Shine A Light

What if the patterns holding you back today began long before you ever had a chance to choose them? In this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Traci Arends, founder of She Fully Alive, to explore how childhood experiences, family trauma, and inherited expectations shape the way we show up in our adult lives. Drawing from her own journey through grief, difficult relationships, and years of personal transformation, Traci shares how she learned to recognize old patterns, rebuild her confidence, and create a more intentional life. Together, Christine and Traci unpack the power of self-awareness, the importance of setting boundaries without resentment, and why healing requires us to actually feel our emotions rather than avoid them. In this conversation, you'll discover: How childhood experiences and generational trauma influence adult relationships. Why self-awareness and quiet reflection can help you break familiar patterns. How to set boundaries, practice self-compassion, and make space for grief. Why understanding your past doesn't mean excusing the pain it caused. You can't change the story you inherited, but you can change what you carry forward. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about healing, reconnecting with yourself, and creating a healthier legacy for the generations to come.  

In this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Emily Cherkin, M.Ed., The Screentime Consultant, former middle school teacher, and advocate for more intentional technology use in education. Emily is leading the fight for a Tech-Intentional™ childhood. After witnessing how screens transformed hernclassroom—and experiencing firsthand how a traumatic brain injury affected her own ability to process visual stimulation—Emily became an unexpected activist, challenging schools to rethink their reliance on educational technology and put children's needs first. In this episode, you'll discover: ● Why less screen time can mean more learning: How hands-on experiences, human connection, and real-world problem-solving help children build essential skills. ● The difference between teaching technology and teaching through technology: Why schools should question whether digital tools are effective, safe, legal, and truly better than a human educator. ● How parents can lead by example: Practical ways to rethink screen habits, set boundaries, and help children build healthier relationships with technology. Technology isn't going away—but we can be more intentional about how and when we use it. Emily challenges parents, educators, and leaders to question the status quo, protect the human side of learning, and remember that when we know better, we can do better. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about raising capable, connected kids in a screen-saturated world—and why sometimes, moving forward means getting back to basics. Connect with Emily Cherkin: Website: https://thescreentimeconsultant.com Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com

What if the most powerful thing a leader could do is stop talking and start listening? In this episode of Shine the Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Olga Yakimakho, a global leader in organizational effectiveness, talent development, and leadership strategy, to explore how curiosity, empathy, and human connection can transform the way we lead. From growing up in the former Soviet Union to working across more than 30 countries, Olga shares how her global experiences—and the deeply personal challenge of navigating her young son's rare heart condition and transplant—reshaped her perspective on leadership, resilience, and what truly matters. In this episode, you'll discover: ● Why active listening and curiosity are essential to leading people from different backgrounds and experiences. ● How vulnerability and life-changing experiences can reshape your leadership philosophy and priorities. ● Why the best leaders stay open to learning, challenge assumptions, and invest in the unique talents of others. Leadership isn't about having all the answers or commanding the room. It's about seeing people as human beings, understanding their stories, and creating the conditions for them to thrive. Tune in for a powerful reminder that the best way to lead others is to stay curious, listen deeply, and never stop learning. Connect with Olga Yakimakho: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olga-yakimakho/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com

What if the life you're looking for begins when you stop trying to control it? What if the biggest thing holding you back as a leader isn't your ability—it's the authority you're unintentionally giving away? What if one simple act—reaching out—could change the course of a life? In this heartfelt conversation, educator and wellbeing advocate John Doran shares the lessons that have shaped his three decades in education, from a father who taught him about possibility to mentors who showed him the power of believing in others. He explores why genuine connection, emotional intelligence, curiosity, and gratitude may matter more than ever in a world increasingly shaped by technology and AI. Together, Christine and John explore: ● Why reaching out is a superpower—and how a simple message or conversation can open unexpected doors. ● The power of emotional intelligence and listening, especially as young people prepare for a rapidly changing world. ● Why educators are "magic makers" who often plant seeds without ever knowing when—or if—they will see the impact. ● The importance of gratitude, and why we should give people their flowers while they can still smell them. ● How curiosity can break down barriers and help us find common ground with people who see the world differently. John's message is ultimately about possibility: slow down, listen deeply, notice people, and have the courage to make the first move. You never know what ripple your words—or your kindness—might create. Connect with John Doran: Website: https://4schools.examcraftgroup.ie/author/john-doran Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com

What happens when being great at your job is no longer enough to be great at leading others? Ashley Rudolph went from individual contributor to VP in just five years, leading multimillion-dollar deals and teams of more than 250 people. But her fastest growth came with some of her hardest lessons, including learning how to lead someone who once outranked her, stop micromanaging, and shift from an executor mindset to an executive one. In this episode, Ashley and Christine explore: • Why being a high performer does not automatically make you a great leader • How friction at work can be a signal that you are ready for growth • Why relationships are the foundation of leading without authority • How self-reflection can transform your leadership style • Why the right role, industry, timing, and relationships can completely change your career trajectory Your next level may not require working harder. It may require stepping back, listening differently, and getting honest about what you really want.