Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different™

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have the pleasure of welcoming Sean Riley, the co-founder of Dude Wipes. for those unfamiliar with it, Dude Wipes is a brand that has revolutionized the concept of personal hygiene with a superior alternative to traditional toilet paper. Sean shares the story of how Dude Wipes catapulted to legendary success, including securing a deal with Mark Cuban on Shark Tank and being recognized as one of the top five greatest Shark Tank entrepreneurs. Our conversation was not only enlightening but also a testament to the power of innovation and strategic category design in entrepreneurship. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Sean Riley on Disrupting the Market with Practical Innovation The conversation starts off with Sean's mustache and how well everyone's taking to it. Sean's distinctive mustache isn't just a personal style choice; it's become a branding asset for Dude Wipes. Pivoting from that, Sean discusses the significance of the brand and its deep resonance with consumers. The name "Dude Wipes" itself is a stroke of genius, encapsulating humor, authenticity, and a bold approach to male hygiene. The conversation then veered towards the practicality of Dude Wipes. Sean emphasizes the universal dissatisfaction with traditional toilet paper and the need for a better solution, especially for men on the go. He explores the potential for Dude Wipes to become as ubiquitous as toilet paper, with the aim of making the product more accessible and convenient for consumers. Drawing parallels with Gojo Industries, the category king of liquid soap and Purell hand sanitizer, Christopher highlights the reframing of the problem and the potential for Dude Wipes to create a new category in the hygiene space. Despite initial skepticism, Sean's commitment to disrupting the toilet paper market remains unwavering. Sean Riley on Overcoming Skepticism and Embracing Category Potential In the early days, Dude Wipes faced challenges and skepticism. However, Sean and his team were confident in their product's appeal to men. They understood that by creating a better product, they could carve out a new space in the male market. Sean's insights on the importance of category potential and market dynamics were particularly enlightening, emphasizing the significance of entering a growing category with unique offerings. The Shark Tank Effect: A Pivotal Moment for Dude Wipes Sean provides an overview of Dude Wipes' impressive sales figures and distribution channels, highlighting the company's organic growth and resourceful brand-building approach. Reflecting on their Shark Tank experience, Sean recounts the unexpected turn of events when Mark Cuban offered them a deal, marking a pivotal moment for the company. Sean's passion and determination were palpable as he recounted the journey of building Dude Wipes and overcoming challenges to achieve success. To hear more from Sean Riley and to receive valuable insights into entrepreneurship, category design, and the power of believing in a product's potential, download and listen to this episode. Bio Sean Riley is the co-founder and driving force behind Dude Wipes, a groundbreaking brand in personal hygiene. With a business degree in hand, Sean teamed up with his childhood friend to challenge conventional notions of men's grooming. In 2010, they launched Dude Products, introducing flushable wipes tailored for men, a concept that resonated with consumers seeking convenient, effective, and masculine alternatives to traditional toilet paper. Sean's leadership propelled Dude Products from a garage startup to a global phenomenon, with a diverse product line available in major retailers worldwide. His dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction solidified Dude Wipes' position as a...

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow your Different, we have a conversation with Carl Daikeler, the visionary CEO of BODi (formerly known as Beachbody). We explore Carl's remarkable journey in the fitness industry, beginning with the inception of the eight-minute abs video series—a concept that sprang from his own need for a quick and effective workout solution. Carl's story is not just about the creation of a fitness program; it's about identifying a gap in the market and filling it with innovation. The eight-minute abs series not only became a household name but also gained unexpected fame with its mention in the movie "Something About Mary." If you’re interested to learn more, consider giving this episode a try. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Carl Daikeler on the Power of Media in Fitness Carl shares the challenges and triumphs of launching other renowned fitness programs like Power 90 and P90X. He emphasizes the crucial role of media in delivering fitness instruction and the concept of structured home fitness. Reflecting on the success of P90X, Carl reveals the strategic thinking behind creating new fitness programs, such as Insanity, and the lessons learned along the way. The impact of Carl's fitness programs on individuals is profound, to say the least. They offer a sense of accomplishment and success to those who may have struggled with traditional gym environments. This, in turn, sheds light on the marketing and strategic decisions that propelled these programs to success and how Beachbody evolved into a digital powerhouse. The Evolution of Fitness: From Products to Subscriptions In the ever-changing landscape of the fitness industry, Carl explains the shift from selling products to embracing a subscription model. In fact, BODi has successfully transitioned to this model, boasting over a million subscribers. However, the journey hasn't been without its challenges, such as subscription fatigue. As such, Carl highlights the importance of evolving the business model to include digital program purchases alongside subscriptions. The unique features of their digital platform, such as virtual trainers who can make real-time corrections for dozens of participants, also helped ensure a high-quality experience. This flexibility extends to allowing users to download programs for offline use, catering to the modern consumer's need for convenience and customization. Owning the Morning and the Holistic Approach to Health The conversation took a personal turn as Carl shares his morning routine, which includes a health shot and Shakeology. He stressed the significance of starting the day with healthy habits to set the tone for overall well-being. This led to the discussion of a controversial topic in weight loss pharmaceuticals, like Ozempic, and the dangers of relying on drugs without making necessary lifestyle changes. Carl advocates for a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the need to build and preserve muscle for long-term vitality. They ponder whether people use these drugs as a kickstarter for a healthier lifestyle or merely as a shortcut. Carl introduces the concept of "health esteem," advocating for building a lifestyle centered around health and activity rather than focusing solely on weight loss. To hear more from Carl Daikeler and how to build up your body the healthy way, download and listen to this episode. Bio Carl Daikeler is the visionary CEO and Co-founder of BODi, a revolutionary health and wellness company. With over two decades of experience in the fitness industry, Carl is on a mission to transform lives through innovative approaches to exercise and nutrition. Carl's journey began with a passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Drawing from his own struggles with weight management and a desire to make a differe...

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined again by a dear friend, Kevin Maney, as he shares stories about the missed opportunities for innovation after Soviet Union's fall. Kevin Maney has a new book out called Red Bottom Line, wherehe tells his firsthand experience as a young USA Today reporter in Russia during the time. From the optimism of Gorbachev's era to the disillusionment under Putin, Christohper and Kevin also explore Russia's technological transformation, societal issues and geopolitical impact. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Kevin Maney on the Journalism in Russia during the late 80s and early 90s Kevin starts off the conversation with a description of the conditions in Russia before, during, and after the fall of the Soviet Union. He describes when Mikhail Gorbachev started loosening restrictions and allowing more foreign correspondents into Russia, which allowed journalists like Kevin to make it to Russian soil as early as 88-88. Though some restrictions were lifted, Kevin recalls that they still had to jump through so many hoops just to get there, as there aren’t exactly direct routes or flights going from America to Russia at the time. At this point in time, a lot of Americans and other Westerners were flocking to Russia, as demand for common consumer products skyrocket. Things like toothpaste and deodorant were being sold left and right, things that weren’t originally available locally. Kevin observed this trend and proposed to his editor to let him cover this economic and financial phenomenon that is happening in the Soviet Union. Kevin Maney on Life in Russia during Economic Hardship As Kevin recalls the situation then, he saw a country that was on its last legs, and its people trying desperately to live as normal as they could. He observed certain stores that only allowed foreigners or people with non-local currencies to shop, as they know it had more buying power in the long run. Local residents were crowding other stores, either to purchase clothing items or to replenish their essential supplies. In department stores, shelves were nearly bare, with only toys and luxury items remaining unsold. Everyone was scooping up anything they could find. Seeing all that in contrast to people’s lives in America was disheartening, to say the least. The Opening of the First McDonalds in Russia during the 90s Given all that, Kevin still saw some hope for the country as they start rebuilding themselves from within. That, and all the companies that are now flooding into Russia to help supplies their needs and ideally, boost their economy. One such company was McDonalds, who Kevin has a fond story to tell. He shares that on one of his trips back to Russia, he just happened to be on the same flight as George Kohan, the biggest McDonalds franchisee in Canada. George was on his way to Moscow to check his plans to build a branch there, which eventually became the first of many McDonalds built in Russia. Kevin got to talk with George Kohan on how things were going with building a business on foreign soil, and the procedures and machinations he had to go through to finally get approved to open his business there. To hear more from Kevin Maney and his stories from the redeveloping Russia in the 90s, download and listen to this episode. Bio Kevin Maney is cofounder of Category Design Advisors, where he works with CEOs and executive teams to develop and execute strategies to design and dominate markets. He is also a multi-time bestselling author and journalist who writes about technology and society. His most recent book, UnHealthare: A Manifesto for Health Assurance, was co-authored with venture capitalist Hemant Taneja and Jefferson Health CEO Steve Klasko. It came out in 2020, and tees up how healthcare will evolve in the ...

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by our friend and multi-time guest, John Rossman. John Rossman is a Master of Innovation and former Amazon Executive who brings to the table his insights from his new book, Big Bet Leadership: Your playbook for winning in the hyper digital era. His experiences with industry giants illuminate the path for making bold, transformative decisions. This conversation is a deep dive into the courage and strategy required to lead in uncertain times, focusing on big bets that redefine industries, in an era where navigating technological change is crucial. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. John Rossman on Category Design and Big Bet Leadership Christopher and John discuss the impact of category transformation and AI on businesses. John expresses gratitude for Christopher's influential work on category design, which has shaped his thinking and client engagements positively. They then delve into the challenges faced by companies in making big bets and succeeding in transformations, particularly in the context of AI and digital eras. Both acknowledge the historical struggle of major corporations to adapt and innovate compared to startups. John emphasizes the need for senior leaders to rethink traditional approaches and embrace new strategies to navigate the hyper-digital era successfully and achieve substantial productivity gains. John Rossman on Bold Moves vs Incremental Improvements Christopher and John explore the necessity of both incremental improvements and bold moves in corporate leadership. They stress the importance of executives balancing ongoing operations with strategic innovation, emphasizing the need for a portfolio of big bets alongside incremental changes. Drawing on insights from successful leaders like Satya Nadella, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk, they highlight the challenges of leading transformations in established companies. They propose a framework centered on creating clarity, maintaining velocity, and accelerating risk and value to guide organizations towards systematic transformation. Customer Obsession and Customer-Driven Innovation Christopher and John then talk about the importance of customer obsession and strategic thinking in driving successful business transformations. They critique competitor-focused strategies and highlight the significance of understanding customer problems deeply. Drawing from Amazon's approach, they emphasize the need for a portfolio of hypotheses and ideas, continuously testing and iterating before scaling. Both caution against premature scaling and advocate for a patient approach that prioritizes operational readiness and sustainability. They stress that a combination of tactics, including customer obsession, agile methodologies, and strategic experimentation, is essential for systematic innovation and transformation. To hear more from John Rossman and how to make Big Bets for your company, download and listen to this episode. Bio John Rossman Digital and Innovation Advisor Mr. Rossman is an expert at digital business models, operations and organizing programs. He has led engagements on developing innovation processes, Internet of Things strategies, marketplace and API driven platform business models. He is a sought-after speaker on creating a culture of operational excellence and innovation. Mr. Rossman has worked with clients across various industries, including retail, insurance, education, healthcare, consumer products, industrial products and transportation. Mr. Rossman’s notable assignments include The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Microsoft, Nordstrom and several of the world’s leading retail and insurance organizations. Prior to Rossman Partners, John was a Managing Director at Alvarez and Marsal,

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by educator, neuroscientist, and former Professor of Evolutionary Biology and Psychology at Harvard, Dr. Marc Hauser. Dr. Marc Hauser has a new book out called Vulnerable Minds: The harm of childhood trauma in the hope of resilience. You should also know this is a very adult conversation, as it deals with tough topics like childhood abuse. If you are not comfortable with such topics, you have been advised. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Marc Hauser on Trauma and Compassion Fatigue in Working with Children Dr. Marc Hauser, who works extensively with trauma victims, discusses the challenges of maintaining emotional well-being while dealing with the profound suffering of his clients. He acknowledges the risk of compassion fatigue and emphasizes the importance of self-care. Dr. Hauser reveals his coping mechanisms, including physical activity and the supportive environment of his home life. He also highlights the necessity of balancing empathy for his clients with maintaining professional boundaries to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Comparing his work to that of his veterinarian wife, he underscores the unique emotional demands of his profession, particularly when faced with physically aggressive clients. Despite the difficulties, Dr. Hauser emphasizes the importance of maintaining compassion and offering hope for a better tomorrow to those he serves. Dr. Marc Hauser on Childhood Trauma and its Impact on Mental and Physical Health Dr. Marc Hauser explains the significance of TRACEs (Trauma Response to Adverse Childhood Experiences) and RRACEs (Resilience Response to Adverse Childhood Experiences) alongside ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences). He elaborates on how ACEs, identified through a questionnaire developed by Dr. Vincent Felitti, are linked to physical and mental health issues. Dr. Hauser highlights the transformative impact of understanding and addressing childhood trauma through TRACEs and RRACEs, emphasizing the importance of trauma-informed care and resilience-building strategies. It underscores the need for a holistic approach to supporting individuals affected by childhood trauma, considering both the adverse effects and potential pathways to resilience and healing. Misconception on the ACE score Dr. Hauser discusses the misconception surrounding ACE scores, emphasizing that they were never intended as individual predictors but as population measures. He explains how ACE scores were misinterpreted and integrated into policies like insurance coverage in California based on individual scores. Christopher questions the implications of ACE scores on insurance premiums and treatment eligibility. Dr. Hauser clarifies that ACE scores are not accurate predictors of individual health risks but rather reflect population trends. He compares ACE scores to heritability measures, highlighting that they indicate predispositions but not definitive outcomes for individuals. Dr. Hauser underscores the importance of understanding ACE scores as measures of experience rather than direct responses to adverse childhood experiences, introducing the concepts of TRACEs and RRACEs for a more nuanced understanding of trauma response. To hear more from Dr. Marc Hauser on childhood trauma, download and listen to this episode. Bio Marc D. Hauser, Ph.D. Links Connect with Dr. Marc Hauser LinkedIn | Twitter / X | Marc D. Hauser website We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we bridge the gap between native analogs and native digitals in business by having a dialogue between the VC legend Ted Dintersmith and one of the new legends of her generation, Hannah Grady Williams. Ted Dintersmith is a VC legend on the East Coast. He's a former venture capitalist and a founding member of Charles River ventures, where he spent a significant portion of his career investing in and nurturing technology startups. Transitioning his focus toward education, he's become an influential advocate for innovative educational practices. Hannah Grady Williams is the legendary founder and CEO of d’Skills. She's recognized for her innovative approach to shaping education and her efforts to equip the next generation with the tools necessary for success in the modern digital landscape. And, oh yeah, she's only 25 years old. Hannah, Ted and Chris discuss the challenges of bridging generational gaps in education as native digital and native analogs. Along with the importance of introducing AI into education to empower students with real world projects. You'll be shocked at the transformative impact of the skills program on student’s confidence, problem solving abilities, and career prospects. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Hannah Grady Williams on Education Reform and Preparing Students for the Workforce After a quick introduction between the two guests, the conversation starts with Hannah recounting a pivotal moment from her childhood when her dad involved her in a real estate deal at age 12, sparking her interest in applying academic skills to real-world situations. This experience led her to question the traditional education system's effectiveness in preparing students for modern careers, especially in the age of AI. She and Christopher discuss the shortcomings of current education models, emphasizing the importance of practical skills over rote memorization. Both share a vision of revolutionizing education by shifting focus from test scores to impact portfolios, where students showcase real-world projects demonstrating their skills. They aim to equip students with digital and AI skills through hands-on projects, enabling them to make tangible contributions to businesses. Ultimately, they envision a million students graduating high school with impact portfolios, ready for the demands of the modern workforce. Ted Dintersmith on the Disconnect between Traditional School Education and Skill Development Christopher and Ted discuss the stark difference between traditional education and teaching skills relevant to the modern workforce, particularly in the context of AI. They note the reluctance of many educational institutions to embrace AI tools, preferring to view them as potential cheating aids rather than productivity enhancers. Ted highlights the disconnect between traditional schooling and the demands of the job market, where college graduates often lack marketable skills and face uncertain career prospects. He emphasizes the need for parents to recognize the evolving nature of jobs and the importance of equipping students with adaptable skills. They see initiatives like Hannah’s d’Skills as offering a path for students to create their own fulfilling careers, distinct from the outdated model of relying solely on degrees and conventional career paths. Education Priorities and Student Motivation Adding more on the topic of issues concerning traditional education, Ted also emphasizes that education's central issue isn't test scores or learning loss but rather the erosion of student motivation and purpose. He highlights the success of programs like d’Skills in engaging students, enabling them to pursue meaningful projects they find important. These initiatives contrast starkly with traditional sc...

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by Izhar and Ophir Shay, a father and brother to Israelis who have lost their lives in the Hamas attack. Today, they share how they chose to honor their fallen, in what can only be described as, Different. Izhar Shay is an entrepreneur – a venture capitalist, very successful in the startup community and startup nation in Israel. And he's a former Israeli Member of Parliament who served as the Minister of Science and Technology. His son, Ophir Shay, is also an entrepreneur, and he has a background in marketing and customer support. Both men have served honorably in the IDF. In Israel, it is customary to plant a tree for fallen Israelis taken in war or terrorism. But Izhar and Ophir chose to honor them by starting a startup called Next October, a nonprofit on a mission to create and build a new successful Israeli startup for every person murdered or kidnapped on October 7. It's an extraordinary vision. How you can take horror and turn it into hope and prosperity. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Ophir Shay and Izhar Shay on Coping with Loss and Grief When asked by Christopher on how they are doing, Ophir expresses optimism amidst difficulty, mentioning progress with connecting companies and families. Izhar then reflects on the challenge of answering "how are you doing?" following a family tragedy on October 7, losing their youngest son, Yaron, a soldier. Christopher empathizes, sharing his experience of loss and the struggle with such questions. Izhar details Yaron's life, highlighting his values as both an Israeli and American citizen. Yaron is remembered as a remarkable individual, cherished by his family, and honored for his service. Memories of Yaron and His Passions in Life Izhar and Ophir continue the conversation about Yaron’s life, one that is filled with different passions, be it in music, watching and playing different sports, and tattoos. Izhar further reflects on Yaron's passion for sports, spanning across continents and connecting people. He highlights Yaron's dedication to his favorite teams and how his commitment was recognized even in his funeral. Christopher reciprocates, sharing his lifelong passion for sports, particularly football and hockey. He recounts a story about NBA Hall of Famer Bill Walton, emphasizing the joy of being an enthusiastic fan and celebrating one's passions. Both agree that sports serve as a unifying force, fostering connections and bonding within families and communities. On accepting New and Old Communities Continuing on that line of thought, Christopher shares his experiences of bonding with his nephews over football, and introducing them to different activities, and in effect, different communities. He notes that music and sports communities tend to be more accepting, as while options might differ vastly from person to person, it’s still an avenue to get a conversation started and to have something common to talk about even if it’s the first time you have met the other person. Ophir agrees with this sentiment, and also adding that at the end of the day, it’s about embracing a new community, or even finally embracing one that you’ve been part of all along. Nothing is stopping anyone from being hardcore fans of their teams, as long as they show mutual respect for others and the teams they support. And isn’t that the point of it all in the end? To hear more from Izhar Shay and Ophir Shay, and how their startups honor their fallen sons and brothers, download and listen to this episode. Bio Izhar Shay Cofounder of Next October. Former Minister of Science & Technology and MK. High-Tech Entrepreneur, Venture Capital Investor, Director & Chairman. Founder, Start-Up Stadium, the largest online community of Israeli entrepreneurs

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we unveil what's really possible for young people when they're set up to win as modern entrepreneurs, leveraging new AI technology. And who better to showcase it than the Gen Z whisperer for CEOs and executives, Hannah Grady Williams. Hannah Grady Williams is back, and she’s here to talk about d’Skills. d’Skills is a one-of-a-kind digital training community that teaches young people entrepreneurship, AI skills, and how to create a revenue producing business in 10 weeks. And the superstars of this conversation are teenage AI entrepreneurs, Rory Straight and Anna Mitchell, two recent graduates of the d’Skills Program. This episode will definitely challenge and inspire you to think about what's possible for young people in new and different ways. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Hannah Grady Williams on d’Skills and AI The conversation starts off with Hannah introducing d’Skills and what they do. Simply put, d’Skills is a hub where high schoolers are coming to learn 21st century skills and technology like ChatGPT and all its uses, and develop their skills further into projects that can make an impact in the market and the business world. Hannah finds it fascinating how new technology can bridge the gap between young people’s ideas and the business world, and give birth to new products and categories that they can further develop as they learn more skills, or become more adept in their current ones. Using AI for Business Projects while still in High School Hannah also talks about a thing that she and d’Skills did over the summer called GPT Challengers Cup, in which they invited high schoolers from around the globe. And from this competition emerged Rory and Anna, who are also joining us on this episode. It was astounding what ideas and end products that high schoolers were able to develop in the span of 30 days, but in the end, it was Rory & Anna’s project that emerged victorious. What they ended up building was a Chrome extension that functions as an app that helps people study more efficiently by creating a comprehensive studying schedule based on the tasks you have registered in your to-do list. Learning a New Skill in 15 Second or Less Christopher then talks to Anna, who was handling the social media aspect of their team. This info was made more impressive by the simple fact that Anna has not handle social media marketing prior to the competition, and had to learn things through a bit of mentorship, but also doing a lot of research by herself. “It's actually funny that you asked that question because right now, I'm actually in a marketing class. And it's super funny, because with all due respect to my teacher, I've learnt nothing in that class; It is like busy work, papers, everything. It's crazy how much that I learned even like before the two weeks before the actual cup was over, and now that I'm doing it like in my free time, that it's really not as hard to make it seem. You don't have to know all the business lingo and the economic terms. All you have to do is continue to push yourself and try new things and see what works and if it doesn't work, then you know that doesn't work and you move on from that.” – Anna Mitchell To hear more from Hannah, Rory, and Anna and the importance of skill-building with new technology in the business world, download and listen to this episode. Bio Hannah Grady Williams is the founder/CEO of d’Skills. d’Skills is a one-of-a-kind digital training community that teaches young people entrepreneurship, AI skills and how to create a revenue producing business in 10 weeks. Aurora Straight Hi, I'm Aurora, a STEAM enthusiast from Kansas with a deep passion for innovation and a strong presence in both academics and extracurricular activities.

We all encounter radical challenges, and we face big choices about how we approach life in the most challenging moments and learn to survive in – maybe even thrive. Today, we are joined by a combat veteran, retired US Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills, as he shares his challenges and the choices he has made to get to where he is today. Travis Mills is a serial entrepreneur, the driving force behind the Travis Mills Foundation, and the author of Bounce Back: A playbook for facing life's toughest challenges with grace and gusto. Make sure you listen all the way to the end. You don't want to miss any of Travis's unrelenting spirit, wisdom and humor. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Travis Mills on his Military Service and Experience Christopher starts off the conversation by inquiring about Travis's motivation for joining the military. Travis recounts feeling directionless after college, and was prompted by family advice to choose a military path for personal growth and benefits. Fascinated by infantry roles, Travis enlisted for a signing bonus. He breezed through basic training due to his athletic prowess and later engaged in military ground fighting tactics, drawing on his childhood interest in karate. Despite his combat skills, Travis values self-control and notes the discipline instilled by martial arts. Travis Mills on Mental Toughness Travis reflects on being featured on a magazine cover for his mental toughness rather than physical appearance. He also appreciates the recognition for his foundation work. Christopher acknowledges the disparity between modeling and true toughness. Travis also shares instances where he had to assert himself, highlighting his ability to de-escalate conflicts but also assert authority when needed. He explains how his military background balances his jovial persona, noting people's tendency to underestimate him. He emphasizes the importance of professionalism and corrective measures in his businesses, showcasing his leadership style derived from his military experience. From Military to Entrepreneurship Christopher admires Travis's entrepreneurship and proposes introducing him to Iron Mike Stedman, a fellow Marine and entrepreneur. Stedman's mission involves helping inner-city kids through boxing and assisting veteran entrepreneurs with their businesses. Travis expresses his belief in pursuing dreams and betting on oneself, citing personal experiences in entrepreneurship. Despite facing challenges, Travis advocates for seizing opportunities and embracing failure as a motivator. He shares his ventures in house flipping and marina ownership, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and taking calculated risks. Travis's resilience and clarity of purpose derived from his military background inform his entrepreneurial journey. To hear more from Travis Mills and his journey and challenges from being in the military to being an entrepreneur, download and listen to this episode. Bio Born and raised in Vassar, Michigan, United States Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated veteran, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. In addition to being the founder of the Travis Mills Foundation, Travis also serves as the President of the Board of Directors. Travis has achieved his vision for the Foundation by bringing together a talented array of experts who masterfully accomplish the Foundation’s mission. Per Travis’s lead, the team at the Foundation are not only respected colleagues, they are family. Links Connect with Travis Mills! Travis Mills Foundation | Instagram We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him,

It’s February, so what better time it is than to talk Love on Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. Today, we have a fun one: a special dating episode for people over 40. And who better to talk about it than our guest, Nina Jarnum. Nina Jarnum is a lawyer-turned-Yogi-turned-popular writer, and she’s the author of a new book called, “F*ck Kissing Frogs”. And we had a blast talking about her book and the topic of dating over 40, as you’ll hear in just a bit. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Nina Jarnum on Kissing Frogs Christopher jumps straight into it with the question of how many frogs do you have to kiss to find the one. Nina answers that if one is being smart about picking and dating, not as much as one would think. Nina recounts her experiences in online dating, starting off with the bad impressions and stigma that people say online dating has to offer. But for the most part, Nina did not encounter those issues and had fun with online dating; which got her curious why a lot of people had a bad impression of it. And so Nina asked her friends if she could check out their matches and update their profile, and some got better results from it soon after. Nina Jarnum’s Online Dating Tips for Women When asked about what is it that sets up a good profile from a bad one, Nina points out that having a good profile is like introducing yourself favorably to the other person. It’s a good way to share some information that shows what you are looking for in a person, but not so much that you’re sharing your life story. Another tip that Nina gives is to be mindful of your profile pictures. Aside from the usual things to avoid like hiding in group photos and such, Nina suggests having at least one full-body picture on it, so that people have an idea of who they are meeting, and it’s also a good visual treat. Nina also talks about avoiding using filters and other image-altering stuff in your profile, as it is a major turn-off for men to find out that they’re not meeting who they think they were supposed to meet based on the profile. “Don't put filter on your photos. Every man I have spoken to about this have been like, their pet peeve is turning up on a date and not being able to recognize the person is such a turnoff. I like comparing it to as a woman when you go on a date with a man and his profile says he's 6’5”, and he turns up and he's 5’7”. It's not cool.” – Nina Jarnum   Nina Jarnum on Dating Preferences and Honesty Following that line of thought, Nina adds that not only is it an awkward encounter at the very beginning of the date, it sets a bad impression and precedent right from the start that you are lying about something. She explains that while trying to appeal to the general consensus of what a “good-looking” guy or gal sounds seems like the way to go, the whole point of online dating is to find someone that likes you that you might also like, and not the other way around. That said, there will always be preferences on people that you like, but Nina suggests that you don’t overly limit yourself to those preferences, because you might be missing out. One common thing that she points out is about people’s height; as some would not even consider dating someone who is below a certain number. The point is, sampling out of your comfort zone is fine once in a while, especially if your current pool is not turning out the results that you want. You might end up finding that great date from someone you didn’t expect. To hear more from Nina Jarnum and more dating tips for people over 40, download and listen to this episode. Bio Nina Jarnum is a mother, a lover and a world explorer. She was born and raised in Denmark, moved to England in her twenties where she graduated law school. Nina has taught yoga, breath work and mindfulness all over the world,

This episode is exclusively for people who want to have a personal breakthrough in their own performance. And who better to discuss it with but with people who have learned excellence, Dr. Eric Potterat & Alan Eagle. Alan Eagle is an executive Communication Coach, and he spent 16 years working with a top people at Google. He's written several other books, and his most well-known for his celebrated book, “Trillion Dollar Coach” about the legendary Silicon Valley coach Bill Campbell. Dr. Eric Potterat is a clinical and performance psychologist, and he was with the US Navy for over 20 years as a commander. On the last 10 years of Eric's career. he was the head psychologist for the US Navy SEALs globally. To say that these two know a little bit about how the top performers in the world do what they do is a radical understatement. And on this episode, we get into all of it, we pop the hood to go deep on their new book learned Excellence, which I highly recommend you pick up a copy of. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Dr. Eric Potterat and Alan Eagle on Maintaining One’s Mental Health in a Chaotic World Christopher, Alan and Dr. Eric opens the discussion on how they maintain their mental health with all the crazy things happening around all of us. Christopher highlights the overwhelming challenges globally, from political divisiveness to wars and rising anti-Semitism. Dr. Eric emphasizes the importance of focusing on what individuals can control, citing attitude, effort, and behavior within their circle. Alan adds that staying informed is crucial, but he discourages excessive complaining, urging people to think about actionable steps rather than mere criticism. “I can't stand the complainers. Okay, if you're going to take a position, great! Then I would think through, “what can you do?”” – Alan Eagle The three then get into how the struggle of balancing engagement with the world and avoiding emotional overload, especially in the face of potentially troubling events in the upcoming years. Dr. Eric Potterat and Alan Eagle on Mindset, Organizational Culture, and Sustained Excellence in Baseball Christopher, Alan, and Dr. Eric then talk about maintaining a good mindset in spite of challenges along the way. Dr. Eric talks about the concept of agency, and how to distinguish between victims, survivors, and thrivers, advocating for the latter by practicing agency and embracing post-traumatic growth. Alan underscores the importance of choosing a mindset and shares his experience with the Dodgers, highlighting the team's systemic approach and organizational mindset. Dr. Eric credits the Dodgers' sustained excellence to a focus on hiring talented individuals, providing necessary tools, and maintaining a process-oriented approach. Process and Mental Toughness in Entrepreneurship They then discuss the crucial role of process and mental toughness in entrepreneurship. Christopher draws from Michael Gerber's "The E Myth," highlighting how successful franchises attribute their triumph to well-defined processes, contrasting with small businesses' failure due to a lack of systematic approaches. Dr. Eric identifies process as a pillar of mental toughness, emphasizing its role among the five pillars discussed in their book. Alan Eagle also shares insights from Silicon Valley, underscoring the balance between process and visionary chaos at Google, which contributed to its innovative success. To hear more from Dr. Eric Potterat and Alan Eagle on how to learn excellence, download and listen to this episode. Bio Eric Potterat, PhD, is a clinical and performance psychologist and a leading expert in individual and organizational performance optimization. He retired as a commander from the US Navy after twenty years of service, during which he helped create the mental toughness curriculu...

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we are joined by one of my favorite people in the creator world, Lenny Rachitsky. A few episodes back, we posted the conversation we had on Lenny’s Podcast were I also extended an invite to him for a dialogue at Follow Your Different. And now, here we are. Lenny Rachitsky specializes in deeply researched product growth and career advice, particularly for those in the startup/tech world. Lenny's newsletter on Substack is also the number one paid business Substack. Try as we might with Category Pirates, we've been unable to catch him, and I think that's great. There are some powerful learnings here for marketers, and creators, and really anybody who wants to design a legendary career, I think you're going to absolutely love this very special conversation with Lenny. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Lenny Rachitsky on Product Management and Growth Strategies The conversation begins with Christopher praising Lenny’s approach to product management and growth, hailing him as the "category King." They then discuss the value of staying broad versus niche in product management, with Lenny expressing admiration for specific experts like Emily Kramer in marketing. Christopher commends Lenny for his unique, non-egotistical approach in a field filled with "hustle porn stars." Lenny attributes his success to providing genuine value rather than chasing followers. Christopher perceives a cohesive through line in Lenny's work, suggesting a continuous quest to answer key questions for founders and product builders. Lenny elaborates on his goal of addressing a broad range of questions in product management and growth, emphasizing a core focus with intersecting adjacencies like career and leadership. Creating Valuable Content through Practical Application of Ideas Lenny continues to discuss his approach on content creation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diverse interests to keep himself engaged. Christopher Lochhead praises Lenny for incorporating varied topics into his work, appealing to a broader audience beyond the core niche of product management. From there, they explore the concept of obvious and non-obvious content, with Lenny acknowledging the practical nature of his content. Christopher notes the challenge of balancing obviousness with depth, expressing his preference for content that goes beyond the blatantly evident. Despite categorizing Lenny's content as somewhat obvious, Christopher commends him for avoiding the realm of "stupid obvious," recognizing the valuable and practical applications within Lenny's work. Lenny Rachitsky on Creating Quality Content Following up on this, Christopher questions Lenny Rachitsky on creating smart, obvious, and practical content without it being overly simplistic. Lenny attributes his success to maintaining a high bar for quality, ensuring content is not overly obvious or uninteresting. He emphasizes spending extensive time on each post, sometimes up to 100 hours, and credits his ability to dedicate full time to content creation as a significant advantage. Lenny describes a flywheel effect where initial success allows more time for improvement, creating a cycle of growth. He suggests that anyone can follow this model if they find the time and opportunities to invest in their content. To hear more from Lenny and his ideas and thoughts on business content creation, download and listen to this episode. Bio Lenny Rachitsky (author of #1 business newsletter on Substack with 500k+ subscribers) interviews world-class product leaders and growth experts to uncover concrete, actionable, and tactical advice to help you build, launch, and grow your own product. Links Connect with Lenny Rachitsky! Lenny's Website | Lenny's Podcast | Twitter/X | LinkedIn

It is now 2024; and as they say, a new year, a new you. So let us start you off by helping you gain a new lens and perspective on things. And who better to assist you on that than our guest, Hal Elrod. In the world of kind of personal growth and personal development, Hal Elrod stands alone. He's recently released a new updated and expanded version of the Miracle Morning. To say that Hal Elrod has created a movement would be putting it mildly. On this episode, you get to enjoy an extraordinary conversation with this man. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Hal Elrod on Spirituality and Personal Growth after Traumatic Events Hal Elrod talks about his journey of overcoming cancer and the cognitive challenges caused by chemotherapy. He shares that he has found himself struggling to finish books because he takes longer to process and comprehend what he was reading, or he forgets what has happened one or two chapters before and ends up rereading them again. They then delve into Hal’s spiritual growth post-trauma, exploring his Catholic upbringing and exploration of various religions. Hal emphasizes an inclusive perspective, viewing different faiths as attempts to understand a higher power. He describes a personal and intimate relationship with God, finding solace and strength through prayer. Hal reflects on the usefulness of belief and shares instances where prayer manifested specific outcomes, reinforcing his faith in a higher power. Hal Elrod on Faith, Personal Development, and Empathy in a Broken World When asked, Hal Elrod acknowledges his connection to Christianity but emphasizes a nuanced belief, focusing on embodying Jesus Christ's teachings rather than subscribing blindly. Christopher appreciates the authenticity of Hal’s answer, asserting that being a good person matters more than religious labels. Christopher shares a personal perspective on faith, stating that being a good person transcends religious affiliations. He mentions a song by Aaron Lewis that explores everyone talking to God in challenging times, highlighting the universal inclination towards faith during hardships. This reflects a shared belief in the importance of personal development and empathy over rigid religious definitions in navigating life's challenges. Miracle Mornings & Focusing on Personal Growth during Uncertain Times Christopher praises Hal Elrod's impactful work on personal development, particularly the Miracle Morning routine. He notes the challenging times, referencing global issues, economic struggles, and personal hardships. Hal shares some of his insights from 2020, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what's within one's control to maintain mental well-being. He highlights the Miracle Morning as a powerful tool for daily self-improvement and resilience, especially during chaotic periods. Hal underscores the correlation between feeling out of control and the necessity of self-care. Ultimately, he advocates for concentrating on personal growth, stating that inner peace contributes to a better world, emphasizing the responsibility individuals have to themselves and those around them in tumultuous times. To hear more from Hal Elrod and how to live have your own Miracle Mornings, download and listen to this episode. Bio Hal Elrod is on a mission to Elevate the Consciousness of Humanity, One Person at a Time. As the author of one of the highest rated books on Amazon, "The Miracle Morning" (which has been translated into 37 languages, has over 3,000 five-star reviews and has impacted the lives of over 2,000,000 people in more than 70 countries) ... he is doing exactly that. What's incredible is that Hal literally died at age 20. His car was hit head-on by a drunk driver at 70 miles per hour, his heart stopped beating for 6 minutes,

Today marks the 100th day from the terrorist attack done by Hamas that took the lives of many civilians in Gaza. On this episode, our guest is an extraordinary woman named Natalie Sanandaji, who shares her experience as it happened on what could be described as the worse day for Jews since World War II. What you're about to hear is a real, unedited, unfettered, unfiltered conversation about an extraordinary event that happened on October 7, and has been impacting the rest of the world since. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Natalie Sanandaji on the Day of the Attack The conversation starts off with Natalie painting a scene on how she found herself in the middle of the October 7th terrorist attack, where Hamas militants killed civilians and held the population hostage. For context, Natalie is an American-Persian Jew, who visits her relatives frequently, especially during holidays and family celebrations. As such, her visit back in October was for vacation, so she could be with them in the upcoming holiday season. That said, she had heard that there was an upcoming Nova Music Festival nearby, wherein they can camp out and enjoy music, which often lasted for a few days. The immediate comparison is that it was like Woodstock, as the themes of peace with music was similar. The irony of the event and what happened afterwards did not escape Natalie. Natalie Sanandaji on the Start of the Attack After the first night of the festival was over, Natalie and her friends decided to go back to their campsite and take a nap until the morning set of the festival. But instead of waking up to the sound of music, they were woken up by the sound of rockets. “One of our friends from our campsite was on the dance floor when the rock first rockets were intercepted overhead, and she knew that we were still at the campsite sleeping; we hadn't woken up yet. So she came back to the campsite to wake us up, because she wants to make sure that we were alert to what was happening. She came in she woke us up and she was all smile-y. And she was like, “Hey guys, good morning. I just want to wanted you to know a few rockets were intercepted overhead. But it's fine.” “ – Natalie Sanandaji Normally, the Iron Dome would’ve intercepted the few rockets and everything would be back to what they were, with their biggest fear being getting hit by falling debris. But there was something to the amount and frequency of the rockets that made Natalie’s friend think that this was different. Escalation After hearing more than a dozen rocket explosions, Natalie and her friends decided to pack up and just go home. Party’s over. Though there were people who were starting to panic as they were going to their cars, the whole vibe of it was more annoyance than fear – annoyed that the festival was cut short because of what was happening. Natalie and here friends themselves were not in a hurry. She even found time to go to the bathroom to freshen up while her friends waited by the car. Only later did Natalie find out that that decision could’ve been a fatal mistake on her part. “I went to the bathrooms and then I went back to the car, and not until about two weeks later did I realize how much I was putting my life in danger by going to those bathrooms. Because about two weeks later was when a video surfaced of the Hamas terrorists coming to those exact bathrooms where I was maybe 10-15 minutes later, and just shooting at every bathroom stall trying to kill anyone who was hiding inside.” – Natalie Sanandaji As they drove out of the venue, the festival security was herding the leaving people into the dirt roads for better traffic. Though suddenly, those same security people started telling people to go back, and later on telling them to get out of their cars so they could run and hide.

This week on Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we’re presenting to you Christopher's appearance on Lenny’s Podcast, hosted by Lenny Rachitsky. Lenny Rachitsky runs the #1 Business Substack newsletter, Lenny’s Newsletter. It is legendary especially for people in tech marketing, product marketing, and startups. It’s so legendary that even Christopher pays for it. And now, he’s in it. This is one of the more in-depth discussions Christopher has had with a very smart person about category design in a while. So settle in for a good listen and great lesson about category design. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. This episode originally aired on Lochhead on Marketing episode 187. If you want to hear more insights on marketing and category design from Christopher, feel free to check it out at Lochhead on Marketing and anywhere you listen to podcasts. On taking the Good with the Bad Lenny starts off the conversation by showing appreciation to Christopher’s extensive work, and jokingly adds that it was challenging to prepare for their conversation due to his numerous podcasts, books, and other content. That said, Lenny noticed Christopher’s website displayed negative reviews prominently. When asked about it, Christopher explained his approach with humor, calling his team Category Pirates and embracing criticism. He believed it was essential for innovators not to fear criticism, citing examples of famous artists and musicians who faced initial negativity. Christopher displayed the negative feedbacks to show the reality of creative work and to remind people not to take themselves too seriously. Lenny admired Christopher’s ability to handle criticism and expressed the desire to adopt a similar mindset. Lenny Rachitsky on how Lenny’s Newsletter came to be Christopher Lochhead expressed admiration for Lenny’s branding choices, appreciating the simplicity of just being called “Lenny.” He found it endearing and highlighted that Lenny’s authenticity stood out in a world where many influencers create an aura of superiority. Lenny shared that the name “Lenny’s Newsletter” was a default suggestion from Substack, and he never intended it to be a long-term commitment. Similarly, he struggled to find a different name for his podcast, wanting to avoid a self-centered approach. But despite having his name in the branding, Christopher noted the content wasn’t self-centered; instead, it reflected Lenny’s genuine approach, unlike influencers who focus on creating envy. They both appreciated the authenticity in Lenny’s approach. Lenny Rachitsky and Christopher Lochhead talk Category Creation Lenny asked Christopher about category creation, a concept Christopher has championed over competition in existing markets. Christopher explained how most people aim to compete by offering a better product or service in an existing category. However, legendary innovators don’t follow this path. They create entirely new categories, defining unique problems and solutions. Christopher emphasized that a single company in a category usually captures two-thirds of the market value, making category creation a lucrative strategy. He cited Gojo Industries, creators of Purell, as an example. They didn’t just invent hand sanitizer; they redefined the problem of hand cleanliness, leading to a new market category. Christopher stressed the importance of focusing on problem-solving rather than just product features, making one’s brand irreplaceable in customers’ minds. He contrasted this approach with typical marketing, where companies invite comparison, emphasizing the power of radical differentiation and being a category creator. To hear more about Christopher’s conversation with Lenny Rachitsky on Category Creation, download and listen to this episode. If you want to learn more about Lenny Rachitsky...

Today on Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, John Siefert and Bob Evans, the leaders and founders of Acceleration Economy, join in on the dialogue about DEI, AI, and what’s in store for 2024. In addition, Bob Evans is also the host of the podcast called Cloud Wars Live, which Christopher has actually been a guest to a few times. They also have some great guests and amazing discussions over there, so go check them out after this episode. That said, let’s dive in into this dialogue and prepare ourselves for the upcoming year. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. John Siefert on DEI in Tech Industry The discussion opens up on the topic of what they have learned in the past year. One thing they agreed on immediately is that people seem to have gotten a little dumber in 2023. Not like major blunders and the like, but more like small things that might seem inconsequential at first, and came back to bite them before the year’s end. After this brief exchange, the topic shifts to the topic of morals and intellectual decay that they have observed in the tech industry, particularly in the implementation of DEI statutes and the like. John Siefert comments on DEI, more specifically how a well-intentioned thing on paper could become twisted and be exploited when applied in the current social landscape. An example in the discussion is that people are being told to hire a diverse staff not because of being inclusive, but rather to meet certain numbers and get benefits out of it. Given these circumstances seemingly are the norm nowadays, Christopher believes that the floodgates might open once this one particular case sets precedence. Bob Evans on how DEI is distorted in practice Bob adds to the topic of DEI and points out that the distortion often comes on how it was implemented, e.g. if it’s already done in bad faith from people up in management for a few people’s benefit, then the struggle to actually implement a proper setup will be that much harder. It has come to the point that Inclusion is being used to actually exclude people. The example that the group gives is that certain analysts believe that Asians are overrepresented in Tech. So rather than hiring someone that is very capable in the required position, companies end up not opting to hire such talent because the person is Asian, and therefore skew their DEI scores. They would end up hiring for diversity rather than skill, and this dilutes their products and services, causing overall loss in the long run. The point of DEI was to be fair and impartial, and yet in practice it just became a way to fulfill certain requirements for special perks, sometimes to the detriment of the company. To hear more about Bob Evans’ and John Siefert’s thoughts on DEI, AI, and what 2024 has in store for us, download and listen to the episode. Bio  John Siefert Chief Executive Officer, Acceleration Economy Co-founder John is a strategic thinker and business builder who loves to reimagine what is possible with smart people who are not afraid of the future. He has the ability to visualize voids in the market and then define a people, product, process, and position approach to creating a brand where that void once existed. Bob Evans Cloud Wars Founder, Acceleration Economy Co-founder, Analyst Bob analyzes business innovation, cloud technology, leadership, corporate strategy, and the global digital economy. He’s the founder of Cloud Wars, was recruited by and worked for Larry Ellison, and shares his thinking via daily videos, daily articles, newsletters, and podcasts. Links Connect with John Siefert and Bob Evans! Acceleration Economy Network | Cloud Wars Live: Apple Podcast & Spotify Bob’s LinkedIn | John’s LinkedIn We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™!

First and foremost, we at Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different would like to wish everyone from the bottom of our hearts, happy holidays. We hope that you have an opportunity to be with the people you love this time of year, and enjoy some happiness and peace. That said, there seems to be a lot going on lately. Be it about antisemitism, diversity, equality, and inclusion, and sort of the core values that the United States will be governed by and will latch on to. So I wanted to take this time and have a talk between you and I. You may not like what I will have to say, and that is all right. The important thing is that we have a good dialogue between us, and open ourselves to thinking Different does not always mean they hate you and your type of thinking. As we head to 2024, that is my wish for the holiday season. That we have a breakthrough in real, authentic, civilized, thoughtful dialogue. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Christopher Lochhead on LGBTQ+ rights over the years Christopher shared a heartwarming story about a LinkedIn acquaintance, a marketing executive, who recently had a baby with her wife. They had a positive exchange about babies, and Christopher expressed genuine happiness for the couple. “Around here, we think babies are fucking fantastic, especially when they're born to good people who are committed to raising those children and loving knows children. What could be better than a great couple are a great group of folks who have a baby, love that baby, and do everything in their power to provide that child with a great life and enjoy that child. It's wonderful.” – Christopher Lochhead Christopher then reflected on growing up around queer individuals, recalling the challenges they faced over the years. He emphasized the progress in societal acceptance of the queer community, highlighting the positive change that allows people to openly share personal milestones without fear of judgment. That said, Christopher expressed joy for the LinkedIn acquaintance, appreciating that she can legally be herself and share her family news without hesitation, considering it a legendary step forward, especially in the United States. Christopher Lochhead on mortgage discrimination Christopher then talks about a CNN headline that revealed the systemic racism about the Navy Federal Credit Union's discriminatory mortgage approval practices. The report states that while over 75% of white applicants were approved for conventional home purchase mortgages, less than 50% of black applicants were approved under the same circumstances. Christopher condemns this as not just systemic racism but outright evil. He criticizes financial institutions like Wells Fargo for repeatedly facing charges related to racial discrimination without executives facing jail time. He emphasizes the urgent need to acknowledge and fight systemic racism for true equality and justice, citing the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. “This is racism right in front of us. And anybody who's just anybody who cares about equality, and justice, and the pursuit of happiness for all must acknowledge that there is systemic racism against certain groups. There's no doubt about that. And we need to fight it. We really need to fight it.” – Christopher Lochhead On Systemic Racism and DEI in society Christopher expresses concern about the rise of hatred, particularly in the context of recent events, notably the conflict in the Middle East. He highlights the misunderstandings surrounding the October 7th events, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the explicit threat against Israel and the Jewish population. Christopher is dismayed by the confusion and the lack of recognition for Israel's right to defend itself. He shares a personal experience of a friend falling victim to violence and un...

Every thinking person and caring person has been affected by the pain and suffering in our world of late. And most of us have been grappling with the horrors of October 7 and everything that has come since then. Today, Rabbi Sharon Brous is here to help us make sense of it all. Rabbi Sharon Brous is the founding rabbi of IKAR Jewish synagogue and community in LA. Rabbi Sharon was also chosen to bless President Obama and Vice President Biden at their inaugural in 2013, and she returned to do the same for President Biden and vice president Harris in 2021. She was also named the number one most influential rabbi in the United States by Newsweek and The Daily Beast. Her new book is available now for preorder and it also makes a wonderful gift for yourself and for others. It's called The Amen Effect, ancient wisdom to mend our broken hearts and world, and I think you'll love it. So pick up a copy today wherever you get legendary books. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Rabbi Sharon Brous on coping with grief The conversation begins with Christopher asking Rabbi Sharon Brous about coping with grief and finding hope post-tragedy. Rabbi Sharon admits feeling shattered, expressing concern for her family and the world. Despite the prevailing sorrow, she emphasizes the pivotal moment in history, urging a deliberate choice toward healing. Christopher questions how, as a rabbi, she addresses anger, fear, and despair. Rabbi Sharon sees her role as a pastor: comforting the afflicted, acknowledging pain, and fostering empathy. She encourages reconnecting with shared humanity, emphasizing agency in shaping a better future. “I think that my first job is to be a pastor, to really be a pastor to my community. To, as we say, comfort the afflicted, to name out loud the pain that people are experiencing, to affirm how incredibly worrisome and anguished this time really is. And not to stop there – to then lead us to stretch our hearts and try to find some empathy from our own suffering, to try to reestablish links to a world that we dream is possible, even from out of the depth of the world that we find ourselves in.” – Rabbi Sharon Brous Rabbi Sharon Brous on loneliness and finding a community after a tragedy Christopher shares his distress post-October 7, expressing shock and concern at the rising anti-Semitic behavior. He opens up about feeling out of control, lonely, and abandoned—a sentiment echoed by others. Rabbi Sharon Brous acknowledges the surprising existential loneliness post-tragedy. Drawing on Dr. Vivek Murthy's insights, she links loneliness to a gap between needed and actual social connections. Rabbi Sharon underscores the importance of reaching out, emphasizing that human thriving relies on connections. She encourages overcoming the inclination to retreat, advocating for rebuilding bridges to the mainland, as no one can self-sustain on an island. Reflecting on her own experience after October 7, Rabbi Sharon highlights the healing power of shared humanity, even across cultural divides. Rabbi Sharon Brous on healing and reconciliation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict On the topic of stopping the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Rabbi Sharon Brous envisions a future of reconciliation and healing. She rejects the idea of a military solution and emphasizes the necessity of building a shared future as neighbors. “I believe, along with the many thousands of Israeli Jews and Palestinian citizens of Israel, who are part of a very vibrant civil society in Israel, that the only way forward will be together. I believe that ultimately, there will not be a military solution to this conflict, that ultimately, we are going to have to find a way to build a future as neighbors.” – Rabbi Sharon Brous Despite the current pain and challenges,

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have the great pleasure of talking to the “CEO whisperer” Jerry Colonna, once again. Jerry Colonna is back, and he has a new book to share with everyone. It’s called Reunion – Leadership and the longing to Belong. If you think radical, intimate conversations about careers are a powerful and important thing, you're gonna love everything about this conversation with Jerry. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Jerry Colonna on Fame and being the same person all the time The conversation starts off with Christopher Lochhead and Jerry Colonna discussing the impact of their voices in podcasting, highlighting how listeners feel connected as they follow along Christopher and Jerry's dialogues, as if they're actually part of the conversation. They also think that being authentic online and offline is always a good thing, sharing their personal anecdotes and experiences. Christopher mentions meeting famous people and how Bill Walton handles fame graciously. On the flip side, Jerry reflects on the unnerving aspect of being known by strangers due to his work. They both emphasize the challenge of balancing public perception and personal identity, especially in the digital age. But at the same time, they appreciate the connection with their audience but acknowledge the unique dynamics of being recognized. Jerry Colonna on having Empathy and Compassion in Leadership Jerry discusses the importance of empathy and compassion, highlighting that being fully present and authentic allows for genuine connections. He attributes the current low levels of empathy in leadership roles to various forces and suggests that those in power may benefit from maintaining the status quo. Jerry Colonna, known as a prominent CEO coach, defends the relevance of discussing human aspects in business conversations. He believes that better humans make better leaders and expresses a responsibility for leaders to contribute to making the world a better place. Though he is also concerned about the divisive state of society and urges business leaders to engage in dialogue to address the issues tearing communities apart. Jerry Colanna on Suffering and how to cope & make a difference Christopher and Jerry then explore the challenges of coping with widespread suffering and violence. Jerrry draws insights from Buddhist teachings, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion. He discusses the choices people face in response to suffering and highlights the Buddhist perspective on addressing and transcending it. Jerry also introduces the concept of the tragic gap, urging individuals to stand between the present reality and a better future. Christopher shares his view of embracing change as the only sensible choice, rejecting defeatism. The conversation concludes with a quote from Captain Paul Watson, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present to shape a better future. To hear more from Jerry Colonna, his thoughts on his new book, and leadership in general, download and listen to this episode. You can also check out his previous episode here at FYD episode 067. Bio Jerry Colonna is an executive coach who uses the skills he learned as a venture capitalist to help entrepreneurs. He draws on his wide variety of experiences to help clients design a more conscious life and make needed changes to their career to improve their performance and satisfaction. Previously he was a partner with JPMorgan Partners (JPMP), the private equity arm of JP Morgan Chase. He joined JPMP from Flatiron Partners, which he launched 1996 with partner, Fred Wilson. Flatiron became one of the most successful, early-stage investment programs in the New York City area. Links Connect with Jerry Colonna! About Jerry | Reunion / Get the eBook!

Every entrepreneur and every person who's creative wants to have a deeply fulfilling professional and personal life. But it can be easy to get distracted and pulled off course, which is why we all need “Touchstone Moments” to remind us of what matters. Today, we talk about it with our guest, Brad Pedersen. Brad Pedersen is a lifelong entrepreneur, and the Co-founder & Chairman at Lomi. He's got a new bestseller out called Startup Santa, a toy makers tale of 10 business lessons learned from timeless toys, and it's great. What you're about to experience is a deeply personal conversation about life and startups, the toy business and Brad's learnings from creating Lomi, which is pioneering the smart home composter category. If you think real, meaningful conversations about life and business matter, you're in the right place. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Brad Pedersen on courage and creativity in entrepreneurship Christopher Lochhead and Brad Pedersen start off the conversation with the importance of courage and creativity in entrepreneurship. Christopher reflects on his initial doubts before launching his book, Play Bigger, emphasizing the unpredictability of how the world will respond. Brad praises his courage to put his ideas out there, highlighting the power of the Internet in connecting people. Brad defines courage as finding the balance between recklessness and carelessness, emphasizing its pivotal role in decision-making. He values the courage to embrace the unknown, pursue ideas despite criticism, and create value in the world. Their exchange showcases the transformative impact of courage and the Internet in scaling ideas and fostering meaningful connections. On Mentoring and throwing a rope to those who need it The conversation then shifts into the importance of experienced entrepreneurs helping newcomers. Christopher emphasizes the value of giving back and supporting others in their entrepreneurial journey, drawing from his own mentors like David Ogilvy. They discuss the accessibility of mentors in the digital age, debunking the misconception that mentors are unapproachable. Brad shares his perspective on mentorship, emphasizing the significance of personal growth and the importance of mentors who focus on becoming better individuals. They challenge the pursuit of materialistic achievements, advocating for meaningful connections and personal development. Brad also suggests evaluating mentors based on their character and the positive impact they've made, highlighting the enduring value of genuine connections and intrinsic fulfillment. Brad Pedersen on prioritizing growth over material gains Continuing on the topic of mentorship, they discuss the evolving nature of mentorship and personal growth in the digital age. Christopher reflects on the accessibility of mentors in the digital world, contrasting it with the past when connecting with influential figures was challenging. He criticizes the influence of "hustle porn stars" who promote materialism and envy. Lochhead emphasizes the genuine connection and humility he values in mentors. Brad agrees with the assessment, focusing on personal growth and the pursuit of intrinsic value over material possessions. He highlights the importance of mentors who exhibit excellence and virtue. Christopher then shares a humorous anecdote about a wealthy individual's arrogance, emphasizing the significance of genuine connections over material displays. To hear more from Brad Pedersen and how to realize your touchstone moments in your life, download and listen to this episode. Bio Brad Pedersen: Co-founder and Chairman of Lomi. Brad Pedersen is an award-winning entrepreneur, angel investor, thought leader, and sought-after business coach. In 2008, he founded and scaled one of Canada’s top toy companies,