UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Focus and Presence in a Distraction-Heavy World

In today's world of endless notifications, overflowing inboxes and constant noise, focus and presence feel harder than ever to hold onto. In this episode of UNFILTERED Courageous Conversations about Focus and Presence in a Distraction-Heavy World, Daphna and Amy take an unflinching look at the cost of distraction from information overload (the equivalent of 16 movies a day!) to the hidden toll of multitasking.

This isn't about productivity hacks or quick fixes. It's about courageous conversations. How distraction shapes our leadership, our relationships and even our sense of self. Through personal stories, science-backed insights and practical tools, they explore what it really takes to reclaim focus and choose presence in a world that thrives on pulling us away.

If you've ever felt scattered, reactive or simply longed to slow down and be fully here, this episode is for you.

Timestamps

[00:01:11] Information overload and distractions
[00:05:25] Distraction vs intention
[00:09:14] The importance of human connection
[00:12:35] Presence and focus in team engagement
[00:19:24] Tech boundaries for focus
[00:22:56] The benefits of being present
[00:26:36] Full presence in conversations
[00:30:24] Commitment to personal challenges

UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Grief and the Loss of Loved Ones

Grief isn't neat, predictable, or something to "get over." In this deeply moving episode of UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations, Daphna and Amy explore the raw, human side of grief. What it really feels like to lose someone, how society often rushes the grieving process, and why true healing begins with acknowledgment, not avoidance.

From awkward condolences to moments of unexpected laughter, this episode invites listeners to embrace grief as a natural, messy, and profoundly human experience. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that reminds us all: you're not broken, you're grieving. And that's okay.

Timestamps
[00:00:25] Grief as a universal experience
[00:07:15] Why acknowledging grief matters
[00:14:08] What not to say when someone is grieving
[00:20:31] Returning to work while grieving
[00:22:48] Bereavement and workplace support
[00:29:24] The ongoing nature of grief
[00:31:09] Searching for meaning after loss
[00:36:44] The messy and transformative nature of grief
[00:41:15] Appreciating love before loss
[00:43:46] Continuing relationships with loved ones

UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Being an Introvert in an Extroverted Workplace

You don't have to be the loudest voice in the room to be a powerful leader. In this UNFILTERED episode, Daphna Horowitz and Amy Riley get real about what it means to be an introvert in an extroverted workplace. They unpack common misconceptions, explore how different energy styles show up at work, and reveal the quiet superpowers that make introverted leaders so effective. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to create space for deeper thinking, balanced conversations, and the brilliance that often goes unheard.

A powerful listen for leaders who want to think — and lead — differently.

Timestamps

[00:01:07] Introversion vs Extroversion Explained.
[00:06:17] Importance of extrovert-introvert dynamics.
[00:10:12] Introverts and social interactions.
[00:12:45] Reflection and refueling strategies.
[00:19:24] Overlooked introverts in organizations.
[00:21:03] Superpowers of introverts.
[00:26:08] The power of introverts and extroverts.
[00:30:12] Balancing extrovert and introvert needs.
[00:35:34] Leveraging strengths in leadership.

UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Menopause

Is it hot in here, or is it… Menopause?

In this powerful episode of UNFILTERED, Daphna and Amy crack open one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed life transitions: menopause. From brain fog to emotional turbulence, night sweats to shifting identities, they share their raw, personal experiences and invite you into a conversation that too often happens in whispers, or not at all.

This isn't about medical jargon or "grin and bear it" advice. It's about real talk: how menopause shows up in our bodies, our moods, our relationships, and our work and why it's time we stop pretending it doesn't exist.

If you've ever felt alone in your symptoms, invisible in the workplace, or unsure of what's "normal," this episode is for you.

Let's break the silence and make space for truth, humour, and healing.

Timestamps

[00:02:11] Menopause experiences and challenges
[00:07:10] Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause
[00:09:10] Impact of menopause
[00:14:15] Redefining identity in change
[00:18:51] Sharing personal struggles
[00:21:40] The journey of self-acceptance
[00:27:06] Leadership and menopause
[00:29:27] Authentic conversations

UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Morning Routines

Feel guilty for not joining the 5 am club? You're not alone, and you're not doing it wrong.

In the latest episode of the UNFILTERED Series, Daphna and Amy break down the myth that success has to start before sunrise. Explore why early wakeups aren't a magic formula and how tuning into your natural energy leads to more focus, creativity, and confidence throughout the day. Morning routines aren't about checking off boxes.

They're about anchoring yourself with what feels right for you. Whether it's a cup of coffee in silence, a walk in nature, or journaling at lunch, the key is to find moments that support your well-being. Together, they share honest stories, practical ideas, and simple ways to create routines that leave you feeling grounded, not pressured.

Timestamps

[00:01:02] Morning routines and success myths
[00:05:38] Morning routines and personal rhythms
[00:08:46] Reflection time for leaders
[00:14:10] Rethinking morning routines
[00:16:16] Morning routine and intention
[00:22:00] Morning routines and self-discovery
[00:24:35] Conversations that need discussing

Ever feel like a fraud—even with all your achievements?
You're not alone. In this first episode of UNFILTERED, Daphna Horowitz and Amy Riley explore imposter syndrome: what it is, why it shows up, and how to move through it.

Discover:

• The 5 types of imposter syndrome

• Why it hits women and minorities harder

• How to reframe self-doubt as a sign of growth

• Tools to name it, normalize it, and own your value
  
  

Raw, real, and relatable—this is the conversation we all need to hear.

🎧 Listen now. Share with someone who needs it.

Timestamps

[00:00:14] Imposter syndrome awareness and naming it.

[00:04:53] Types of imposter syndrome.

[00:11:14] Courage in the face of fear.

[00:14:56] Imposter syndrome and growth.

[00:20:06] Leadership under pressure.

[00:22:18] Unique value and self-awareness.

[00:26:40] Normalizing imposter syndrome discussions.

Richard Parker, an expert in acquiring businesses, shares his journey of transforming business aspirations into reality. After facing a crossroad in his personal life, he realized the importance of making decisions based on uncertainty and the worst-case scenario. He emphasizes the value of buying a good business at a great price, rather than starting a risky startup. Richard also discusses the importance of humility and surrounding yourself with people who are smarter and more skilled. This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners.

About the guest:

Richard Parker is an expert in acquiring businesses and has transformed business aspirations into reality for over 30 years. He has acquired 13 companies and one co-investment, ranging from $50,000 to over $200 million. Richard's program, "How to Buy a Good Business at a Great Price," has empowered and guided prospective business buyers in 80 countries around the world. He has been featured in top-tier publications such as Forbes and The New York Times and has written over 300 published articles showcasing his authority in the field. Richard also served as a mentor in the Dalio family office, working with Ray Dalio's son and imparting the art of acquiring businesses.

Resources:

website: www.RichardParker.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richparker1/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichardParkerDiomo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richardparkerdiomo/

Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@richardparkerdiomo

Timestamps:

2:44 Facing crossroads in business and personal life

7:30 Acquiring a business after stock market investment went bust

10:11 There are no guarantees with a Startup

14:00 An MBA doesn't mean that you know how to become a business owner

16:13 When you don't have options, it is incredibly easy to make decisions

18:11 Thinking outside the box

20:08 Mitigating risks

26:25 What is the mission plan?

29:25 Startups are like adding jet fuel to the economy

35:21 Overcoming ego

41:49 Learn about yourself by asking questions

44:50 Embrace being wrong

45:20 A Small habit that has made a difference

47:55 Linking what you do to what you can do for the community

51:10 Connect with Richard Parker

• Richard Parker's personal crossroads, including his decision to separate and get a divorce, served as a catalyst for change and prompted him to evaluate his life and make important decisions.

• Acquiring existing businesses can be a more practical and lucrative option compared to starting a startup, as it provides immediate income and the potential for growth through acquisitions.

• When faced with uncertainty, it is important to determine the time available to make a decision and allocate probabilities to potential outcomes to make a better decision.

• Richard emphasizes the importance of humility and surrounding oneself with people who are smarter and more skilled, as this leads to personal and professional growth.

• Successful business owners often focus on building a great business or empowering others rather than solely pursuing financial gain.

Connect with Daphna:

www.daphnahorowitz.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/

https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions

Did you enjoy this episode of Leadership Live podcast? Leave us a review HERE.

In this episode of Leadership Live, host Daphna Horowitz interviews Dr. Ilan Samish, CEO and founder of Amai Proteins, an Israeli food tech startup. Dr. Samish discusses his journey from academia to entrepreneurship and the development of a sugar substitute that is healthier, tastier, and more sustainable than traditional sweeteners. He also shares insights on the importance of effective communication, the impact of the recent conflict in Israel on his company, and the resilience and unity of his team. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with a leader who is making a difference in the world.

About the guest:

Dr. Ilan Samish is the CEO and founder of Amai Proteins, an Israeli food tech startup that has developed the first sugar substitute that tastes just like sugar. With a background in computational protein design and genetics, Dr. Samish has a stellar academic career and has made significant contributions to the field. He is also a former journalist and lecturer, bringing a unique perspective to his work. Dr. Samish is passionate about helping people reduce their sugar intake and improve their health.

Resources:

Amai Proteins website: www.miproteins.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilansamish

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.co.il/citations?user=HI8y1D8AAAAJ

ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ilan_Samish

Key Takeaways:

• Dr. Samish's unconventional skill in journalism has served him well in his leadership journey, particularly in communicating complex scientific concepts to a wider audience.

• Amai Proteins has developed a sugar substitute that is made from sweet proteins found in the jungle, offering a healthier alternative to traditional sugar.

• The protein-based sweetener is zero-calorie, sustainable, and has a taste that is indistinguishable from sugar.

• The recent war in Israel had a significant impact on MI Proteins, with the loss of a lead researcher and employees affected by military duty. However, the company rallied together and continued to deliver on their mission.

Timestamps:

3:45 Journalism has been an unconventional skill that has helped shape Ilan's view on science

7:15 Communication is an important skill to develop from an expert to a leader

9:00 The journey to developing Amai Proteins - the mindset and the quilt

16:07 Taking unconventional routes in life

18:37 The innovation and difference between ordinary sugar and the substitute

24:20 The Effect of sugar and Obesity to people and World

26:30 War in Israel - everything changed

32:40 Importance of mental health support after traumatic events

38:09 Losing a colleague- what happened next?

39:19 Transformation and resilience in the face of challenges

44:30 Key lessons in the transition

49:40 If you had a magic wand, what would you change about your world?

Connect with Daphna:

www.daphnahorowitz.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/

https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions

Did you enjoy this episode of Leadership Live podcast? Leave us a review HERE.