkedIn: Ora GrodskyJust Works Consulting: just-works.comStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Dr. SD Shanti, a remarkable woman whose journey is one of deep purpose, resilience, and heartfelt service.SD began her professional life in dentistry, and over time, she followed several inner callings that led her into the worlds of public health, psychology, and ultimately, into founding the World Love Forum—an initiative devoted to promoting emotional health and preventing violence and depression on a global scale.Throughout our conversation, SD shared how listening to the compass of her heart, even in the face of naysayers and uncertainty, guided her toward a truly integrated life—blending science, soul, and service. We talked about the discomfort of staying stuck versus the discomfort of change, and how stillness can be the most powerful space for clarity and direction.If you're wondering what’s next or feeling the tug to live a more fulfilling life, I think you’ll find SD’s story both grounding and inspiring.What You'll Learn in This Episode:What it means to truly listen to your heart—and act on it  SD’s journey from pediatric dentistry to clinical psychology to global public health  How the World Love Forum came to life  The power of entertainment education to promote healing and prevention  Why discomfort is part of growth—and how to move through it with intentionLearn more about Dr. S.D. Shanti:Visit: worldloveforum.orgSign up for her newsletterCheck out her meditation videos  InstagramLinkedIn  YouTubeSubstackStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jason Van Orden, a business strategist and thought leadership expert who has built his career by following his curiosity. From an early foundation in engineering to becoming one of the first business podcasters, Jason’s professional path has been anything but linear. Each step was guided not by external expectations, but by an internal drive to explore, learn, and evolve.Jason shared how curiosity led him to make bold moves—geographically and professionally. Whether relocating from Alaska to Utah to Paris, or shifting from startup founder to mentor for purpose-driven entrepreneurs, he continually asked, “What’s next?” That openness allowed him to uncover work that felt aligned and energizing. His story is a powerful reminder that staying curious can unlock unexpected and deeply meaningful opportunities.Throughout our conversation, Jason offered thoughtful insights into how curiosity can fuel clarity, creativity, and connection in our work. He encourages listeners to embrace experimentation, listen to what genuinely lights them up, and trust that their most resonant ideas often come from within. If you’re in a moment of transition or simply seeking more purpose in your work, Jason’s story is a compelling example of how to move forward by following your inner questions.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How following curiosity can guide your career transitions with more purpose and clarityHow experimentation and asking the right questions can unlock new opportunitiesEncouragement to trust your inner signals when navigating changeLearn more about Jason:Visit Jason Van Orden’s website at jasonvanorden.com   Email Jason Van Orden at Jason@JasonVanOrden.com Sign up to Jason Van Orden’s newsletterListen to the Impact: How to Grow Your Thought Leadership Brand and Business podcastLinkedInStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedInBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to the newsletter

In this episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming back Melody Wilding, executive coach and author of Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge. Melody is an executive coach, licensed social worker, and professor of human behavior at Hunter College. She has worked with professionals at companies like Google, Amazon, and JPMorgan and has been featured in The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Forbes.Melody and I had a fantastic conversation about how we can all take control of our work experience, build better relationships with managers, and navigate workplace dynamics with confidence.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about: Why Managing Up isn’t about sucking up—it’s about creating the conditions for your own success.The 10 essential conversations that can change the way you work.How to assert boundaries and push back diplomatically.Why career growth isn’t just about promotions—it’s about positioning yourself for respect and opportunity.The importance of upward empathy—understanding the pressures your boss faces.Practical steps to gain more visibility, influence, and confidence at work.Learn more about Melody:Visit her website at melodywilding.comListen to the Psychology at Work PodcastFollow her on Instagram @melodywildingFollow her on Facebook: Melody Wilding, LMSWFollow her on LinkedInRead: Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in ChargeStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedIn@TammyGoolerLoeb on InstagramBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to newsletter

In this episode, I revisit my interview with Lori Mihalich-Levin in honor of National Working Moms Day. We explore Lori’s remarkable journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a healthcare policy lawyer and founder of Mindful Return, an organization providing critical support to parents transitioning back to work after parental leave. Through programs like e-courses, employer initiatives, and international chapters, Mindful Return has made a significant impact on working parents worldwide.Lori shares her personal and professional experiences, emphasizing her passion for public policy, healthcare, and advocating for women’s leadership. She offers valuable advice on integrating personal passions into a career using consistent, incremental steps. From her work at Dentons US LLP and AAMC to her books and podcasts, Lori demonstrates a strong commitment to empowering working parents, fostering equality, and building meaningful connections. This episode offers inspiring insights for navigating the intersection of parenthood and career with purpose and mindfulness.In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about Lori’s journey:Lori’s thought leadership has been featured in publications, including Forbes, The Washington Post, New York Times, Parenting, and Thrive Global. Today, Lori advises clients in her law practice on issues relating to Medicare graduate medical education payments.Learn more and connect with Lori here:Instagram: @mindfulreturnFacebook: Mindful Return LinkedIn: Mindful ReturnLinkedIn: Lori Mihalich-LevinWebsite: Mindful ReturnListen: Parents at Work podcastStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedIn@TammyGoolerLoeb on InstagramBuy Me A CoffeeWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to newsletter

Luis Velasquez coaches leaders worldwide, guiding them to turn challenges into opportunities. He is the author of the best-selling book “Ordinary Resilience: Rethinking How Effective Leaders Adapt and Thrive.” Luis shows how to unlock and strengthen innate resilience, preparing you to face whatever life throws your way. He’s helped hundreds of leaders thrive throughout change, and now he’s sharing his framework to help you do the same. With client accounts, personal anecdotes, and professional insight, Luis provides a roadmap you’ll return to in every challenge you face. His strategic thinking is regularly published by the Harvard Business Review and Fast Company. He has been spotlighted in Forbes and books: Dorie Clark’s "The Long Game." Tammy Gooler Loeb’s “Work from the Inside Out” and Ludmilla Praslova’s “The Canary Code.” Luis also facilitates professional development courses at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business.Luis is not only an advocate for resilience but a living testament to it. He was raised in poverty in Guatemala which was riddled by civil war at the time. When he came to the U.S. as a teenager to learn English. Later, after going back to Guatemala, he returned to the U.S. attended college and studied in earnest to get his Ph.D. in Botany. He became a tenure track college professor. Then, tragedy struck. He was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Showing unparalleled commitment, persistence, and optimism, Luis survived. Today, he’s an ultra-marathoner and Ironman triathlete, having tackled the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run. Family lies at the heart of his drive. Together with his wife, they're raising two children whom they hope will become two kind, confident, and resilient humans, mirroring the principles he champions.Learn more and connect with Luis here: WebsiteXLinkedInFacebookStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedIn@TammyGoolerLoeb on InstagramWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to newsletter

Michael Thompson is a career coach, lecturer at EAE Business School in Barcelona, Spain, and strategic communication advisor to top business leaders worldwide. Growing up, Michael’s stutter and social anxiety kept him reserved and reluctant to pursue his goals. Over time he challenged his supposed weaknesses by putting himself out in the world and discovered the person he did not know he could become. Michael developed a system of principles to help people express themselves more confidently and build meaningful relationships without sacrificing their nature. He brings those principles to life in his book Shy by Design: 12 Timeless Principles to Quietly Stand Out. His writing has also appeared in numerous publications, including Fast Company, Insider, Forbes, INC, MSN, and Apple News.He recounts his professional evolution from a barback to a successful sales manager, his transformative experiences in teaching and coaching, and his eventual success as a writer and published author. Michael offers valuable insights on self-discovery, the importance of vulnerability, and the power of going slow and steady in one's career. As a kid, Michael allowed his shyness, severe stutter, and crippling social anxiety to dominate his internal dialog and undermine his hopes and dreams. He was mocked by his peers and even some teachers, reinforcing the self-limiting belief that he was better off tucked away in a corner, safe from harm's way. Yet, while some people focus on their strengths to win the life they want, Michael chose to pursue the opposite path and pushed himself, making a commitment to collect blisters instead of chasing bliss. He stepped into the person he didn’t even know he was capable of becoming.In Shy by Design, Michael shares his inspiring journey of moving from being riddled with self-doubt to becoming a sought-after career coach, university leadership lecturer, and strategic communication advisor for top global business executives and entrepreneurs. He chronicles his transformation from feeling left out to leading others, all the while staying true to his shy and quiet nature. Through numerous examples, from embracing our imperfections to questioning our "perceived" weaknesses, Michael offers strategies we can all use to cement our own principles that are authentic to who we each are and amplify your impact without sacrificing your shy nature.Packaged into 12 easy-to-grasp principles, Shy by Design will teach you to:Grow your confidence and strengthen communication skills on your own terms and at your own pace.Create meaningful connections and foster a close-knit community that supports personal growth.Lead with quiet conviction that uplifts others on the climb toward success.Michael’s story of navigating the often loud world of sales and communication – while staying true to his shy way of being – will inspire you to embrace your unique strengths and see your “perceived” weaknesses through a more empowered lens.Learn more and connect with Michael here: Read Shy by DesignLinkedInMediumInstagramXStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedIn@TammyGoolerLoeb on InstagramWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to newsletter

Starting from his childhood fascination with media, Scot Safon shares his professional journey starting in the advertising agency world and moving to executive marketing roles in major media companies such as CNN, TNT, HLN, The Weather Channel, and more. He recounts anecdotes from his formative years, explains his career transitions, and outlines his current consulting practice.Scot grew up in a diverse, working-class neighborhood in Bay Shore, New York, a town on the south shore of Long Island. He is a long-time friend of Tammy’s going back to junior high school. Scot appreciated the variety of hardworking adult role models who demonstrated that family life was not superseded by one’s work. While he always enjoyed learning and his classes, he noted that his favorite activities went beyond classroom time. He was fascinated with all kinds of media. At a young age, he would go to sleep listening to news radio, he went to every movie he could (that didn’t have an R rating), and later took the train to New York City to see Broadway shows every chance he could. Through his school and university years, Scot was active in the drama club, an editor for his high school newspaper, a curator and promoter for a film festival, and he worked as a reporter for a regional NPR station near his college.Scot attended the University of Virginia, where he earned his BA and went on to Cornell University for his MBA. He then went to New York City to work in advertising on consumer product accounts. Scot set his sights on moving over to the media industry and was offered an opportunity to work on the CBS Network account. Then he moved to Atlanta to work for Turner Network Television, elevating to serve as Chief Marketing Officer or Head of Marketing for a number of major media brands across a 40-year career, including CNN, The Weather Channel, TNT, and MotorTrend. He also was the EVP/General Manager of CNN’s HLN network.Today Scot is a media marketing and branding consultant whose clients range from global blue-chip brands to not-for-profits. He advises C-suite decision-makers on strategic communications to launch products, address crises, and explain policies. His focus: helping clients "find the right words" to support their initiatives. His consulting clients have included Ford, HBO Max, Showtime, the Scripps Networks, The Grand Ole Opry, and New America. He is a consulting associate with agencies Civic Entertainment and Cultique.Emphasizing curiosity and adaptability, Scot offers valuable insights on navigating career advancements and leveraging the power of effective communication. His journey illustrates how passion, persistence, and a willingness to embrace new challenges can lead to a fulfilling career in media.Learn more and connect with Scot here: FacebookInstagramStay Connected:Connect with Tammy on LinkedIn@TammyGoolerLoeb on InstagramWork From The Inside Out WebsiteSubscribe to newsletter