Paper Napkin Wisdom
Paper Napkin Wisdom with Govindh Jayaraman The biggest breakthroughs don’t always come from boardrooms, textbooks, or endless strategy decks. More often, they’re sparked in simple moments—captured on the back of a napkin. That’s the heart of Paper Napkin Wisdom. Each week, host Govindh Jayaraman sits down with entrepreneurs, leaders, athletes, artists, and difference-makers who distill their most powerful insight into one napkin-sized idea. These aren’t abstract theories. They’re lived lessons—the kind that shift how you see the world and give you tools you can use immediately. From billion-dollar founders and bestselling authors to under-the-radar innovators changing their industries, every guest shares a perspective that challenges assumptions and invites you to loosen your grip on “the way things are.” You’ll discover how simple reframes can spark growth, how clarity emerges from constraint, and how wisdom becomes powerful only when it’s put into action. Expect conversations that are raw, practical, and deeply human. You’ll leave each episode not only seeing reality differently, but also knowing exactly what you can try today—in your business, your leadership, or your life. If you’re ready for small shifts that lead to big results, this is your place. Grab a napkin, listen in, and share your takeaway with #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because wisdom isn’t meant to sit on the page—it’s meant to move you forward.
info_outline
EP 314 - Believing Is Seeing (Edge of the Napkin Series #12)
11/16/2025
EP 314 - Believing Is Seeing (Edge of the Napkin Series #12)
There’s a phrase we’ve all inherited without ever asking whether it serves us: “I’ll believe it when I see it.” It sounds reasonable. It sounds mature. It sounds like the responsible stance of someone who has been around long enough to be cautious. But anyone who has ever built something meaningful — a business, a team, a movement, or even a new version of themselves — knows the truth beneath that old saying: “Seeing” has never created belief. Belief is what creates the ability to see. That’s the heart of today’s napkin thought: Believing Is Seeing. And if you let it in, this shift can alter the way you make decisions, lead others, spot opportunities, and move toward the version of your life you’re meant to live. Most of us were trained to trust what is visible. Data. Proof. Safety. Certainty. Security. We internalized the idea that confidence comes after evidence. That clarity arrives before commitment. That movement follows permission. But growth — real growth — never begins outside of us. It begins in what we cannot see yet. It begins in the unseen. As I shared in the episode: “Results are lagging indicators. By the time you see the change, the real transformation has already happened inside.” Entrepreneurs don’t innovate by responding to what’s already visible. Leaders don’t serve by waiting for permission. People don’t level up by demanding certainty before taking action. We grow through a different path — an internal shift first, external proof second. You’ve experienced this before: the moment where you decided to believe in an idea before the market validated it… the moment you trusted a teammate before they performed at that level… the moment you committed to something bigger before you had any evidence that you could pull it off. Every breakthrough you’ve ever had required belief before visibility. That’s why the work is inside-out. Always has been. Growth Happens in the Unseen Think of a seed. The first sign of life doesn’t happen above ground. It happens in darkness, in the unseen, in the place nobody notices until much later. Your identity works the same way. Before you behave differently, you believe differently. Before you see differently, your internal world shifts. Before your results expand, your sense of who you are expands. One of the most powerful lines from this Edge of the Napkin episode was this: “You aren’t becoming someone new. You are remembering who you already are.” This is not motivation. It’s mechanics. Your belief determines what you notice. Your belief determines what you move toward. Your belief determines which opportunities filter through your awareness and which ones slide by unnoticed. Once you believe something deeply — that you can grow, that you can lead, that you can build something extraordinary — the world reorganizes itself around that belief. Not magically… but mechanically. You move differently. You decide differently. You persevere differently. You show up differently. And suddenly you begin to see what was always there but invisible to you when you were looking through a smaller frame. The Parable: The Sculptor and the Stone In the episode, I shared a short parable that captures this perfectly. A young apprentice watched a master sculptor work on a block of marble. After days of chiseling, he finally asked: “How do you know what to carve? How do you know there’s something inside worth finding?” The master smiled and said: “Every block of stone has a statue inside. I don’t create it. I simply remove everything that isn’t it.” When the apprentice grew older, he understood the truth: He had never created a masterpiece. He had revealed one. It had always been there. And so are you. You don’t have to push yourself into a new identity. You simply have to believe in the truth that’s been waiting inside you. Believing is not about forcing confidence. Believing is about remembering. 5 Key Takeaways — and How to Take Action 1. Belief Shapes Perception Your mind filters the world through what you expect to find. Shift your belief and you shift your vision. Take Action: Ask yourself daily: “If I already believed this was possible, what would I notice today?” 2. Growth Begins Long Before Results Appear The visible is always the last part. Real change happens internally first. Take Action: Track internal wins, not just external ones: decisions, courage, awareness, alignment. 3. Leaders Expand What Others Can See Your belief becomes the lens your team uses to view possibility. Take Action: Tell someone on your team this week: “Here’s what I see in you.” Watch what happens. 4. Entrepreneurs Create Evidence Instead of Waiting For It Waiting for proof kills momentum. Belief fuels action, and action generates proof. Take Action: Move one step this week before you feel ready. Evidence will follow. 5. You Are Not Becoming — You Are Remembering Your next level isn’t a new invention. It’s a revelation. Take Action: Finish this sentence: “If I stopped resisting who I really am, I would…” Write the first three things that show up. A Call to the Builders, Leaders, and Difference-Makers If this message resonated with you — if something inside felt like it opened or relaxed or clarified — then take a moment. Grab a napkin. Write the phrase: Believing Is Seeing. And then add your insight, your reflection, or your reminder. Share it on social with #PaperNapkinWisdom. You never know who may need exactly what you have to say today. And if you want more episodes like this — tools, insights, and stories to help you grow from the inside out — you can find the podcast here: Paper Napkin Wisdom Website: www.PaperNapkinWisdom.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@papernapkinwisdom Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paper-napkin-wisdom/id735345903 Spotify: Because you’re not waiting for proof. You’re remembering your power. And when you believe deeply enough… you finally begin to see.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/39048105
info_outline
EP 313 - Listening & Learning with Shivani Dhamija
11/13/2025
EP 313 - Listening & Learning with Shivani Dhamija
In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman sits down with Shivani Dhamija, founder of Shivani’s Kitchen — a culinary brand rooted in authentic Indian flavors and fueled by a passion for empowering others through food. From her humble beginnings selling spice blends and sauces at local markets in Nova Scotia to building a thriving food-manufacturing business, Shivani’s journey is as flavorful as her recipes. At the heart of her success lies a simple napkin message: “Listening & learning.” Two small words that capture a massive truth about leadership, growth, and entrepreneurship. The Power of “Listening & Learning” When Shivani first began sharing her spice blends, she wasn’t just selling a product — she was listening to people’s stories. Every market conversation, every customer review, every “you should try this” became a lesson. She explains that listening isn’t passive; it’s an act of connection. And learning isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about staying humble enough to realize you never do. Shivani’s insight is deeply entrepreneurial. Leaders who stop listening lose touch with the people they serve. Entrepreneurs who stop learning lose the adaptability that keeps them alive. As she puts it, “Every interaction — whether it’s a happy customer or a tough critic — is an opportunity to grow stronger.” Her napkin reminds us that progress doesn’t come from constant talking or defending ideas. It comes from being open — to feedback, to failure, to the world changing faster than we expect. Listening as a Leadership Skill Shivani’s story highlights something that many leaders overlook: listening is strategic. She built her business by tuning into what customers really wanted — convenience without compromise. In a world flooded with fast food, she heard a quiet craving for authentic home-style cooking made simple. That insight led to her signature ready-to-use sauces and spice blends. In leadership, listening also means hearing the unspoken — what your team isn’t saying, what your market isn’t yet demanding, and what your own intuition is whispering. Shivani’s example shows that great leaders hear beyond words; they listen for intent, emotion, and opportunity. Learning as a Way of Being For Shivani, learning never stops. She admits that when she first started, she didn’t know the language of manufacturing, retail supply chains, or business finance. But she learned by doing — by seeking mentors, asking better questions, and experimenting without fear of failure. Her approach reframes what “failure” means. Every misstep became a feedback loop, not a full stop. As she says, “If you’re learning, you’re never losing.” That mindset — curiosity over perfection — is what allows an entrepreneur to evolve. It’s also what transforms a local business into a lasting brand. 5 Key Takeaways from Shivani Dhamija’s Napkin 1️⃣ Listen with Intent, Not Ego When you’re building something, people will tell you what they love and what they don’t. Take Action: Next time you receive feedback, don’t defend — document. Write down what you hear, reflect overnight, and find the truth in it. 2️⃣ Be a Lifelong Learner Every entrepreneur starts as a student. The difference between success and stagnation is how fast you keep learning. Take Action: Commit to learning something new each week — a system, a trend, a story from your customers. Growth compounds when curiosity becomes habit. 3️⃣ Turn Conversations into Strategy Shivani’s business evolved through real-world listening — she let her customers co-write her roadmap. Take Action: Identify three recurring themes you’ve heard from your market or team. Translate them into one actionable improvement this quarter. 4️⃣ Stay Grounded in Gratitude Listening isn’t just about business — it’s about connection. Shivani talks about the joy of serving people and the gratitude that keeps her motivated through long hours. Take Action: Before every major decision, pause and ask: “Who does this serve?” Gratitude keeps strategy human. 5️⃣ Teach What You Learn True learning becomes mastery when it’s shared. Shivani now mentors other entrepreneurs and collaborates with local producers to help them scale. Take Action: Host a 15-minute “teach-back” session with your team or peers each month. Share one lesson you’ve learned — and invite others to do the same. Bringing It All Together Listening & learning isn’t just a recipe for leadership — it’s a rhythm for life. Shivani Dhamija embodies what happens when you combine cultural authenticity with curiosity and humility. She’s proof that when we listen more deeply and learn more intentionally, our work — and our impact — expand exponentially. So grab a napkin, write down what you’re hearing and what you’re learning, and share your wisdom with the world using #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because every big idea starts small — sometimes just two words at a time. About Shivani Dhamija: Shivani Dhamija is the founder of Shivani’s Kitchen, a Nova Scotia-based company creating authentic Indian spice blends, sauces, and ready-to-cook meals that make real flavor accessible to everyone. Her products are now distributed across major retailers in Canada, and she continues to champion entrepreneurship, inclusion, and cultural connection through food. Website: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paper-napkin-wisdom/id735345903 Spotify: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38995935
info_outline
EP 312 - Build for Value — Not for the Hype: How some AI Companies are Winning, and others aren't (Edge of the Napkin #11)
11/09/2025
EP 312 - Build for Value — Not for the Hype: How some AI Companies are Winning, and others aren't (Edge of the Napkin #11)
Edge of the Napkin #11 There’s a feeling that sweeps through every era of innovation — that electrifying sense of this is it. The next big wave. The one that’s going to change everything. In this episode of Edge of the Napkin, Govindh Jayaraman dives into what happens when high-expectation innovation collides with reality — when the future we bet on becomes today’s proving ground. The AI boom, once the unstoppable tide lifting every boat in sight, is now pulling back. Markets are correcting. The water is getting choppy. And what’s being revealed isn’t failure — it’s truth. Because in every correction, there’s clarity. And clarity always comes back to one simple principle: Build for value — not for the hype. When the Rising Tide Turns A rising tide, they say, lifts all boats. But when the tide goes out, you see who built on sand. For years, AI was the tide. Money poured in. Startups ballooned overnight. Everyone rebranded themselves with a shiny “AI-powered” tagline, believing that being in the space was enough. The energy was intoxicating — the gold rush mentality that said, “Just show up, and you’ll win.” But hype, like all waves, always breaks. Now, as markets tighten and investors demand results, reality has set in. The companies that were built to chase attention are scrambling. The ones that were built to create real value are rising. Because when the water recedes, what’s left standing is what was anchored well. From Hype to Heart There’s a rhythm to entrepreneurship — expansion, contraction, recalibration. When everyone’s sprinting forward, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush. Easy to mistake momentum for mastery. But that’s not leadership. That’s reaction. Leadership happens when the story changes. When “growth at all costs” becomes “growth with purpose.” When we stop asking, How big can we get? and start asking, How deep can we go? Because business isn’t just numbers — it’s emotion. It’s how you feel about what you do. It’s how your team feels showing up every day. It’s how your customers feel when they interact with your brand. Those feelings — that energy — are what drive value. And when hype fades, that’s the energy that remains. The entrepreneurs who are still standing today? They’re not the ones who shouted the loudest. They’re the ones who listened the hardest. The AI Lesson for Everyone AI is not the villain of this story. It’s the mirror. It shows us what happens when excitement outruns execution, when vision leaps ahead of value. Most of the companies that faltered weren’t wrong about AI’s potential — they were wrong about how fast value compounds. They extracted before they contributed. They optimized before they empathized. They sold the sizzle before they built the steak. And that’s the real takeaway here — innovation is not about invention alone. It’s about integration. It’s about how well your innovation serves people. Because profit doesn’t follow hype. Profit follows contribution. 5 Key Takeaways (and How to Take Action) 1. Value Is the Foundation The companies that last are the ones that start with contribution, not extraction. Hype builds momentum; value builds endurance. Take Action: Revisit your business model. For every revenue line, write down what human problem it actually solves. If you can’t find one, refine it until you can. 2. Simplicity Wins When Times Get Complex When markets get noisy, the message that cuts through is the one that’s clear. Complexity repels. Simplicity attracts. Take Action: Ask yourself, If I had to explain what I do in one sentence, could I? Practice until your purpose fits on a napkin — literally. 3. Energy Shapes Outcomes The emotional tone of your team, your clients, and your leadership ripples through everything you build. When that energy is aligned, momentum becomes effortless. Take Action: Start every meeting with one question: How are we feeling about what we’re doing? You’ll be amazed at what surfaces — and what shifts when people feel seen. 4. Execution Is the Antidote to Illusion Vision without action is imagination. Execution turns imagination into impact. The companies that rise after correction are the ones that turn talk into traction. Take Action: Review your “someday” list and move one idea into action today. Momentum comes not from motion — but from completion. 5. Profit Follows Contribution It’s not magic. It’s alignment. When your focus is on serving — deeply, meaningfully — the results take care of themselves. Take Action: Create a metric for contribution. Track not just what you make, but how much value you add. The simplest way to attract success is to deserve it. The Proving Ground Is a Gift Every hype cycle ends with a lesson — not a loss. This correction, this cooling-off period in AI, is not a collapse. It’s a cleansing. It’s a collective return to what really matters: helping people. And when you zoom out, that’s the story of entrepreneurship itself. We fall in love with possibility. We overreach. We get humbled. Then we build again — this time, wiser. So if your tide feels like it’s pulling back right now… good. It means you’re getting the chance to see what’s real. And if you choose to re-anchor in value — in simplicity, in contribution — you’ll build something that doesn’t just rise with the wave… it stands when the water retreats. The Napkin “Build for value — not for the hype.” Underneath that truth lives every great turnaround story. Every comeback. Every leader who’s weathered the storm and found their center again. Because the proving ground isn’t punishment — it’s practice. It’s where hype burns off and integrity begins. It’s where we remember that success isn’t about how loud we are, but how much light we bring. Listen to Episode 312 – Edge of the Napkin #11: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paper-napkin-wisdom/id735345903 Spotify: YouTube: Final Thought When your future bet becomes today’s proving ground, take a breath. Step back. Ask: Am I building for value… or chasing the hype? And if you find yourself off-center, that’s okay — it just means the tide has gone out. Now you get to see the foundation. Now you get to build again — this time, for real.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38959930
info_outline
EP 311 - Dr. Jenny Hoffmann: Open Up! Lead with Curiosity, Empathy, and Connection
11/06/2025
EP 311 - Dr. Jenny Hoffmann: Open Up! Lead with Curiosity, Empathy, and Connection
Today on Paper Napkin Wisdom, we welcome Dr. Jenny Hoffmann, a leader in health-tech innovation who currently serves as Executive Director at the New England Medical Innovation Center (NEMIC). With a rich background in healthcare strategy and technology deployment, Jenny has spent her career bridging clinical insight with entrepreneurial energy, helping organizations turn innovative ideas into meaningful patient-outcomes. In this episode, we dive deep into how leaders can lean into vulnerability, curiosity, empathy and connection — the key themes captured on her paper napkin: “Open Up! Be vulnerable enough to lead with curiosity, empathy, and connection.” Story & Insight: The Napkin Unpacked Jenny’s succinct message on the napkin resonates like a simplified leadership creed: “Open Up!” At first glance it’s an invitation — but as Jenny unpacks in the conversation, it becomes a framework for how you show up in leading others. Vulnerability Jenny opens by reflecting on the myth of the infallible leader. She shares how in her earlier roles she felt the pressure to always “have the answer”, and how that posture created distance from her team. She realized that genuine connection begins when you stop pretending you’re perfect and risk showing your human side. That kind of vulnerability doesn’t show weakness — it signals trust, and invites others to bring their full selves. Curiosity From there Jenny shifts into curiosity. She recounts how when leading teams in health-tech innovation, the real breakthroughs didn’t come from already knowing the solution, but from asking “What do you think?”, “What are you missing?”, “What do we need to understand better?” Curiosity becomes a leadership superpower because it keeps you open to possibilities others may spot first. It also flips the script from “I must direct” to “We must discover together.” Empathy & Connection Jenny then emphasises empathy as more than a buzzword. She describes a moment when a project stalled because the clinical users felt unheard, the engineers felt under-pressure, and leadership insisted on timelines over dialogue. She intervened by organizing listening sessions, acknowledging the stress on all sides, and creating a space where people’s concerns were voiced. The result: renewed trust, smoother collaboration, and better outcomes. Empathy here is the bridge to connection — and connection is what transforms teams from groups of individuals into aligned, energized partners. Key Takeaways Here are five major takeaways from Jenny’s conversation and the napkin message — each followed by a practical “Take Action” for you, the leader. The power of showing your humanity Take Action: At your next team meeting, share one thing that didn’t go as planned this week and what you learned. Ask questions before giving answers Take Action: Replace one directive in the next 48 hours with a question like, “What do you think might work?” or “What are we missing?” Create spaces for listening and reflection Take Action: Schedule a 15-minute “open forum” in a future meeting where the agenda is simply: “What’s on your mind right now?” Lead from emotional insight, not just logical planning Take Action: Next time you’re setting a goal, pause and ask: “Who will this impact and how will they feel about it?” Write it down. Turn connection into coordination Take Action: After a joint project ends, hold a short “what went well / what could we improve” debrief—and emphasise not just what we did, but how we worked together. Guest Bio & Links Dr. Jenny Hoffmann is currently Executive Director at NEMIC, where she is ushering in a new era of health-tech innovation. Previously she held leadership roles in both provider and startup settings, specializing in translating clinical needs into scalable solutions. LinkedIn: About page: Conclusion Jenny’s napkin is deceptively simple—but her message is profound: Open up. When you lead with vulnerability, curiosity, empathy and connection, you don’t just manage your team — you mobilize it. Take a napkin. Write your version of “Open Up!” And then step into leadership with your full heart. Share your takeaway on social media with #PaperNapkinWisdom and let others in on the conversation.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38895660
info_outline
EP 310 - Make Believe: The Stories Entrepreneurs Tell Themselves (Edge of the Napkin #10)
11/02/2025
EP 310 - Make Believe: The Stories Entrepreneurs Tell Themselves (Edge of the Napkin #10)
Make Believe: The Stories Entrepreneurs Tell Themselves (Edge of the Napkin #10) Every entrepreneur lives inside a story — the question is, who’s writing yours? If you’ve ever had a morning where nothing goes right — you stub your toe, drop your keys, spill coffee on your white shirt before 8 a.m. — you know the script that starts to play in your mind: “It’s gonna be one of those days.” And somehow, it is. Everything that follows seems to prove the story true. But the opposite happens too. You walk out the door feeling light, confident, certain something good is about to happen. Suddenly, you find a forgotten twenty in your pocket, get the short line at security, and the world seems to smile back. The truth is: the world didn’t change. Your story did. The Invisible Script of Entrepreneurship As entrepreneurs, we tell ourselves stories all day long. About clients. About employees. About the market. About ourselves. “That customer doesn’t like me.” “My team’s not ready yet.” “This quarter’s going to be brutal.” But none of that is fact. It’s make-believe. We make up stories to explain the world — and then we believe them so deeply that they shape our reality. Our thoughts become things. Our stories become strategies. Our beliefs become behavior. So why not make up stories that work for us? The Hidden Power in “Make Believe” The phrase make believe is one of the most perfectly designed pieces of language for entrepreneurs. “Make.” “Believe.” It’s a two-step formula for creation. Make — imagine, construct, design the story you want. Believe — live it, commit to it, act as if it’s already true. Every innovation starts with make believe. Steve Jobs imagined a world where everyone could have a computer in their pocket. Wright brothers imagined humans flying. Kids do it every day — no hesitation, no proof, no fear. They believe the story so completely that it becomes real. Adults call it vision. Entrepreneurs call it leadership. But at its core, it’s just make-believe. Why We Forget How to Believe Somewhere between childhood and boardrooms, we stop believing before we make. We start saying things like: “I’m just being realistic.” “That’s not how it works.” “I can’t afford to think like that.” We stop being the author of our story and start acting like a character trapped inside it. And that’s dangerous — because if you don’t write your story, your fear will. As leaders, we have to reclaim our imagination. Not fantasy — intentional imagination. The kind that directs focus, aligns action, and creates reality. The Napkin: The Story Loop On the napkin for this episode, I drew a simple loop: Story → State → Action → Evidence → (back to Story) It’s the circle we all live in. Your story shapes your state (how you feel). Your state influences your action. Your action creates evidence. And that evidence reinforces your story. Most people are stuck in a negative loop — “I’m unlucky” → frustrated → hesitant → confirm failure → reinforce “I’m unlucky.” But if you flip the story, the whole loop changes — “I create my own luck” → energized → take initiative → see opportunities → reinforce “I’m capable.” The power lies in the center of that loop, where I wrote two words: MAKE BELIEVE. That’s where you choose which story to live. Three Ways to Make Better Stories 1. Use the Focus–Align–Act Loop Ask yourself: What story am I focused on right now? Does it align with what I actually want? What one action would prove a better story true? Every new belief needs proof — and your actions create it. 2. Flip the Script Catch yourself mid-story and rewrite it. Instead of saying “I’m overwhelmed,” try “I’m learning to prioritize what matters.” It’s not denial — it’s direction. You’re changing the movie playing in your head. 3. Make It Bad, Make It Better Perfection is the enemy of momentum. Your first version of any story will be messy — and that’s okay. Say it badly first. Then refine. “I’m not a good leader yet” becomes “I’m growing into the leader my team deserves.” Iteration isn’t just for products — it’s for beliefs, too. 5 Key Takeaways 1. Your Story Is Your Strategy The beliefs you hold are the systems you build. Every result in your business started as a thought you believed long enough to act on. Take Action: Identify one recurring thought that limits you. Rewrite it in a way that propels you forward. 2. Make-Believe Is the Entrepreneur’s Edge Imagination is the ultimate competitive advantage. If you can picture it and commit to it, you’ll see paths others can’t. Take Action: Spend five minutes daily visualizing your “impossible” goal as already achieved. Feel what it’s like. 3. Choose Stories That Serve You You can’t stop telling stories — but you can choose which ones to amplify. Take Action: Notice your language this week. Each time you say “I always” or “I never,” rewrite it with “I’m learning” or “I’m creating.” 4. Belief Changes Biology When you change your story, your energy, tone, and confidence change too. People feel it — and respond to it. Take Action: Before your next team meeting, tell yourself: “They’re lucky to have me leading them.” Notice how your posture and voice shift. 5. Make-Believe Like a Kid Again Children don’t need proof to believe. They go all in — and that’s the secret. Take Action: Pick one area in your business where you’ve been “realistic” for too long. Suspend disbelief for one week. Play full out. The Challenge: Author, Don’t Act You’re either writing your story or reacting to someone else’s. The entrepreneurs who win — the ones who grow movements, not just businesses — are the ones who never stopped making believe. They don’t wait for proof. They act on faith, backed by intention. And as they move, the world rearranges itself around that belief. So what story are you telling today? Because make-believe isn’t just for kids. It’s how entrepreneurs build reality — one thought, one choice, one action at a time. Listen to Episode 310 — Edge of the Napkin #10: “Make Believe — The Stories We Tell Ourselves” Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paper-napkin-wisdom/id735345903 Spotify: YouTube:
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38881295
info_outline
EP 309 - Jon Rosemberg — Survival Is Instinct, Thriving Is a Choice
10/21/2025
EP 309 - Jon Rosemberg — Survival Is Instinct, Thriving Is a Choice
When you meet Jon Rosemberg, you immediately sense two things — depth and discipline. He’s a behavioral scientist, author, and executive coach who has spent years exploring how we, as humans, can move beyond mere survival into a state of thriving. His work combines neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience, and it’s reflected powerfully in his new book, A Guide to Thriving: The Science Behind Breaking Old Patterns, Reclaiming Your Agency, and Finding Meaning. On his paper napkin, Jon wrote just seven words: “Survival is instinct, thriving is a choice.” At first glance, it seems like a motivational quote — something you’d find on a coffee mug or a gym wall. But when you listen to Jon unpack it, it becomes clear that this idea cuts much deeper. It’s not about positive thinking or grinding harder; it’s about reclaiming agency. It’s about recognizing that while your biology may be wired to survive, your mindset and daily choices are what allow you to thrive. From the Instinct to the Intention Jon began by reflecting on how our nervous system is designed for safety, not success. “The human brain evolved to protect us, not to make us happy,” he explained. “So when we operate from a place of fear, anxiety, or scarcity, we’re not broken — we’re just running old code.” That’s the heart of it. Survival isn’t bad; it’s just incomplete. It’s reactive. It keeps you from drowning but never teaches you to swim. Thriving, on the other hand, is intentional. It means rewriting the code — taking conscious ownership of your patterns, your responses, and ultimately your story. Jon shared moments in his own life where he caught himself defaulting to survival mode — overworking, overanalyzing, overcompensating. “I used to think thriving was about achievement,” he said. “Now I know it’s about alignment. It’s about living in harmony with your values, not just chasing outcomes.” Key Takeaway 1: Awareness Precedes Agency Before you can change, you have to see. Jon calls this “meta-awareness” — the ability to notice your own patterns without judgment. It’s the first step in reclaiming agency from the automatic survival system running in the background. Take Action: This week, observe one moment where you feel triggered or reactive. Pause and ask: “Is this survival or choice?” That single question begins the process of thriving. Key Takeaway 2: Thriving Requires Safety It may sound counterintuitive, but thriving starts with safety — both psychological and physiological. Jon points out that many leaders try to “thrive” without ever calming their nervous systems. They’re running at full speed in fight-or-flight mode, confusing momentum for mastery. Take Action: Build micro-moments of safety into your day. That could be a deep breath before a meeting, a brief walk without your phone, or ending the day with gratitude instead of to-do lists. Safety is the soil in which thriving grows. Key Takeaway 3: Rewrite the Old Story Survival keeps you stuck in the past — protecting the version of you that got hurt, failed, or feared rejection. Thriving means rewriting that narrative. Jon says, “When you choose to thrive, you stop defending who you were and start creating who you want to become.” Take Action: Write down one “old story” you keep repeating — something that starts with “I always…” or “I never…” Replace it with a new one: “I’m learning to…” That shift from identity to evolution is where growth begins. Key Takeaway 4: Choose Energy Over Effort In the survival mindset, effort is everything — grind, push, endure. But thriving requires energy management, not energy expenditure. Jon shared how leaders often deplete themselves trying to “perform” instead of “be.” When you shift from proving to presence, you conserve energy for what truly matters. Take Action: Ask yourself daily: “What gives me energy?” Do more of that. Cut or delegate what drains you. Thriving isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters with energy that sustains you. Key Takeaway 5: Thriving Is Contagious Perhaps the most powerful insight from Jon’s conversation was this — when you choose to thrive, you give others permission to do the same. Teams mirror their leaders. Families mirror their anchors. Organizations mirror their culture. When one person steps out of survival, it shifts the system. Take Action: Model thriving. Talk about rest, purpose, and meaning as much as you talk about results. Celebrate progress, not just outcomes. Your example will ripple farther than you can imagine. The Choice Before Us Jon’s napkin doesn’t promise ease — it promises evolution. Survival is baked into our DNA, but thriving is a decision we make daily. It’s a commitment to awareness, safety, story, energy, and influence. It’s a discipline of choosing growth when comfort whispers otherwise. So, the question Jon leaves us with is this: If survival is instinct, how will you choose to thrive today? About Jon Rosemberg: Jon Rosemberg is a behavioral scientist, executive coach, and author of A Guide to Thriving: The Science Behind Breaking Old Patterns, Reclaiming Your Agency, and Finding Meaning. His work bridges neuroscience, psychology, and personal development to help individuals and organizations move from coping to creating. Website: LinkedIn: Book: A Guide to Thriving – available from Wiley.com Call to Action: Take a moment to write down your own definition of thriving — what it feels like, looks like, and sounds like in your life. Then, post your takeaway on a napkin and share it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because thriving begins with one conscious choice — yours.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38641940
info_outline
EP 308 - Flexibility Is the Only True Hedge – Edge of the Napkin #9
10/19/2025
EP 308 - Flexibility Is the Only True Hedge – Edge of the Napkin #9
In a world where volatility has become the norm — prices swing, markets shake, politics polarize, and technology rewrites the rules daily — one question stands out for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone simply trying to navigate life: How do we hedge against uncertainty? Not with gold. Not with cash. Not with control. But with flexibility. That’s the essence of this week’s Edge of the Napkin. On my napkin, a single word runs across the center: RISK. Below it — Rigidity → Fragility. Above it — Flexibility → Resilience. And an arrow curves between them, reminding us that the difference between collapse and adaptation isn’t conditions — it’s behavior. The Human Side of Risk Everyone understands risk now. You can feel it at the grocery store, at the gas pump, in the way your phone updates its own intelligence while you sleep. When life gets uncertain, our instinct is to tighten our grip — to control. But control is an illusion. The tighter we hold on, the more fragile we become. The truth is, rigidity is a form of denial. It says, “If I hold still long enough, maybe the world will stop moving.” But the world doesn’t stop moving. And those who survive — and thrive — are the ones who move with it. The Hedge That Money Can’t Buy In finance, a hedge is something you buy to protect against loss — a trade you make so you don’t get wiped out when markets turn. But in life and leadership, flexibility is the ultimate hedge. It’s not a financial instrument; it’s a behavioral one. It’s the capacity to say: “If the world changes, I can change too.” And that’s priceless. It doesn’t expire. It doesn’t require a broker. It compounds — every time you use it. Rigidity vs. Flexibility: The Everyday Test You see this dynamic every day. When a flight gets canceled, one traveler melts down, pacing and shouting at the counter. Another grabs a coffee, smiles, and says, “Well, let’s see what happens.” One loses a day; the other gains a story. Same event. Different behavior. One fragile, one resilient. Leaders experience the same thing. When plans fail, rigid leaders double down on control. Flexible leaders shift gears, find the lesson, and move forward stronger. That’s what separates companies that survive disruption from those that get buried by it. In Business: Rigidity Costs, Flexibility Pays Think of Kodak — rigid around film. Blockbuster — rigid around physical stores. Both had opportunities to evolve; both held too tight to “how we’ve always done it.” Contrast that with Toyota after Fukushima — flexible in the face of chaos, retooling factories and redistributing supply. Or Apple — constantly adjusting, learning, and reinventing even its own products before the market forces it to. The difference wasn’t money, talent, or technology. It was flexibility. Rigidity is expensive; flexibility pays dividends. Leadership: Whisper, Don’t Shout Flexibility isn’t just strategy — it’s communication. It’s the hallmark of leadership. Because great leaders don’t shout in their own language. They whisper in the language of their team, their customers, their audience. Rigidity shouts, “This is how we do things!” Flexibility listens and says, “Let’s meet where you are.” That whisper — that empathy in motion — builds trust. And trust is the strongest currency in uncertain times. Letting Go to Grow The paradox of flexibility is this: You don’t gain it by adding more — you gain it by letting go. We become rigid by holding on — to outdated plans, assumptions, and fears. We become flexible by clearing space — for learning, for movement, for new data to enter. Letting go is not weakness. It’s capacity creation. Ask yourself: What am I clinging to that keeps me rigid? What belief, process, or habit no longer serves who I’m becoming? What could I remove today to create more space to move tomorrow? Flexibility doesn’t come from control — it comes from clarity. The Napkin Wisdom So the next time you feel risk rising — in the market, in your relationships, or in your own emotions — remember that napkin line: RISK Below it: Rigidity → Fragility Above it: Flexibility → Resilience And the arrow in between? That’s the pivot — the one we each have to make. Because the world doesn’t reward rigidity anymore. It rewards responsiveness. It rewards curiosity. It rewards leaders who can hold their center while changing shape. The future belongs to those who can flex. 🎧 Listen to the Episode You can hear the full Edge of the Napkin #9 – Flexibility is the Only True Hedge conversation here: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paper-napkin-wisdom/id735345903 Spotify: YouTube: 📝 Your Turn Draw it out. One line labeled RISK. Below: Rigidity → Fragility. Above: Flexibility → Resilience. And right there in the middle, write: “Flexibility is the only true hedge.” Then ask yourself: Where do I need to bend so I don’t break? When you have your answer, share it. Post your napkin with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom — and let’s keep the conversation going. Because the ideas small enough to fit on a napkin… are still the ones big enough to change your life.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38634120
info_outline
EP 307 - Simone Kelly - Build a Business You Love (But Not Your Hobby)
10/14/2025
EP 307 - Simone Kelly - Build a Business You Love (But Not Your Hobby)
When Simone Kelly first began helping families navigate the complexities of senior care, she didn’t just build a company—she built a movement. As the founder and CEO of Seniornicity, Simone’s mission is rooted in empathy, connection, and empowerment. Her company bridges the gap between older adults, families, and trusted care providers, making it easier for people to age well, together. But the napkin she brought to Paper Napkin Wisdom goes deeper than business strategy—it’s about protecting your passion and preserving your peace. “Build a business that you love, but not your hobby. Because when you need to shut your brain off to your work, you won’t have your hobby to turn to.” Simone’s insight is simple, but it carries the kind of wisdom that only comes from lived experience. Entrepreneurs often start businesses around something they’re passionate about. But as Simone points out, when that passion becomes your full-time pursuit, it can consume everything—including the joy it once brought you. She shares in this conversation how running Seniornicity—though deeply aligned with her values—requires constant emotional investment. Supporting families through moments of transition takes heart, patience, and empathy. It’s rewarding work, but it’s also heavy. So Simone learned that she needed something outside of her purpose-driven business to recharge her creativity and spirit. That’s where the power of this napkin lives. Loving your business doesn’t mean making it your whole identity. In fact, the healthiest entrepreneurs draw energy from outside their enterprises. Simone and Govindh unpack how business owners blur the lines between “who I am” and “what I do,” and why that can lead to burnout, resentment, or even loss of self. It’s not about doing less—it’s about finding the balance between purpose and preservation. She tells stories of early challenges—moments where she tried to give 100% to everything and everyone, until there was nothing left for herself. Over time, Simone realized that when you build a business around your hobby, your outlet becomes your obligation. There’s no off switch. No mental reset. No safe space to retreat and rejuvenate. Instead, she encourages entrepreneurs to build businesses that light them up and to nurture hobbies that fill them up. The two don’t need to compete—they need to coexist. It’s a mindset shift that resonates across every industry: Your business can be your mission, but your hobby should remain your medicine. 5 Key Takeaways from Simone Kelly 1. Love the Work—But Don’t Let It Consume You Loving what you do doesn’t mean doing it all the time. Take Action: Schedule intentional “off-business” hours each week where you explore something purely for fun—with no ROI attached. 2. Purpose Without Boundaries Leads to Burnout Simone reminds us that passion must be paired with limits. Take Action: Set clear mental and emotional boundaries—decide when work thoughts stop and personal space begins. 3. Keep Your Hobby Sacred Your hobby is your reset button—it fuels creativity and restores perspective. Take Action: List three things that bring you joy outside your business and commit to one weekly. 4. Your Business Isn’t Your Identity When identity and business merge too tightly, failures feel personal. Take Action: Practice saying, “This challenge is happening in my business, not to me.” 5. Build a Life That Can Hold Both Passion and Peace The best leaders know when to engage and when to rest. Take Action: Create a “recovery ritual”—a consistent way to decompress after major pushes or emotional days. Simone Kelly’s message is a vital reminder that sustainability in entrepreneurship isn’t about working harder—it’s about designing your life so that your energy, joy, and purpose can thrive together. Build a business that matters. But also build a life that restores you. When your business lights you up and your hobbies ground you, you don’t just succeed—you stay whole. Now it’s your turn: What’s your takeaway? Write it on a napkin, share it, and tag #PaperNapkinWisdom. More about Simone Kelly and Seniornicity Website: LinkedIn: Company Page: Instagram: TikTok: Facebook:
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38561160
info_outline
EP 306 - HOW? The Freedom to Create the Future - Edge of the Napkin #8
10/12/2025
EP 306 - HOW? The Freedom to Create the Future - Edge of the Napkin #8
Sometimes, the smallest words hold the biggest weight. In this episode of Edge of the Napkin, Govindh Jayaraman dives deep into one of the most overused — and misunderstood — words in leadership: “How.” We use it constantly. We think it’s helpful. But as Govindh reveals, how can be both the key to progress — and the invisible wall that keeps us from growing. We say things like: “That’s not how it’s done.” “That’s not how we do things here.” “Let me show you how I want that done.” “We tried that how before — it didn’t work.” Every one of those sentences feels logical on the surface… but underneath, each one tightens the box around creativity, ownership, and freedom. That’s the danger of the old how — it limits. And that’s the invitation of the future how — it liberates. The Freedom of How The napkin for this episode says it all. Two circles. On the left, Old How — arrows pointing inward, closing in, trapping ideas. On the right, Future How — arrows bursting outward, full of energy, movement, and possibility. Between them: Freedom of How → That’s the bridge between constraint and creativity. When leaders define what success looks like and where we’re going, the Freedom of How empowers people to figure out the way. It shifts the role of leadership from command and control to clarity and trust. “If you know where you’re starting and where you’re going, you don’t need to dictate the how,” Govindh says in the episode. “You need to create the conditions for your team to discover it.” The Freedom of How creates ownership. It sparks learning. And it’s the foundation for the next evolution of your business — the Future How. The Future How “The things that got us here,” Govindh says, “won’t get us where we want to go.” That’s where the Future How comes in. It’s about letting go of the methods, systems, and beliefs that served you once — but no longer fit where you’re heading. Marshall Goldsmith calls it the trap of old success habits. The habits that built yesterday’s victories can easily become the barriers to tomorrow’s innovation. Maybe your old how was hustling harder than everyone else. Maybe it was saying yes to everything. Maybe it was doing it all yourself. Each of those “hows” worked once. But they won’t work forever. The Future How is about evolving those habits — trading effort for intention, speed for clarity, and control for trust. It’s about inventing the next way forward. Reframing Through Focus–Align–Act Like every Edge of the Napkin reflection, this one loops back to the core model — Focus, Align, Act. FOCUS gives direction: What outcome do we want? Where are we heading? ALIGN creates trust: Who are we? What values guide the journey? ACT generates momentum: What’s the next small, meaningful step? When these three are clear, “how” becomes flexible — not fixed. The team doesn’t need a map; they need a compass. And that compass is shared purpose. Freedom of How isn’t about chaos. It’s about clarity without control. 5 Key Takeaways + Take Action Steps 1. The Word “How” Isn’t Neutral Takeaway: Every time you use “how,” you’re either giving permission or taking it away. Take Action: Listen for the moments you say “how” this week. Replace control with curiosity — ask, “What outcomes are we aiming for?” instead of “How are you doing it?” 2. Freedom of How Begins with Clarity Takeaway: People can only own the “how” when they clearly understand the “where” and the “why.” Take Action: Revisit your team’s goals. Strip away jargon and make them unmistakably clear. Then, step back and let people find their way. 3. Let Go of the Old How Takeaway: Yesterday’s success can be tomorrow’s bottleneck. Take Action: Identify one habit, process, or system that once worked — but now limits you. Ask your team: “If we started today, how would we do this differently?” 4. Build the Bridge with Focus–Align–Act Takeaway: Freedom without structure is chaos. FAA provides the rhythm — clarity of destination, connection through values, and momentum through action. Take Action: Before giving direction, pause. Check: Do we have Focus? Are we Aligned? Are we ready to Act freely? 5. Encourage the Future How Takeaway: Your team’s next innovation won’t come from you — it’ll come from their freedom to explore. Take Action: Ask your people to bring you one “new how” this month — something that challenges the way it’s always been done. Listen without judging. The Napkin Thought “Freedom of How → Future How” It’s deceptively simple — just a shift in arrows, from inward to outward. But it represents the shift every great leader must make: From control to trust. From repetition to invention. From yesterday’s how… to tomorrow’s. Your Challenge Grab a napkin. Write the word “HOW?” at the top. Draw two circles — one with arrows in, one with arrows out. Ask yourself: Where am I still living in the Old How? What Future How is waiting to be created? Then, share your napkin online with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because how you lead today defines how your future unfolds. Episode: Edge of the Napkin #8 – “HOW?” Host: Govindh Jayaraman, founder of Paper Napkin Wisdom Learn more at: www.papernapkinwisdom.com
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38548935
info_outline
EP 305 - Solve a Real Problem. Make It Beautiful. Care Like Hell. - With Nancy Johnston
10/09/2025
EP 305 - Solve a Real Problem. Make It Beautiful. Care Like Hell. - With Nancy Johnston
When you meet Nancy Johnston, you can immediately sense the combination of depth and purpose behind everything she touches. She’s the founder and CEO of Truuce, a company built around reimagining human connection, well-being, and design in the modern world. Her leadership bridges the emotional and the practical — weaving care, creativity, and clarity into every solution she creates. In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Nancy shares a simple but transformative philosophy written on her napkin: “Solve a real problem. Make it beautiful. Care like hell.” It’s a mantra that feels like the soul of great leadership — and as our conversation unfolded, it became clear that each line represents a pillar for building something that truly matters. Solve a Real Problem Nancy begins with a truth that too many entrepreneurs overlook: success starts with serving, not selling. “If you’re not solving something real,” she says, “you’re just creating noise.” Her journey with Truuce began by observing what people truly needed — not just what they said they wanted. The distinction matters. Real problems are felt, not fabricated. They emerge in the friction between how things are and how they should be. Nancy believes great leaders pay attention to that gap. They listen deeply, empathize honestly, and act decisively. Make It Beautiful Beauty, Nancy says, isn’t vanity — it’s integrity. “When something is beautiful,” she explains, “it just works. It makes sense. It feels right.” To her, beauty is about coherence — the alignment between purpose, experience, and design. Whether in a product, a team, or a relationship, beauty is found in thoughtfulness. It’s what happens when care is visible, when form meets function, and when details reflect intention. Nancy’s belief that beauty communicates care reframes how we think about business. Design isn’t just decoration — it’s empathy made visible. Care Like Hell This is the heartbeat of Nancy’s philosophy. To “care like hell” is to lead with conviction and compassion, even when it’s hard. “You can’t fake care,” she says. “People feel it in your tone, your timing, your touch.” In a world chasing automation and efficiency, Nancy insists that caring deeply is the ultimate differentiator. Whether it’s for your team, your customers, or your craft, genuine care shows up in the smallest acts — the follow-up call, the thoughtful design choice, the extra effort when no one’s watching. Make Purpose the Process Throughout our conversation, Nancy kept returning to the idea that purpose isn’t a statement on a wall — it’s the way you work. Each of her napkin’s lines connects to the next: solving a real problem gives your work meaning, making it beautiful gives it resonance, and caring like hell gives it soul. When combined, these principles transform leadership from performance into service. 5 Key Takeaways 1. Solve the Right Problem Real impact begins with empathy. Don’t chase trends — listen for pain points that matter. Take Action: Ask your clients or customers what keeps them up at night, not what features they want. 2. Simplicity is Beauty Great design isn’t just visual — it’s emotional clarity. Take Action: Remove one unnecessary step, process, or feature today. 3. Caring is Competitive Advantage Authentic care builds loyalty faster than any marketing strategy. Take Action: Find one way to surprise someone with thoughtfulness this week. 4. Integrity is Aesthetic Beauty is when your product, purpose, and process align seamlessly. Take Action: Audit one aspect of your business for alignment — does it reflect what you stand for? 5. Purpose Scales Better Than Hype Nancy reminds us: “Impact lasts longer than attention.” Take Action: Ask: Am I chasing visibility or value? Adjust accordingly. Closing Thoughts Nancy Johnston’s napkin — “Solve a real problem. Make it beautiful. Care like hell.” — reads like a manifesto for modern entrepreneurs and leaders. It’s a reminder that business, at its best, is an act of love disguised as innovation. The next time you feel stuck or overwhelmed, return to her three lines. They’re not just principles for leadership — they’re instructions for creating something meaningful and human. 📌 Your Turn: Take a napkin and write your own three-line manifesto. What problem will you solve? How will you make it beautiful? And how will you show that you care like hell? Share it with #PaperNapkinWisdom. Learn more about Nancy Johnston: LinkedIn: Website:
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38511525
info_outline
EP 304 - Connection + Challenge = Change -- Dr. Malik Muhammad
10/07/2025
EP 304 - Connection + Challenge = Change -- Dr. Malik Muhammad
When you meet Dr. Malik Muhammad, you immediately feel the depth of his compassion paired with the weight of his conviction. He has built a global reputation for helping communities, leaders, and organizations transform through a unique blend of restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and courageous conversations. Dr. Muhammad is the founder of Transforming Lives Inc. and also works closely with Akoben LLC, both of which are devoted to empowering leaders and communities through equity, restorative leadership, and personal transformation. In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Dr. Malik shares a deceptively simple yet profoundly powerful formula scribbled on his napkin: Connection + Challenge = Change It’s the kind of wisdom that takes a lifetime of practice and reflection to fully appreciate. As our conversation unfolded, it became clear that this formula is not just a leadership principle — it’s a human one. Why Connection First? Dr. Malik explains that transformation cannot happen in isolation. “People don’t change because you tell them to — they change because they feel seen, valued, and understood,” he says. Without connection, challenge feels like criticism or confrontation. With connection, challenge becomes a bridge to growth. This resonates deeply in leadership, parenting, education, and relationships. If people don’t feel connected, they won’t lean into the discomfort of change. Connection creates the safety net that makes challenge survivable. The Role of Challenge But connection alone isn’t enough. “We don’t grow in our comfort zones,” Malik reminds us. Challenge disrupts the inertia of habit and forces us to wrestle with new perspectives, behaviors, and truths. He describes it as the catalyst that ignites transformation. The magic is in the combination. Too much challenge without connection leads to resistance and breakdown. Too much connection without challenge leads to complacency. Together, they create the conditions for meaningful, lasting change. Change as the Outcome “Connection and challenge are not the ends — they’re the means,” Malik emphasizes. The true outcome is change. Whether in a classroom, boardroom, or living room, the measure of leadership is whether you’ve created an environment where real transformation is possible. This isn’t about forcing change on others, but rather about walking beside them. As Malik puts it, “Change is not something we do to people, it’s something we co-create with them.” 5 Key Takeaways Connection is the Foundation Build trust before expecting growth. Without connection, challenge feels like attack. Take Action: Focus on listening more deeply this week — one conversation where you ask more than you speak. Challenge Unlocks Growth People only grow when nudged outside of their comfort zones. Take Action: Identify one area where you can challenge your team (or yourself) to stretch beyond “the usual.” Balance Creates Change The right mix of connection and challenge generates transformation. Take Action: Audit your leadership style — do you lean too heavy on comfort or on criticism? Adjust accordingly. Transformation is Co-Created Change is not imposed but built through relationship. Take Action: In your next leadership moment, invite collaboration instead of dictating the outcome. Leadership is Relational, Not Transactional Titles don’t change people, relationships do. Take Action: Reach out to someone you lead and ask how they’re really doing — then listen without agenda. Closing Thoughts Dr. Malik Muhammad’s napkin wisdom reminds us that leadership is not about authority or control — it’s about creating the conditions where people feel safe enough to be challenged and strong enough to embrace change. Connection without challenge is comfort. Challenge without connection is cruelty. But together, connection and challenge make change not only possible, but inevitable. Learn more about Dr. Malik Muhammad: LinkedIn: TLI Services: Akoben LLC: More about Malik: 📌 Your Turn: Grab a napkin and write your own equation for change. Post it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom and join the conversation.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38478015
info_outline
EP 303 - No Hallmark Moments - Edge of the Napkin #7
10/05/2025
EP 303 - No Hallmark Moments - Edge of the Napkin #7
Somewhere in the middle of a weekly call with fellow entrepreneurs, the conversation unexpectedly turned to Valentine’s Day. Instead of the usual talk about scaling, strategy, and execution, we found ourselves reflecting on love, relationships, and why so many of us don’t really celebrate the Hallmark version of Valentine’s Day. That sparked a memory for me. Years ago, my daughter asked why our family didn’t go all-in on Valentine’s Day. Yes, my wife does something sweet for the kids—a little basket of goodies—but when it comes to the roses, chocolates, and candlelit dinners, we don’t do it. I told her: I don’t need to Hallmark Moments. I don’t need a card company to tell me when to celebrate the people I love. I don’t need a calendar to dictate when to tell my wife she’s special, or when to tell my daughter I’m proud of her, or when to acknowledge the people who matter to me. Beyond Hallmark: The Principle Here’s what I told my daughter that day: there’s no limit on the number of times I can tell her mother how much I value her, how much I love her, how much I appreciate everything she does for our family. Why would I wait until one day in February when I can do it every single day? This idea—No Hallmark Moments—isn’t just about love and family. It’s about leadership. Too often as leaders, we “Hallmark” our appreciation. We save it up for the big moments: the company offsite, the annual review, the holiday bonus. But what about all the days in between? What about the ordinary Tuesdays when someone on your team shows up big, solves a problem, or just keeps pushing forward? When we wait for the calendar, we miss the chance to celebrate people in real time. What Came Up on the Call On that entrepreneur call, we challenged each other to lean into this idea: don’t Hallmark your moments. Don’t wait until a special occasion to say thank you, to express gratitude, to acknowledge love. Be attentive right now. With the people in front of you now. In your family, your friendships, your leadership, your teams. That’s what creates trust. That’s what deepens connection. That’s what fuels momentum. 5 Key Takeaways Stop Waiting for Permission Love and gratitude aren’t tied to a date. Don’t wait for February 14th, or December 25th, or an annual review. The right time to appreciate someone is right now. Take Action: Tell someone today what they mean to you—don’t put it off. Celebrate the Everyday Big celebrations matter, but real connection is built in the small, daily moments of presence and recognition. Take Action: Build a habit of noticing and celebrating small wins—in your home and your business. Lead Without Hallmarking Don’t save your recognition for year-end bonuses or company retreats. Acknowledge effort in the moment. Take Action: End every meeting with at least one piece of recognition for your team. Presence is the Gift More than flowers or chocolates, what your loved ones need is your full attention, right now. Take Action: Put the phone down and look someone in the eye when you tell them they matter. Focus–Align–Act This is the FAA loop in real life: Focus on where you’re waiting for the calendar. Align by reframing: I don’t need Hallmark Moments. Act by saying it now. Take Action: Write “Say it now” on a sticky note where you’ll see it daily. Closing Thought The napkin sketch for this episode says it best: a calendar full of X’s and a speech bubble that reads, I love you. Underneath: “No Hallmark Moments.” Don’t wait. Don’t save it. Say it now. So here’s my challenge to you: before today ends, pick someone—your spouse, your child, a teammate, a friend—and give them their flowers now. Don’t Hallmark it. Don’t wait for the perfect occasion. Do it today. And when you do, share your own napkin thought. Post it, tag me, and use the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because the smallest sketches carry the biggest wisdom—small enough to fit on a napkin, big enough to change your life.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38466125
info_outline
EP 302 – The Choice of Leadership with Chris Thomson (Part 2 of 2)
10/02/2025
EP 302 – The Choice of Leadership with Chris Thomson (Part 2 of 2)
In this second half of our powerful conversation with Chris Thomson, we dive deeper into the mindset, discipline, and leadership lessons that have guided him through decades of transforming students into high-performing entrepreneurs. Chris is the Head Coach of the Student Works Management Program, a business that has trained thousands of young leaders across Canada. His story is one of building people, systems, and a culture that thrives on ownership and accountability. His wife, Helen Thomson, is his business partner and CEO of the Student Works Management Program and together they are among the most dynamic pairs of entrepreneurs in the country. Their program has likely help forge more Canadian entrepreneurs than any other program. He is also the host of the very popular Leaders of Tomorrow podcast where he features young and dedicated entrepreneurs on their journey to forge their own path in the world. Chris’ napkin for this episode reminds us that leadership is not about the title or the authority someone gives you—it’s about the intentional choice you make every day. This distinction is simple yet transformative. It forces us to confront whether we are showing up with the courage, responsibility, and consistency that leadership truly demands. Choosing Growth Over Comfort Chris points out that most people are wired to choose comfort—it’s the path of least resistance. But leadership requires choosing growth, even when it feels uncomfortable. Growth demands risk, vulnerability, and a willingness to fail forward. His message is clear: every great leader has to wrestle with the temptation of comfort, and the best ones consistently choose growth. Take Action: Next time you’re faced with a difficult decision, pause and ask yourself: Am I choosing growth, or am I defaulting to comfort? Write it down and commit to the growth path. Building a Culture of Accountability One of the strongest threads in Chris’ work is accountability. At Student Works, young leaders are taught not just to deliver results but to own their commitments fully. Chris emphasizes that accountability is the backbone of trust and performance. Without it, teams drift. With it, they thrive. Take Action: Introduce a simple accountability rhythm in your team this week. It could be a weekly check-in where everyone reports on one promise made and one promise kept. The Discipline of Consistency Chris makes it clear that success isn’t built on flashes of brilliance but on disciplined, consistent effort. Leaders set the tone by showing up every day, prepared, focused, and ready to do the hard things. That consistency compounds over time and creates the culture others can rely on. Take Action: Identify one leadership behavior you want to model consistently for your team (e.g., starting meetings on time, always closing the loop on commitments). Practice it relentlessly for the next 30 days. Mentorship as Multiplication A powerful insight Chris shares is the multiplier effect of mentorship. When a leader invests deeply in someone else’s growth, that impact ripples outward exponentially. The students Chris has mentored are now leaders who are mentoring others—creating a legacy of growth and excellence. Take Action: Identify one person in your world who has potential but needs encouragement. Reach out, invest time, and open a door for them. Owning Your Leadership Journey At the core of Chris’ message is ownership. Leaders don’t wait for permission to step up—they own their journey, their choices, and their impact. Leadership is not a someday aspiration. It’s a today decision. Take Action: Write down your personal leadership commitment on a napkin. What is the one sentence that captures the leader you want to be? Post it where you’ll see it daily. About Chris Thomson Chris Thomson is the Head Coach and Leader of the Student Works Management Program, an organization dedicated to building the next generation of entrepreneurs through hands-on business experience. Over decades, Chris has coached thousands of university students to run their own businesses, building a legacy of leaders across Canada. and follow the for more insights. Follow the as well. At Paper Napkin Wisdom, we believe small ideas can spark big change. What’s your biggest takeaway from Chris’ wisdom? Grab a napkin, write it down, and share it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Your next big shift might just start with one small choice.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38395160
info_outline
EP 301 – Cancer is a Journey - Chris Thomson (Part 1 of 2)
09/30/2025
EP 301 – Cancer is a Journey - Chris Thomson (Part 1 of 2)
Introduction In this very personal and powerful episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I sit down with one of my oldest friends, Chris Thomson, Head Coach of the . Chris has spent decades shaping young leaders, building more entrepreneurs in Canada than perhaps anyone else. His story has always been one of creating opportunity and pushing boundaries—but today, his napkin is not about business. His wife, Helen Thomson, is his business partner and CEO of the Student Works Management Program and together they are among the most dynamic pairs of entrepreneurs in the country. Their program has likely help forge more Canadian entrepreneurs than any other program. He is also the host of the very popular Leaders of Tomorrow podcast where he features young and dedicated entrepreneurs on their journey to forge their own path in the world. Chris brings forward a message that is raw, human, and deeply resonant: “Cancer is a journey.” After being diagnosed three years ago, Chris has learned to see this experience not just as a challenge but as a pathway filled with lessons, clarity, and growth. This is part one of a two-part conversation where Chris shares not just his fight with cancer, but the wisdom he’s drawing from it—wisdom that will change how you see your own challenges. The Napkin: Cancer is a Journey When Chris chose those words for his napkin, he wasn’t sugarcoating the reality. He acknowledged the fear, the uncertainty, and the deep personal impact of living with cancer. But he framed it in a way that shifts perspective: instead of a battle to be fought or a curse to be endured, it’s a journey—one with lessons along the way. He explains how friends and mentors encouraged him to share his experience, and how openness helped him overcome the fear of other people’s opinions. That fear, he says, doesn’t disappear just because you’ve achieved success. It lingers until you confront it directly. Lessons from the Journey Through this conversation, Chris highlights a few themes that entrepreneurs and leaders can apply far beyond the context of illness: Openness Creates Connection By sharing his cancer journey publicly, Chris found a new depth of support, love, and community. Leaders often think they must project strength at all times, but true strength is often in vulnerability. Take Action: Start small. Share one struggle you’ve been carrying alone with someone you trust. Notice the connection it creates. Fear of Opinions Is Universal Chris notes that even people at the top—CEOs, entrepreneurs, public figures—still wrestle with the fear of how others perceive them. That fear doesn’t vanish with success; it must be challenged intentionally. Take Action: Write down one opinion you’ve been afraid to face. Ask yourself: “What if it didn’t matter?” Then act as though it doesn’t. Challenges Are Teachers Cancer, as devastating as it is, has been a teacher for Chris. It forced him to slow down, reframe priorities, and find meaning in places he might have overlooked before. Take Action: Reframe your current obstacle as a teacher. What lesson is it offering you right now? Gratitude in the Face of Hardship Chris repeatedly emphasizes gratitude—gratitude for support, for medical care, and even for the perspective the journey brings. Gratitude doesn’t deny difficulty; it reshapes how we meet it. Take Action: Each night, write down three things you’re grateful for—even on your hardest days. Legacy Is Built in Real Time For Chris, the Student Works program has always been about creating leaders who impact the world. His cancer journey has deepened that sense of legacy. What you do today—how you treat people, how you face challenges—is the legacy you’re already leaving. Take Action: Ask yourself, “What will people remember about me from this season of my life?” Adjust accordingly. About Chris Thomson Chris Thomson is the Head Coach and Leader of the Student Works Management Program, an organization dedicated to building the next generation of entrepreneurs through hands-on business experience. Over decades, Chris has coached thousands of university students to run their own businesses, building a legacy of leaders across Canada. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn () and follow the Student Works Management Program () for more insights. Follow the Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast () as well. Final Thoughts This is not an easy conversation. Talking about cancer never is. But Chris reminds us that even the hardest realities can carry wisdom if we’re willing to see them differently. His napkin—“Cancer is a journey”—is a challenge to every leader and entrepreneur: don’t just endure your obstacles, learn from them. Now, it’s your turn. Grab a napkin and write down your takeaway from Chris’s story. What lesson can you draw from your own challenges? Post it on social media with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom and join the conversation. Because small ideas—like words on a napkin—can lead to big shifts.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38391535
info_outline
EP 300 – The Mountain Path of Focus–Align–Act - Edge of the Napkin #6
09/28/2025
EP 300 – The Mountain Path of Focus–Align–Act - Edge of the Napkin #6
Episode 300 is a milestone — and fittingly, it circles back to the single most important lesson Govindh Jayaraman has learned over the past decade. This Edge of the Napkin moment distills years of hard-earned wisdom into a deceptively simple sketch: a mountain path labeled Focus, Align, Act. At first glance, it looks like a winding road up a peak. But listen closely and you’ll hear it’s really a life framework. This napkin isn’t about theory — it’s about how Govindh has lived, stumbled, re-centered, and climbed. Focus: See It Clearly The summit begins with clarity. As Govindh recalls sitting at breakfast with his wife Stacey and Sam Horn in Athens back in 2014, he realized the trap of drifting without a sharp lens. Focus means naming the mountain you’re climbing — not “a mountain,” but your mountain. When you see it clearly, distractions fall away. The right actions and right people come into view. Without this clarity, every detour feels like progress but takes you off-course. Align: Re-Center Daily The winding path on the napkin isn’t accidental — it’s real life. Nobody walks in a perfectly straight line toward their goals. Alignment is the daily act of re-centering. It’s not about perfection; it’s about the reset. As Govindh shares in the episode, alignment has to be constant, because life has a way of pulling you sideways. You don’t need to beat yourself up for drifting — you just need to notice, re-center, and realign. This is where discipline becomes grace. Act: All-In! At the base of the mountain is the stick figure — you, ready to move. Action matters. Not tentative, hesitant action, but all-in action. Govindh calls this the single hardest part: when you know the path, you still need the courage to walk it. Without action, focus is just a dream, and alignment is just talk. Action is what gives both meaning. 5 Key Takeaways Clarity Before Climb You can’t climb every mountain. Choose your mountain. Take Action: Write down your one big focus for this quarter. Just one. Drift is Normal Nobody stays perfectly aligned all the time. Expect detours. Take Action: Build a five-minute daily ritual to check your alignment. Grace in Re-Centering Alignment isn’t about judgment, it’s about return. Take Action: When you catch yourself off-track, reframe it as a win: you noticed, now realign. All-In Action Wins Half-hearted effort guarantees half-hearted results. Take Action: Pick one action today and commit to going 100% in. The Mountain is Daily Focus–Align–Act isn’t a one-time project, it’s an ongoing climb. Take Action: Map your day against the FAA model each morning. Why This Matters Episode 300 isn’t just a milestone number. It’s a reminder that Paper Napkin Wisdom has always been about turning simple sketches into profound shifts. The napkin shows that success is not a straight line — it’s a winding climb, one you re-center on every single day. So the question for you is: What’s the mountain you’re climbing right now? Grab a napkin, write it down, sketch your own Focus–Align–Act path, and share it with the world using #PaperNapkinWisdom.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38380890
info_outline
EP 299 – Kevin Barnicle: The Power of Doing the Opposite
09/25/2025
EP 299 – Kevin Barnicle: The Power of Doing the Opposite
When you meet Kevin Barnicle, you immediately sense his energy for challenging convention. He’s a seasoned entrepreneur, author, and business leader who has lived the entrepreneurial rollercoaster—leaving the security of corporate life, building companies from scratch, navigating competition with giants like Microsoft, and eventually selling his business. Along the way, Kevin built not just financial results but also a reputation for going against the grain. His napkin is simple, direct, and deeply subversive: “Look at what everyone else is doing, and do the opposite.” That contrarian mindset has been Kevin’s compass since the beginning. While peers at his first job stayed put, clinging to the “safe” path, Kevin leaned into uncertainty. Everyone around him said don’t leave, yet he did—choosing risk, learning, and growth over predictability. That decision shaped his entrepreneurial DNA and continues to shape how he builds, leads, and invests today. Why Doing the Opposite Works Kevin’s wisdom doesn’t advocate rebellion for its own sake. It’s about pattern recognition. When the crowd rushes in one direction—whether in career moves, product design, or sales strategy—Kevin asks: What if the real opportunity lies in zigging where others zag? He recalls moments when competition was fierce, deals were slipping, or the company hit a plateau. The instinct was to double down on what everyone else was already doing. Instead, Kevin went to the engineers, questioned assumptions, and tried the opposite approach. Time and again, that willingness to break from the herd opened doors competitors never saw. As Kevin puts it: success isn’t just about copying someone else’s wheel; it’s about questioning whether you even need a wheel at all. 5 Key Takeaways from Kevin Barnicle 1. Don’t Follow the Herd Most people stick to “safe” jobs or obvious strategies. The real growth often comes from stepping into the unknown. 👉 Take Action: Identify one area of your business where you’re doing what “everyone else” does. Ask: What would happen if I did the opposite? 2. Calculated Risk is Healthy Kevin stresses that risk shouldn’t be reckless. But if you only play it safe, you’ll never break through. 👉 Take Action: Reframe failure as an experiment. Try one bold move this quarter that carries risk but also real learning potential. 3. Question Assumptions, Constantly When things stall, don’t just grind harder. Step back and ask: What if our entire approach is wrong? 👉 Take Action: In your next team meeting, challenge everyone to propose an “opposite” idea to the current strategy. 4. Empower Others to Experiment Kevin found that when leaders give permission to try—even if it fails—it builds stronger, more resilient teams. 👉 Take Action: Create space in your culture where people can test unconventional ideas without fear of blame. 5. Legacy is More Than Money Kevin’s reflection goes beyond financial success. He speaks of humility, giving back, and sharing lessons learned. Doing the opposite isn’t just business strategy—it’s a way to live authentically. 👉 Take Action: Write down one contrarian decision you’ve made in your life. What did it teach you? How can you pass that lesson forward? About Kevin Barnicle Kevin Barnicle is an entrepreneur, investor, and author whose career spans technology, sales, and leadership. After starting at Dell, he launched his own company in a highly competitive space, grew it to millions in revenue, and successfully sold it. He continues to share his hard-earned lessons through writing and speaking, inspiring entrepreneurs to embrace risk, think differently, and lead boldly. 📖 💼 Final Thought Kevin Barnicle’s napkin is a dare: don’t just follow. Don’t just blend in. Don’t just accept the rules. Instead, have the courage to step into the opposite lane—and see where it leads. What about you? Take out a napkin, jot down the one place where you’ll “do the opposite,” and share it with the world using #PaperNapkinWisdom.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38336275
info_outline
EP 298 – Juan DeAngulo: True to Myself, Release the Outcome
09/23/2025
EP 298 – Juan DeAngulo: True to Myself, Release the Outcome
On this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I sat down with Juan DeAngulo, a veteran investor, entrepreneur, and systems thinker whose work bridges discipline and heart. Juan has scaled billion-dollar investment platforms, co-founded Inselligence—a fast-growing tech startup—and, just as importantly, learned to balance leadership with wellness after battling through years of personal struggle. But his napkin is deceptively simple: “I am true to myself and I release the outcome.” Written on December 21, 2023, this phrase captures the essence of a leader who has lived both the cost and the gift of authenticity. The Power of Truth to Self Juan shares in the conversation that too often, leaders bend themselves to fit expectations—investors, clients, even their own self-imposed standards. The napkin reminds us that real clarity starts with aligning choices to who we are, not who we think others want us to be. When you’re true to yourself, decisions become less about approval and more about alignment. As Juan puts it, that’s where courage begins: being willing to stand in your own truth, even if the path is uncertain. Releasing the Outcome The second part of Juan’s wisdom is just as critical. Once you’ve acted from a place of authenticity, you can’t cling to the result. He describes how early in his career he suffered from crippling anxiety and panic attacks—driven by an obsession with outcomes. Only when he learned to let go of the uncontrollable did he begin to reclaim peace and resilience. “Release the outcome” isn’t resignation. It’s freedom. It’s choosing to focus on process, presence, and people—knowing the results will follow. Five Key Takeaways Authenticity is the anchor. Align with who you are before you align with strategy or market. Take Action: Write down one decision you’re facing and ask: is this truly aligned with who I am? Control the process, not the results. You can own your effort and habits, but not the scoreboard. Take Action: Identify one area where you’re outcome-obsessed and reframe it into process goals. Anxiety comes from gripping too tightly. Juan’s story of panic attacks shows how unsustainable it is to carry everything. Take Action: Create a daily ritual—meditation, journaling, or exercise—that helps you let go. Resilience is a practice, not a trait. It’s built by repeatedly showing up, grounded in truth, even when results are uncertain. Take Action: Track your “resilience reps”—moments when you acted authentically despite fear. Leadership is human connection. Systems and processes matter, but they’re only powerful when built on genuine human trust. Take Action: This week, check in with one teammate not about performance, but about how they’re doing as a person. Why This Matters Today In a world obsessed with metrics, hacks, and shortcuts, Juan’s napkin cuts through the noise. Leaders everywhere are tempted to measure themselves only by outcomes. But true transformation happens when you ground yourself in authenticity and trust the process. About Juan DeAngulo Juan DeAngulo is the co-founder and CEO of , a platform bringing process intelligence to sales operations across three continents. He previously co-founded a real estate investment platform managing over $4 billion in assets. A graduate of Harvard Business School’s OPM program, Juan combines investment discipline with startup agility. Beyond his professional achievements, Juan’s journey through debilitating anxiety and recovery through meditation, wellness, and holistic growth makes his leadership deeply human. Today, he is recognized as a culture architect—helping entrepreneurs and organizations design scalable systems, healthy cultures, and authentic leadership practices. Connect with Juan on . Your Turn Juan’s napkin challenges us all: Are you being true to yourself? And if you are, can you release the outcome? Grab a napkin, write down your answer, and share it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because when we act from authenticity and let go of the rest, we discover freedom—and often, better results than we could have planned.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38306070
info_outline
EP 297 – Edge of the Napkin #5 Growth or Comfort … Pick One
09/21/2025
EP 297 – Edge of the Napkin #5 Growth or Comfort … Pick One
This is an uncomfortable conversation. Every single day, we make choices — most of them so routine that we barely notice. How do you like your steak cooked — rare, medium, or well-done? At Thanksgiving, do you reach for the light meat or the dark? Keto or paleo? Lean muscle or bulk? Strong coffee or a lighter roast? They’re little decisions about taste, texture, preference. About comfort. But it doesn’t stop there. We choose friends who do what we do. We find partners who share our interests. We build identities around playlists, sports teams, and streaming choices. And in leadership? We double down. We read Start With Why. We define core values. We tell ourselves we’ll only hire people who “fit.” That isn’t wrong — but it’s dangerously easy to confuse alignment with values for simple agreement with me. And that’s where the trap lies: we like what feels like us. We choose sameness. We surround ourselves with comfort. Comfort feels good. Comfort feels safe. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: comfort is rarely where growth lives. Growth or Comfort … Pick One On this week’s napkin, the choice is stark. On one side: Comfort. A soft armchair, with a little “Zzz” floating above it. Safe. Restful. Easy. On the other side: Growth. A stick figure climbing a ladder up a mountain peak. Hard. Demanding. Stretching. The napkin says it plainly: Growth or Comfort … Pick One. You can’t sit in the chair and climb the mountain at the same time. The Three Frames The Kimmel suspension story that dominated headlines this week is a real-world example of how we fall into comfort instead of growth. Depending on which frame you live in, the same event looks entirely different. The Right-Wing Frame (Fox, Breitbart): Kimmel crossed a line. Affiliates and ABC did the right thing. FCC Chair Brendan Carr wasn’t censoring; he was enforcing standards and protecting the public interest. Comfort here comes from order and accountability. The Moderate Frame (Guardian, Variety, PBS): The unusual part wasn’t the joke but the FCC Chair’s public threats. Affiliates pulled the show first, ABC followed. The story is about pressure, timing, and precedent. Comfort here comes from process and balance. The Left/Press-Freedom Frame (ACLU, WaPo, late-night peers): This was censorship by pressure. Carr’s threats created a chilling effect on free speech. Comfort here comes from defending openness and dissent. Three frames. Three comforts. Same facts, filtered differently. But here’s the thing: if we only live in the frame that feels good to us, we miss the full picture. Comfort makes us blind to growth. What Leaders Must Do As leaders, we face this choice every day: comfort or growth. Notice the trap. Am I making this decision because it’s true, or because it feels like me? Separate values from preferences. Integrity is a value. Steak rare vs. well-done? That’s preference. Don’t mistake taste for truth. Invite friction. Healthy teams require dissent. Innovation comes from difference. If everyone nods in agreement, ask: What are we missing? Expand your lens. Just as your media diet needs more than one frame, your leadership needs more than one perspective. Comfort preserves the present. Growth creates the future. Your Call to Action This napkin asks something hard of all of us: Growth or Comfort … Pick One. Where in your life are you choosing the armchair when you know you should be climbing the ladder? Where in your leadership are you mistaking agreement for alignment, preference for principle? Growth doesn’t come from what feels good. It comes from what stretches you. So here’s your challenge: grab a napkin, write down one place where you’ve been choosing comfort over growth, and then post it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because the truth is — every leader, every entrepreneur, every difference-maker faces this choice. Growth or comfort. You can’t have both.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38294865
info_outline
EP 296 - Paper Napkin Wisdom with Jimmy Park
09/18/2025
EP 296 - Paper Napkin Wisdom with Jimmy Park
Every once in a while, a Paper Napkin Wisdom napkin shows up that makes you laugh, makes you think, and ultimately stays with you long after the conversation is over. Episode 296 with Jimmy Park is one of those. This episode was recorded in 2017 but never released—until now, as we approach our 300th milestone. Pulling it out of the archives feels especially timely, because Jimmy’s message is universal, evergreen, and deeply practical. Jimmy Park is a longtime New York business connector and member of Gotham Networking. He has spent years helping entrepreneurs and professionals build stronger relationships and find opportunity in unexpected places. True to his work and his life, Jimmy’s napkin is not polished or corporate—it’s raw, funny, and real: “Stay happy when you step in dogshit.” Turning Life’s Messes into Lessons At first glance, Jimmy’s napkin might sound like a joke. But as he explained, it’s anything but. Every entrepreneur and leader will eventually step into their own version of “dogshit.” Mistakes, setbacks, bad timing, or just plain bad luck—it’s inevitable. You can’t control everything, no matter how good your planning is. And here’s the wisdom: if it’s unavoidable, why waste energy being angry? You’re still left with the same mess on your shoe. The only real choice you have is your attitude. Do you stay upset and let it ruin your day, or do you laugh, clean it up, and keep moving? Jimmy framed it as both a personal philosophy and a leadership tool. By accepting that problems will happen, you reduce the emotional drag of surprise. You stay grounded, positive, and solution-focused—even when things get messy. The Illusion of Perfect Planning One of the most striking points Jimmy made is how often entrepreneurs believe they can plan their way out of problems. Leaders pour endless time and energy into scenario mapping, safeguards, and contingencies. And yes, preparation matters—but it doesn’t guarantee immunity from chaos. Sometimes life just throws “dogshit” in your path. A competitor undercuts you. A deal falls through at the last minute. A trusted employee makes a mistake. You can’t prevent every mishap. But you can prepare your mindset. Jimmy’s napkin reminds us that resilience is less about prediction and more about reaction. Humor as a Leadership Tool Another layer in Jimmy’s wisdom is humor. His napkin makes you laugh because it’s so blunt. But that’s also the point—humor disarms negativity. When you approach an obstacle with a smile, you reduce tension for yourself and for those around you. Leaders who use humor in tough times often keep their teams more motivated, more creative, and less anxious. Jimmy’s perspective shows that humor isn’t just a coping mechanism—it’s a strategy for keeping morale intact. Acceptance Creates Agility There’s also a subtle power in the word “stay” from Jimmy’s napkin. It’s not just about becoming happy after something goes wrong. It’s about staying happy—maintaining a baseline of positivity that isn’t easily shaken. That mindset creates agility. Instead of spiraling into “why me” thinking, you pivot quickly. Instead of being paralyzed by anger, you make faster decisions. Staying happy doesn’t mean ignoring problems—it means not letting them control your energy. 5 Key Takeaways & Take Action Items Problems Are Inevitable, Not Optional Take Action: Stop wasting energy on wishing things were different. Build routines that help you reset quickly when setbacks occur. Your Reaction Is Your Power Take Action: When something frustrating happens, pause and ask yourself: “What’s the most constructive emotional response I can choose right now?” Planning Won’t Save You From Chaos Take Action: Reframe planning sessions to include mindset prep. Ask your team: “How will we stay positive if this goes wrong?” Humor Lightens Heavy Moments Take Action: Use lighthearted language in team meetings when addressing mistakes. It shifts the atmosphere from blame to growth. Stay Happy, Don’t Just Get Happy Take Action: Develop rituals—gratitude journaling, short walks, music—that help you hold onto a baseline of happiness, even when the unexpected hits. Jimmy Park’s napkin is as memorable as it is practical: “Stay happy when you step in dogshit.” It’s a vivid reminder that leadership isn’t about avoiding problems—it’s about choosing how to show up when problems inevitably find you. As we approach the 300th episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, revisiting gems like this feels like the perfect way to celebrate. Now it’s your turn: what’s the “dogshit” moment in your journey that taught you resilience? Write it down on a napkin, snap a picture, and share it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because the world needs your wisdom too. About Jimmy Park Jimmy Park is a longtime New York–based business leader and connector, known for his work within Gotham Networking, one of the city’s premier business communities. Through his career, Jimmy has built a reputation for bringing people together, creating opportunity, and sharing practical wisdom shaped by both success and setbacks. His approach is straightforward and authentic—finding humor and lessons in life’s unpredictable moments, and helping others see that resilience and connection are at the heart of leadership. 🔗 Learn more about Jimmy through his . Why a 2017 Conversation Matters Today You might be wondering: why release a conversation from the archives now? The answer is simple—Jimmy Park’s wisdom is timeless. Recorded in 2017, this napkin was shared before the world experienced a global pandemic, before market turbulence redefined how leaders think about uncertainty, and before so many of the challenges we now see as “normal.” And yet, the lesson holds just as true today—maybe even more so. In a world where disruption, volatility, and unexpected setbacks are everyday realities, Jimmy’s advice to “stay happy when you step in dogshit” is exactly the mindset entrepreneurs and leaders need. It reminds us that no matter how advanced our planning tools get, no matter how fast the world changes, our real competitive edge lies in how we respond when things don’t go our way.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38229635
info_outline
EP 295: Adam Hudson — Timeless Lessons on Building Freedom Through Business
09/16/2025
EP 295: Adam Hudson — Timeless Lessons on Building Freedom Through Business
Paper Napkin Wisdom Episode 295: Adam Hudson — Timeless Lessons on Building Freedom Through Business Sometimes, the most powerful wisdom waits patiently for the right moment. Episode 295 of Paper Napkin Wisdom is one of those moments. This conversation with Adam Hudson, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of and host of Discover Your Talent, was recorded back in 2017. For a variety of reasons, it never made it out into the world—until now. As we march toward our 300th episode milestone, it feels fitting to dust off gems like this from the archives. Why? Because the truths Adam shares on his napkin are timeless. They resonate as much today as they did eight years ago, maybe even more so. Adam’s entrepreneurial journey has spanned multiple continents, industries, and markets. He has built and sold businesses, mentored founders, and consistently pursued freedom—not just financial, but freedom of time, energy, and purpose. His napkin from this conversation distilled that pursuit into something simple, sharp, and unforgettable. The Napkin: A Blueprint for Freedom Adam’s napkin was deceptively simple. He captured the essence of what entrepreneurship is really about—not chasing money for money’s sake, but using business as a vehicle to create freedom and impact. On the napkin, he mapped out a perspective many founders miss in the rush of daily operations: Business is not the goal; it’s the tool. Revenue and profit matter, but only in service of the life you’re trying to build. The greatest ROI comes when you align your business model with your personal values and desired lifestyle. This clarity is what separates entrepreneurs who burn out from those who thrive for decades. Lessons from the Conversation Revisiting this conversation in 2025, one thing jumps out: how relevant Adam’s words are in a world where entrepreneurship has only accelerated. His transcript is full of moments where he calls out truths that cut across industries and eras. He spoke about the trap of busyness—how founders often confuse activity with progress. “It’s easy to get seduced into believing you’re building something meaningful just because you’re working hard,” Adam shared. But without stepping back to ask whether your actions align with your bigger purpose, all that effort can become empty. Adam also emphasized simplicity as a strategy. “Complexity kills freedom,” he explained. A bloated product line, a scattered marketing strategy, or a tangled org chart can all choke the very flexibility that entrepreneurs crave. His prescription? Ruthless focus on what works, pruning away everything else. Perhaps the most powerful throughline of the transcript was Adam’s belief in value creation as the north star. “When you focus on delivering genuine value to real people, money becomes the byproduct,” he said. That mindset shift—from chasing revenue to serving deeply—becomes the foundation of both financial and personal freedom. 5 Key Takeaways Business Is a Vehicle, Not the Destination Take Action: Write down what freedom means to you personally (time, travel, relationships, creative work). Then audit your business—does it actually move you toward that definition, or away from it? Beware the Busyness Trap Take Action: Track your week and sort tasks into two columns: busywork and impact work. Double down on the latter, delegate or delete the former. Simplicity Is a Competitive Advantage Take Action: Identify one process, product, or offering you can streamline this quarter. The simpler your model, the easier it is to scale and the freer you become. Value Creation First, Revenue Second Take Action: Ask your top five customers: “What’s the single biggest outcome you get from working with us?” Use that as the anchor for every decision. Freedom Is the True ROI Take Action: Schedule a quarterly “freedom review.” Check if your business is giving you more or less of the freedom you envisioned when you started. Adjust ruthlessly. Why This Matters in 2025 When Adam and I recorded this in 2017, Amazon FBA was exploding, digital entrepreneurship was gaining traction, and the idea of building a business around your lifestyle was still a bit radical. Fast forward to today: remote work, digital-first businesses, and location-independent lifestyles are mainstream. And yet—the core questions Adam posed remain unanswered for too many founders: Are you building a business that owns you, or one that frees you? Are you measuring success by revenue, or by the life it allows you to live? Are you focused on creating value, or just on extracting profit? That’s why pulling this conversation from the archives matters. The wisdom here isn’t dated—it’s evergreen. About Adam Hudson Adam Hudson is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and mentor. Based in Australia, he has built multiple businesses across industries and is best known for his work helping entrepreneurs achieve freedom through e-commerce and online business. He is the founder of , where he teaches entrepreneurs how to leverage the new economy to live life on their terms. He also hosts the , where he shares stories and strategies for aligning business with purpose. Final Thought Releasing this episode now, as Paper Napkin Wisdom approaches its 300th conversation, is both a look back and a reminder. Sometimes the ideas we need most aren’t new—they’re the ones that have been patiently waiting for us to be ready. Adam’s napkin challenges us to strip away the noise, focus on value, and pursue freedom with intention. The question for you is: What kind of freedom are you really building? I’d love for you to share your answer—on an actual napkin. Write down your definition of freedom, snap a photo, and post it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Let’s make this conversation one that doesn’t just sit in the archives, but lives in your daily choices.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38208990
info_outline
EP 294 - Edge of the Napkin #4 - Rest. In. Peace.
09/14/2025
EP 294 - Edge of the Napkin #4 - Rest. In. Peace.
Some episodes of Paper Napkin Wisdom are easy to listen to, packed with energizing insights and clear strategies for growth. Others are heavier — not because they lack value, but because the wisdom forces us to pause, reflect, and wrestle with the uncomfortable. Episode 294 is one of those conversations. This week, Govindh sits down with three little letters we all know: RIP. We’ve all said them. We’ve read them on tombstones, typed them in comments, whispered them at funerals. But how often do we really consider what they mean? And what happens when they appear in the midst of public controversy, where the conversation around death is anything but peaceful? On his napkin for this episode, Govindh wrote three concentric circles: Rest at the center. In in the middle. Peace as the outer ring. It looks simple, but like so many Paper Napkin Wisdom sketches, it carries weight. It challenges us to expand our understanding of what it means when we say, “Rest in Peace.” Why This Episode is Uncomfortable Govindh opens with honesty: he wasn’t sure if he even wanted to record this one. Death is uncomfortable. Public figures dying is uncomfortable. The polarized conversations that follow — filled with judgment, blame, or sometimes misplaced celebration — are uncomfortable. But that’s why Edge of the Napkin exists: to lean into what most people avoid. As Govindh puts it: “We said we would have uncomfortable conversations, and Edge of the Napkin was where we were going to have them.” And he’s right. If wisdom is only drawn from what feels good, it misses the messy truths that shape leadership and life. Redefining R.I.P. Traditionally, RIP is shorthand for Rest in Peace. But Govindh reframes it: Rest → The release from struggle, the stillness after life’s battles. In → Inclusion, belonging, the recognition that death — and life — connect us, not divide us. Peace → Not a conditional peace, not “peace for some,” but a universal peace that transcends politics, belief systems, and personal conflicts. It’s not about excusing harm or ignoring legacies. It’s about recognizing that at the end, everyone — friend or foe — deserves rest. And that perhaps in death, we can find a way to create peace in the living conversations that follow. Optimism and Hope in a Hard Place One of the most powerful reframes in this episode is Govindh’s insistence on hope. It would be easy to turn this into despair — another example of how divided our world is. But instead, he points us toward optimism. The challenge isn’t to sanitize or silence the hard truths. It’s to ask: how do we turn loss into learning? How do we transform anger into growth? How do we find a way to hold both grief and gratitude? 5 Key Takeaways + Take Action Here are five lessons leaders, entrepreneurs, and difference makers can carry forward from this conversation: 1. Sit in the Uncomfortable Avoiding hard conversations weakens leadership. Take Action: Choose one uncomfortable topic this week you’ve been dodging — with your team, your family, or yourself — and name it aloud. 2. Reframe Symbols We Take for Granted “RIP” is more than a platitude. It can be a lens for reflection. Take Action: Pick a phrase or concept you use often without thinking. Ask: what does this really mean? What could it mean if I expanded it? 3. Practice Universal Inclusion “In” means recognizing shared humanity, even when you disagree. Take Action: Reach out to someone across an ideological or personal divide. Not to debate — but to listen. 4. Lead with Peace, Not Blame Peace doesn’t mean avoiding truth; it means choosing resolution over escalation. Take Action: In your next conflict, swap “but” for “and.” Watch how it shifts the conversation. 5. Choose Optimism, Even in Loss Hope is a discipline. Take Action: In moments of grief, ask: what lesson can I carry forward to honor this life? Final Thought This episode is not light. It’s not meant to be. It’s meant to remind us that leadership isn’t just about building businesses, hitting KPIs, or scaling strategies. It’s about how we show up in the hardest conversations — the ones about loss, conflict, and meaning. Govindh leaves us with the truth that when we say Rest in Peace, it isn’t just about the one who’s gone. It’s about us, too. Will we allow rest? Will we choose inclusion? Will we seek peace? This conversation is uncomfortable — and that’s the point.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38208880
info_outline
EP 293 – Steven Rothberg: If a Customer Wants to Pay More, Let Them
09/11/2025
EP 293 – Steven Rothberg: If a Customer Wants to Pay More, Let Them
When you sit down with someone like Steven Rothberg, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of , you expect to hear insights about hiring, technology, and the future of work. What you might not expect is a napkin that sums up decades of wisdom in a sentence so straightforward it almost sounds too simple: “If a customer wants to give you more money, find a way of making that happen. $$$” At first glance, it feels like sales advice. But during our conversation, it became clear that Steven’s napkin is less about sales tactics and more about mindset. It’s about curiosity, listening, and the courage to grow your business in partnership with your customers instead of in isolation from them. The Origins of the Napkin Steven explained that this napkin wisdom didn’t come from a single “aha” moment but from years of conversations with clients. Over time, he noticed a pattern: customers would ask for things that weren’t on the official menu. Sometimes they wanted a slightly different feature. Sometimes they asked for more robust reporting or a more targeted audience. And sometimes, they were just willing to spend more if Steven’s team could meet a need better than anyone else. Many leaders instinctively shy away from these requests. They think: “That’s not what we do,” or “We can’t risk diluting our focus.” But Steven saw these questions differently. Each one was a clue. Each one was a chance to say, “What if we could?” This perspective became part of the DNA at College Recruiter, and it’s one of the reasons the platform grew from a small niche job board into one of the most respected platforms connecting students and employers worldwide. Why Leaders Miss These Signals One of the most striking parts of our discussion was Steven’s take on why so many entrepreneurs and leaders overlook these opportunities. Too often, businesses are so locked into their product roadmap that they forget the roadmap is supposed to serve the customer—not the other way around. Steven told me that some of his biggest breakthroughs came not from what his team had planned, but from what clients asked for. He shared examples where a client’s request sounded small at first but eventually evolved into a scalable new revenue stream. Instead of brushing off the request, he leaned into it, curious about how to make it work. It’s not about chasing every shiny object. It’s about noticing when the customer is signaling that they want to go deeper with you. The Win-Win Philosophy The other nuance of Steven’s napkin is that it’s not about upselling for the sake of upselling. He made it clear: customers will only happily pay more if they feel like they’re getting more. The transaction has to be a win-win. At College Recruiter, this meant building systems to measure and deliver additional value whenever they expanded offerings. If a client wanted to pay more to reach a specific audience segment, the team didn’t just take the check—they figured out how to build the tools and reporting that would ensure the client saw results. That’s the kind of approach that transforms a customer from a one-time buyer into a long-term partner. Curiosity as a Growth Strategy One of my favorite parts of this conversation was when Steven talked about curiosity. For him, curiosity wasn’t just a trait—it was a growth strategy. When a customer asked for something new, he didn’t immediately think of reasons why it couldn’t work. Instead, he asked questions. He explored possibilities. This curiosity often led to innovation, and it reinforced a culture at College Recruiter where the team felt empowered to ask: “What if we could?” In the long run, that curiosity helped Steven and his team build a company that stayed relevant even as the hiring landscape shifted dramatically. The Lesson for Entrepreneurs and Leaders Steven’s napkin wisdom is deceptively simple, but it’s also incredibly powerful. Too many leaders think growth comes from pushing harder on the products they already sell. In reality, some of the best growth comes from noticing when customers are asking for more and then having the courage and creativity to make it happen. It’s not about saying yes to everything. It’s about knowing which yeses align with your mission and create real value. That’s how you build revenue, loyalty, and a reputation for being the kind of company that listens. 5 Key Takeaways (with Take Action steps) 1. Customers Signal Opportunities—Listen Closely When a client hints at spending more, it’s rarely random. It’s a signal of untapped value. Steven’s success came from leaning into those signals. Take Action: Log every client request that goes beyond your current offerings. Review them monthly to spot patterns worth pursuing. 2. Expand Without Dilution Saying yes doesn’t mean losing focus. Steven’s team always tied new services back to their mission of connecting students and employers. Take Action: Run all new opportunities through a mission filter. If it doesn’t clearly align, let it go. 3. Small Changes Can Unlock Big Revenue Sometimes the difference isn’t a brand-new product—it’s a tweak in packaging or pricing. Take Action: Review your pricing and packages quarterly. Ask: “Where are we making it hard for customers to buy more from us?” 4. Win-Win Is the Only Way Upselling only works if the customer walks away feeling like they got more. Otherwise, you’re burning trust. Take Action: Add a “value check” to your process. Ask customers: “Does this feel like it gives you the value you need?” 5. Curiosity Beats Complacency Steven’s curiosity fueled innovation and growth. It helped his company evolve alongside the market. Take Action: Make “What if we could?” a team mantra. Use it to spark brainstorming sessions whenever a client makes a request. About Steven Rothberg Steven Rothberg is the Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of , the leading job search site for students and recent graduates. For more than 25 years, Steven has been a voice for equity and access in early-career hiring, helping employers and candidates connect in more meaningful ways. You can connect with him on . Final Thought Steven’s napkin reminds us: growth isn’t always about what we want to sell. It’s often about what the customer is ready to buy. When customers invite us to grow with them, our job is simple—don’t get in the way. Find a way of making it happen. Now it’s your turn. Grab a napkin, jot down your takeaway from Steven’s wisdom, and share it with #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because the next big idea might just start with the simplest customer request.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38146935
info_outline
EP 292 - Edge of the Napkin #3: “Who’s the best partner you ever had? (Secret) … It’s you.”
09/09/2025
EP 292 - Edge of the Napkin #3: “Who’s the best partner you ever had? (Secret) … It’s you.”
Partnership is one of the most powerful words in leadership and in life. We spend years searching for the right business partner, co-founder, or even life partner. But here’s the twist on this week’s Paper Napkin Wisdom: the greatest, most important partnership you’ll ever have is not with someone else—it’s with yourself. The napkin for Episode 292 asks the provocative question: “Who’s the best partner you ever had?” And then delivers the unexpected truth: (Secret)… it’s you. In this episode, Govindh dives deep into the nature of the partnership between the conscious and unconscious mind. He unpacks why most of us misunderstand this relationship, how to reframe it, and why learning to work in alignment with ourselves may be the single greatest leadership unlock we have at our disposal. The Silent Partner You Already Have So much of our life is spent looking outward for validation, recognition, and collaboration. Yet every leader has a silent partner operating in the background: the unconscious mind. For years, people referred to this as the “subconscious.” That word itself suggests inferiority—like a lesser assistant to the conscious mind, something meant to follow commands and stay in line. But Govindh makes an important distinction: calling it the unconscious mind gives it equal weight. It’s not beneath the conscious—it’s simply working in parallel, handling things you don’t consciously process. Your unconscious mind is always on—regulating your body, processing information, cataloguing experiences, and even surfacing insights when you’re not aware. It’s not a servant; it’s your partner. Why Partnership Matters If we ignore this inner partnership, we treat ourselves as though the conscious mind is the boss and the unconscious is just there to take orders. But what happens when your unconscious has already formed a pattern, a belief, or an emotional filter that isn’t aligned with your goals? That’s when friction shows up—self-sabotage, procrastination, unexplained fear, or the sense that you’re “getting in your own way.” It’s not that you’re broken. It’s that you’re in conflict with your best partner. When you recognize the unconscious as an equal, you move from command-and-control to collaboration. You start asking: How can we work together? How can I listen to the signals my unconscious is sending? That shift creates flow instead of friction. 5 Key Takeaways from Episode 292 1. You Already Have the Best Partner Your unconscious mind is always with you. The key is to stop treating it like a subordinate and start treating it like a trusted collaborator. 👉 Take Action: This week, notice when your unconscious is sending you signals—intuition, gut feelings, or dreams. Instead of dismissing them, write them down and reflect on what your partner might be telling you. 2. Language Shapes Relationship Words matter. Calling it the subconscious makes it sound weaker or secondary. Calling it the unconscious elevates it to its rightful role as a peer. 👉 Take Action: Shift your language. Start saying “unconscious mind” instead of “subconscious.” Notice how this subtle change affects how you respect and relate to that inner partner. 3. Partnership Requires Listening Partnership isn’t about one side barking orders. It’s about dialogue. Too often, leaders try to force outcomes without tuning into their own deeper patterns and resistance. 👉 Take Action: When you feel resistance—like procrastination or avoidance—pause. Ask: What is my unconscious trying to protect me from? Treat it like a partner raising a concern rather than an employee failing to deliver. 4. Alignment Creates Flow When conscious and unconscious intentions align, action becomes natural and results compound. That’s when leaders describe feeling “in the zone” or “flowing.” 👉 Take Action: Use the Focus–Align–Act model. Write down your conscious intention for a project. Then ask: Does this feel aligned in my body, emotions, and energy? If not, adjust until your unconscious is on board. 5. Self-Partnership Is the Foundation of All Other Partnerships If you don’t have trust, clarity, and respect with yourself, every external partnership will be shaky. The quality of your leadership, your relationships, and your impact is directly proportional to the quality of your partnership with you. 👉 Take Action: Each morning, affirm: “I am my best partner. I listen, I align, and I act with myself.” Let that be the foundation for how you show up for others. Final Thought: You Are Your Own Secret Weapon The napkin says it all: “Who’s the best partner you ever had? (Secret)… It’s you.” Leaders often look outside for answers. But the truth is, the most powerful partnership you’ll ever build is internal—between your conscious and unconscious mind. That’s where wisdom, resilience, and transformation begin. The real secret? Once you fully partner with yourself, every other relationship in your life and business will transform. Call to Action Now it’s your turn. Grab a napkin, write down your own takeaway from this episode, and post it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. What does partnership with yourself look like today? How will you strengthen that relationship this week? Because when you become your own best partner, you unlock the truest form of leadership: leading from within.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38130410
info_outline
EP 291 – Jennifer McKenna - The Prosperity Formula: Familiar → Faith → Fulfillment
09/04/2025
EP 291 – Jennifer McKenna - The Prosperity Formula: Familiar → Faith → Fulfillment
Jennifer McKenna, founder of JMac Consulting, is an accomplished business strategist, executive coach, and creator of The JMac Method. With decades of experience guiding leaders and organizations through transformation, Jennifer has built her reputation on blending practical business strategy with a deep commitment to values, authenticity, and growth. She has coached Fortune 500 executives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to align who they are with what they do. On Paper Napkin Wisdom, Jennifer shares her Prosperity Formula — a deceptively simple but powerful framework to help leaders and entrepreneurs move from what is familiar into a space of true fulfillment. The Prosperity Formula At first glance, Jennifer’s napkin sketch looks straightforward: Familiar → Faith → Fulfillment But the wisdom beneath it is transformative. Jennifer explains that many of us stay trapped in the Familiar. It’s comfortable, predictable, and safe — but it’s also where growth stalls. Leaders often cling to familiar patterns, roles, or narratives because stepping out feels risky. “Familiar feels safe,” Jennifer shared in our conversation, “but it’s also where dreams get stuck.” The leap forward happens in the middle step: Faith. This is not blind optimism, but intentional trust — in yourself, in the process, in the possibility of something greater. Faith is the bridge between what you know and what you long for. From there, the destination is Fulfillment. This isn’t just material success; it’s alignment, purpose, and prosperity that’s measured in joy and meaning as much as in results. Key Takeaways 1. Familiar Is Comfortable, But Limiting Staying in the familiar feels safe but can create stagnation. Leaders who cling to the old way risk missing the future. Take Action: Audit where “familiar” shows up in your life and business. Ask: Am I holding onto this because it works, or because it’s just what I know? 2. Faith Is the Necessary Bridge Faith isn’t passive. It’s the decision to trust and step forward when certainty isn’t available. Take Action: Identify one decision you’ve delayed because of uncertainty. Commit to moving forward with faith, trusting the process. 3. Fulfillment Goes Beyond Achievement True prosperity isn’t just about hitting goals — it’s about finding meaning and joy in the pursuit. Take Action: Redefine success for yourself. Write down three elements of fulfillment that go beyond financial gain. 4. Prosperity Requires Courage Jennifer reminds us that prosperity is not a formula for quick wins; it’s a formula for courageous living. Take Action: Each week, take one step outside your comfort zone. Track the results not just in outcomes, but in personal growth. 5. The JMac Method: Prosperity as a Practice Jennifer’s consulting practice uses this formula to guide leaders into alignment — where business growth and personal fulfillment go hand in hand. Take Action: Share your Prosperity Formula moment. What’s one way you’re moving from Familiar, through Faith, toward Fulfillment this week? About Jennifer McKenna Jennifer McKenna is the founder and principal of , where she helps businesses and leaders align their strategies, culture, and leadership practices for lasting impact. She is the creator of The JMac Method, a framework that integrates purpose-driven leadership with actionable business strategy. Connect with Jennifer: Final Thought Jennifer’s Prosperity Formula challenges us to stop clinging to what is safe, and instead take the leap of faith that leads to true fulfillment. Now it’s your turn: grab a napkin, jot down where you’re stuck in the Familiar, and write the step of Faith you need to take to move toward Fulfillment. Share it with us using #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because prosperity isn’t an accident — it’s a choice.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38035715
info_outline
EP 290 – Andrew Safnauer: Find Your Way Over the Wall
09/02/2025
EP 290 – Andrew Safnauer: Find Your Way Over the Wall
In Episode 290 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Andrew Safnauer, a seasoned leader and executive with a wealth of experience in management, strategy, and innovation. Andrew has held leadership roles across diverse industries and today brings his insights into resilience, adaptability, and persistence. His wisdom is captured on a single napkin: “Find your way over the wall.” At first glance, it’s a simple metaphor. But as Andrew shares, this idea has been a recurring theme throughout his life and career, one that continues to guide him and those around him. The Napkin: Find Your Way Over the Wall Andrew explains that in the arc of his journey, obstacles and challenges have never been reasons to turn back. Instead, they have been invitations to problem-solve creatively. “When you get to a problem, when I get to a problem, it doesn’t turn me around. It’s really about finding my way over, around, or through the wall.” Walls, in Andrew’s story, are not barriers meant to stop us — they are tests of perseverance and ingenuity. Whether it was early-career hurdles, moments of reinvention, or leading teams through uncertainty, the theme of getting over the wall kept showing up. Resilience as a Practice, Not a Trait Andrew emphasizes that resilience is not something you’re simply born with — it’s built. Each obstacle tackled becomes a reference point for the future, a reminder that you’ve navigated tough situations before. He shared how this mindset allows him to reframe setbacks: instead of being moments of failure, they become moments of redirection. “The wall isn’t the end,” he suggests. “It’s just part of the journey.” Creativity in Problem-Solving Another key theme Andrew highlights is creativity. Getting over the wall isn’t always about brute force or stubbornness. Sometimes it’s about: Looking for another path — maybe the wall isn’t as tall a little further down. Asking for help — someone else may already have a ladder. Redefining the problem — maybe the wall doesn’t even need climbing. This blend of creativity and persistence turns challenges into opportunities. Leadership Lesson: Modeling Grit for Others As a leader, Andrew knows people watch how you respond to difficulty. The way you approach obstacles sets the tone for your team. By consistently demonstrating the belief that challenges are navigable, leaders inspire confidence and cultivate cultures of resilience. He notes: “It’s easy to get discouraged when the wall looks too high. But if people see you keep moving forward, they start to believe they can too.” 5 Key Takeaways from Andrew Safnauer Obstacles Are Inevitable Don’t waste time wishing there were no walls. Expect them, prepare for them, and use them as growth points. Take Action: Write down one current “wall” you’re facing. Reframe it as an opportunity to grow. Resilience Is Built, Not Born Each wall you’ve climbed makes the next one more manageable. Take Action: Journal three past moments where you overcame an obstacle — and what you learned. Creativity Opens New Paths Not every wall needs to be scaled directly. Explore new approaches, seek different perspectives. Take Action: Brainstorm three alternative ways to solve the challenge you’re facing. Leadership Means Modeling Grit Your response to challenges directly influences your team. Take Action: Share openly with your team how you’ve overcome challenges, and involve them in finding solutions. Persistence Pays Off Often the difference between success and failure is simply not stopping at the wall. Take Action: Commit to one consistent step forward this week, even if progress feels slow. About Andrew Safnauer is a proven leader with deep experience in operations, management, and organizational growth. His career spans industries where innovation, strategy, and resilience are key. Andrew’s perspective on finding your way over the wall comes from decades of experience leading through challenges and inspiring others to do the same. Final Thought Andrew’s napkin — Find Your Way Over the Wall — is a call to action. Obstacles are not stop signs; they’re opportunities to rise. Entrepreneurs, leaders, and difference-makers can take this to heart: when the wall appears, don’t turn back. Climb, reroute, or redefine — but keep moving forward. Now, I’d love to hear from you: 👉 What’s the wall you’re facing today, and how will you get over it? Write your takeaway on a napkin, snap a photo, and share it with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38033635
info_outline
EP 289 - The Edge of the Napkin: Friction vs. Flow
08/31/2025
EP 289 - The Edge of the Napkin: Friction vs. Flow
In Episode 289 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, host Govindh Jayaraman takes us deeper into the next evolution of his work: The Edge of the Napkin. This isn’t just about wisdom captured in simple strokes anymore — it’s about stepping into the tension between friction and flow, and understanding the rhythms of creativity and growth. The napkin for this episode sets the stage: a stick figure caught between jagged lines of friction and the upward curve of flow, alongside two key modes — Seminal (Spark) and Gestational (Build). At its heart, the question posed is simple but powerful: Are you in Spark mode or Build mode? The Tension Between Friction and Flow Every leader, entrepreneur, and creator knows what it feels like to get stuck in friction — the drag, the obstacles, the resistance that makes progress feel like walking through mud. Yet, on the other side of that resistance lies flow — the state where energy aligns, momentum builds, and forward motion feels effortless. Flow isn’t luck. It’s the result of awareness and alignment. By recognizing whether you’re fighting against resistance or leaning into momentum, you give yourself the power to shift. Friction tells us where the edges are; flow shows us where to go next. Spark vs. Build: The Two Energies of Creation The napkin highlights two distinct energies: Seminal (Spark) – that flash of inspiration, the bold beginning, the lightning strike of an idea. Spark mode is raw energy, momentum igniting from nothing. Gestational (Build) – the slower, steadier process of nurturing, developing, and bringing something into being. Build mode requires patience, resilience, and iteration. Both are necessary. Too much spark without build leaves you scattered. Too much build without spark leaves you stagnant. Mastery is knowing which mode you’re in — and when to switch. 5 Key Takeaways from Episode 289 1. Friction Isn’t the Enemy — It’s the Signal Friction often feels like failure, but it’s actually feedback. It shows us where growth is required. Take Action: Ask yourself: What resistance am I facing right now? Is it a signal to push through, pivot, or pause? 2. Flow Emerges When Energy and Intention Align Flow isn’t something you chase — it’s what happens when you bring clarity of intention to your actions. Take Action: Each morning, set a micro-intention: What do I want to flow toward today? 3. Spark Mode Creates, Build Mode Sustains Recognizing whether you’re in spark or build mode gives you a framework for your energy. Take Action: Label your current project as either “spark” or “build.” Let that frame your next steps. 4. Energy Has Seasons, Just Like Growth We can’t be in spark mode forever, nor can we only build. Sustainable growth requires cycling between both. Take Action: Audit your calendar: does it allow room for both ideation (spark) and execution (build)? 5. The Edge Is Where Transformation Happens The tension between friction and flow is the edge — the place where discomfort signals growth and flow confirms alignment. Take Action: This week, write down one area where you feel friction and explore how reframing it could move you closer to flow. Introducing The Edge of the Napkin This episode is a launch point. The Edge of the Napkin is about living in that space where ideas meet resistance, where growth meets alignment, and where leadership requires both spark and build. It’s about noticing whether you’re operating in friction or flow — and intentionally shifting your energy to where it belongs. The big question for you today: Are you in Spark mode or Build mode? About Paper Napkin Wisdom I’m Govindh Jayaraman, founder of Paper Napkin Wisdom. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of sitting down with leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from around the world to capture big ideas in small, simple ways. With The Edge of the Napkin, I’m exploring not just what wisdom is shared — but what it feels like to live at the edges of growth, creativity, and leadership. Learn more, explore past episodes, and discover tools to put wisdom into action at www.papernapkinwisdom.com. Your Turn Grab a napkin. Write down your answer: “Am I in Spark mode or Build mode today?” Post it on social media with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom and share what it means for you. Because wisdom only matters when we turn small ideas into big results.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/38020965
info_outline
EP 288 – Katy Spada: Build the World You Wish Existed
08/28/2025
EP 288 – Katy Spada: Build the World You Wish Existed
When Katy Spada sat down with me on Paper Napkin Wisdom, she brought a napkin that was more than just words — it was a challenge: “Build the world you wish existed for your younger self, and for those who come next.” Katy isn’t just an entrepreneur. She’s a mother of two (ages 7 and 4), a storyteller, and the founder of , a lifestyle and apparel company that’s grounded in values of creativity, heritage, and intentional living. What makes her story remarkable is how deeply personal it is. As she says, she never set out to be an entrepreneur — she calls herself an “accidental entrepreneur.” Yet, what started with a desire to create something meaningful for her family has grown into a mission-driven brand with a powerful message for anyone willing to listen. Reclaiming Childhood Dreams In the episode, Katy reflects on being a daydreamer as a child — someone who created fantastical worlds on paper. As an adult, she’s learned that those childhood imaginings were not flights of fancy but clues to the kind of life she wanted to build. “When I had children, it became clear that I wanted to create for them the childhood I always wanted.” Her napkin is rooted in this personal realization: what if we all took ownership of creating not just businesses, but environments and legacies that reflect the world we wanted when we were younger? Entrepreneurship as Legacy Katy shares how her business is less about products and more about building community and leaving behind a legacy for her children. Her work with Arya + Maan is anchored in storytelling and cultural connection, blending her Indian heritage with modern lifestyle design. This isn’t just commerce — it’s contribution. She reminds us that the real measure of success isn’t revenue charts but impact: what do your children, your community, and your younger self inherit from your work? Courage to Take Ownership “I think becoming a mom gave me no choice but to reflect on the life I was building.” Katy’s journey is a call for courage — courage to own your story, courage to build what doesn’t yet exist, and courage to step into entrepreneurship without the usual blueprint. So many entrepreneurs wait for permission. Katy shows us that transformation begins when we stop waiting and start building. 5 Key Takeaways 1. Build for Your Younger Self If you could design a world for the version of you at age 10, what would it look like? That’s a compass worth following. 👉 Take Action: Write a short note to your younger self today — what would you tell them you’ve built? 2. Entrepreneurship Can Be Accidental — but Never Accidental Growth You don’t have to plan to be an entrepreneur, but growth requires intentionality. 👉 Take Action: Ask yourself: “What am I growing on purpose right now?” 3. Your Children Are Watching The example you set in building your life is the blueprint your children will carry forward. 👉 Take Action: Share a story with your kids (or a mentee) about something you struggled with and how you’re working through it. 4. Culture is Your Brand For Katy, honoring her Indian roots is not just a detail — it’s the foundation of Arya + Maan. Authentic brands begin with personal truth. 👉 Take Action: Audit your brand or leadership style. Does it authentically reflect your story? 5. Legacy is Everyday Legacy isn’t what’s left when you’re gone. It’s what you live out daily in how you treat people, the communities you serve, and the values you embody. 👉 Take Action: Identify one action you can take this week to make your daily work a legacy act, not just a transaction. About Katy Spada Katy Spada is the founder of , a lifestyle brand blending heritage and modern living. With a background in storytelling and a passion for creating meaningful experiences, Katy focuses on building a community-driven company rooted in values, creativity, and family. Connect with her on .
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/37966295
info_outline
EP 287 – Permission, Structure, and Social Media Success with Sam Toles
08/26/2025
EP 287 – Permission, Structure, and Social Media Success with Sam Toles
In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman welcomes Sam Toles, a digital media pioneer and storyteller with decades of experience building audiences, brands, and communities. Sam is the CEO and co-founder of , a platform designed to transform civic engagement by helping communities and governments create stronger, more transparent conversations online. Sam’s career has spanned leadership roles at MGM, Vimeo, Bleacher Report, and Warner Bros., and throughout it all he has stayed focused on how creativity, structure, and permission come together to unlock growth. His napkin insight crystallizes this perfectly: Permission + Structure → Social Media Success The Power of Permission In the conversation, Sam reflects on how success in digital media and social platforms doesn’t come from simply telling people what to do — it’s about giving them permission. Staff members, creative teams, and civic leaders need to feel trusted to experiment, share authentically, and make their voices heard. Without permission, fear creeps in. Staff hold back. Leaders hesitate. Communities stay silent. Sam emphasizes that permission is the spark that allows creativity and innovation to surface. Why Structure Matters But permission alone is not enough. Sam underscores that structure is the second half of the equation. Without clear guidelines, roles, and accountability, permission can turn into chaos. Structure ensures alignment. It gives staff confidence that their creativity is channeled toward a larger goal. For city halls and community organizations — the ones Sam sketched on his napkin — structure provides the scaffolding for consistent, credible, and impactful communication. From Napkin to Real-World Success Sam’s napkin shows two simple icons: staff on one side and city hall on the other. Between them lies the formula: Permission + Structure = Social Media Success This equation has guided Sam’s work leading teams at major media companies and now at CiviSocial. By combining empowerment with framework, organizations unlock the kind of social media presence that builds connection instead of noise, trust instead of confusion, and engagement instead of apathy. Five Key Takeaways from Sam Toles Permission Fuels Creativity – Staff thrive when leaders trust them to take risks and contribute ideas. Take Action: Audit where your team feels they need permission. What barriers can you remove? Structure Enables Consistency – Frameworks and processes ensure creative output aligns with strategy. Take Action: Define your social media “guardrails” so creativity has direction. Balance is Essential – Too much structure stifles; too little creates chaos. The win is in the balance. Take Action: Ask your team: “Do you feel more constrained or more lost?” Then adjust. Social Media Success is Collaborative – It’s not just about city hall (leaders) or staff (teams), but the bridge between them. Take Action: Build cross-functional content teams where leadership and staff co-create. Civic Engagement Needs Both – For communities, permission means inclusion and voice; structure means transparency and accountability. Take Action: Use Sam’s formula to design your next community engagement initiative. About Sam Toles Sam Toles is the co-founder and CEO of , a platform revolutionizing civic engagement by connecting governments, organizations, and communities through modern communication tools. With a career leading digital transformation at MGM, Vimeo, Bleacher Report, and Warner Bros., Sam has consistently helped teams harness creativity within structure to build lasting impact. Connect with Sam on .
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/37944715
info_outline
EP 286 - Introducing the Edge of the Napkin
08/24/2025
EP 286 - Introducing the Edge of the Napkin
In this special episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I (Govindh Jayaraman) take a step back to reflect on the journey we’ve been on together — over 280 episodes filled with wisdom, stories, and lessons from incredible leaders, entrepreneurs, and difference makers. The napkin for this episode reads: “Introducing the Edge of the Napkin.” It’s a phrase that captures both a transition and an expansion. The napkin has always been a place for distilled wisdom — one sentence, one thought, one principle that could change everything if applied. But now, we’re venturing into what I call the edge of the napkin: the space where those ideas meet action, where wisdom isn’t just written down but lived, tested, and expanded. From Napkin to Edge On this podcast, we’ve heard wisdom from global thinkers and doers — people like James Clear, Tom Bilyeu, and Brian Scudamore — and yet, what’s always struck me is how simple ideas transform into exponential results when leaders commit to them. The edge of the napkin is where theory meets practice. It’s where entrepreneurs pick up the pen, write down their vision, and then choose to live it out. It’s where clarity sharpens, alignment deepens, and action compounds. Why This Shift Matters In the conversation (yes, with myself this time), I unpack how Paper Napkin Wisdom is evolving: Beyond ideas into frameworks. The napkin is no longer just the insight — it’s the starting point for building focus, aligning teams, and taking consistent action. A community of difference makers. We’re not just sharing wisdom anymore; we’re building a vault of tools, firestarters, and conversations to help entrepreneurs and leaders apply what they learn. Courage to experiment. On the edge of the napkin is the courage to try, to make it bad and make it better, and to move forward imperfectly. This isn’t a departure from the heart of Paper Napkin Wisdom. It’s an evolution. 5 Key Takeaways from Episode 286 The napkin is the spark, not the fire. Take Action: Don’t stop at capturing wisdom; ask yourself what the first small action is that brings it to life today. The edge is where wisdom and execution meet. Take Action: Choose one napkin idea you’ve saved and build a micro-plan: What’s the first step? Who needs to know? When will it be done? Clarity creates movement. Take Action: Write your idea in one sentence. If you can’t explain it simply, refine it until you can. Communities multiply wisdom. Take Action: Share your napkin thought with someone who can challenge, refine, or amplify it. Wisdom grows when it’s tested in dialogue. Iteration is leadership. Take Action: Instead of waiting for the perfect solution, commit to making it bad, then making it better. That’s how leaders stay ahead. About Paper Napkin Wisdom Paper Napkin Wisdom has been home to leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators who share one distilled piece of wisdom that shaped their journey. From bestselling authors to CEOs to everyday heroes, the show proves that small ideas — captured on a napkin — can spark massive change. You can explore past episodes, dive into our Firestarter Vault, and join the community at papernapkinwisdom.com. Your Turn The napkin for this episode says: “Introducing the Edge of the Napkin.” What does the edge of the napkin mean for you? Where are you standing at the boundary between idea and action in your own life? Grab a napkin, jot down your thought, and share it with us using the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because wisdom doesn’t just live on the napkin — it lives in how you bring it to life.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/37939820
info_outline
EP 285 – Kendra MacDonald: Building a Career That Grows With You
08/21/2025
EP 285 – Kendra MacDonald: Building a Career That Grows With You
Careers aren’t meant to be lived on repeat. In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we sit down with Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, a leader who has spent her career helping organizations innovate, adapt, and push boundaries. Kendra has been recognized for her work in transformation and leadership across industries, and she brings her wisdom to the napkin with a deceptively simple but powerful message. On her napkin, Kendra wrote: “Make sure your career is 25 years, not 1 year 25 times. What will you learn this year?” This phrase, first heard from one of her professors in university, has echoed through her journey and shaped how she approaches growth. The Wisdom of 25 Years When Kendra first heard this idea as a 22-year-old student, she didn’t grasp its depth. At the time, her vision of a career was linear: find a job, build a life, move forward. But as the years unfolded, she realized the trap many fall into—repeating the same year of work experience over and over again. In her words, the difference between “25 years of experience” and “one year repeated 25 times” is profound. The former means growth, change, and learning. The latter is stagnation. Kendra emphasized that growth in a career isn’t about time served, but about intentional learning. Each year should bring a new challenge, a new perspective, or a new skill. Without that, time passes but wisdom doesn’t accumulate. 5 Key Takeaways from Kendra MacDonald 1. Don’t Repeat Years—Grow Them Many professionals fall into the trap of doing the same work, the same way, year after year. Kendra’s reminder is that repeating one year 25 times is not growth. Take Action: Audit your last 12 months. Identify one thing you learned or improved. If you can’t name it, commit to changing that this year. 2. Anchor Each Year in a Learning Goal Kendra reframes career development with a simple, forward-looking question: “What will you learn this year?” This shifts the focus from passive time spent to active growth pursued. Take Action: Write down one specific learning objective for this year—whether it’s a skill, a mindset, or an experience—and track progress monthly. 3. Embrace Discomfort as a Growth Engine Kendra shared that her own leaps forward came when she stepped into new industries or roles that stretched her beyond her comfort zone. Stagnation is safe but it doesn’t lead to growth. Take Action: Choose one area where you’ve become too comfortable. Seek a project, collaboration, or responsibility that forces you to learn something new. 4. Redefine Career Success Beyond Longevity A long career without growth isn’t success—it’s inertia. Success is measured by the depth of learning, adaptability, and impact created along the way. Take Action: Redefine your career scorecard. Instead of only measuring years served, track skills gained, leadership challenges tackled, and innovations you contributed to. 5. Lead With a Culture of Learning For leaders, this napkin wisdom applies not just personally but organizationally. Teams grow stale when they repeat the same patterns year after year. Growth happens when learning is embedded into the culture. Take Action: At your next team meeting, ask Kendra’s question: “What will we learn this year?” Make it a collective challenge and revisit it quarterly. About Kendra MacDonald Kendra MacDonald is the CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, a national initiative focused on transforming Canada’s ocean economy through collaboration, innovation, and technology. She has extensive leadership experience across sectors, with a background that includes senior roles in Deloitte Canada and a career dedicated to driving transformation and growth. Connect with Kendra on . Call to Action What about you? Don’t let this year be a copy of the last. Ask yourself: 📝 “What will I learn this year?” Write it down on a napkin, take a picture, and share it with the world using #PaperNapkinWisdom. Because your career isn’t about years served—it’s about years lived and learned.
/episode/index/show/wisenapkin/id/37888105