Ever feel that sting when someone gives you criticism, even when you know it’s supposed to help? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine take on the surprisingly tough (and super common) challenge of handling feedback without letting defensiveness take over.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why even the kindest of us can get prickly when criticism comes our way
• Simple moves that can turn a tough conversation into a personal growth moment
• Real talk about the magic of pausing, breathing, and saying “thank you” (even when it’s hard)
• How to spot the gold in critical feedback, without letting a single comment ruin your whole day
• What to do when feedback feels overwhelming, and how to come back to the conversation when you’re ready
• Why gratitude - genuine, not forced - leaves both sides feeling respected and seen
• Thoughtful ways to ask questions and clarify so you actually get value from what you hear
• Practical reminders that you don’t have to have the perfect reaction in the moment (and that’s okay)

If you’re working on being less reactive and more open, or just want a little encouragement to take feedback in stride, this episode is for you.

(This mini “How Do I…” episode is perfect for anyone who’s ever bristled at feedback, wants to show up as their best self, or just needs a little help finding the lessons in critique.)

Want more? Get a copy of the book here.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever wonder how to help the children in your life grow into positive, compassionate, and resilient individuals… the kind of people who naturally bring light to those around them? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into what it really takes to teach kids to be heliotropic.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why modeling positivity and practicing it yourself is the foundation when raising children who radiate warmth and kindness
• Honest reflections on the messy journey of parenting, including moments we wish we could redo and how to keep improving no matter your kids’ ages
• The surprising ways everyday moments shape how children see themselves and others
• What it means to show up authentically as a parent—even when you don’t have all the answers
• How to navigate the tricky balance of encouragement, boundaries, and emotional honesty
• Insights about the “salt on the roots” metaphor and what it means for your unique family dynamics
• Why apologizing and cleaning up when you mess up is one of the best lessons you can pass on
• How little acts of recognition can have outsized impact on a child’s confidence and character

If you’re curious about raising kids who don’t just survive but thrive with warmth and resilience, this mini-episode offers real talk, gentle guidance, and moments of humor to help you be a little sun, not the salt in your home and your heart.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever feel stuck holding onto a grudge and know it’s zapping your energy? In this “How Do I…” episode of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt,” Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine get real about the challenge of letting go - why so many of us find it hard, how resentment keeps us stuck, and what it actually takes to move on.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why holding a grudge is like clutching a hot coal: you’re the one getting burned
• How compassion (not just forgiveness) can help shift your perspective and lighten your load
• Simple reframes and honest reflections about what it means to let go (and why releasing resentment doesn’t mean you’re not protecting your own roots)
• Lessons learned from guests who’ve faced the unimaginable and found a way to release the pain, including stories like Trinea Gonczar’s courageous path to healing and forgiveness
• A candid invitation to look at what you’re carrying, ask “Who is this serving?” and consider ways to release old baggage, one conversation, thought, or act at a time

If you’re ready to drop what’s weighing you down, find a little more peace, and make room for good energy, this mini episode offers humor, hope, and some gentle nudges toward freedom.

Tune in for honest conversation, practical perspective, and a call to let go - just a little - today.

(Mini “How Do I…” episode—perfect for anyone navigating tough relationships, struggling with resentment, or committed to growing wiser, not just older.)

Useful Links

Trinea Gonczar’s “Be the Sun, Not the Salt” episode

“Be the Sun, Not the Salt” book

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever wonder how to bring your best self to work or home… even when life is just not going your way? In this heartfelt “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into the messy, honest art of showing up well when you’re going through a difficult time.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why naming what you’re going through (even if it feels uncomfortable) can strengthen trust, connection, and ease in relationships
• The power of authentic vulnerability: letting others in without making excuses, and finding support you didn’t know you needed
• Simple ways to communicate your struggles at work, with family, or in your community, and why a follow-up apology or explanation can make a lasting impact
• How self-awareness and courage build a bridge for others to share their own tough moments, creating a little more heliotropic energy all around

If you’ve ever tried to “just keep it together” and felt more isolated, this episode is your open invitation to lighten the load—and maybe help someone else feel seen too.

Want more? Listen to past episodes with guests who’ve been through the tough stuff:

• Jill Martin shares her journey through major medical challenges and how she found hope, light, and community along the way.
• Dr. Rana Awdish opens up about her own health crisis as a physician, the healing power of authentic connection, and what it means to truly show up for others in dark times.

This “How Do I…” episode is perfect for anyone navigating emotional or physical hardship, wanting more connection, or just ready to be real. Tune in for honest stories, helpful tips, and reminders that we’re all in this together… especially when times are tough.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

What’s the *real* secret to thriving at work… and in life? In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine sit down with Erin Hatzikostas, former corporate CEO, award-winning author, and globally recognized expert on authenticity in the workplace. If you’ve ever wished for more meaning, originality, or joy in your career, Erin’s wisdom is the breath of fresh air you didn’t know you needed.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why authenticity isn’t just a feel-good buzzword, but a major business advantage in any organization
• The story behind Erin’s “50% Rule” and how it unlocks creativity, motivation, and results, both at work and in everyday life
• Candid tales from Erin’s journey from regional leader to CEO—and how she found success and engagement by showing up as herself
• Practical hacks for ditching corporate junk and bringing more originality (and fun) to the way you work
• How small acts of authenticity spark connection and trust, even in a world full of jargon, meetings, and AI
• Erin’s advice for aspiring leaders, especially women: side-step the “compromise calculation,” do the job your way, and become a thought leader in your own ecosystem

This episode is packed with honesty, research-backed insights, and playful takeaways on how to “50% rule” your own challenges, plus a little tough love for anyone stuck in business-as-usual. If you’re ready to rethink what’s normal, step into your own best self, and maybe even make work not suck, Erin’s energetic approach will inspire you to do just that.

Our latest guest episode is perfect for anyone building a career, leading a team, craving purpose, or just wanting a fresh, heliotropic perspective.

Tune in for an interview that proves authenticity is the most underused power move in business and in life.

About Erin

Erin Hatzikostas is a former Corporate CEO turned Authenticity Aficionado.

Often called “The Mel Robbins for business,” Erin is a globally recognized expert on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. She’s a sought-after keynote speaker, award-winning author of You Do You(ish) and The 50% Rule, and co-host of the hit podcast b Cause Work Doesn’t Have to Suck.

Her TEDx Talk was among the Top 20 most-viewed TEDx talks worldwide in 2021, and Erin’s thought leadership has reached hundreds of thousands. She’s been featured by ABC, CBS, Business Insider, Fast Company, and more. Erin’s company is also behind a groundbreaking national study on authenticity’s impact in the workplace.

With a dynamic blend of humor, intelligence, and unfiltered honesty, Erin is sure to be your favorite no-nonsense navigator through the corporate junk jungle, helping you see that authenticity isn’t a buzzword—it’s a business strategy.

Helpful Links

Erin’s website

Erin’s podcast: b Cause Work Doesn’t Have to Suck

You Do You(ish): Unleash Your Authentic Superpowers to Get the Career You Deserve

The 50% Rule

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever get stuck in a conversation where you know you’re absolutely right, and the other person is just completely missing the mark? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine get honest about what it takes to actually listen when you’re sure you’ve got the right answer… and someone else doesn’t.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• What real curiosity sounds like, and why “leaning in softly” can shift everything, even in tricky moments
• Tips for moving beyond “winning” an argument to truly understanding the other person
• The subtle difference between listening to change minds and listening to open your own
• Stories from everyday life and work where genuine listening made conversations richer (even when it wasn’t easy)
• Playful reframes and word tracks to help you pause, redirect, and bring more heliotropic energy when tempers flare

If you’ve ever left a tough conversation wishing things had gone differently - or wondered how to turn debate into genuine connection - this episode is for you. Cue up honest laughs, practical reminders, and that feeling when curiosity beats certainty every time.

(Mini “How Do I…” episode - perfect for anyone navigating disagreements, building better relationships, or just wanting to be a more generous listener.)

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever wondered how to stay confident when life—and work—keep handing you rejection? In episode 61 of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine answer the tough question: “How Do I… Keep My Confidence Despite Rejection?”

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Relatable strategies for bouncing back after setbacks (even when the numbers feel stacked against you)
• The “three P’s” mindset trick that keeps rejection from getting personal or invasive
• How to use self-talk and action to reframe your perspective and stay motivated
• Real stories and practical ways to turn every “swing and a miss” into a chance to learn, grow, and get back up at bat
• Reminders on why reaching out to colleagues, leaning on your support squad, and sharing this journey can make all the difference

If your role (or your life) brings more rejection than applause, this episode is full of sticky, science-backed wisdom, practical encouragement, and the kind of relatable perspective you’ll want to share with your team, your partner, or anyone needing a confidence boost.

(Mini “How Do I…” episode—perfect for anyone facing challenges in sales, interviews, creative work, or just everyday life.)

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever feel a little anxious giving feedback, and worry it won’t land the way you intended? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into the art of offering feedback that truly lifts people up and helps them grow.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why feedback is more than just pointing out what went wrong—and how to make it a gift people actually appreciate
• The importance of “accountability with love,” and how holding people to high standards doesn’t mean being harsh or negative
• Candid stories and lessons from the workplace, family, and everyday life about giving feedback that inspires, not deflates
• How leading with what’s great sets the stage for honest conversation and positive change
• Simple guidelines to make feedback more constructive, easier to hear… and even welcome (!)

If you’ve ever wanted to turn tricky conversations into uplifting moments—or make people say, “thank you, I needed that”—this episode breaks down the subtle skills and playful spirit of feedback done right.

(Mini “How Do I…” episode, perfect for anyone working on communication, mentorship, parenting, or leadership.)

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.