Bonus Episode: Building Highly Connected Remote Teams
Working Forward
In this bonus episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory joins Jason Cochran to explore the foundation of successful remote teams. Nikki shares why intentionality matters, what it truly looks like (spoiler: it’s more than just flexible schedules), and how leaders can build strong, connected cultures while boosting productivity. From work-life integration to game-changing rituals like asynchronous meetings, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at creating remote teams that thrive. Get ready for a crash course in leaving outdated systems behind and designing workplaces where people—and...
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The Working Forward Relaunch: A Sneak Peek Into the Future of Work
Working Forward
🚀The future of work is here—and it’s flipping the script! Join Working Forward's new host, Jason Cochran, as he dives into the shifts reshaping everything: from ditching the 9-to-5 grind and hustle culture to embracing four-day workweeks, remote flexibility, and even learning on TikTok. Oh, and AI? It’s rewriting the rules entirely. Ready to rethink what work can be? Let’s go! Additional Resources: Learn more about Key Takeaways: The Future is Here: Leaders must embrace that the traditional workplace model is rapidly evolving. Flexibility is Key: The shift...
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Unlocking Psychological Safety with Andrea Brummett
Working Forward
Workplace Revolution is back and better than ever! Andrea Brummett is joined by Jason Cochran, new host of Working Forward, to talk about the secret sauce for thriving teams: Psychological safety. Andrea breaks it down: why it matters, what it really looks like (spoiler: it’s not about avoiding conflict), and how leaders can build trust, spark creativity, and unlock their team’s full potential. Get ready for a crash course in ditching outdated systems and creating workplaces where people—and businesses—truly thrive. This episode is equal parts inspiration and actionable insight! ...
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A Vivid Dream Makes the Hard Things Easier with Nikki Lewallen Gregory
Working Forward
In this episode, Nikki discusses the power of dreaming and having a vivid vision to overcome challenges in life. She shares a personal story about selling her home and pursuing her dream of having a retreat place. Nikki emphasizes the importance of legacy leadership and helping others achieve their dreams. She encourages leaders to reflect on their own dreams and take steps towards achieving them, while also supporting and inspiring their team members to pursue their dreams. Additional Resources
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AI: The Future is Now with Dominique Shelton Leipzig
Working Forward
In this episode, Lori Shakur interviews , a privacy and cybersecurity expert, to explore the critical role of data leadership and AI governance in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. Dominique passionately advocates for CEOs and board members to lead the charge in setting clear and intentional strategies around data privacy and security. She reveals why data should be treated as a valuable asset, and how safeguarding it is not just a responsibility but a necessity in building trust and resilience in any organization. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to...
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Dismantling and Rebuilding: What got us here won’t get us there with Andrea Brummett
Working Forward
Host, Andrea Brummett, discusses the disillusionment with traditional workplace structures and the need for change. She highlights the disruptive force of the COVID-19 pandemic in forcing businesses to adapt and innovate. Brummett emphasizes the importance of creating a workplace that is in harmony with human needs and values. Explore various theories and frameworks influencing workplace revolution, including Maslow's hierarchy of needs, organizational life cycles, agile organization design, lean methodology, and complex systems theory. Additional Resources:
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They’ll Probably Say You’re Crazy. Go For That! with Nikki Lewallen Gregory
Working Forward
Nikki dives into the importance of chasing your dreams, no matter how crazy they may seem to others. She shares her personal journey of manifesting a remote retreat space and the steps she's taking to make it a reality, even if it means living in a barn. She encourages listeners to embrace skepticism and to listen to criticism without focusing on the critic. Additional Resources
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Career Independence with Laurie Shakur + Madelyn Mackie
Working Forward
From biochemistry to the C-suite, has navigated a non-linear career path, gaining rich experiences across various industries. She’s now a career coach helping individuals activate their career dreams. In this episode, talks with Madelyn about the importance of preparation meeting opportunity, recommending that aspiring entrepreneurs try a side gig before transitioning full-time. Get actionable advice for navigating career transitions and activating dreams with a three-step process: creating a clear vision, cultivating resources and networks, and taking consistent steps toward the...
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Use a Journal for Dreaming with Nikki Lewallen Gregory
Working Forward
Dream chasing isn’t just for kids. In this episode, Nikki Lewallen Gregory delves into the transformative power of using a journal for dream planning and goal setting. Nikki, renowned for her inspirational guidance in leadership and personal development, shares her personal journaling practices that help her stay focused, reflect, and celebrate progress. She introduces listeners to key tools like the Life Wheel and Dream Board, emphasizing their significance in guiding future paths with intention. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to design their ideal life, define their...
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Creating a Culture of Trust with Laurie Shakur + Nina Woodruff-Walker
Working Forward
, CEO of the Museum Of Children's Art (MoCA), shares her inspiring journey from being an Oakland youth to leading a non-profit organization focused on creativity, innovation, and community empowerment. In this engaging episode of Working Forward, hosted by , Nina delves into the significance of fostering an inclusive environment through collaborative leadership and how MoCA's Community Future School is preparing youth for future challenges. She discusses the concepts of afrofuturism, the importance of corporate partnerships, and how divergent thinking can solve “wicked problems.” Listen in...
info_outlineLaurie Shakur's career journey began with her infectious smile lighting up the path from a recruiter, where her radiant positivity and bubbly personality were assets that charmed prospective candidates. However, it was during her transition to an HR manager that Laurie encountered a surprising piece of feedback that would challenge her to adapt her approach: she was told she smiled too much. In this episode, Laurie discusses the impact of positive leadership on individuals, teams, and organizations. From debunking misconceptions about being too nice to highlighting the strategic importance of positivity, she provides actionable strategies and real-world examples of how positive leadership drives teams toward outrageous success. Join us as we uncover the ripple effect of positivity and gain practical tips for fostering a culture of collaboration, gratitude, and growth.
Additional Resources
- Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn
- Learn more about Session AI
- The Power of Positive Leadership, Jon Gordon
- The Happiness Advantage, Shawn Achor
- Positive Leadership: Strategies for Extraordinary Performance, Kim Cameron
- Leaders Eat Last, Simon Sinek
- Primal Leadership, Daniel Goleman
- Marcus Buckingham, Now Discover Your Strengths
- Learn more about PeopleForward Network