Stacey Garcia on Resilience and Optimism in the Face of Personal Roadblocks and Why She Thinks “Mondays are Magic”
Blue Sky
As a personal trainer and wellness coach, Stacey Garcia was doing everything right. She ate well, exercised, and took great care of herself. That’s why her cancer diagnosis came as an extra shock, and in this episode, she explains how she dealt with this news and found strength and resilience as she battled her disease. Now in recovery, Stacey helps guide others through similar challenges both in her daily work as well as her podcast . Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Stacey Garcia Bill Burke introduces Stacey Garcia, host of ‘Never Miss a...
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Astronaut Nicole Stott Reflects on Lessons She Learned in Outer Space and How They Changed Her View of Life on “Spaceship Earth”
Blue Sky
Nicole Stott had a remarkable career with NASA, logging more than 100 days in outer space. Her time on the International Space Station drives her appreciation for the importance of cooperation across cultures and national boundaries. On this Blue Sky episode, she describes lessons learned from her time as an astronaut, and the inspiring work she does today through the Space For Art Foundation, and her optimistic and solutions-oriented approach to life. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Nicole Stott This chapter introduces Nicole Stott, a retired NASA...
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Back to School Edition
Blue Sky
Host Bill Burke thinks back to his own back to school days and offers thoughts on what he might study were he an incoming student this fall. He also discusses what he might teach if he were a faculty member and encourages us all to keep learning in our lives, whether we are enrolled students or not.
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Marcy Syms on Her New Book and “Not Letting the Bad Guys Win”
Blue Sky
Marcy Syms has led a remarkable life, full of triumphs and tragedies. Through a discussion of her new book, host Bill Burke and Marcy cover subjects ranging from Marcy’s upbringing, to overcoming bigotry and bullying in high school, to running her father’s company and keeping it on track through the loss of two of her siblings. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Leading with Respect Bill Burke introduces Marcy Syms, CEO of The Syms Corporation, and her upcoming book “Leading with Respect.” Marcy discusses her father’s motto “Don’t let...
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Mike Goodwin on the Power of Humor and “The Comedian’s Mindset”
Blue Sky
Mike Goodwin grew up with a difficult and volatile father. As a child, he decided that one way he could help his mom would be to help make her laugh. He soon realized he had a talent for humor, but it wasn’t until after time in the US Army and a career in higher education that Mike made comedy his career. Host Bill Burke and Mike Goodwin share a lot of laughs and life lessons in this fun episode of Blue Sky. Chapters: 02:27 Meet Mike Goodwin Bill introduces Mike Goodwin, a comedian, humor coach, and keynote speaker known for his clean comedy style....
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Kristine Michie on Stirring Up Impactful Change Through Joy and Optimism
Blue Sky
In this Blue Sky conversation, Kristine Michie describes her path to a career marked by sparking joy in people and organizations to facilitate positive and impactful change. Earlier this year, she hosted Bill Burke on her and with this episode, the tables are turned and the result is a fun, inspiring conversation on the power of fun, joy, and optimism. Chapters: 02:05 Meet Kristine Michie Kristine Michie, founder of Impactfull, Inc. and host of the PlayFull podcast, joins Bill to discuss her journey and the importance of joy in making a difference. They delve into...
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Curiosity + Resilience: A Formula for Optimism
Blue Sky
Bill Burke reflects on an idea presented by Niren Chaudhary in episode 107. Niren described curiosity and resilience as two master skills required to successfully run the marathon of life. In this "A Bit of Blue Sky," Bill underscores Niren's belief and relates these qualities to optimism, providing examples through past Blue Sky guests.
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Niren Chaudhary Reflects on Rebounding From Grief and His Successful Career Leading With Gratitude and Love
Blue Sky
Niren Chaudhary has led a remarkable life while overcoming intense personal tragedies. He describes his success in running global business as stemming from a foundational belief in putting his employees first and leading them with love, gratitude, and respect. Chapters: 01:36 Meet Niren Chaudhary Niren Chaudhary, a visionary leader and CEO, shares his impressive career journey, highlighting his roles at Panera Bread and Yum! Brands. 04:04 The Power of People in Business Niren reflects on the significance of gratitude and treating employees...
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Heidi Johnson on Loss, Grief, and the Transformative Power of Giving
Blue Sky
Heidi Johnson was in a great spot in life. She had a great family, good job, all she could reasonably ask for. But when her mother was killed in a shocking accident, that all changed. After suffering from intense grief, Heidi’s life changed when she was asked to start a new initiative at her local children’s hospital. This led her to create and lead her own nonprofit and to a life today of service and also shining a light on other nonprofit leaders, through both a book and hosting her podcast, Charity Matters. Chapters: 00:30 Heidi Johnson’s Journey...
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Wounded Warrior Tom Deierlein’s Remarkable Story of Grit, Resilience, Service, and Optimism
Blue Sky
As a West Point graduate who had completed his required service, Tom Deierlein was well into a successful career in digital advertising when he was called up once again to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom. There, while working to help struggling Iraqi families meet their basic needs, a sniper’s bullet would change his life’s trajectory. In this Blue Sky conversation, Tom shares his remarkable life story, on that is marked by inspiring grit, resilience, service, and optimism. Chapters: 02:11 Tom Deierlein’s Background Tom Deierlein shares insights about his...
info_outlineOver the course of his remarkable career, Harry Smith interviewed six US presidents and numerous celebrities including Julia Roberts, Cher, and Madonna. But on this Blue Sky episode Harry shares that his favorite people to cover were the ones we’ve likely never heard of, the everyday heroes that he describes as the glue of our society. Harry shares some of the wisdom he’s earned and now share bestows on students in the college class he’s teaching at his alma mater.
Chapters:
02:16 Meet Harry Smith: A Journalism Legend
Bill welcomes Harry Smith, a respected journalist with a rich career spanning over three decades, and reflects on Harry’s journey from humble beginnings to a prominent news anchor.
03:34 From Truck Driver Dreams to Journalism
Harry shares his early aspirations of becoming a truck driver and how his upbringing in a blue-collar family shaped his work ethic and eventual path into journalism.
07:01 The Spark of Curiosity
Harry discusses how influential teachers ignited his passion for writing and journalism, emphasizing the importance of curiosity in his career development.
11:44 The Importance of Authentic Stories
Harry reflects on his preference for interviewing everyday people with extraordinary stories, highlighting the authenticity and richness of their experiences compared to rehearsed celebrity narratives.
15:00 Media and Public Perception
The conversation shifts to the current state of media, with Harry discussing the longstanding criticism of news outlets and how public trust has fluctuated over the years.
17:57 Building Trust Through Hard Work
Harry shares insights on how building trust in journalism allows for more freedom in storytelling, emphasizing the importance of thoroughness and dedication in his career.
20:04 Curiosity as a Lifelong Skill
Harry discusses his teaching on curiosity at Central College, explaining how intrinsic curiosity can lead to greater fulfillment in both professional and personal life.
25:44 Finding Joy in the Everyday
Harry emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and being present, sharing how simple observations of nature can enhance one’s appreciation for life.
29:25 The Power of Discipline and Nature
Harry discusses the importance of discipline in his writing process and how engaging with nature can uplift one’s spirit. He emphasizes the joy of experiencing the outdoors over succumbing to negativity.
32:10 Teaching the Next Generation
Harry reflects on his experience teaching college students and challenges the stereotypes of Generation Z. He shares how his students surprised him with their willingness to engage in hands-on learning and take risks.
36:21 Optimism in Marriage
Harry opens up about his marriage with Andrea, contrasting their differing perspectives on optimism. He shares a light-hearted moment that highlights their dynamic and Andrea’s determination in her career.
39:16 Navigating Information Overload
As the conversation wraps up, Harry offers advice on managing media consumption and staying informed without becoming overwhelmed. He stresses the importance of balance and turning off the constant stream of news.
42:44 A Class Like No Other
The episode concludes with a reflection on Harry’s unique teaching style that incorporates fun and engagement, making learning enjoyable for his students. The host expresses admiration for Harry’s approach and the impact he has on young minds.