People Power Everything Podcast (John Dallas)

In this podcast episode, we delve into the transformative power of remote work through the lens of a recent trip to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The author shares their firsthand experience of blending work with travel, highlighting the benefits of flexibility, shared experiences, and building meaningful connections. From exploring new places to forging friendships, discover how remote work can redefine the traditional office environment and enrich both professional and personal lives.

I wrote about my experience working from home

The concerts in the park.  They were pretty epic.  And LOUD. A taste here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Lge1DwggrQ

Hope brings us both mental and physical well-being. Don't take my word for it, it's science! Listen for more.

In this episode, I share some of my emotional journey of resigning from my job to pursue my graduate studies. Reflecting on the close-knit, supportive team that embodies the spirit of my late friend Joseph, I discuss the importance of trust, empathy, and honest conversations in the workplace. Join me as I embark on a new chapter, embracing opportunities with courage and gratitude.

In a hectic workweek where professional stress often seeps into our personal lives, managing the fine line between career and well-being is critical to prevent burnout. Drawing inspiration from resources like "Preventing burnout: 7 strategies" and "What’s Fueling Burnout in Your Organization?," I've distilled four essential strategies. First and foremost, prioritize self-care with ample sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise to bolster mental and physical well-being. Setting clear boundaries between work and home, even when working remotely, aids in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Learning to say 'no' when necessary is equally crucial, ensuring that you safeguard your productivity and overall health. And remember, seeking professional help when needed is an act of strength, not weakness. To maintain the balance, build your strategy, figure out the Art of Doing Less, and help others do the same—People Power Everything.

In this episode, I talk about the power of enthusiasm in our daily lives—both at work and outside of it. I discuss how small actions like active listening, celebrating small wins, being present, using positive body language, and showing gratitude can transform interactions and spread joy. Tune in to learn practical tips for bringing more enthusiasm to your life and making a positive impact on those around you.

Are you someone with a certain set of skills, skills that would help in finding a certain type of person? Like a great team member or contributor in your organization! The article I stumbled upon this week, “10 smart - not soft - skills for leaders” (By Loredana Pandurean) is definitely worth a peek, and a listen about it a bit here.

In this podcast episode, a conversation with a friend about changing financial advisors prompts reflection on the effectiveness of punishment as a retention strategy. Drawing from Machiavelli's "The Prince" and Sun Tzu's "The Art of War," the discussion explores the psychology of motivation and the balance between fear and reward. Ultimately, it advocates for fostering intrinsic motivation and creating supportive environments to empower individuals.

Take a break and listen to this! In this episode, we explore the importance of taking breaks to boost productivity and well-being. Discover how short, frequent breaks can improve focus, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. We share practical tips and scientific insights, including the benefits of vacations and sabbaticals. Tune in to learn how to incorporate effective breaks into your daily routine and achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.

A month ago, I embarked on an epic road trip across Canada and the U.S., seeking adventure as a "thought vagabond." In this episode, I share stories of the landscapes that left me in awe, the diverse and kind people I met, and the life lessons I gained. From conquering fear to cherishing human connections, join me as I reflect on 11,000 kilometers of discovery.

Welcome to today's podcast episode, where we dive into the fascinating world of motivation in the workplace. In this installment, we'll explore insights from an article that hits close to home for many of us: "CEO Pay, Employee Pay, and Pay Inequality in Organizations: Meritocracy or Monkey Business?" by Alan L. Colquitt, Ph.D.

We kick things off by tackling the elephant in the room: CEO pay disparity. It's a real concern that often leaves employees feeling undervalued and demotivated. However, rather than resorting to drastic measures, we explore alternative approaches grounded in theories like Equity Theory. By ensuring fair compensation and equal opportunities for growth, companies can foster a culture of inclusivity and support.

Moving on, we delve into the importance of goal-setting and purpose in driving motivation. Drawing from Locke and Latham's Goal Setting Theory and insights from thought leaders like Simon Sinek and Dan Pink, we emphasize the significance of defining clear objectives and understanding the "why" behind our work. When individuals have a sense of purpose, they're more likely to remain engaged and motivated, contributing to both personal fulfillment and organizational success.

But effective leadership plays a crucial role in cultivating motivation within teams. Transformational Leadership Theory teaches us that inspiring leaders empower their colleagues to excel by fostering collaboration and providing mentorship. We highlight the value of supportive teamwork and the impact of every team member, regardless of rank or title.

Shifting gears, we explore the complexities of variable pay programs and the limitations of financial incentives in motivating employees. Instead, we advocate for intrinsic motivation, finding joy and satisfaction in the work itself. By emphasizing purpose and fulfillment, organizations can nurture long-term commitment and resilience among their workforce.

Finally, we underscore the importance of appreciation and recognition in boosting morale and motivation. Genuine gestures of gratitude, whether it's a simple "thank you" or public acknowledgment, can have a profound effect on employee engagement and satisfaction.

In conclusion, while pay inequality remains a prevalent issue, there are actionable strategies grounded in research and theory that can help organizations create environments where everyone feels valued and motivated to succeed. Join us as we explore the power of motivation and the critical role it plays in driving individual and collective success. After all, People Power Everything.

This week, I delved into the intriguing realm of responses—our reactions to stimuli, people, stress, and work. Motivated by insightful conversations with a doctor exploring the mind, and a social media friend, John R. Dallas Jr., whose book "We Need to Have a Word" and discussions over time have inspired me. Reflecting on responsibility and inspired by The Empowerment Dynamic, I aim to foster positive change in how we respond. Join me in navigating the intricacies of clear communication and understanding, bridging the gap between different perspectives at work and home.

John R. Dallas Jr's book is available here: https://a.co/d/3LwZnYE

My friend Martin publishes fairly regularly on https://martinphamdinh.com/

Last week, I spent 4 days at an organizational psychology conference. I learned a lot, not only about the science, but about people and myself. Take a listen to find out what

Have goals and being disciplined are good, most of the time. Set goals and don't be too hard on yourself for taking breaks.

Explore the intersection of purpose and relatedness in the professional realm. From the motivational power of discovering purpose to nurturing human connections in the workplace, this episode delves into how these elements shape overall well-being. Recognizing their impact extends beyond professional spheres, it advocates for fostering purpose and relatedness to enhance both professional and personal fulfillment.

In this podcast, we challenge the conventional wisdom of hiring for 'cultural fit.' Exploring the benefits of diversity, we discuss how embracing 'culture add' can foster innovation and growth. Join us as we redefine hiring practices and cultivate inclusive environments where everyone's unique perspective is valued.

Forbes article that is the basis of the episode: Is Culture-Fit Overrated?

An article I wrote called Being Subversive

This is what Mark Rober calls “The Super Mario Effect”. 

Are you the one who chooses how, when and why you do things? Maybe you choose part of those, which is a great start. Being the master of those choices will motivate you. You should share that with others. Here is a little story about that from my life that I hope helps you be more self-determined.

"In this podcast, we delve into the evolving landscape of remote work. From personal experiences to corporate policies, we explore the challenges and benefits of working from anywhere. Join us as we discuss autonomy, productivity, and the human element in today's dynamic work environment."

Recent study showing Return-to-office mandates don't work. Quite the contrary... Return-To-Office Mandates

This week's reflection delves into autonomy and the power of choice. Exploring self-determination theory, Viktor Frankl's quote, and Daniel Kahneman's insights, we uncover strategies for mindful decision-making. From mindfulness practice to reflective journaling, we learn to harness the space between stimulus and response. Embracing autonomy at work fosters employee well-being and productivity. Ultimately, understanding our responses to stimuli leads to intentional living and enriched human connections.

Let's Go! It's time to start the new adventure!

Less is more? Yes! And, more is less. Working more than 40 hours a week, some would say 30, is counter-productive. We actually get more done when we work less. Lets talk about it.

If you don't agree, or do, send me an email to tell me why (not) at John@PeoplePowerEverything.com

This past week, we had to let our loving Sandy go. It was very hard, but there are a lot of positives in figuring out that dogs can teach us a lot of lessons on how to be human.

In this episode, we delve into the depths of burnout, exploring its multifaceted nature and unveiling strategies to conquer it. Drawing insights from scientific research and personal anecdotes, we dissect the emotional, physical, and mental components of burnout and offer practical solutions for individuals and workplaces. Join us on this journey towards resilience and well-being.

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/you-can-conquer-burnout/

Canadian Centre for Addiction and Mental Health CAMH

This week, I explored the power of not responding in certain situations, such as road rage or dealing with unsolicited emails. When faced with unproductive arguments, strategic tactics like silence can preserve self-control. I also discussed "Constructive Criticism Fatigue" and emphasized the importance of balancing feedback with encouragement. Remember that sometimes, the most powerful response is silence, fostering self-respect and respect for others. People Power Everything.

Doing something nice for another person brings us joy. Humans are hard-wired to help each other. We should make the most of that at home and at work by striving to elevate others.

If I were to hire for one specific trait above all others, it would be adaptability. I have been researching it lately and here are my initial thoughts about it.

Do you believe that the leader is the one getting things done and that all success is a product of their leadership? You might be infatuated with leadership. The romance of leadership is Meindl's view that we probably put too much on the shoulders of our leaders for a few different reasons that I talk about in this episode.

Reflecting on everyday stress, I value the support of social circles for mental well-being. In "Live to 100 with Blue Zones explorer Dan Buettner," behaviors of long-living people are explored. Key insights: lunch with loved ones reduces stress and fosters connection; changing environment over behavior promotes positive changes. Root causes, not just symptoms, are vital in mental health at work. Close-knit teams foster lasting bonds, exemplifying how people power everything.

Live to 100 with Blue Zones explorer Dan Buettner

The Year Without Pants: Wordpress and The Future of Work by Scott Berkhun

In this episode, I talk about the passage of time, life and friends. I admit that I NEED people in my life and gain some perspective about that. I hope you enjoy this and remember that People Power Everything.

The original article is available here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/change-management-mindsets-john-dallas - I went in to the archive for this article originally written in April 2021. Enjoy!

Welcome to our podcast, where we delve into the profound (for me) lessons from "All Quiet on the Western Front" by Erich Maria Remarque. This literary masterpiece, capturing the brutal realities of World War I through the eyes of German soldiers like Paul Bäumer, goes beyond war horrors to offer insights applicable to our daily lives. Join us as we explore themes of team cohesion, understanding the human cost, avoiding unnecessary conflict, continuous learning, and fostering camaraderie. Discover how these timeless lessons resonate in our workplaces and homes. We'll also discuss the impactful series "Band of Brothers" and the transformative power of shared experiences. Tune in for a journey into humanity amid challenges and the quest to serve among heroes.

PS: This episode 42, so it may very well contain the answers to life, the universe and everything...

Emotions can cloud judgment, but our friends can help. When we lack rationality, we can borrow it from others! Or, we can make something called a Ulysses pact. Check out the podcast for more...

Thoughts about self-improvement, resilience and gratitude for life. Enjoy!

"In 'Game On! for Joy,' John reflects on finding genuine happiness in life's simple pleasures, particularly through the lens of junior hockey games. The camaraderie, shared laughter, and the pursuit of joy in unexpected places paint a vivid picture of the beauty in the journey of life."

This episode underscores the transformative impact of nonviolent communication (NVC) in enhancing personal and professional dialogue. By adhering to NVC principles—objective observation, genuine expression of feelings, identification of underlying needs, and clear requests—individuals can navigate conflicts, forge connections, and foster collaboration. Emphasizing the value of discomfort as a catalyst for growth echoes Andrea Stella's insights from McLaren, urging readers to embrace challenges as opportunities for continuous learning within organizational dynamics.

Roserberg's Nonviolent Communication work session: https://youtu.be/l7TONauJGfc?si=O6Kc8kaf3fI_aZyJ

Welcome to the People Power Everything Podcast! This weekend’s British Grand Prix was nothing short of thrilling, and it inspired me immensely. While I won't spoil the details, it got me thinking about the essence of competition and self-improvement. Inspired by this and Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise,” we’ll explore resilience, equality, and the drive to be better. Let’s rise together!

Time is a funny thing. My relationship with time has changed over the years. Here are some thoughts about it.

I am having a hard time finding focus these days and it's fucking annoying, distracting even. Argh, I am even losing it in my desire to focus. Bleh. This is my short rant and some tips that I am trying to figure it out.

Have a great day. I hope you find your focus easier than I am these days.

In this episode, I reflect on the journey to completing a significant academic milestone, highlighting the crucial roles that my support system played. From the encouragers who kept me going, to the challengers who pushed me to improve, and the experts who shared their knowledge – each was vital. We discuss how people power everything, both personally and professionally. Tune in for insights on the power of collaboration and perseverance.

Join me each week as I delve into the complexities of life, exploring personal growth, empathy, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. In this episode, we unravel the intricacies of self-oriented, socially-prescribed, and other-oriented perfectionism. Reflect on your own journey, imperfections, and the liberating power of authenticity.

Link to the podcast I listened to called Is Perfectionism Ruining Your Life. Is

perfectionism ruining you life?

Link to the book I mention: Difficult Conversations

What the heck is ChatGPT? I give a short explanation and talk about my experience a little. And, yes, it does hallucinate. Groovy!

Feedback, comments and answers to trivia are welcome at john@peoplepowereverything.com

In this episode, I’ll be sharing what I learned on my unexpected adventure at ÎleSoniq, Canada’s largest electronic dance music festival. Join me as I reflect on the vibrant atmosphere, the eclectic fashion, and what I believe are valuable life lessons learned from this unforgettable experience that can be used at home and at work.

Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive deep into the illusion of constant change. While we’re often told that everything is evolving rapidly, my article explores the surprising continuity in management science and technology. From 1919 to today, we’ve been recycling old ideas under new names. Join us as we question whether true progress is really happening, or if we're just reinventing the wheel.

In this episode, I talk about 4 science myths, concepts and ideas that are past their prime and need to be better understood so we can change our approach.

Reflecting on 2023, the podcast emphasizes the importance of breaks, embracing down times, and fostering a forward-looking mindset. Breaks enhance passion, unlock creativity, and aid learning. Acknowledging challenges promotes genuine growth, dispelling toxic positivity. Adam Grant's insight on progress underscores its motivational power. The journey combines introspection, resilience, and practical steps for a fulfilling future. This was a small window in to my soul at the moment. Thank you for listening.

I'm on vacation this week, and what do I do on my summer vacation? Go to an organizational psychology conference, of course! That's fun for me, ok? I'm also going to present while I'm there, so it's for a good cause.

I'm presenting the topic of my master's studies, and I've put together a little preview for you. Enjoy!

It takes courage to follow in a way that is good for us, the leader, the organization and even society. We can all follow, but can we all follow courageously? Knowing what that means is a good start.

My attitude is gratitude. Gratitude makes all our lives better, from the people giving it to the ones receiving it. There is no downside.

Any comments? Hit me up at John@PeoplePowerEverything.com

Exploring the double-edged sword of potential - the blessings of self-belief fueling ambition, yet the burdens of self-imposed expectations. From leadership programs to career risks, potential propels us forward but also breeds guilt over unfulfilled possibilities. This introspective journey grapples with finding balance between maximizing potential and self-compassion, savoring life's simple joys.

I was complimented by a friend about being a ray of light. In truth, she was a much bigger one and inspired me to encourage you to do the same, and talk about it a bit.

Developing community provides growth and support for the people around us, at work and at home. a

I have been researching adaptability in the context of good followership. I want people in teams, organizations and just in general to be more adaptable for the benefit of everyone involved. It is a skill that can be learned. This podcast has some thougths about that.

Finding the right balance between the facets of our lives is an ongoing challenge and cycle. As we evolve and circumstances change, so do our priorities between our lives inside and outside of work. This little podcast gives some tips to help think about that.

The article I reference is here: https://hbr.org/2021/01/work-life-balance-is-a-cycle-not-an-achievement

Atlas of the Heart, by Brené Brown is a great little encyclopaedia about emotions: https://brenebrown.com/book/atlas-of-the-heart/

In this episode, we explore the idea of questioning everything—whether as curious children, rebellious teenagers, or reflective adults. From playful curiosity to deeper introspection, questioning helps shape our understanding of the world and challenges societal norms. As we grow, we realize there are countless opportunities and paths we can choose. The key is to ask the questions that open doors to new possibilities. After all, People Power Everything!

Have you ever thought about the stages going from totally ignorant to in the zone red hot? The four stages of competence are a good way to think about it. Listen for more...

And, if you have any comments or questions, feel free to drop me a line at John@PeoplePowerEverything.com

This week, I dive into a LinkedIn post that upset me more than expected. A CISO joked about his wife clicking on phishing emails, and while many found it humorous, it upset me more than it probably should have. Phishing is no joke, unfortunately. But, there are ways to take phishing seriously, while being supportive. Personally, I think it should be treated like workplace health & safety: through education, progressive help, and accountability.

Recognition and appreciation are not the same. Learn more about what they are and when to use them, along with some practical tips on listening.

Journey was a word that I was tired of hearing, but a light went on for me thinking about enjoying the journey. This short podcast talks about 5 ways to enjoy your life journey more.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery with insights on long-term motivation and happiness. Explore the liberating power of having "enough" amid life's uncertainties, as the host shares personal reflections on facing potential job loss. Dive deep into the transformative effects of self-acceptance and self-compassion, with a focus on the ongoing pursuit of self-love and forgiveness. Join us for a story that celebrates internal validation and recognizes personal worth beyond external factors.

If you have any comments, suggestions or just want to say hi, send me a note @ john@peoplepowereverything.com

I am very happy with the level of psychological safety in our team at work and I thought I would share a little story about it.

In this episode, we explore the vital role of relationships in enhancing well-being and happiness. Drawing insights from the Harvard Study of Adult Development and research by Simon, Judge, and Halvorsen-Ganepola, we discuss how strong connections with coworkers and friends boost life satisfaction. We also share personal anecdotes and practical advice on staying connected, highlighting the power of relationships in fostering a fulfilling life. Don't be afraid to reach out and say hi. You will thank yourself for making the effort and the other person will thank you for taking the time.

The podcast unfolds a journey spanning three decades, marked by a relentless pursuit of learning, particularly in technology. While acknowledging the allure of technological advancements, John emphasizes the paramount importance of human connections. Relationships in the IT sector emerge as a central theme, with a focus on how collaborative efforts and strong interpersonal bonds contribute significantly to the success of projects. The speaker reflects on the role of relationships in building trust, supporting well-being, and fostering teamwork. The discussion extends to the impact of relationships on remote work, asserting that intentional efforts can overcome distance barriers. The podcast underscores the crucial role of cultivating positive relationships at work for enhanced productivity, enjoyment, and stress resilience, and that People Power Everything.

Article mentioned: Why IT’s Relationships Matter More Than Its Technical Prowess

My previous writing on being good enough

In this episode, we discuss stepping out of comfort zones, the value of constructive feedback, and techniques for giving and receiving comments without judgment. Sharing personal experiences from a recent conference talk, we explore practical tips on communication, the importance of pausing to reflect, and how feedback can enhance personal growth and professional relationships. Join us to learn how feedback can be a powerful tool for improvement.

Are you afraid of trying new things? Do you fear the judgment of others? Try it anyway! Most people are supportive and learning new things is another way to find flow. Don't take my word for it. Steve Martin said it. (Not on this podcast...) :)

This podcasts explores the positive impact of teamwork and community

spirit, as witnessed in a Quebec neighborhood's winter preparations. It

highlights the lessons of cooperation, effective communication, and

work-life balance, emphasizing their relevance in both social and

professional settings.

In this episode of the podcast, we delve into the intriguing story of Richard Feynman, the renowned physicist, through the lens of a captivating anecdote shared on the Freakonomics podcast. Feynman's humility and willingness to learn from mistakes, even as a celebrated professor, set a powerful example for all of us. The tale of his collaboration with Toichiro Kinoshita at Cornell reveals the importance of simplifying complex problems and thinking creatively to find innovative solutions.

Drawing parallels to modern methodologies like Lean Six Sigma and Agile, we explore how breaking down problems into manageable parts and fostering unconventional thinking can lead to efficiency and value creation. Feynman's unorthodox approach, tapping pencils on a radiator, underscores the significance of stimulating creativity and finding inspiration from unexpected sources.

Furthermore, the collaborative aspect of Feynman's work emphasizes the value of teamwork and mutual learning, essential skills as we navigate a technologically driven future. Ultimately, his story highlights the power of simplicity and clarity in communication and problem-solving, urging us to embrace these principles in our own endeavors.

Join us as we reflect on the timeless lessons gleaned from Feynman's remarkable journey, reminding us of the beauty in human connection and the profound impact of embracing humility, creativity, and simplicity in our pursuit of knowledge and innovation.

In this episode, we explore the concept of potential energy in both physical and work contexts. By drawing parallels between a bike ride and professional development, we discuss how efforts invested in learning and skill-building create future benefits. We also highlight the importance of sharing knowledge and the lasting impact of educational efforts. Tune in to discover how potential energy powers personal and professional growth.

This episode is about personal transformation from introversion to ambiversion. John describes his journey of venturing outside his comfort zone and embracing extroverted behaviors. He shares how acting more extroverted, even when it doesn't come naturally, has positively impacted his well-being and personal growth. The article emphasizes the value of "faking it until you make it" in certain circumstances and highlights the supportive nature of most people in this journey of self-discovery.

The scientific article mentioned is here: Enacted Extraversion as a Well-Being Enhancing Strategy in Everyday Life

What is an  ambivert?

Getting motivated can be hard. Herre are some tips that helped me, including some science of self-determination theory.

Join John in a captivating podcast episode exploring diverse intelligences and their development. From debunking learning styles to Howard Gardner's multiple intelligences, discover practical tips for enhancing verbal, logical, spatial, bodily, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalistic, and existential intelligences. Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning for well-rounded personal development.

Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Read my previous article called I am Enough, you are enough here: https://medium.com/@jdallas.me/i-am-enough-you-are-enough-5fc949a34495

In this reflection, the author embraces the Canadian Thanksgiving spirit

by expressing gratitude not only for apparent joys but also for less

glamorous aspects of life, particularly failures, boredom, and waiting

rooms. Failure, paradoxically, becomes a motivator, marking progress and

pushing one's limits. Boredom is acknowledged for its role in fostering

creativity and prompting mindful choices, turning perceived monotony

into avenues for personal growth. Waiting rooms, often seen as

inconvenient, are appreciated as sanctuaries providing moments for

mindfulness and mental reprieve. The overall message encourages

embracing life's challenges and finding silver linings, recognizing that

even in shadows, there is potential for growth and gratitude.

When bad things happen, we can either succumb to pressure, adjust with issues, be resilient or thrive. That thriving part really interests me, so I though I would share about it.

Physical exercise is good for your body and soul. Don't take my word for it. Check out the science at What Type

of Exercise is Best for Mental Health and Exercise More Effective Than Medicines to Manage Mental Health

Be well and remember that people power everything! And, we need to take care of our power plants!

In this podcast, we explore the power of relationships in personal and professional life. From childhood experiences to workplace dynamics, we delve into the impact of meaningful connections. Join us as we discuss strategies for fostering open dialogue and building strong, lasting bonds.

I am trying something new and putting out an audio version of my weekly sharing. This is a first for me and I will learn and get better. I hope you enjoy the content.

In this episode, I think about challenges in life and how I am trying to get better. I fail, I fall, I get up and I try again. It can be challenging, but that is part of the beauty of life.