Tune in to the latest episode of JD's Journal as I sit down with Vic Rose, an AI Cloud Engineer and founder at EngCloud, to explore his fascinating career journey from Amazon to Microsoft. Vic shares transformative experiences from his graduate school days, particularly a game theory class that reshaped his approach to collaboration and decision-making.

Listen as Vic takes us through his roles in intelligence and cybersecurity with the US Coast Guard, and how these experiences influenced his professional development. You'll learn about EngCloud's innovative approach to cloud migration, focusing on cost-efficiency and scalability, and discover the synergies between his work at Amazon and Microsoft. Vic's personal anecdotes, like his narrative review process at Amazon, provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at the contrasting cultures of these tech giants, highlighting Amazon's rapid decision-making versus Microsoft's more methodical approach.

Don't miss the compelling discussion on balancing work with personal well-being and relationships. Vic offers practical tips for maintaining mental health, such as taking midday breaks and setting boundaries, while also emphasizing the importance of a strong support network and a blame-free environment. The episode wraps up with reflections on the influence of Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist," and the significance of humility, curiosity, and giving back.

Vic shares his favourite quote "Every man I meet is someway superior, in that I learn of him” by Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Can workplace conflict be a driving force behind innovation? Join me on JD's Journal as I explore the surprising benefits of workplace conflict and how it can help foster diverse perspectives and innovation. We'll introduce you to the Thomas-Kilmann Instrument (TKI) to better understand your personal conflict styles. Learn how to harness conflict respectfully and constructively to challenge ideas for mutual benefit.

The TKI can be found at https://psycho-tests.com/test/conflict-mode

Ever find yourself struggling in crucial conversations? You'll gain essential skills for navigating high-stakes discussions with confidence. I emphasize the importance of adaptability and highlight the dangers of overusing the accommodating style. Recognize the signs of crucial conversations and uncover why communication often breaks down in these intense moments. Through preparation and creating a safe environment, you'll be better equipped to handle these challenging interactions effectively.

https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-Conversations-Tools-Talking-Stakes/dp/1260474186/

Transform your approach to difficult conversations and master your personal narratives with our practical strategies. Discover the AMPP framework—Ask, Mirror, Paraphrase, and Prime—to enhance your listening skills and build alignment. This episode provides you with tools to turn conflict into opportunities for growth, encouraging collaboration and positive outcomes in both personal and professional settings.

https://www.amazon.com/Nonviolent-Communication-Language-Life-Changing-Relationships/dp/189200528X

Can CFOs shift from mere financial gatekeepers to catalysts for sustainable growth? Join us as we chat with Ryion Pun, a visionary strategist and mind shifter, who shares his journey from managing budgets at Amazon Web Services to founding Guishi, a company inspired by ancient wisdom. Ryion brings a fresh perspective on leadership resilience as he coaches new and upcoming CFOs passionate about driving social impact. Learn how he empowers these financial leaders to influence CEOs and investors towards lasting, sustainable growth.

Ever wondered about the coexistence of meditation and AI? Inspired by Yuval Noah Harari, Ryion takes us on his personal quest for spiritual and energetic understanding. We discuss how self-learning and embracing our existence as energetic beings can dissolve limiting beliefs and unlock new potentials. Dive into the profound insights on AI's current limitations and its transformative potential, as well as the role of human resilience in navigating the technological landscape.

Leadership is not just about titles; it's about vulnerability, self-empowerment, and embracing paradoxes. Ryion's coaching methods focus on addressing internal barriers and leveraging personal strengths, making vulnerability a cornerstone of professional growth. He shares valuable insights on the importance of embracing change, finding courage in nature, and the transformative journey of leadership coaching. Whether you’re a leader aiming to inspire your team or an individual seeking personal growth, this episode offers practical advice and compelling insights for embracing resilience in today’s ever-changing world.

Ever wondered how feedback can be likened to navigating a plane's instrument panel? Join me on this insightful episode of JD's Journal as I share my personal experiences with flight simulation and flying lessons to underscore the art of giving and receiving feedback. Just like a pilot relies on crucial instruments to stay on course, we need effective feedback mechanisms to guide our personal and professional journeys. We'll break down the emotional reactions we often face when receiving feedback and the importance of understanding its context and urgency.

Unlock the secrets of 360-degree feedback and see how it can be a game-changer for your growth. Drawing from my time at Amazon and their Forte process, I offer practical strategies for gathering a balanced mix of feedback from managers, peers, subordinates, and customers. Embrace the courage to seek critical feedback and learn tips on delivering it constructively, creating an environment of openness and mutual respect. This episode will show you how to turn feedback into a powerful tool for development.

Finally, we dive into essential techniques for effective feedback in leadership scenarios. Learn the golden rule of "praise publicly, criticize privately" and how to use the feedback sandwich model to ensure your feedback is both constructive and encouraging. Reflect on past feedback experiences and apply these insights to improve your interactions. Don't forget to visit the JD's Journal Facebook page to share your thoughts and questions. Tune in for an enriching discussion that promises to enhance your approach to feedback in all areas of your life.

Discover the art of sustainable living and career transformation through an inspiring dialogue with Andrea Gosselink, a career and leadership coach who transitioned from a high-powered corporate role to a life immersed in permaculture. Andrea’s journey from Sydney to the Central Coast of Australia illustrates a move towards a more fulfilling and environmentally conscious lifestyle. Our conversation unveils the principles of permaculture, focusing on sustainable gardening and living practices that align with Andrea's passion for the environment and creativity.

Andrea takes us through her impressive career trajectory, from her psychology roots to impactful HR roles at Anheuser-Busch and Amazon. She shares how these experiences fueled her desire to guide others toward career fulfillment, ultimately leading her to establish a successful coaching business. Listen to Andrea recount the invaluable lessons she learned from Amazon's leadership principles and the significance of continuous education in both personal and professional realms. This chapter is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability in navigating career transitions.

We also delve into the daily balancing act of coaching, parenting, and maintaining productivity in a fast-paced world. Andrea offers practical strategies for setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and fostering a supportive environment. Hear about her transformative coaching mindset inspired by Steven Covey and her insightful take on managing career goals alongside family responsibilities. This episode is packed with actionable advice and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for anyone striving to find balance and purpose in their professional and personal lives.

Join me for a heartwarming exploration as my youngest, Jacqui Dwyer, pulls back the curtain on her vibrant journey in musical theatre. Experiencing an international childhood, Jacqui's anecdotes paint a picture of a life rich with creativity and the pursuit of purpose through the joy of the stage.

The seas of the performing arts are ever turbulent, with success post-university an unpredictable voyage. Jackie and I dissect the casting process intricacies, where the right fit can eclipse the highest skill, and share a candid look at the often hidden battles with imposter syndrome. We celebrate the thrill of mastering complex roles, exemplified by the task of being a swing in a show as spirited as Come From Away, and bask in the adrenaline that courses through a performer's veins.

We close our conversation on a high note, sharing the inspiring story of Ellery Ward, whose acoustic renditions of Stephen Sondheim classics have carved a distinctive path in musical theatre. Between the laughter and the candor on mentors' impact, life's juggling act, and the pursuit of authenticity, we find solace in the art of mindfulness. With personal rituals and a dash of 'rocket fuel' passion, we're reminded of the profound satisfaction found in a life attuned to the arts. My deepest gratitude to Jackie for this enlightening exchange, and to our listeners, an invitation to thread kindness into your lives.

Picture a world where every note in a musical score is a stepping stone towards greater empathy and social justice. That's the vision Jye Bryant brings to life through his Sydney-based theater and educational work. Our latest episode is a symphony of stories from this composer, educator, and advocate, illuminating the profound impact the arts can have on society. Jye's own narrative, from the personal triumphs of coming out to the community connections forged in theater, is an intimate score that resonates with the universal human experience.

Have you ever considered the delicate dance between crafting a minimalist show and making an outsized emotional impact? Jye takes us behind the curtain of "The Things I Could Never Tell Stephen," his acclaimed musical that thrives on the power of unspoken words and the character who never takes the stage. We also get a peek into his creative process, where inspiration strikes from the everyday to the extraordinary, and the camaraderie of fellow creatives is the ultimate encore. Plus, tips from his book "Lyric Writing in Five Easy Steps" reveal the melody of crafting compelling lyrics, no matter where you are in your artistic journey.

Transitioning from the spotlight to the heartwarming tales of community service, Jye shares his evolution from music teacher to youth worker. He underscores the significance of accessible education in community service fields and the life-changing power of creativity in guiding young minds. And for those navigating the thorny path of an artistic career, Jye's candid insights into overcoming industry hurdles offer hope. Whether you're a fellow artist balancing day jobs or an enthusiast longing to contribute to the arts, this episode offers a chorus of wisdom that sings to the soul of every listener.

When the echo of self-doubt whispers insidiously, suggesting we're not deserving of our successes, it's imposter syndrome creeping in—and it's an affliction I've grappled with myself, alongside figures like Sheryl Sandberg and David Bowie. JD's Journal peels back the layers of this psychological phenomenon, offering solace in the shared experience of countless professionals who outwardly seem unshakeable. Through candid discussions, we dissect the contrast between the confidence projected by high achievers and their private insecurities, underscoring the message that the feeling of being an imposter is far more common than we might think.

Moving beyond mere sympathy, this episode arms you with practical strategies to reclaim your confidence. We're not just revealing the inner workings of imposter syndrome; we're equipping you with the tools to combat it. Drawing upon the insights of Carol Dweck and the motivational wisdom of Amy Porterfield, we discuss how to reframe this self-doubt as a force for growth and success. Whether it's affirming your personal achievements or tapping into a network for support, JD's Journal is your companion in transforming those inner critics into catalysts for empowerment. Join us and start turning imposter syndrome from a formidable foe into an unexpected ally in your professional toolkit.