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I’m passionate about helping you build the social skills you need to elevate your life personally and professionally.
Each video is easy to follow with practical advice and actionable steps you can put into practice - no matter where your starting point is.
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I publish new YouTube videos each week on:
Understanding people
Building relationships
Negotiating and influencing
Handling fear of rejection and avoidance
Attracting people, winning them over
Initiating conversations
Sharpening your listening skills
And much more!
The Ultimate Constructive Feedback Tool for Leaders & Managers
Looking for an easy way to give feedback that actually leads to results? The Stop Start Continue exercise is a simple yet powerful tool that helps teams give constructive feedback and improve performance. In this video, I’ll show you exactly how to use this exercise to foster team building, deliver actionable feedback, and drive continuous improvement.
Whether you’re a manager, team leader, or just looking for a better way to provide peer-to-peer feedback, this framework is perfect for you. Learn how to implement Stop Start Continue in your team meetings or 1:1 sessions, and discover how it can boost communication and trust within your team. Plus, I’ll share an example of how a manager might use this tool to guide a team member toward success.
5 Signs You Need to Leave Your Toxic Job
Is your job draining your energy, causing you stress, or making you feel stuck? In this episode, I’m breaking down the Top 5 Signs You Need to Leave Your Toxic Job. From constant burnout to a lack of respect at work, it’s time to recognize the red flags that might be harming your mental health and career.
Toxic workplaces can be tough to escape, but knowing the signs is the first step. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or wondering if it’s time to move on, this video will help you decide if quitting is the best option for you. I’ll also share real-world examples (with a little humor!) to help you spot these signs early on.
Deep Work in the Age of Distractions
Are we less productive today than we were in the past? In our hyper-connected world, finding time for deep, focused work has become increasingly challenging. Yet, it's more crucial than ever. We’ll explore the importance of deep work amidst modern distractions and how you can reclaim your focus to achieve meaningful productivity. Discover practical techniques for creating uninterrupted work periods and staying focused, even in a distraction-filled environment.
Key Takeaways:
Understand the concept of deep work and its benefits
Compare focused work periods of the past with today’s constant interruptions
Learn practical techniques for creating uninterrupted work periods
Discover strategies for maintaining focus and achieving high productivity
📖 What You'll Learn:
Time Blocking: Allocate specific blocks of time for deep work and focus solely on a single task without interruptions.
Digital Detox: Minimize digital distractions by turning off notifications and setting boundaries for tech use.
Environment Optimization: Create a workspace that minimizes distractions and promotes concentration.
Pomodoro Technique: Use timed work sessions to maintain focus and productivity.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation to improve concentration and mental clarity.
6 Types of Workplace Gaslighting to Be Aware Of
Have you ever felt manipulated or made to doubt your own reality at work? Gaslighting can take many forms, and it’s crucial to recognize them to protect yourself. In this episode, we’ll uncover six types of workplace gaslighting, provide real-life examples, and offer practical advice on how to respond to each one. Learn to identify the signs, understand the effects, and equip yourself with strategies to combat this manipulative behavior and maintain your mental health and professional integrity.
Key Takeaways:
Understand what gaslighting is and its various forms
Recognize the signs of gaslighting in the workplace
Learn about the effects of gaslighting on mental health and job performance
Discover proactive steps to protect yourself from gaslighting
Get strategies for responding to gaslighting in real-time
Recognizing Gaslighting in the Workplace: What It Is and How to Respond
Are you feeling confused, doubting your own reality, or questioning your sanity because of something a colleague or boss said? You might be experiencing gaslighting. In this episode, you’ll learn what gaslighting is, how to recognize it in the workplace, and actionable steps you can take to protect yourself. Learn to identify the signs, understand the effects, and equip yourself with strategies to combat this manipulative behavior and maintain your mental health and professional integrity.
Key Takeaways:
Understand what gaslighting is and its origins
Recognize the signs of gaslighting in the workplace
Learn about the effects of gaslighting on mental health and job performance
Discover proactive steps to protect yourself from gaslighting
Get strategies for responding to gaslighting in real-time
Managing Stress and Anxiety at Work: Tools for Coping with a Toxic Boss
Struggling with stress and anxiety due to a toxic boss? You're not alone. In this episode, you’ll gain practical tools and techniques to help you manage stress and anxiety at work. Learn how to protect your mental health and stay productive even in challenging work environments.
Key Takeaways:
Understand the impact of a toxic boss on your mental health
Practice mindfulness and meditation techniques to stay centered
Engage in physical activity to relieve tension and boost mood
Manage your time effectively to reduce stress
Seek support from colleagues, friends, and professionals
Explore creative outlets and the power of humor to relieve stress
Set boundaries to protect your mental health and prevent burnout
Navigating Office Politics: Turning Toxic Situations to Your Advantage
Struggling with office politics in a toxic work environment? You're not alone. In this episode, leadership coach Doug Howard shares actionable strategies to help you navigate and leverage office politics to your advantage. Learn how to identify political dynamics, build strategic alliances, communicate effectively, and maintain your integrity while advancing your career. Transform toxic situations into opportunities for growth and success.
Key Takeaways:
Understand the common political dynamics in the workplace
Identify signs of a toxic work environment
Build strategic alliances to gain support and protection
Communicate effectively with colleagues and superiors
Leverage information to enhance your influence
Maintain integrity and build a strong reputation
Turn toxic situations into opportunities for personal and professional growth
How to Communicate Effectively with a Difficult Boss: Tips and Techniques
Struggling to communicate with a difficult boss? You're not alone. In this episode, you’ll learn proven strategies to help you navigate tough conversations and improve your relationship with a challenging boss. Learn how to understand your boss's communication style, practice active listening, use assertive communication, resolve conflicts effectively, manage upward, and set boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Key Takeaways:
Understand your boss's communication style and tailor your approach
Master active listening to reduce misunderstandings
Use assertive communication to express your needs professionally
Apply conflict resolution techniques to de-escalate tensions
Manage upward to build trust and align your goals with your boss’s
Set boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain productivity
What You'll Learn:
Understanding Your Boss's Communication Style: Adapt your approach to match their preferences for better rapport.
Active Listening: Enhance your listening skills to truly understand your boss’s needs and concerns.
Assertive Communication: Stand up for yourself while maintaining respect and professionalism.
Conflict Resolution Techniques: Address disagreements constructively and find mutually beneficial solutions.
Managing Up: Proactively manage your relationship with your boss to ensure mutual success.
Setting Boundaries: Maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout by setting clear boundaries.
Reading Your Negotiation Counterpart: The 3 Types of Negotiators
Negotiating can be challenging, especially if you don't understand who you're negotiating with. In this episode, you’ll learn how to identify the three main types of negotiators – Accommodator, Analyzer, and Assertive – and adapt your techniques to achieve better outcomes. By understanding your counterpart's negotiation style, you can communicate more effectively and reach mutually beneficial agreements.
Key Takeaways:
Learn the characteristics, strengths, tendencies, weaknesses, and blind spots of Accommodators, Analyzers, and Assertives
Discover how to determine your own negotiation style
Get practical tips for identifying your counterpart's negotiation style
Avoid common mistakes when negotiating with different types
Implement effective strategies tailored to each negotiation style
What You'll Learn:
Accommodator: How to build strong relationships and assert your needs respectfully
Analyzer: The importance of preparation, data, and giving time for decision-making
Assertive: Strategies for direct communication, standing your ground, and achieving goals
How to Negotiate a Counter Offer | Simple Framework
Negotiating a counteroffer can be daunting, especially when your initial offer is declined. In this episode, I will guide you through the powerful Ackerman Model to help you master the art of counteroffers. Whether you're negotiating a salary raise, a business deal, or even buying a car, this method will ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.
Key Takeaways:
Understand the Ackerman Model and its step-by-step process
Learn how to set your target price and establish strategic offers
Discover the importance of empathy and tactical techniques in negotiations
See real-life examples of the Ackerman Model in action
Get practical tips and strategies to maximize your negotiation success
What You'll Learn:
Setting Your Target Price: How to determine the ideal price or terms you want to achieve.
Establishing Your First Offer: Why your first offer should be higher or lower than your target.
Planning Your Counteroffers: Creating a series of counteroffers that show flexibility.
Using Empathy and Tactical Techniques: Building rapport and understanding the other party’s perspective.
Closing the Deal with the Final Offer: Making your final offer slightly better to close the deal.
How to Negotiate Anything
Struggling to negotiate a raise, promotion, or even a better deal on a car? You're not alone. In this episode, I break down the six essential pillars of effective negotiation.
Learn how to avoid common negotiation mistakes, understand the psychology behind successful negotiation, and master a step-by-step framework to get what you want.
9 Powerful Negotiating Tools and Strategies
Negotiating can be challenging, but with the right tools and strategies, you can handle any negotiation scenario with confidence.
In this episode, we break down nine powerful negotiation tools from the book "Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss. Learn how to apply these tactics to achieve better outcomes in your professional and personal negotiations.
Creating a Culture of Accountability: Steve Jobs vs. Elon Musk
Struggling to hold your team accountable?
In today's fast-paced business environment, managing accountability is crucial but challenging. Whether it's missed deadlines, lack of ownership, or poor communication, these issues can significantly impact your team's performance.
In this episode, we explore the 5 pillars of creating a culture of accountability and compare how Steve Jobs did it right and how Elon Musk sometimes gets it wrong.
Strategic Decision-Making for Leaders | Balancing Data and Intuition
Many managers and leaders struggle with making critical decisions because they often lean too heavily on data or rely solely on intuition. This imbalance can lead to costly mistakes, missed opportunities, and strategic failures. Finding the right balance between data-driven decision-making and intuitive insights is essential for effective leadership and strategic planning.
Ignoring data can cause you to miss out on key trends and insights, just as over-relying on data can blind you to important contextual factors and intuitive cues. Whether you're in the midst of a product launch, facing competitive threats, or navigating market changes, mastering this balance is crucial.
In this video, you'll learn how to:
Understand the Importance of Balance: Discover why integrating both data and intuition is vital for strategic decision-making.
Gather and Analyze Data Effectively: Learn practical techniques for collecting and interpreting data to support your decisions.
Tap into Your Intuition: Explore methods to enhance and trust your intuitive insights for better outcomes.
Combine Data and Intuition: Get actionable tips on how to harmonize data and intuition to make well-rounded, informed decisions.
Watch this episode to gain insights on how to make better strategic decisions by leveraging both data and intuition effectively!
How To Introduce Yourself to a New Team as a Manager
New to the leadership game?
Or maybe you’re an experienced manager that’s about to begin leading a new team?
Either way, this episode equips you with a winning strategy for your first introduction as a manager. Learn how to craft a powerful introduction that builds trust, fosters open communication, and sets the stage for a successful tenure with your team.
You'll learn:
The key elements of a powerful introduction (what to say & what to avoid!)
How to tailor your delivery to the company culture (suit & tie vs. jeans & t-shirts?)
Strategies to encourage questions and open communication with your team ️
Common team questions you should be prepared to answer
From Peer to Leader: Building Trust & Respect with Your Former Colleagues
Feeling awkward leading your former colleagues?
This episode is for YOU!
Learn battle-tested strategies to build trust, foster collaboration, and earn respect from your new team, even if they used to be your peers.
We'll cover:
Common mistakes new managers make (and how to avoid them!)
Communication techniques that build trust and transparency
Collaboration strategies that leverage your team's strengths
Leadership approaches that command respect
BONUS: Real-life story: How to deal with a difficult employee (who used to be your colleague!)
Feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry, we've got your back! This episode is packed with actionable tips and practical advice to help you navigate this tricky transition with confidence!
8 Types of Leadership Styles in Management (with Examples)
Struggling to find the right leadership approach?
This video explores 8 powerful leadership styles, helping you identify your strengths and develop the skills to become a more effective leader. From inspiring and motivating your team to fostering collaboration and achieving results, learn how to adapt your style to any situation.
We'll guide you through a self-reflection process to uncover your natural tendencies and provide actionable tips to develop your leadership repertoire.
This episode is perfect for aspiring leaders looking to build their leadership skills, established leaders seeking to refine their approach, and anyone who wants to improve their communication, influence, and team dynamics!
Engineering Manager Interview: 10 Most Common Questions, and How to CRUSH Them!
Dreading your engineering management interview?
Feeling lost on what to say?
This video is your secret weapon!
We'll crack the code on the 10 most common interview questions, plus provide winning answers that showcase your leadership skills and land you the offer.
Learn how to navigate tricky situations, demonstrate your ability to motivate and empower your team, and CONFIDENTLY convince the hiring manager you're the perfect fit. Plus, discover bonus tips for crafting powerful interview questions to ask the employer.
Empower Your Team Through Failure | Why "Try Again" Builds Better Teams
Stop Micromanaging & Empower Your Team Through Failure!
Feeling the urge to swoop in and fix every mistake your team makes?
Hold on!
This "rescue mission" approach can actually hinder their growth and development.
In this episode, we explore the power of "Try Again" leadership.
❌ Discover the negative consequences of taking over for your team members.
✅ Learn the benefits of empowering them to learn from their failures.
Develop a tactical framework for delivering effective "Try Again" messages that build confidence and resilience.
Plus, we share real-life stories and actionable strategies to help you:
Foster a culture of learning from mistakes
Build a stronger, more high-performing team
Improve communication and collaboration
Boost team member confidence and ownership
12 Time Management Strategies for Managers
Feeling like there's just not enough time in the day to keep up with your ever-growing engineering leadership demands?
You're not alone!
In this episode, we explore 15 powerful time management techniques specifically designed to help you reclaim control of your schedule and become a productivity machine!
Master these hacks and you'll learn how to:
Prioritize effectively with the Eisenhower Matrix
Achieve laser focus with the Pomodoro Technique
Schedule your day strategically with Time Blocking
Improve your visual organization with Kanban Boards
Identify hidden time wasters with a Time Audit
Work smarter, not harder with Parkinson's Law
Group similar tasks for maximum efficiency with Batch Processing
Tackle your biggest challenge first with the "Eat the Frog" strategy
Focus on high-impact activities with the 80/20 Rule
Schedule tasks based on your natural energy levels for optimal performance
Identify and prioritize your 3 Most Important Tasks (MITs)