878. We often talk about "finding" our purpose as if it’s a destination on a map. But what if purpose isn’t a noun, but a verb? This week, Rachel talks with Ira Bedzow, Executive Director of the Emory Purpose Project. They discuss why purpose belongs in every industry—from real estate to healthcare—and how leaders can move away from "shoulds" to focus on what they actually want to cultivate. Learn how to build your "reflection muscle" and use the power of listening to create a culture where people truly matter.

Learn more about Ira Bedzow and the Emory Purpose Project here.

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

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724. Being strategic at work is about focusing less on quantity—how much you can get done—and leaning instead on doing the right stuff in the wisest and most impactful ways. Here are three strategies to unlock that superpower.

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

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877. As we close the books on a heavy year, Rachel shares her top five work lessons from 2025 to carry into the new year. She looks at why uncertainty is here to stay, how to make AI amplify your humanity, and why the changing nature of workplace loyalty means you need to protect your own career. Start 2026 with a plan to move from worrying to preparing.

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

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876. It's been a hard year. As we head into 2026, Rachel shares five practices to help you focus on what you can control and make your work better.

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

Have a question for Modern Mentor? Email us at modernmentor@quickanddirtytips.com.

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875. As we close out the year, Rachel explores why observation - not action - might be the key to unlocking what's already working. Learn how to find your bright spots and carry them into the new year.

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

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874. In a world defined by change, what are the human elements of work that remain constant? We look at this question with JP Elliot, founder of Future of HR Consulting. He identifies the three fundamental needs employees will always demand from their work experience: to get along, get ahead, and find meaning. Learn why anchoring your leadership strategy on these principles is the key to creating an engaged, high-performing team, regardless of technological shifts like AI.

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

Have a question for Modern Mentor? Email us at modernmentor@quickanddirtytips.com.

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718. “Productivity” is the thing we’ve been chasing for years—more, better, faster. But is it really serving us? Or is it time for us to rethink how we measure what the increments of our success?

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

Have a question for Modern Mentor? Email us at modernmentor@quickanddirtytips.com.

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873. Employees are waiting for leaders to fix work. Leaders are drowning trying to fix everything. Rachel explains why both sides are stuck in an outdated model - and how to break free.

Modern Mentor is hosted by Rachel Cooke. A transcript is available at Simplecast.

Have a question for Modern Mentor? Email us at modernmentor@quickanddirtytips.com.

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Modern Mentor is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.

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