Workday Playdate

TOP 1% GLOBAL PODCAST for People-First Leaders Formerly the "improve it! Podcast" I’m Erin Diehl, keynote speaker, business improv edutainer, and founder of improve it! (AKA your work bestie). Every Wednesday, Workday Playdate with improve it! helps HR professionals, people leaders, and culture-driven humans bring more laughter, levity, and purpose to their workdays. Because work is better when you play. This is not your average leadership podcast. You’ll get research-backed strategies, improv-inspired tools, and candid conversations with top leaders, speakers, improvisers and authors who are rethinking how we work and lead. Our promise is to give you tangible takeaways you can use immediately, plus a few laughs along the way. Interested in partnering with us? Workday Playdate reaches thousands of people-first leaders who care about workplace culture, leadership, and team development. Contact [email protected] to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. We promise laughs, impact, and zero awkward small talk. Think ROI with a side of LOL’s. Let’s make it happen!

304: How to Actually Enjoy Networking (Yes, It’s Possible) 08/20/2025

304: How to Actually Enjoy Networking (Yes, It’s Possible) In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin shares her five-step play process that flips networking from “ugh” to actually fun. If the thought of walking into a room full of strangers makes you want to hide by the snack table, this is your permission slip to try networking a whole new way. Instead of dreading it, Erin shows you how to treat networking like an improv game: playful, curiosity-driven, and connection-first. With tips that blend practical strategy and improv magic, you’ll learn to leave a lasting impression without feeling salesy, stiff, or stuck in small talk. Inside This Episode: Reframe the Room: Collect stories, not just business cards, by shifting from anxiety to curiosity Play the Yes And Game: Use improv’s golden rule to keep conversations engaging and flowing The Silly Name Game: A memory hack to help you remember names and make people feel seen Become the Compliment Fairy: Spark joy and build trust with genuine compliments Set a Fun Networking Goal: Turn events into a scavenger hunt for laughter, stories, and shared interests Who This Episode Is For: The professional who feels awkward or drained at networking events The leader who wants to connect with authenticity, not pretense The team player who loves building relationships but hates small talk Anyone ready to turn networking into something fun, human, and actually energizing Tune in to learn how to network with curiosity, creativity, and confidence—and if you know someone who dreads networking, send this their way. Let’s make connection playful again. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should’ve just stayed home? Grab our free toolkit. It’s your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?” No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37883160

303: Are We Settling Without Even Knowing It? Steffani LeFevour Spills the Truth and How to Break Free 08/13/2025

303: Are We Settling Without Even Knowing It? Steffani LeFevour Spills the Truth and How to Break Free In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Steffani LeFevour—speaker, coach, and conscious creation educator—to unpack the surprisingly radical act of living on purpose. If you've ever felt like you're coasting through your days, stuck in default mode, or quietly settling in a career, relationship, or mindset that no longer fits, you’re not alone and you’re not stuck. This episode is your permission slip to snap out of autopilot and into alignment. From rewiring your inner dialogue to redefining networking as a tool for service, Erin and Steffani deliver soul-deep insights with zero fluff and all the realness. Inside This Episode: Why most people create their reality by accident, and how to shift into conscious creation The invisible ways we tolerate too much and end up stuck in jobs, relationships, and routines that drain us A service-first approach to networking that actually builds real relationships The S + S + S = R Formula that will change the way you think about goal-setting What it means to be unapologetically positive, even when life tests your patience This one’s equal parts mindset, motivation, and meaningful strategy, and it’s your sign to live less on default and more by design. Who This Episode Is For: The dreamer ready to become a doer The leader who knows their vibe shapes the team The overachiever stuck in a loop of “shoulds” Anyone who feels like they’re settling and is ready to shift Tune in to learn how to consciously create your reality one state, story, and strategy at a time. And if you have a friend who’s feeling stuck, send this their way. Let’s break the cycle of settling, together. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Steffani LeFevour Steffani’s Steffani’s Steffani’s book: Steffani’s Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37784885

302: Your New Networking Rule: Simple, Sticky & Stress-Free 08/06/2025

302: Your New Networking Rule: Simple, Sticky & Stress-Free In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles the career skill most of us dread but desperately need: networking. If you break into a cold sweat at the words “elevator pitch” or feel like networking is just performance in business casual, this one’s for you. Forget awkward small talk and robotic intros. Erin’s here to flip the script with her Simple, Sticky, Stress-Free Networking Rule that makes connecting with people feel more like improv night and less like a corporate casting call. Inside This Episode: Why most networking advice makes you sound like a LinkedIn bot The “YES, AND Handshake” that instantly sparks connection The memory trick that ensures you never forget someone’s name again How to leave every convo with a laugh, a compliment, or a reason to reconnect One playful challenge to help you actually enjoy meeting new people this week This episode is packed with practical tips, playful energy, and permission to be your full, human self, because people don’t connect with perfect. They connect with real. Who This Episode Is For: The conference cringer The early-career pro tired of “networking feels fake” The team leader who wants to build better rapport Anyone who wants to feel excited instead of awkward at their next work event And if you’ve got a teammate who really needs this, send it their way. Let’s make networking suck less, together. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37695340

301: Real Talk: How to Stop Guessing What Your Boss Wants and Start Managing Up with Confidence with Melody Wilding 07/30/2025

301: Real Talk: How to Stop Guessing What Your Boss Wants and Start Managing Up with Confidence with Melody Wilding In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin gets real about one of the toughest career skills no one really teaches you: managing up with confidence. Because let’s be honest, trying to figure out what your boss actually wants can feel like decoding emoji hieroglyphics at 11 PM. Enter Melody Wilding: therapist-turned-career-coach, emotions researcher, and author of Managing Up. Named one of Insider’s “most innovative career coaches,” Melody is here to help you stop overthinking every Slack message and start building a relationship with your boss that’s rooted in clarity, confidence, and collaboration. Whether you’re a new grad navigating your first 1:1, an early-career professional trying to stand out without burning out, or a sensitive striver who struggles to speak up, this episode will help you transform anxiety into action and guesswork into game plans. Inside This Episode: What managing up really means (and why it’s the fastest way to build trust and grow) The 3 toughest conversations to have with your boss — and how to start them Why “sensitive strivers” are actually management superstars (with the right mindset shift) How to protect your boundaries without damaging your reputation One simple step you can take today to feel more confident in every manager conversation Who This Episode Is For: Early-career rockstars. Career changers. Anyone tired of reading between the lines of vague emails and ready to build real, human, mutually beneficial relationships at work. Stop guessing what your boss wants. Start showing up like the leader you’re meant to be. Listen now and share this episode with a friend who’s stuck in the “do they hate me?” spiral. Let’s make managing up feel less like a guessing game and more like a playdate. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Melody Wilding Melody’s Melody’s Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37600090

Workday Playdate Trailer 07/28/2025

Snack 24: How to Make Managing Up Feel Natural (Not Cringey) 07/28/2025

Snack 24: How to Make Managing Up Feel Natural (Not Cringey) In today’s snack-sized dose of Workday Playdate, Erin’s flipping the “fear your boss” script and serving up an improv-inspired reframe that’ll help you manage up with confidence, not chaos. Spoiler: It starts with a Slack message and ends with you owning your power. The Problem: You get a vague “Let’s chat” from your boss and spiral. Are you getting fired? Forgotten something? Turns out, you’re not alone. Gallup says 70% of team engagement depends on your manager... but only 30% of early-career pros feel confident talking to theirs. Most of us are winging it. Badly. The Improv Hack to Try: Play the Status Shift In improv, every scene has a status dynamic, and you can shift it. So instead of acting like a nervous squirrel asking for approval, show up like a grounded scene partner. Sit tall. Pause before you speak. Lead with thoughtful questions like: “Does this align with your priorities?” You’re not pretending to be the boss. You’re showing you’re a partner in progress. That small shift builds trust, signals self-assurance, and makes managing up feel human. Wednesday Tease: Episode 301 — “Real Talk: How to Stop Guessing What Your Boss Wants” Get ready for a career-changing convo with Melody Wilding: human behavior expert, executive coach, and author of Managing Up. She’s bringing real talk, hilarious insights, and zero fluff to help you navigate tough convos and lead from where you are. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37570815

300: You Found a Mentor - Now Here’s How to Keep the Relationship Thriving 07/23/2025

300: You Found a Mentor - Now Here’s How to Keep the Relationship Thriving In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles one of the trickiest parts of professional growth: keeping your mentor relationship alive and thriving. Finding a mentor is like landing the perfect avocado - rare, precious, and you don’t want it to spoil. This episode is packed with improv-inspired strategies to help you nurture that connection, create a two-way relationship, and turn “one coffee chat” into long-term mentorship magic. Whether you’re a new grad navigating your first job, a career changer looking for guidance, or a freshly promoted manager wondering how to level up, this conversation is your roadmap for building relationships that last, without awkwardness or ghosting. Inside This Episode: Why mentorship is about clarity, not coffee (and how to define your “why”) The calendar hack to keep your mentor connection alive How to give back and create a two-way street (yes, even as a mentee!) Why celebrating small wins keeps mentors invested in your growth The improv-inspired mindset shift — how “yes, and” transforms your mentorship Who This Episode Is For: Mentees. Mentor-seekers. Professional growth enthusiasts. Anyone ready to stop treating mentorship like a one-off event and start building meaningful, thriving relationships. Listen in and share this one with your fellow mentee MVPs. Let’s make mentorship feel less like a chore and more like a playdate. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37511730

Snack 23: How to Be a Mentee They’ll Want to Root For 07/21/2025

Snack 23: How to Be a Mentee They’ll Want to Root For In today’s snack-sized dose of Workday Playdate, Erin’s flipping the mentorship script and serving up a strategy that’ll make your mentor want to shout your name from the rooftops. Spoiler: It’s not about being the smartest in the room. It’s about showing up with intention. The Problem: We all say mentorship matters, but too often mentees treat it like a vending machine: insert question, get answer, disappear. That’s not how real relationships (or career growth) happen. The truth? Mentees who bring energy, curiosity, and follow-through are the ones who win every time. The Improv Hack to Try: The Callback Technique Ready to become a mentee your mentor brags about? Start here: Call. Back. Something. The next time you meet, reference a tip or insight your mentor gave you and share what you did with it. Show you were listening and taking action. This tiny move builds massive trust and shows you're not just in it for advice, you’re in it for growth. Why it works: Improv callbacks create connection and continuity, and the same is true in mentorship. When you “call back” something from a past interaction, you’re not just remembering, you’re reinforcing. This keeps mentors invested and mentees unforgettable. Wednesday Tease: Episode 300: “You Found a Mentor—Now Here’s How to Keep the Relationship Thriving.” Your next step? Don’t miss this milestone episode! Erin goes deep on how to nurture the mentorship beyond the first coffee, with more improv-inspired tips to keep the momentum going. Because mentorship is a relationship, not a transaction. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37448715

299: Want to Nail Employee Engagement? Here’s What Actually Works (No Gimmicks Needed) with Dr. Angela Jackson 07/16/2025

299: Want to Nail Employee Engagement? Here’s What Actually Works (No Gimmicks Needed) with Dr. Angela Jackson In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin unpacks what employee engagement really looks like in today’s world with Dr. Angela Jackson, founder of Future Forward Strategies. Forget the ping pong tables and perk-loaded culture decks. This is about centering worker voice, listening with intention, and designing workplaces that actually work, for everyone. Whether you’re leading a team, managing up, or trying to make your 9–5 feel more like a “want to,” this conversation delivers bold, strategic insights for building motivated, mission-aligned teams in the modern workplace. Inside This Episode: Why real engagement starts with ownership, not office snacks The overlooked ROI of actually asking your people what they care about How data and feedback loops can drive meaningful culture change Post-pandemic playbooks: what’s working now (and what’s not) How to bring contractors and non-traditional workers into the mission Who This Episode Is For: People leaders. Culture builders. Curious employees. Anyone who’s ready to leave behind surface-level engagement and create work that feels worth showing up for. Listen in and then share it with your team. Let’s turn every workday into a playdate. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Dr. Angela Jackson Dr. Angela’s company Dr. Angela’s personal Dr. Anglela’s Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37426455

Snack 22: The Real Secret to Employee Engagement (Hint: It’s Not Ping-Pong or Pizza Parties) 07/14/2025

Snack 22: The Real Secret to Employee Engagement (Hint: It’s Not Ping-Pong or Pizza Parties) In today’s snack-sized dose of Workday Playdate, Erin’s serving up a spicy truth: no amount of kombucha or karaoke can fix what’s really broken when it comes to employee engagement. The Problem: Only 33% of U.S. employees are engaged at work. And, spoiler alert: swag won’t save us. Connection is the missing link, not cold brew on tap. The Improv Hack to Try: The Scene Partner Swap Flip the script. Instead of waiting for someone else to boost morale, ask: If I were my boss or teammate… how would I help ME feel more engaged? Then act from that mindset for one week. Engagement isn’t entertainment, it’s a feedback loop. Start it. Why it works: Improv teaches us to make our scene partner look good. This mindset shift invites ownership, empathy, and action from any seat in the org chart. Wednesday Tease: Episode 299 — “Want to Nail Employee Engagement? Here’s What Actually Works (No Gimmicks Needed)” featuring Dr. Angela Jackson. Get the real drivers of motivation, leadership, and growth path design, no pizza party required. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) · Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. · Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. · Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” · Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. · Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! · Erin’s · Erin’s · Erin’s · Erin’s · improve it!’s · improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37367140

298: Stop Waiting for a Mentor to Magically Appear—Start Here Instead 07/09/2025

298: Stop Waiting for a Mentor to Magically Appear—Start Here Instead In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin flips the mentorship script. No more waiting for a career fairy godparent to swoop in with the perfect job offer—this is about building real relationships that actually move the needle. Whether you're fresh out of school, mid-pivot, or just tired of one-sided networking coffee dates, Erin delivers a refreshingly practical (and improv-inspired) five-step framework to help you find the right mentor and become the kind of mentee they want to invest in. From staying close to your current circle to building your own career Avengers-style “board of advisors,” this episode is packed with tools to help you stop wishing for mentorship magic and start building it. Inside This Episode: Why being “mentee material” matters more than having a polished pitch How to spot potential mentors hiding in plain sight Ways to offer value before asking for guidance Why mentorship is a long game (and how to play it well) How to build your own personal board of advisors Who This Episode Is For: If you're craving career guidance, but don’t know who to ask (or how) this episode is for you. Perfect for early career pros, mid-level pivoteers, or anyone ready to stop networking and start connecting. So close the LinkedIn tab, put down that awkward DM, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Feeling stretched thin but still trying to “stay positive”? Grab our free It’s a quick, honest reset for people leaders who want to show up without faking it. In five minutes or less, you’ll reframe, refuel, and lead with heart (even when you're running on fumes). Download it now and take the pressure off. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37340405

Snack 21: Finding a Mentor That Gets You (Without the Awkward Ask) 07/07/2025

Snack 21: Finding a Mentor That Gets You (Without the Awkward Ask) In today’s snack, Erin’s busting the myth that a mentor is just going to magically appear and fix everything. The Problem: We’ve all heard it—“You need a mentor!” But asking for one feels like proposing after two dates. We freeze, wait, and convince ourselves no one has time for us. The Improv Hack to Try: The Spotlight Flip Instead of waiting for someone to spotlight you, flip the light on THEM. Next time you meet someone you admire, ask: "I love how you [specific thing]. If you were giving a TED Talk to your younger self, what would it be about?" No pressure, just pure curiosity. Why it works: In improv, making others look good builds trust. Spotlighting someone makes them more likely to engage with you, so mentorship might follow naturally. Bonus Tip: Mentorship isn’t always formal. Keep a list of “unofficial mentors” to learn from passively. Wednesday Tease: Catch Episode 298 this Wednesday: Stop Waiting for a Mentor to Magically Appear—Start Here Instead. Don’t miss it! Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource——a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37304120

297: The Perfect Job Doesn't Exist: How to Stop Waiting and Start Choosing Your Path with Amanda Hirsch 07/02/2025

297: The Perfect Job Doesn't Exist: How to Stop Waiting and Start Choosing Your Path with Amanda Hirsch In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin throws out the five-year plan, the “dream job” myth, and that tired advice to just “follow your passion.” Instead, she’s joined by creative powerhouse and Mighty Forces founder Amanda Hirsch to help you rethink what career ownership actually looks like today. From office misfit to author, storyteller, and mom, Amanda shares the real talk behind taking back your path when no one else is handing you a roadmap. This episode is for anyone stuck in career limbo, burnt out on job titles, or wondering what’s next (without needing a full reinvention). Whether you're pivoting, plateauing, or plotting your next move, Erin and Amanda remind us: life is more improv than plan, and you're more ready than you think. Inside This Episode: Why waiting for “clarity” might be keeping you stuck The high cost of chasing the perfect job How to take action even when you don’t have it all figured out The power of storytelling in reclaiming your career narrative What Amanda learned from being a misfit—and why that might be your superpower One small step you can take this week to start owning your path Who This Episode Is For: Anyone navigating a pivot, questioning what’s next, or tired of pretending their LinkedIn headline tells the whole story. If you’re ready to choose your career—not just chase it—this episode is for you. So pause the inbox scroll, close that half-written cover letter, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Amanda Hirsch Amanda’s Amanda’s Mighty Forces Amanda’s Amanda’s Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37247860

Snack 20: Your Career, Your Move: Stop Waiting and Start Choosing What’s Next 06/30/2025

Snack 20: Your Career, Your Move: Stop Waiting and Start Choosing What’s Next In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, Erin's busting one of the biggest myths in the career playbook: that the “perfect job” will just... show up and fix everything. Spoiler: It won’t. And waiting for it? That can keep you stuck. The Problem: 52% of workers are eyeing a career change. 70% feel disengaged. Why? Because they’re waiting. For the dream job. For clarity. For permission. But it's important to remember one crucial truth: you are the plan. The Improv Hack to Try: Tag Yourself In When improv scenes stall, someone jumps in and shifts the energy. In your career? That someone is you. Pick one stuck spot Ask: “If I were directing this, what would happen next?” DO. THAT. THING. Apply. Pitch. Rewrite your bio. Start the damn thing. Why it works: Gets you out of wait-mode Sparks momentum fast Reframes your mindset: You’re not lost, you’re in charge Coming up Wednesday: Don’t miss Episode 297: The Perfect Job Doesn’t Exist: How to Stop Waiting and Start Choosing Your Path featuring writer/performer Amanda Hirsch. Get real talk, big laughs, and a permission slip to choose yourself. Because the best career move is the one you actually make. Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource——a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37169845

296: Hybrid Headaches? Here’s How to Make the Office Return Less Awkward & More Awesome 06/25/2025

296: Hybrid Headaches? Here’s How to Make the Office Return Less Awkward & More Awesome In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles the awkward elevator small talk, the lukewarm return-to-office bagels, and the actual leadership challenges of hybrid work. From re-establishing team rituals to defining the “why” behind your office days, this episode is a field guide for anyone trying to rebuild connection in a flexible work world without burning out. Whether you're managing Zoom fatigue, leading a team that’s half-in, half-out, or just trying to make Tuesdays feel less like a ghost town, Erin’s giving you 10 practical, human-first ways to lead with empathy, adaptability, and a little playfulness. Because team culture doesn’t build itself, and your people notice when it’s missing. Inside This Episode: The secret to getting buy-in on hybrid? Define purpose, not policy. Why empathy beats mandates every time. How to spot (and respond to) those “awkward but honest” moments like a pro. Flexibility isn’t a perk—it’s the new standard. Why spontaneous hallway convos still matter (and how to make them happen). How modeling wellness creates psychological safety. Training teams for change so the next curveball doesn’t throw them. Rituals, celebrations, and why your team actually wants them—even if they roll their eyes. Who This Episode Is For: People leaders, HR pros, team managers—or anyone navigating the weird, wonderful world of hybrid work. If you want your people to show up (and stay), this episode is your blueprint for building trust, boosting engagement, and creating a workplace that feels good to be in. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Here is your link to download the free that Erin mentioned in the episode. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37147250

Snack 19: Hybrid Work is Hard, But This Trick Will Make Office Returns Smooth 06/23/2025

Snack 19: Hybrid Work is Hard, But This Trick Will Make Office Returns Smooth In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re tackling the hybrid work headache—and no, we’re not talking about the flickering office lights or the ancient coffee machine no one remembers how to clean. We’re talking about the emotional fog that creeps in when your team is half-on-Zoom, half-in-person, and 100% disconnected. The Problem: You’ve asked your team to return to the office a few days a week. Some show up with smiles. Others show up with...resentment. And some just show up for the snacks. Hybrid work isn’t just a scheduling issue—it’s a culture shift. And if you’re the one coordinating who’s in, who’s out, and whether “Taco Tuesday” counts as strategy… we see you. Why It Matters: According to Gallup, only 28% of employees feel connected in hybrid environments. Connection isn’t a luxury—it’s the glue. Without it, collaboration and morale fall flat. The Improv Hack to Try: The Wrong Name Game In your next meeting, have everyone make up a goofy name and fake job title. “Hi, I’m Tater McSnazzle, Chief Glitter Strategist.” “I’m Rufus Bucket, Senior Cloud Fluffer.” Yes, it’s weird. But it works. Play cuts through awkwardness and builds connection fast—whether you’re face-to-face or floating in the Zoomverse. Why it works: Breaks the ice in a low-stakes, high-fun way Sparks laughter and lowers tension Creates a sense of shared experience—even virtually Coming up Wednesday: Ready to go deeper? Don’t miss Episode 296: Hybrid Headaches? Here’s How to Make the Office Return Less Awkward & More Awesome. You’ll get practical tools to rehumanize your hybrid culture, one joyful moment at a time. Because rebuilding connection isn’t about forcing people back to desks—it’s about helping them find each other again. Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource——a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37107265

295: Play More, Fight Less: The Secret to Happier Relationships with Greg Tavares and Amber Nash 06/18/2025

295: Play More, Fight Less: The Secret to Happier Relationships with Greg Tavares and Amber Nash In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin explores what every team—at work and at home—needs more of: play. Joined by real-life partners and improv powerhouses Greg Tavares and Amber Nash, this episode dives into how playful communication can defuse tension, deepen connection, and make conflict feel a whole lot less... combative. Greg, an improv teacher and facilitator with decades of experience helping teams collaborate more creatively, joins forces with Amber, a voiceover actor best known as Pam on Archer, to unpack how the tools of improv aren’t just for the stage—they’re for the conference room, the kitchen, and everywhere in between. From mismatched communication styles to stuck-in-a-rut dynamics, this episode is a fresh take on resolving conflict without losing your cool—or your connection. Whether you're managing workplace drama or relationship tension, this one’s packed with practical wisdom and plenty of laughs. Inside This Episode: Why “Yes, And” is more than an improv cliché—it’s a relationship game-changer How to argue less by listening more (and differently) The science behind play and its impact on emotional regulation Spotting your partner’s “bids” for connection—and not missing them How to fight in ways that are productive, not punitive Real-world exercises to bring more curiosity and humor into conflict Why improv-trained teams collaborate better—and how to borrow their tricks Why laughter really is the best medicine for tension What makes couples and coworkers more resilient together Who This Episode Is For: This one’s for anyone tired of the same old arguments—whether with your partner, your teammate, or your boss. If you want to replace reactivity with creativity, and tension with trust, tune in. Whether you’re leading a team or living with one, this episode is your permission slip to play more, fight less—and have way more fun doing it. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Greg Tavares and Amber Nash Connect with them at Greg’s Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37054860

Snack 18: How Playfulness Can Save Your Relationships 06/16/2025

Snack 18: How Playfulness Can Save Your Relationships In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re talking about the kind of conflict resolution that doesn’t involve a six-part text thread or passive-aggressive dishwasher loading. We’re diving into how playfulness—yes, even mid-fight—can be your secret weapon for stronger, happier relationships. Whether it’s your partner, roommate, or that one family member who treats the group chat like a TED Talk… this snack is for you. The Problem: You’re crushing deadlines at work—but stuck in a weird silence at home. Maybe it was about socks. Or the dishes. Or nothing at all. And now you’re trying to lead a team while low-key simmering with resentment. Spoiler: unresolved tension doesn’t stay home. It follows you to Zoom. Why It Matters: Research shows emotional residue from personal relationships impacts performance, presence, and psychological safety at work. You can't be fully present in the boardroom if you're still replaying last night’s kitchen argument. The Improv Hack to Try: The Silent Scene Yes, it’s as ridiculous—and effective—as it sounds. Next time things get tense with your partner, skip the serious convo and act out a mundane task (like folding laundry) with exaggerated mime and facial expressions. No words. Just play. Why it works: Interrupts the fight-or-flight cycle Sparks laughter and connection Rebuilds rhythm and sync—without a 45-minute processing session It's improv for intimacy. Lucille Ball meets couple’s therapy. Coming up Wednesday: Ready to take this playful practice even deeper? Don’t miss Episode 295 — Play More, Fight Less: The Secret to Happier Relationships featuring improv power couple Greg Tavares and Amber Nash (yep, Pam from Archer). Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/37018835

294: Layoffs Ahead? Here’s How to Stay Human (and Keep Your Team’s Trust) 06/11/2025

294: Layoffs Ahead? Here’s How to Stay Human (and Keep Your Team’s Trust) In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin tackles one of the toughest parts of leadership: layoffs. When budgets shrink and change feels unavoidable, how do you show up with empathy, clarity, and integrity? Spoiler: it’s not just about delivering the news—it's about leading through uncertainty with heart. From the emotional toll of workforce reductions to the ripple effects on culture and trust, Erin shares what leaders often get wrong—and how to get it right. With seven actionable tips, this episode is a masterclass in human-first leadership during hard times. Whether you're facing tough decisions, navigating team transitions, or simply want to lead with more care and clarity, this conversation is a must-listen reset for today’s evolving workplace. Inside This Episode: Why layoffs require more than just logistics—they require emotional intelligence The power of early, frequent, and honest communication How to acknowledge emotions without losing momentum Why direct managers need to be involved (not just HR) The lasting impact of how you treat employees on the way out How to retain trust and morale in the wake of change Why team check-ins matter more than ever during uncertainty How to empower your team to co-create what’s next Why self-care is a leadership strategy, not a luxury Who This Episode Is For: This one’s for the leaders in transition, the HR pros in the hot seat, and anyone who’s had to make the hard calls. If you’re navigating layoffs, reorgs, or any kind of change—and you want to do it without losing your team’s trust or your own sense of self—this episode is your guide to leading with empathy, communication, and courage. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36945465

Snack 17: Trust Falls, But Not Like That — Keeping It Real During Reorgs 06/09/2025

Snack 17: Trust Falls, But Not Like That — Keeping It Real During Reorgs In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re talking about the kind of trust fall that doesn’t involve closing your eyes and hoping Linda from Accounting catches you. Nope—we’re talking about the invisible, emotional kind. The one that happens during reorgs, layoffs, and those delightfully vague “strategic shifts” when your team is quietly wondering, “Are we safe? Can we trust you? Or should I start updating my LinkedIn headline to ‘Open to Work’?” If you're leading through change (or just trying to survive it)—this snack is for you. The Problem: Here’s the situation: Your company is “reimagining,” “realigning,” or “restructuring”—aka, no one knows what’s actually happening. And while the all-hands slides say “exciting opportunities ahead,” your team is refreshing their résumés and watching your every move. Why? Because trust doesn’t disappear in a reorg—it falls. And someone’s gotta catch it. That someone? You. Trust isn’t built through promises—it’s built through presence. Through honesty. Through leaders who are willing to say: “Here’s what I know. Here’s what I don’t. And here’s what I do know—we’ll figure it out together.” The Improv Hack to Try: The “Yes, And… But Also” Technique Here’s how to lead when everything’s unclear—without pretending to have all the answers.Use this structure when delivering change or uncertainty: “Yes, and…” to validate what’s real and open space for what’s possible “But also…” to acknowledge fears and bring humanity into the room Try this: “Yes, we’re going through changes, and I know that can feel unsettling. But also—I believe in this team’s ability to stay connected and support one another.” It’s not spin. It’s not sugarcoating. It’s leadership that’s rooted in reality and hope. Try it at your next team meeting. Watch what happens when trust stops falling—and starts rising. Coming up Wednesday: If this snack hit home, don’t miss Wednesday’s full-length episode: Episode 294 — Layoffs Ahead? Here’s How to Stay Human (and Keep Your Team’s Trust). Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36815980

293: PAY UP! Why Women Deserve More & How to Get It – with Reshma Saujani 06/04/2025

293: PAY UP! Why Women Deserve More & How to Get It – with Reshma Saujani In this powerful episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Reshma Saujani—founder of Girls Who Code, CEO of Moms First, and author of Pay Up—for a no-holds-barred conversation about what it really takes to thrive as a woman in today’s workplace. Spoiler: it's not just about negotiating harder or leaning in. It's about rewriting the entire playbook. From the impossible pressures of pandemic parenting to the unspoken challenges of midlife, Reshma and Erin talk truth about uncertainty, burnout, and the myth of “having it all.” This episode is equal parts validation, empowerment, and a rally cry for change. Whether you’re a working mom, a leader in transition, or someone searching for more meaning at work, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, fired up, and ready to reclaim your power—with purpose and play. Inside This Episode: Why “having it all” is a trap—and what to pursue instead How the pandemic exposed cracks in how we treat working moms The truth about aging, ambition, and midlife power Why self-care isn’t selfish—it’s strategic How imposter syndrome steals your voice (and how to get it back) What men can do to support real gender equity at work Why presence matters more than perfection The role of purpose in career clarity and fulfillment How to lead with empathy, advocacy, and aligned communication Who This Episode Is For: This one’s for the moms, the mentors, the midlifers, and anyone feeling stuck between burnout and big dreams. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled to speak up, or wondered whether you’re allowed to want more—this episode is your permission slip. And if you’ve been searching for new ways to lead, live, and rise? Reshma’s wisdom is the reset button your soul’s been waiting for. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Reshma Saujani Reshma’s Reshma’s Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36787005

Snack 16: Tired of Settling? Here’s How Women Can Start Earning What They Deserve at Work 06/02/2025

Snack 16: Tired of Settling? Here’s How Women Can Start Earning What They Deserve at Work In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re serving up some truth for anyone who’s ever screamed into their steering wheel after a one-on-one like, “How does Brad STILL make more than me?” If you’ve ever been underpaid, undervalued, or under-celebrated—this snack is for you. The Problem: Here’s the tea: Women are doing the absolute most. More emotional labor. More coordinating. More everything. And yet—less recognition, less pay, and fewer opportunities. We’ve been fed a narrative that if we just negotiate better or manifest harder, things will change. But let’s be honest: the system wasn’t built for us. So, we end up overachieving and under-receiving—and wondering why we’re so exhausted. Here’s a stat to file under “rage fuel”: Women still earn 82 cents to every dollar a man makes. And for women of color? The gap only grows. If you’ve ever thought, “Why does this feel so hard?”—you’re not imagining it. You’re experiencing a system designed to burn you out and keep you quiet. But here’s the good news: We may not have built the system—but we sure as hell can break it. And rebuild it in our image. The Improv Hack to Try: The Reverse Résumé Game Here’s how it works: Partner up with a trusted friend, or just hit record solo. Pretend you’re your own agent. You’ve got 60 seconds to pitch yourself for a dream gig. The twist? You can’t mention anything from your actual résumé. No titles. No companies. Just the real you. Think: The time you calmed a furious client with zero drama. How you led a team through layoffs with compassion. That week you juggled three deadlines while your kid had the flu—and still delivered. Those stories? They’re your power. This improv hack rewires your brain from “Do I deserve this?” to “Damn right I do—and here’s why.” Coming up Wednesday: Feeling fired up? Then don’t miss Wednesday’s full episode—Episode 293: Pay Up with Reshma Saujani (yes, the founder of Girls Who Code + CEO of Moms First). If you're tired of overworking and under-earning, this episode is your invitation to burn the old rules and build new ones. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36786660

292: 5 Improv Leadership Tips to Bring Out the Best in Your Quiet Teammates 05/28/2025

292: 5 Improv Leadership Tips to Bring Out the Best in Your Quiet Teammates In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin flips the script on traditional leadership by spotlighting the power of the quiet ones. Through a playful and practical lens, she explores how introverted teammates can be supported, celebrated, and set up to thrive—not just survive—in today’s fast-paced work environments. Erin shares five improv-inspired leadership strategies that help draw out the brilliance of quieter team members without forcing them to be louder. From private validation to the power of the pause, she breaks down actionable ways to lead with intention, empathy, and inclusivity. This episode is a love letter to the introverted leaders, the behind-the-scenes rockstars, and anyone who’s ever felt overlooked in a brainstorm. Because leadership isn’t about who talks the most—it’s about who listens well and creates space for others to rise. Inside This Episode: Why introverted leaders are often underestimated—and how to change that Five improv leadership tips that uplift quieter teammates The value of validating ideas in private vs. public praise How to structure meetings with pause points that promote deeper thinking Using smaller, more intimate settings to encourage input Matching roles to individual strengths, not just personalities Why vulnerability starts with you—and how it impacts team safety Creating cultures where quiet voices feel heard, not hidden Who This Episode Is For: If you're a leader who wants to make space for every voice at the table—or if you are the quiet voice that’s ready to be heard—this episode is for you. Whether you’re managing a team, facilitating a workshop, or just trying to survive your fifth meeting of the day, Erin offers strategies to help you lead with more compassion, clarity, and confidence. Especially if you're an introvert (or love one), this one’s not to be missed. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36744385

Snack 15: Yes, And...for Introverts: Leadership Tweaks That Actually Work 05/26/2025

Snack 15: Yes, And...for Introverts: Leadership Tweaks That Actually Work In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re sending a leadership love letter to the quiet ones—the deep thinkers, the spreadsheet whisperers, the back-row observers who see everything. Because if you’ve ever left a meeting thinking, “Why didn’t they speak up?” or “I wish I’d said that…”—this snack’s for you. The Problem: Okay, picture this: You’re in a team meeting. The extroverts are riffing, the whiteboard is filling up, and you notice someone hasn’t said a word. You know they’ve got gold in their head, but they haven’t chimed in. Or maybe... that person is you. Too many workplaces reward the loudest voice in the room. But when we only value volume, we silence vision. And let’s be real—your quiet teammates? They’re not zoned out. They’re tuned in. The Improv Hack to Try: The Character Swap Hack What can you do to make space for that quiet brilliance? Here’s a leadership tweak I’ve never shared before—and it’s straight from the improv stage. Before your next meeting, mentally pick a quieter teammate. (No need to tell them—it’s your secret leadership lab.) Then ask: How would they run this meeting? What would they focus on? How would they pace it? Now the fun part: Kick off the meeting as if you were them. Use their tone, their cadence, their intentionality. In improv, we step into other characters to explore new perspectives. And when you do this in leadership? You build empathy, highlight hidden genius, and create meetings that feel less like a race—and more like a rhythm. Bonus: You might just change your whole team vibe for the better. Coming Up Wednesday: Loved this Snack? Don’t miss Wednesday’s full episode: Episode 292: 5 Improv Leadership Tips to Bring Out the Best in Your Quiet Teammates. It’s jam-packed with research, real stories, and tools you can use immediately to turn down the noise—and turn up the impact. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36711860

291: Introvert to Bold Leader: How Small Risks Turn Into Big Wins (Without Burning Out) with Cristy von 05/21/2025

291: Introvert to Bold Leader: How Small Risks Turn Into Big Wins (Without Burning Out) with Cristy von In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin welcomes keynote speaker, facilitator, and introverted powerhouse Cristy von to the mic for a conversation that redefines what it means to lead from a place of quiet strength. Together, they dig into the surprising overlap between improv and introversion, showing how safe spaces, self-awareness, and a little bit of “yes, and” can transform leadership from the inside out. Cristy shares her journey from mistaking herself for an extrovert to fully embracing her introverted identity—and how that shift changed the way she leads, connects, and recharges. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership doesn’t require being the loudest in the room. Sometimes, it starts with simply knowing your limits and honoring them. Whether you're leading workshops, giving keynotes, or just trying to survive your next Zoom call, this one’s for anyone who's ever wondered if quiet can still be commanding. (Spoiler alert: it absolutely can.) Inside This Episode: Why Cristy used to think she was an extrovert—and what changed How improv became a launchpad for her confidence The importance of creating safe, inclusive workshop spaces What keynote speaking taught Cristy about energy management The link between vulnerability and powerful facilitation Why collaboration between introverts and extroverts matters more than ever The mindset shift that helped Cristy find joy (and her voice) at work Who This Episode Is For: This episode is for the introverts in leadership roles, the workshop facilitators who crave real connection, and the quiet professionals looking to own their power without pretending to be someone they’re not. If you’re a recovering over-functioner who wants to lead with authenticity, boundaries, and a sense of play—pull up a chair. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Cristy von Cristy’s Cristy’s improve it! about Cristy’s keynote: The Introverted Leader Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36655510

Snack 14: Lead Loudly (Even If You’re Quiet): Introvert Lessons 05/19/2025

Snack 14: Lead Loudly (Even If You’re Quiet): Introvert Lessons In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re giving the quiet leaders in the room a standing ovation—and a strategy. Because if you’ve ever felt invisible in loud leadership spaces, this one’s for you. The Problem: Corporate culture often rewards the boldest brainstormer, the fastest talker, the loudest voice. But what if you’re the deep thinker, the one who shines in 1:1s, and recharges solo? Too often, introverted leaders are overlooked—not because they lack ideas, but because they don’t shout them. That’s not a flaw. That’s a missed opportunity…for everyone else. The Improv Hack to Try: “The Power Pause” Next time you're in a meeting and have something to say—don’t jump in fast to prove you’re ready. Wait. Take a beat. Let the room settle. Then drop your insight with intention. That pause? It signals thoughtfulness, confidence, and leadership—without you ever raising your voice. In improv, silence isn’t awkward—it’s powerful. Use it to own your space and lead, your way. Want More Like This? Don’t miss Wednesday’s episode—Episode 291: “Introvert to Bold Leader: How Small Risks Turn Into Big Wins (Without Burning Out).” You’ll hear from Cristy Von, our Director of Talent at improve it!, as she shares her journey from quietly capable to boldly confident—and how improv helped her lead without changing who she is. Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie——a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance). No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36624360

290: Leaders Who Want to Thrive (Not Just Survive) NEED These 10 Self-Care Moves 05/14/2025

290: Leaders Who Want to Thrive (Not Just Survive) NEED These 10 Self-Care Moves In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin takes the mic solo to spotlight a crucial topic often overlooked in hustle culture: self-care as a leadership strategy. Drawing from her own experience, she unpacks the often-misunderstood concept of introverted leadership and why rest, boundaries, and joy aren't just nice-to-haves, but non-negotiables for modern leaders. Erin shares a Top 10 list of creative, practical self-care strategies tailored for professionals who are tired of pretending that inbox zero is the holy grail. This episode is a reminder that thriving doesn’t require over-functioning—and that real productivity begins with personal peace. Inside This Episode: Why introverted leadership is powerful, not passive The link between play and productivity How sleep is an underrated leadership tool Why saying “no” is a radical act of self-preservation A refreshing top 10 list of self-care strategies you actually want to try Who This Episode Is For: This episode is for the quietly powerful, the recovering overachievers, the leaders who feel stretched thin but want to thrive without burning out. If you’re craving a leadership style rooted in wellness, boundaries, and joy—this one’s for you. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. If you’re interested in taking one small action right now, you can check out our newest freebie, The Psychological Safety Playbook for Leaders . Use this plug-and-play guide to building an environment where your team feels safe to share bold ideas, take creative risks, and fully engage in the work that matters most. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36556515

Snack 13: The Real Reason You’re Tired (And It’s Not Just Your Calendar) 05/12/2025

Snack 13: The Real Reason You’re Tired (And It’s Not Just Your Calendar) In today’s Workday Playdate Snack, we’re tackling the kind of tired a nap can’t fix. Because if your soul is sighing—not just your body—this one’s for you. The Problem: You’re not just exhausted from meetings, deadlines, and life logistics. You’re tired because you’re performing all day and rarely just being. You’re juggling ten roles at once—boss, parent, mentor, inbox warrior—but none of them feel like the full, real you. That’s not burnout. That’s identity fatigue. The Improv Hack to Try: “Play the Wrong Character on Purpose” Today, in just one meeting, switch it up: Usually the fixer? Be the one who asks all the questions. Constantly over-prepared? Wing it (just a little). The quiet one? Try on bold, bubbly energy—just for fun. This isn’t about being fake. It’s about giving your overused identity a break and waking up parts of yourself that miss the spotlight. Want More Like This? Don’t miss Wednesday’s episode—Ep 290: Leaders Who Want to Thrive (Not Just Survive) NEED These 10 Self-Care Moves. We’re talkin’ naps, wiggling, calendar boundaries, and something called an LSD Day (no, not that LSD—but yes, it’s still life-changing). If you’re interested in taking one small action right now, you can check out our newest freebie, The Psychological Safety Playbook for Leaders . Use this plug-and-play guide to building an environment where your team feels safe to share bold ideas, take creative risks, and fully engage in the work that matters most. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36519165

289: Success, But Make It Joyful: How to Align Your Work with What Lights You Up with Rha Goddess 05/07/2025

289: Success, But Make It Joyful: How to Align Your Work with What Lights You Up with Rha Goddess Rha Goddess (Intentional Ambition: Redefining Success in a Post-Pandemic World) is a soul coach, author, cultural innovator, and founder of Move The Crowd. Rha Goddess returns to Workday Playdate to unpack what it means to lead with clarity, rest, and purpose in a world still recovering from burnout. She and Erin explore how our definitions of success have evolved, why rest is a leadership skill, and how intentional ambition is changing the way we work and live. Rha and Erin discuss the emotional toll of overwork, the quiet power of introversion, and how small, joyful rituals can help us heal from grief, anxiety, and the hustle-at-all-costs culture. This episode is a call to redefine ambition on your own terms—and to choose joy, even on a Tuesday. Inside This Episode: Why managing your energy matters more than managing your time The hidden trauma behind overwork, caregiving, and grief What it really means to rest with intention How small moments of joy can spark big change The power of creativity and play in daily work life Who This Episode Is For: This episode is for anyone who’s tired of chasing someone else’s definition of success, who’s healing from burnout or loss, or who just needs permission to rest, reset, and realign. Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us. Here is the previous episode with Rha that’s mentioned: If you’re interested in taking one small action right now, you can check out our newest freebie, The Psychological Safety Playbook for Leaders . Use this plug-and-play guide to building an environment where your team feels safe to share bold ideas, take creative risks, and fully engage in the work that matters most. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Rha Goddess Rha’s Rha’s Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36462175

Snack 12: How to Align Your Work with What Truly Lights You Up 05/05/2025

Snack 12: How to Align Your Work with What Truly Lights You Up In today’s Workday Playdate snack, we’re talking about moving beyond the checklist version of success—and finding work that actually energizes you. The Problem: You’ve hit the career milestones, but something still feels off. You’re busy, sure—but not fulfilled. That’s not laziness or burnout. It’s misalignment. The Improv Hack to Try: “The Commercial Break” Take 30 seconds and pitch your dream job like you’re in a commercial. Say what you do, who you help, and why it matters—in your most over-the-top voice. Then reflect: What felt real? That’s your purpose, hidden in plain sight. Journal Prompts: 1. What parts of my work feel most meaningful? 2. What’s draining me—and why am I holding onto it? 3. What would my ideal workday look like? If you’re interested in taking one small action right now, you can check out our newest freebie, The Psychological Safety Playbook for Leaders . Use this plug-and-play guide to building an environment where your team feels safe to share bold ideas, take creative risks, and fully engage in the work that matters most. No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe . Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s Erin’s improve it!’s improve it!’s /episode/index/show/faileditpodcast/id/36437530

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