The Opposite of Small Talk
Meaningful conversations that lead to personal growth. If you’re ready to connect with new ideas and interesting people, join us on this journey of self-discovery. We discuss a wide variety of topics with experts and thought leaders to help you reflect on what matters to you. Each episode gives you a reason to connect with the people in your life and have your own opposite of small talk conversations. Through the power of reflection and connection, the path to your own personal growth will come into focus. Meet your Co-Hosts Danielle McCombs and Kristy Olinger: www.theoppositeofsmalltalk.com/about
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207. A Guide to Thriving with Jon Rosemberg
12/10/2025
207. A Guide to Thriving with Jon Rosemberg
We've entered the holiday season, and it's a time that's supposed to be filled with joy, but for many of us, the high expectations and full calendars can give us anxiety and a feeling of overwhelm. For those feeling that way, this episode is just in time! Today’s guest, Jon Rosemberg, author of “A Guide to Thriving: The Science Behind Breaking Old Patterns, Reclaiming Your Agency, and Finding Meaning,” speaks to us using his scientific research and storytelling to encourage listeners to move from survival mode to a place of thriving. Big Talk Question: If you gave yourself full permission to reclaim your agency, what is the first change you would make? **Get the new ** Guest’s Book (Affiliate Link): : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at . Connect with us at
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206. Researching Life After Death with Bob Ginsberg
11/26/2025
206. Researching Life After Death with Bob Ginsberg
The holiday season can be particularly hard to navigate for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, but for many people there is comfort in believing that or receiving signs from their loved ones who they feel are very much still with them. Following the loss of his daughter, today’s guest, Bob Ginsberg, author and co-founder of the Forever Family Foundation, a federal 501C, alongside his late-wife Phran, began a journey into the science and evidence behind topics surrounding life after death and the certification and validation of the work of mediums. Big Talk Question: Have you ever had an experience that seemed like a message from someone who has passed away? **Get the new ** Guest’s Website: Guest’s Book: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at . Connect with us at
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205. Meaningful Strategic Partnerships with Madeline Reeves
11/12/2025
205. Meaningful Strategic Partnerships with Madeline Reeves
As a social species we as humans are wired to seek connection with one another throughout our lives be it through romantic relationships, friendships, or family bonds. What may not feel as natural to us is cultivating partnerships professionally or networking with others because of the perception of it feeling like a transactional relationship. Today’s guest, Madeline Reeves, Founder & CEO of Fearless Foundry, sits down with Danielle and Kristy to discuss the topic of Meaningful Strategic Partnership and how to remove some of the negativity or icky feelings you may have when networking or building out professional associations; she shares some of the ways she has created deeper connections in her professional life as an entrepreneur; and offers tips on some of the simple ways you can do it too. **Get the new ** Guest’s Website: Podcast: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at . Connect with us at
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204. From Homelessness to Hope with David Ambroz
10/29/2025
204. From Homelessness to Hope with David Ambroz
Today’s guest wrote, as he puts it, “a memoir with a mission.” David Ambroz, author of A Place Called Home: A Memoir, sits down with Danielle and Kristy to talk about his incredible story of trial, resilience, and deep purpose. David shares his powerful story growing up homeless in New York City and navigating the foster care system; discusses the collective responsibility of society to address the systemic failures that lead to child poverty and homelessness; urges listeners to take action; and shares ways individuals can engage locally and make a difference starting in their communities. **Get the new ** Guest’s Website: Book Affiliate Link: TODAY’S BIG TALK QUESTION: What does home mean to you? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at . Connect with us at
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203. The Sneakiness of Grief with Lisa Keefauver
10/15/2025
203. The Sneakiness of Grief with Lisa Keefauver
In this heartfelt and deeply personal conversation, Danielle and Kristy welcome Lisa Keefauver, author of, “Grief is a Sneaky Bitch” to explore the complexities of grief, sharing personal experiences, and insights on how to navigate loss. Lisa, a grief activist and author, discusses the importance of understanding grief as a multifaceted experience that impacts our identity, relationships, and overall well-being. The conversation also touches on the challenges of showing up for others in their grief and the necessity of open communication and understanding. **Get the new ** Guest’s Website: Guest’s Podcast: TODAY’S BIG TALK QUESTION: What do you wish you knew about grief before you were in it? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at . Connect with us at
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202. The Need for Rest with Maegan Megginson
10/01/2025
202. The Need for Rest with Maegan Megginson
What if the most productive thing you could do right now… was rest? In today’s episode, we talk to leadership coach Maegan Megginson about what it really means to be deeply rested; explore how rest is not a “one size fits all;” and discuss the nuances between vacations, retreats, and sabbaticals. Guest’s Website: Guest’s Podcast: TODAY’S BIG TALK QUESTIONS: What is something that you find restful that you don’t think others would also find restful? When was the last time that you did something (other than sleep) in the name of rest? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at . Connect with us at
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201. Workload vs. Thought Load with Liane Davey
09/17/2025
201. Workload vs. Thought Load with Liane Davey
Sometime too much information is the real problem in our age of constant connectivity. In today’s episode Danielle and Kristy sit down with Liane Davey, organizational psychologist to discuss the topic of workload vs. thought load and how too much of the latter is leading to serious burnout. Leanne offers practical strategies for managing thought load, including creating priority lists, understanding emotional experiences, and embracing "doing nothing" to restore creativity and productivity. Guest’s Website: Resource: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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200. Milestone Episode, a little reflection and a sneak peek into the future of TOOST
09/10/2025
200. Milestone Episode, a little reflection and a sneak peek into the future of TOOST
We’ve reached the 200th Episode of The Opposite of Small Talk (TOOST). Join Danielle and Kristy as they celebrate this milestone with a bit of reflection, discussion of their first summer “break,” and a peek into the future of TOOST. Cheers to the 200th and here’s to 200 more opportunities to “stay curious and talk big!” Connect with us at : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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199. Simple Daily Habits for Mental Fitness with Lindsey Wilson
09/03/2025
199. Simple Daily Habits for Mental Fitness with Lindsey Wilson
What if in just five minutes a day you could completely change the way you think, perform, and handle life’s challenges? We’ll explore this question and more in today’s episode with Lindsey Wilson, a mindset and mental performance coach best known as The Sports Hypnotist™. With a professional basketball career spanning close to a decade, Lindsey took her knowledge of the mental game to work with athletes at all levels including professional athletes (including Olympians and players in the NFL and WNBA); collegiate athletes; and youth athletes early in their journey. Lindsey’s Website: Get Your free Ebook: (without your sports psych degree). TODAY’S TALK BIG QUESTION What are some things in life that require more mental fitness than technical skill to do well? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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198. Special Series: Summer Camp, Episode 4 – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
08/27/2025
198. Special Series: Summer Camp, Episode 4 – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
In the final installment of the special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship, Danielle is once again joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. In today’s discussion, Danielle and Kerry come full circle following three episodes of discussing all things solopreneur and share the early stages of an endeavor they are working on which will aim to bring together a group of solopreneurs for what they hope will be a powerful and fruitful collaboration. Kerry Dobson: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.
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197. Special Series: Summer Camp, Episode 3 – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
08/20/2025
197. Special Series: Summer Camp, Episode 3 – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
In the third installment of the special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship, Danielle is once again joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. Today’s discussion touches on the positive aspects of being a solopreneur and the great things Danielle and Kerry have experienced including working with people you like, being true to yourself, the flexibility of making your own schedule, and creating something you love. Kerry Dobson: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.
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196. Special Series: Summer Camp, Episode 2 – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
08/13/2025
196. Special Series: Summer Camp, Episode 2 – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
In the second episode of the special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship, Danielle is once again joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. Today’s discussion touches on, “what is missing” as a solopreneur and how both Danielle and Kerry have navigated the transitions from corporate to solopreneurship including the work/life balance, setting boundaries, and deconditioning from previous corporate mindsets and habits. Next week, Summer Camp, Episode 3, Danielle and Kerry will share the upside of solopreneurship. Kerry Dobson: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.
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195. Special Series: Summer Camp – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
08/06/2025
195. Special Series: Summer Camp – Danielle McCombs with Kerry Dobson
In this episode of The Opposite of Small Talk (TOOST), Danielle introduces a special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship. Danielle will be joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. In upcoming episodes of Summer Camp, Danielle and Kerry will discuss solopreneurship in depth including: real talk around it, lessons learned, and dispelling myths. Kerry Dobson: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.
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194. Boredom, Creativity, and Breaking the Rules with Terri Trespicio
07/30/2025
194. Boredom, Creativity, and Breaking the Rules with Terri Trespicio
In this special episode, live from Danielle’s hometown, Terri Trespico, award-winning writer, speaker, brand advisor, and author of “,” joins Danielle and Kristy for a funny and engaging conversation on the topic of Boredom, Creativity, and Breaking the Rules. Terri discusses her book and shares her personal insights on embracing boredom, comfort zones, and the importance of creating space for personal discovery. During the episode, Danielle and Kristy reflect on how their podcast has transformed their perspectives, with candid discussions about career, relationships, and the power of questioning conventional wisdom. Guest’s website: Guest’s Book: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. What is something in your life that you never thought you’d do, but have since done? Thinking about your longest friendship, what is one new thing you’ve recently learned about that person? Is there something new they’ve learned about you? Is there a guest from TOOST that has really resonated with you or helped you to discover something new about yourself? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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193. Creating Possibility Out of Adversity with Daria Burke
07/23/2025
193. Creating Possibility Out of Adversity with Daria Burke
In this episode on the topic of Creating Possibility Out of Adversity, author Daria Burke shares reflections from her memoir "Of My Own Making," which explores her journey from a challenging childhood in Detroit to becoming a successful marketing executive. In Daria’s conversation with Danielle and Kristy she discusses post-traumatic growth, the importance of healing, and how sharing deeply personal pieces of ourselves can inspire others to do the same. Throughout this moving discussion she offers insights into overcoming trauma, finding meaning in difficult experiences, and tapping into the power of community in personal transformation. Guest’s Website: Guest’s Book: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you had to face adversity or a traumatic experience? How did you respond? Have you ever considered writing a memoir or sharing your life story in another way? What is one piece of advice in this episode that resonates with you and you’d find helpful when facing your own adversities or traumas? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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Friendship Series #3: The Other Significant Others, with Rhaina Cohen
07/16/2025
Friendship Series #3: The Other Significant Others, with Rhaina Cohen
Join us for the last of our three-part Friendship Series, a rebroadcast of a selection of our most popular episodes centered around the topic of friendship. In the final installment, we revisit episode 138. In this episode from February 2024, Danielle and Kristy speak with journalist and author Rhaina Cohen, on the topic of her book on the topic of, The Other Significant Others: Reimagining Life with Friendship at the Center. The discussion covers excerpts from the book; the unique friendship stories she’s found through her research; and how her own close friendship was the catalyst to her interest in this topic. Guest’s Website: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. When you listen to this episode and the examples of friendships the author gives – is there a friendship in your life that comes to mind? What kinds of sacrifices would you be willing to make to help a friend? Has a friendship ever come between you and a romantic relationship? What were the circumstances? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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Friendship Series #2: Better Friendships, with Danielle Bayard Jackson
07/09/2025
Friendship Series #2: Better Friendships, with Danielle Bayard Jackson
Join us for the second episode of our three-part Friendship Series, a rebroadcast of a selection of our most popular episodes centered around the topic of friendship. In the second installment, we go back to the 34th episode of TOOST. In this episode from March 2021, Danielle and Kristy talk to , author, podcast host, and certified coach specializing in female friendships. The discussion touches on topics including what a tough love friendship is; how to sustain friendships; and the number of friends a person can reasonably maintain. Guest’s Website: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you had to show tough love in a friendship before? What were the circumstances and the outcome? Considering your closest friendships, how long have you maintained them, and what did it take to do so? Do you maintain a small close knit group of friends or prefer to have a larger circle of friendships? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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Friendship Series #1: How to Make Friends
07/02/2025
Friendship Series #1: How to Make Friends
Join us for a three-part Friendship Series, a rebroadcast of a selection of our most popular episodes centered around the topic of friendship. In the first installment, we travel back to the 9th episode of TOOST. In this early episode, from February 2020, Danielle shares her best advice about how to make new friends and the practical strategies she used to find and make connections when she moved to a new city. TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. As an adult have you found it difficult to make friends? Thinking back to your most recent connection with a new friend – under what circumstances did you make that connection personally or professionally? Was there a particular piece of advice Danielle offered in this episode that resonated with you? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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192. Charisma and Magnetic Leadership with Milam Miller
06/18/2025
192. Charisma and Magnetic Leadership with Milam Miller
Is there someone in your life that you would say exudes qualities like authenticity, boldness, and curiosity? If so, today’s guest would likely tell you that person is exhibiting the ABCs of Charisma. In this episode, leadership expert Milam Miller demystifies charisma, revealing it's a skill anyone can develop; shares practical strategies for genuine connection; and valuable techniques for meaningful interactions and more impactful communication. Drawing from sports and leadership experience, Milam explains that true charisma is about making others feel seen and heard, not self-promotion. His debut book The Charisma Craft: A Modern Leadership Guide to Enhance Your “Rizz” Factor will be published on June 25, 2025. Guest’s Website: Guest’s Book (Available June 25, 2025): TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Would you have labeled yourself as charismatic prior to this episode? Has your view changed? What one technique discussed in this episode would you be most likely to incorporate into your daily interactions? Is there someone in your personal or professional life you feel you have a genuine connection with? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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191. Unscripted Pivots with Danielle Sprouls, Esq.
06/04/2025
191. Unscripted Pivots with Danielle Sprouls, Esq.
Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, personally or professionally, wanting to make a long held dream or goal a reality? Today’s guest, Danielle Sprouls shares her transformative journey from commercial real estate to coaching and how it’s possible for anyone to make the powerful decision to “pivot,” face their fears, and grow both personally and professionally. In this insightful discussion, she touches on points in her book, “WTF: Women That Flourish: Transform Life’s ‘What the F#$k’ Moments Into Your Greatest Wins;” explores the importance of intuition, visualization, and taking bold steps; and offers practical tips on turning challenges into opportunities. Guest’s Website: Book Affiliate Link: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you had a light bulb or “what the f#$k” moment? How did you react and how would you react now? What advice or encouragement would you give to a loved one if they came to you expressing they wanted to make a bold or drastic change personally or professionally? What is one practical piece of advice you took from today’s conversation? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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190. #Danielle - Coaches Corner: JL Heather
05/28/2025
190. #Danielle - Coaches Corner: JL Heather
In the latest installment of Coaches Corner, guest coach JL Heather, who holds over two decades of experience as an organizational transformation coach sits down with Danielle for a discussion on the topic of innovation and creativity. Guest’s Website: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.
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189. Using Language and Mindset with Rebecca Bonnington
05/21/2025
189. Using Language and Mindset with Rebecca Bonnington
Today's guest is a Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) expert. If you are stateside, NLP may not be a term you’re very familiar with, but after today’s episode you may just find an appreciation for this fascinating area of study and how language and mindset can transform personal and professional experiences. Rebecca Bonnington sits down for a really enlightening conversation in which she demonstrates, using Kristy as her subject, practical NLP techniques, including how to change emotional states by manipulating sensory representations and understanding the power of self-talk; discusses how the body and mind are interconnected; and offers tools that can empower anyone to tap into their internal resources to create a desired change in their life. Guest’s Website: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Were you familiar with NLP prior to this episode? What one technique from this episode would you be interested to try in practice in your own life? What is one area of your life or desired goal do you think NLP might help you to reach? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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188. Managing Up with Melody Wilding
05/07/2025
188. Managing Up with Melody Wilding
In popular culture, there was a time where views of workplace relationships, between employees and managers, were seen through the lens of the likes of Emily and her over the top demanding boss, Miranda Priestly, in the 2006 movie, the Devil Wears Prada. Fast forward to 2025, workplace culture has evolved and terms like, managing up, the focus of today’s conversation, have become normalized and encouraged. Today’s guest is Melody Wilding, therapist, professor, executive coach and author of, Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge, released in March. In her conversation with Kristy, Melody shares insights from her book on navigating workplace relationships through strategic conversations, they discuss key workplace communication strategies, and practical techniques. Guest’s Website: Guest’s book via our affiliate link: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you had a managing up situation in your workplace? How did you handle it and would you handle it differently following this episode? Did you identify as one of the four C’s discussed in the conversation? What is one of the techniques that most resonated with you? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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187. Learning Self-Compassion with Tara Cousineau, Ph.D.
04/23/2025
187. Learning Self-Compassion with Tara Cousineau, Ph.D.
Have you ever dealt with a negative voice inside your head that is constantly discouraging you, second guessing you, or telling you that you aren’t good enough? Even if you don’t self-identify as a perfectionist, this episode explores those tendencies we all have to chase perfection in our everyday life. Our guest, Tara Cousineau, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist; meditation teacher; life learner on resilience, self-compassion and healing; author of “The Perfectionist’s Dilemma: Learn the Art of Self-Compassion and Become a Happy Achiever,” and yes, a recovering perfectionist. During our discussion, Dr. Cousineau shares strategies and helpful techniques for managing inner critics and provides insights into recognizing and reframing perfectionistic tendencies to create more joy and balance in life. Guest’s Website: Guest’s book via our affiliate link: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Did you identify with some of the perfectionist tendencies in this episode? Do you find that you show much more compassion for others than you do for yourself? If so, why? What was one technique shared by Dr. Cousineau, in this episode, which you’d be interested to try? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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186. #Kristy The Um Episode
04/16/2025
186. #Kristy The Um Episode
When you use too many fillers it makes your message unclear and causes people to think you don’t have confidence in what you are saying. In this episode we are FINALLY talking filler words; why you use them, how to identify your unique fillers, and what to do about it. Get the free worksheet that goes along with this episode: 🌱 Tap here to work with Kristy: Follow on Instagram for more communication tips:
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185. New Ways to Network with Rosalind Chow, Ph.D.
04/09/2025
185. New Ways to Network with Rosalind Chow, Ph.D.
Many professionals have likely encountered mentorship at one time or another, but may be less familiar with a different type of networking known as sponsorship and its many unique benefits. Today’s guest shares her deep insight into the key differences between mentorship and sponsorship, how sponsorship can open doors to stronger inclusivity in the workplace, and how you can take on this important role of sponsorship in your own workplace. Our guest, Rosalind Chow, Ph.D. is a professor of Organizational Behavior and Theory, researcher, and author of the new book , “The Doors You Can Open: A New Way to Network, Build Trust, and Use Your Influence to Create a More Inclusive Workplace,” available now. Guest’s Website: Guest’s New Book (affiliate link): TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever been mentored by or mentored someone else professionally? How about sponsored? Do you find networking challenging? Why or why not? Following the episode are you more likely to consider being a sponsor for someone else? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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184. How to be a Grownup with Raffi Grinberg
04/02/2025
184. How to be a Grownup with Raffi Grinberg
As we officially welcome spring, many rites of passage including graduation season are almost upon us. If you are a member of the Class of 2025 or know someone who is graduating or has recently graduated, this episode includes an insightful discussion on real life skills that aren’t always taught in the classroom, but can prove extremely beneficial. Our guest, Raffi Grinberg is an educator, business leader, and author of the new book (released March 25th!), “How to Be a Grown Up: The 14 Essential Skills You Didn’t Know You Needed (Until Just Now).”
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183. Reach for Wild Courage with Jenny Wood
03/25/2025
183. Reach for Wild Courage with Jenny Wood
Have you ever winced at the thought that someone else might label you as weird, selfish, or wreckless? Today’s guest Jenny Wood, a former Google Executive, career coach, and author of the new book (released today!), “Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It,” wants you to be courageous and run towards these labels rather than away from them. We discuss details of her new book including the 9 traits, three mentioned above, which can act as a deterrent to going after what we want as well as some useful tips on how we can flip the script and make them a positive instead of a negative. Guest’s Website: Purchase Jenny’s new book via our affiliate link: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Have you ever felt weird? Did it stop you from taking action? Which of the words discussed most resonates with making you feel uncomfortable? Following the episode do you look at that particular connotation differently? What is something you really want, but haven’t had the wild courage to go after yet? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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182. #Danielle - Coaches Corner: Suzanne Campi with Danielle McCombs
03/19/2025
182. #Danielle - Coaches Corner: Suzanne Campi with Danielle McCombs
In the latest installment of Coaches Corner, guest coach Suzanne Campi, a life transition coach and community builder, sits down with Danielle for a discussion on the topic of Retirement. Guest’s Website: : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.
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181. Menopause with Susan A. Miele, PhD
03/12/2025
181. Menopause with Susan A. Miele, PhD
If you are a woman or have a woman you love or care for in your life, then this episode is for you. Whether that person has or will someday experience the three stages of menopause while navigating personal and professional life, today’s guest assures that they are not alone. Dr. Susan Miele, who holds a PhD in Human and Organizational Systems and is a transformational leader and workplace well-being advocate dedicated to redefining the narrative around menopause, shares her personal story as well as incredibly insightful and thought provoking information on this important topic that often goes undiscussed at home and in the workplace. Guest’s Website: Guest Mentions/Resources: TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. Were you aware there were 34 potential symptoms in perimenopause? Following this episode what are some takeaways you now know about the topic of menopause that you didn’t know before? Are you more likely now to discuss menopause more openly personally or professionally? : If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. : You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at and find her work journal at .
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