Welcome To The Leadership Decoded Podcasthttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/LD-wide.png19201080OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/LD-wide.png
We’re about to launch the first OnTheStacks Original Podcast, a leadership Podcast titled Leadership Decoded with Dr. Will Ramey!
The mission of the Leadership Decoded Podcast is to educate and empower leaders of all levels. Each episode will discuss a variety of research backed elements of leadership, practical strategies, and proven techniques that can be applied to improve your leadership abilities to lead at work and in your everyday life
Your host, Dr. Ramey, is a former U.S. Army Officer and Bronze Star recipient. Beyond his military leadership, he has led teams for several Fortune 100 companies and the Department of Defense. Currently, Dr. Ramey is an executive leadership coach, keynote speaker, and MBA Adjunct Professor at Drexel University.
Listening to leadership podcasts can be a valuable and enriching experience for individuals looking to enhance their leadership skills and stay updated with the latest trends and insights in the field. Here are a few compelling reasons why you should consider tuning in:
Continuous Learning: Leadership is an evolving discipline, and podcasts offer a convenient and accessible way to stay informed about the latest leadership theories, strategies, and best practices. Podcast hosts often interview experts, authors, and experienced leaders, providing you with a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives.
Time Efficiency: Podcasts can be consumed while commuting, exercising, or during other routine activities, making them a time-efficient way to invest in your personal and professional development. You can make the most of your downtime by absorbing valuable leadership insights.
Varied Perspectives: Leadership podcasts feature a wide range of guests and topics, offering diverse viewpoints and approaches to leadership. This exposure to different ideas can help you broaden your own leadership style and adapt it to various situations.
Real-Life Stories: Many leadership podcasts share real-life stories and experiences of successful leaders, including their challenges, failures, and triumphs. These stories can be incredibly inspiring and provide practical insights that you can apply in your own leadership journey.
Community and Networking: Engaging with leadership podcasts often means becoming part of a community of like-minded individuals who share your interest in leadership development. You can connect with fellow listeners, join online discussions, and even network with some of the podcast guests.
Convenience: Podcasts are readily available on various platforms, and most of them are free to access. You can choose episodes that align with your specific leadership goals and interests, creating a personalized learning experience.
In a rapidly changing world, effective leadership skills are more critical than ever. Listening to leadership podcasts can be a valuable tool in your quest for continuous growth and improvement as a leader, helping you adapt to new challenges and lead with confidence.
The Leadership Decoded Podcast will be available to listen on all major podcast platforms or you can watch the video version on YouTube
Follow the hashtags #LeadershipDecoded and #OnTheStacks on any social media platform to join in on the conversations!
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Benefits From Saunahttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Benefits-From-Sauna-1.jpg1280720OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Benefits-From-Sauna-1.jpg
Benefits from Sauna + At Home Sauna
Want to own your physical and mental health?! A sauna can do just that. At least for me it has!
If you follow me on social media, you most likely saw me getting my sweat on in the last few weeks in a really awesome portable sauna product called SweatTent. (More onSweat Tent that below)
The opportunity to try it out came by way of a good friend of mine and while I was recently sweating my 🥜s off, I jotted down the top 10 health and wellness benefits of sauna-ing…
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Source list with links at the bottom of the article.
1. Improved Blood Circulation: Sauna sessions promote vasodilation, enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles and organs.
2. Detoxification: Sweating in a sauna helps eliminate toxins from the body, promoting a healthy detoxification process.
3. Relaxation and Stress Relief: Sauna therapy induces relaxation, reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
4. Muscle Recovery and Pain Relief: The heat in a sauna helps relax muscles, relieving tension and promoting faster recovery after physical exertion.
5. Boosted Immune System: Regular sauna use can enhance the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting infections.
6. Skin Health: Sweating in a sauna opens up pores, allowing for deep cleansing of the skin and promoting a healthy complexion.
7. Weight Loss and Metabolism: Sauna sessions can aid in weight loss by increasing metabolism, burning calories, and improving fat mobilization.
8. Cardiovascular Health: Sauna use can help improve cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate, dilating blood vessels, and improving overall circulation.
9. Respiratory Health: The warm and humid environment of a sauna can help alleviate respiratory conditions such as congestion, asthma, and allergies.
10. Improved Sleep Quality: Sauna sessions promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can lead to improved sleep patterns and better overall sleep quality.
If you’re seeking a way to unwind, rejuvenate, and experience the remarkable benefits of sauna therapy anytime and anywhere, the Sweat Tent portable sauna is the ultimate solution.
Embrace the portability, cherish the tranquility, and unlock a world of wellness with this extraordinary backyard portable sauna!
Before starting sauna sessions or any new health regimen, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.
Creativity and Flow | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Creativity-and-Flow.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Creativity-and-Flow.jpg
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Unleashing Creativity Through Flow
In the realm of human potential, few concepts are as inspiring as “flow,” a state where creativity and productivity converge effortlessly. Today, we embark on a journey to explore the profound research of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and how understanding the flow state can unlock boundless creativity in our lives and work.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
The Research: The Art and Science of Flow
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a pioneer in positive psychology, delved deep into the psychology of optimal experience. His research gave birth to the concept of “flow,” a mental state where individuals are fully immersed in an activity, feeling energized, focused, and completely absorbed.
Flow and Creativity: A Symbiotic Relationship
The Flow State Defined: Flow is characterized by a deep sense of focus, a loss of self-consciousness, and a feeling of timelessness. In this state, individuals are fully engaged in an activity, often experiencing a sense of joy and even euphoria.
Nurturing Creativity: Flow and creativity are closely intertwined. When in flow, individuals tap into their most creative selves. This heightened state of consciousness allows for novel connections, innovative solutions, and the birth of new ideas.
How to Cultivate Flow and Boost Creativity:
Clear Goals: Define clear and achievable goals for your creative endeavors. This provides direction and a sense of purpose.
Feedback Loops: Regularly seek feedback and adjust your approach accordingly. This keeps you engaged and helps maintain the flow state.
Challenge and Skill Balance: Strive for a balance between the challenge of the task and your skill level. Flow occurs when the challenge slightly exceeds your abilities, motivating you to rise to the occasion.
Eliminate Distractions: Create a conducive environment by minimizing distractions. Turn off notifications and find a quiet, focused space.
Passion and Interest: Engage in activities that genuinely interest you and align with your passions. Intrinsic motivation fuels the flow state.
Benefits of Flow and Creativity:
Enhanced Productivity: Flow amplifies your efficiency and productivity, allowing you to accomplish more in less time.
Quality Output: Creativity flourishes in the flow state, resulting in higher-quality work and innovative solutions.
Personal Fulfillment: Experiencing flow is inherently rewarding and contributes to a deep sense of personal fulfillment.
Reduced Stress: The immersive nature of flow reduces stress and anxiety, promoting mental well-being.
The Path to Creative Flow
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s research on flow unveils the gateway to boundless creativity. By understanding the conditions that foster the flow state and actively cultivating it in our lives, we can unlock the full spectrum of our creative potential.
Let’s embark on a journey of creative flow. As we set clear goals, seek feedback, and align our passions with challenges, we’ll tap into the wellspring of innovation within us. Together, we’ll shape a future where creativity flows effortlessly, sparking innovation, and enhancing our lives and the world around us.
Let’s Work Together:
Do you want to strengthen your self-awareness, self-assuredness, and leadership presence? Let’s talk! I coach leaders so that you can achieve your professional and personal goals. Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Are you a business owner or employee that is interested in strengthening your team effectiveness? I provide curated team development workshops using creative approaches to increase learning retention. Reach out at will@onthestacks.com or checkout my website: Will Ramey Leadership & Team Dynamic Workshop
Emotional Contagion | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Emotional-Contagion.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Emotional-Contagion.jpg
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
The Ripple Effect of Emotions – Understanding Emotional Contagion
In the captivating world of human emotions, there exists a fascinating phenomenon known as emotional contagion. Drawing from the research of Sigal Barsade, today we embark on a journey to explore this intriguing concept. Join me as we unravel the dynamics of emotional contagion, its profound impact on individuals and teams, and strategies to harness its power for positive outcomes.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
Sigal Barsade’s Research: The Science of Emotional Contagion
Sigal Barsade’s pioneering research sheds light on the contagious nature of emotions. Her work reveals that emotions are not confined to individuals but can spread like wildfire within groups and organizations. Let’s delve into how emotional contagion works and its implications.
Emotional Contagion: The Domino Effect of Emotions
Emotional contagion is the phenomenon where one person’s emotions and related behaviors trigger similar emotional responses in others. It’s like a ripple effect, where the emotional state of one person spreads to those around them, influencing attitudes, actions, and group dynamics. As a leader, your awareness of your emotions and related actions plays a role in the overall wellbeing of your team.
Key Aspects of Emotional Contagion:
Mirror Neurons: Mirror neurons in the brain play a crucial role in emotional contagion. They enable individuals to imitate and “mirror” the emotions and behaviors of others.
Positive and Negative Contagion: Emotional contagion can be both positive and negative. Joy, enthusiasm, and optimism can spread just as easily as stress, anxiety, or frustration.
Strategies for Harnessing Emotional Contagion:
Emotionally Intelligent Communication: Practice emotionally intelligent communication by actively listening, validating feelings, and providing constructive feedback. Be aware of your own mood and employ technics to stay in the positive.
Cultivate a Positive Culture: Foster a positive organizational culture where gratitude, recognition, and appreciation are encouraged. Positive emotions are more likely to spread in such an environment.
Manage Negative Emotions: When negative emotions arise, address them promptly and constructively. Provide resources for managing stress and encourage open dialogue.
Benefits of Emotional Contagion:
Enhanced Team Dynamics: Positive emotional contagion can strengthen team cohesion and cooperation, leading to improved group performance.
Increased Motivation: A team that experiences the positive emotions of enthusiasm and inspiration is more likely to be motivated and committed to its goals.
Stress Reduction: Strategies for managing negative emotional contagion can reduce stress and prevent its detrimental effects on individuals and teams.
Harnessing the Power of Emotional Contagion:
Sigal Barsade’s research on emotional contagion highlights the remarkable influence of emotions within groups and organizations. By understanding how emotions can spread, we can harness this power for positive outcomes, such as enhanced teamwork, motivation, and stress reduction.
Let’s embark on a journey of emotional contagion awareness. As we lead by example, practice emotionally intelligent communication, and cultivate positive cultures, we’ll witness the transformative impact of emotions on our teams and organizations. Together, we’ll shape a future where emotional contagion becomes a force for inspiration, collaboration, and collective success.
Let’s Work Together:
Do you want to strengthen your self-awareness, self-assuredness, and leadership presence? Let’s talk! I coach leaders so that you can achieve your professional and personal goals. Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Are you a business owner or employee that is interested in strengthening your team effectiveness? I provide curated team development workshops using creative approaches to increase learning retention. Reach out at will@onthestacks.com or checkout my website: Will Ramey Leadership & Team Dynamic Workshop
Elevate your Well-Being | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Well-being.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Well-being.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
My Well-Being Eye Opener
I was brought up in the Army where leaders eat last. Leaders ensure their team has everything they need to be successful. My team’s well-being had to be a priority. Our LIVES depended on it in a combat zone. When convoying from Kuwait to Iraq, I ensured my team had rest cycles, they were fed, vehicles were maintained, and all were taken care of. When I finally got to our operating base, I had was smoked! What I realized is that I needed to put my team’s well-being as a top priority AND I needed to find a way to maintain my own well-being at the same time. If’ I couldn’t find this balance, something tragic might happen. I learned to build routines to balance my mind, body, and spirit so that I could show up as the best leader for my team. Too often you trade your well-being for the good of the team.
Leaders must be able to lead themselves before taking on leading others. This includes ensuring your own well-being is in tip-top shape. Research indicates that leaders are experiencing more and more challenges to their own well-being. The pace of business, hyper-competitiveness, 24-7 access in the digital world are all stressors of the modern workplace. You can easily lose your way by prioritizing the demands of your business or your team over your personal well-being. You’re taught to put your team first, be a servant leader but, if you don’t have tactics in place to take care of yourself, you won’t be at your best for your team.
Darin Olien’s Wisdom: Superlife, Super Leadership
I’ve read Darin Olien’s book “Superlife” through twice and have pages earmarked as references. This book offers practical tactics to improve multiple aspects of your well-being. The emphasis is on the significance of nutrition, hydration, sleep, exercise, and mindfulness. Let’s delve into how these principles can elevate our leadership.
Well-Being as a Leadership Asset:
Nutrition for Clarity: Proper nutrition fuels your cognitive abilities and decision-making. By nourishing your body with the right foods, you enhance mental clarity and focus, critical for effective leadership.
Hydration for Energy: Staying adequately hydrated is essential for sustained energy levels. When you stay hydrated you are better equipped to handle the demands of your role.
Quality Sleep for Resilience: Adequate and restorative sleep is a cornerstone of your well-being. When you get enough restful sleep you are capable of being more resilient, emotionally stable, and of handling stress.
Exercise for Vitality: Regular physical activity not only boosts your physical health but also enhances your mental well-being. It fosters creativity and resilience, key attributes of successful leaders.
Mindfulness for Presence: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, improve your self-awareness and emotional regulation. Leaders who practice mindfulness are better equipped to navigate challenging situations with composure.
Strategies for Cultivating Well-Being as a Leader:
Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Schedule time for exercise, healthy meals, and relaxation.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life to prevent burnout and promote well-being.
Encourage Well-Being in Your Team: Create a workplace culture that values well-being by offering resources, flexibility, and support for your team’s physical and mental health.
Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to enhance self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest research and best practices in well-being to make informed choices for yourself and your team.
Benefits of Prioritizing Well-Being as a Leader:
Enhanced Decision-Making: Well-being practices sharpen cognitive abilities, leading to better decision-making and problem-solving.
Improved Resilience: Leaders who prioritize well-being are more resilient and better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks.
Positive Team Culture: A leader’s commitment to well-being sets the tone for the entire team, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Increased Productivity: Well-being practices boost energy levels and productivity, ultimately leading to more efficient leadership.
Thriving in Leadership Through Well-Being
Darin Olien’s “Superlife” offers valuable insights into elevating well-being for effective leadership. By embracing principles such as nutrition, hydration, sleep, exercise, and mindfulness, we can transform ourselves into more vibrant, resilient, and impactful leaders.
Let’s embark on a well-being journey in leadership. As we prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and encourage well-being in our teams, we’ll witness the transformation of our leadership style. Together, we’ll shape a future where well-being is not just a personal choice but a leadership asset, contributing to our success, fulfillment, and the well-being of those we lead.
Let’s Work Together:
Do you want to strengthen your self-awareness, self-assuredness, and leadership presence? Let’s talk! I coach leaders so that you can achieve your professional and personal goals. Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Are you a business owner or employee that is interested in strengthening your team effectiveness? I provide curated team development workshops using creative approaches to increase learning retention. Reach out at will@onthestack.com or checkout my website: Will Ramey Leadership & Team Dynamic Workshop
Lead with Þetta Reddast | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/petta-reddast.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/petta-reddast.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
Embracing “Þetta Reddast” – The Icelandic Resilience Philosophy
In the enchanting land of Iceland, a unique philosophy known as Þetta Reddast flourishes. If you are a leader, read on to uncover the depth and wisdom of this philosophy, exploring how it embodies resilience, adaptability, and a positive outlook in the face of challenges. Join me as we delve into the heart of Þetta Reddast and uncover its profound lessons for navigating life’s complexities.
Discovery of It will All Work Out
As I continue on the pursuit of merging happiness and work life, I stumbled across a show: Rainn Wilson And The Geography Of Bliss. I enjoy docu-series type shows. My kids groan when I flip them on, so I tend to watch these late at night when my mind tends to drift to the more philosophical side of life. This show is where I discovered the Icelandic phrase – Þetta Reddast. I immediately took note of the application to leadership.
Understanding Þetta Reddast: The Spirit of Adaptation
Þetta Reddast, often translated as “it will all work out,” encapsulates the Icelandic spirit of resilience. It reflects a mindset that embraces uncertainty and adversity with a calm and confident attitude. It’s about acknowledging that your challenges are part of life’s journey and trusting that things will ultimately fall into place.
Exploring the Key Principles of Þetta Reddast
Embracing Imperfection: Þetta Reddast invites you to accept that life is unpredictable, and imperfections are part of the tapestry of experiences.
Adapting to Change: The philosophy encourages flexibility and adaptability, reminding you that circumstances can shift, and you have the inner strength to adjust.
Finding Solutions: Rather than dwelling on problems, Þetta Reddast promotes a solution-oriented mindset, emphasizing your capacity to overcome challenges.
Lessons from Þetta Reddast
Resilience in Adversity: Þetta Reddast teaches you to maintain composure in the face of adversity, knowing that challenges are temporary and you possess the resilience to overcome them.
Cultivating Patience: The philosophy reminds you that outcomes may take time, and patience is essential. It encourages you to trust the process.
Nurturing Optimism: You can fosters a positive outlook, allowing you to approach difficulties with hope and confidence.
Application to Leadership
While rooted in Icelandic culture, Þetta Reddast holds universal wisdom. Its principles can be applied to leadership reminding us to:
Embrace uncertainty and change as natural parts of life.
Cultivate a solution-focused mindset to overcome challenges.
Trust in your ability to adapt and find ways forward.
Embracing Þetta Reddast in Our Journeys
Þetta Reddast is a philosophy that resonates with the human experience across cultures. By embodying its principles of resilience, adaptability, and optimism, you navigate life’s uncertainties and lead with grace and confidence.
Let’s embark on a journey of embracing Þetta Reddast. As you weave its lessons into your lives, you’ll discover newfound strength in facing challenges, a deeper appreciation for imperfections, and a resilient spirit that propels you forward. Together, we’ll shape a future where Þetta Reddast guides us to navigate life’s complexities with poise and optimism, reminding us that in the end, it will all work out.
Let’s Work Together:
Do you want to strengthen your self-awareness, self-assuredness, and leadership presence? Let’s talk! I coach leaders so that you can achieve your professional and personal goals. Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Are you business owner or employee that is interested in strengthening your team effectiveness? I provide curated team development workshops using creative approaches to increase learning retention. Reach out at will@onthestack.com or checkout my website: Will Ramey Leadership & Team Dynamic Workshop
Mutual Support | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Mutual-Support.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Mutual-Support.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
Cultivating Mutual Support for Exceptional Team Dynamics
In the tapestry of effective teamwork, one thread stands out as the foundation of success: mutual support. High performing teams have members that provide support to each other as they work to a collective goal. By understanding the significance, strategies, and benefits, of mutual support we can create an environment where team members uplift each other, achieve remarkable results, and contribute to a culture of shared accomplishment. Let’s unravel the power of mutual support.
Understanding Mutual Support: The Backbone of Team Success
Mutual support refers to the practice of team members assisting and encouraging one another to achieve shared goals. This collaborative spirit is the heartbeat of high-performing teams and the driving force behind collective achievements. This isn’t just the robotic “how are you?”, this is about rolling up your sleeves to help pick up slack when your peer is having an off day. Helping others by sharing knowledge or experimenting with a better way to perform your tasks. Mutual support comes in the form of task assistance, social support, and creating an environment where you can voice your thoughts and navigate conflict successfully towards a better performance outcome. I’ve watched teams that have people working side by side and never say a word to each other. They use email to communicate. They consistently take a problem up to their boss to resolve instead of engaging with each other. Mutual support is about influencing, leading, and following each other because you share the same collective purpose.
The Importance of Mutual Support
Mutual supporting behaviors within a team contribute to positive interactions and dynamics. Think about the best team you’ve ever been a part of? If you had to pinpoint what made is the best, most of us may say the people. The best team I was a part of was my Space Operations Crew. We went to the gym together, ate together, celebrated milestones together, picked each other up when things went bad, taught each other about our specific roles, shared information, etc. We supported each other. The impact of mutual support can include:
Enhanced Team Cohesion: Mutual support strengthens the bond between team members, creating a unified and harmonious work environment.
Increased Productivity: When team members support each other, productivity soars as tasks are completed more efficiently and effectively.
Boosted Morale: Mutual support contributes to a positive atmosphere, boosting morale and creating a sense of belonging.
Innovation and Problem-Solving: A supportive environment encourages open dialogue, leading to innovative ideas and effective problem-solving.
Strategies for Strengthening Mutual Support
Lead by Example: As a leader, model the behavior you want to see. Demonstrate support for your team members through actions and words.
Foster Open Communication: Encourage open dialogue, where team members feel comfortable discussing challenges, seeking advice, and offering assistance.
Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate both individual and team achievements. Recognition boosts motivation.
Collaborative Environment: Create an environment that encourages collaboration, where team members actively seek opportunities to help each other.
Skill Sharing: Encourage team members to share their skills and expertise with one another, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
Benefits of Strengthened Mutual Support
Research has shown that mutual support between team members has positive outcomes. These outcomes can lead to big gains in how your team experiences work.
Higher Team Satisfaction: A culture of mutual support leads to increased job satisfaction, as team members feel valued and appreciated.
Improved Team Resilience: Teams that support each other navigate challenges more effectively, emerging stronger and more resilient.
Enhanced Creativity: A supportive atmosphere encourages diverse thinking and sparks creative ideas.
Retained Talent: A positive, supportive environment reduces turnover as team members feel invested in the team’s success.
Gain Team Harmony Through Mutual Support
Mutual support is the heartbeat of exceptional team dynamics. By fostering open communication, collaborative environments, and a culture of recognition, we elevate our teams to new heights of achievement and cohesion.
Let’s work together, cultivating mutual support within our teams. As we lead by example, encourage open dialogue, and celebrate achievements, we’ll witness the transformation of our teams into powerhouses of collaboration, innovation, and shared success. Together, we will shape a future defined by unity, mutual respect, and the extraordinary outcomes that come from lifting each other up.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
NFL Week 1 Game Pickshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NFL-WEEK-1-GAME-PICKS.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NFL-WEEK-1-GAME-PICKS.jpg
By Spencer Ripchik
The NFL season is almost here, and this season is filled with storylines.
There’s no Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers is in New York and running backs are making nothing. This season should be interesting with all those factors plus a couple of more.
Here are some Week 1 game picks for the 2023 season.
Detriot Lions at Kansas City Chiefs
The Detroit Lions could be the best team in the NFC North with an improved defense and some more offensive weapons. The Lions were just shy of making the playoffs last year and probably will make it in 2023.
However, Detroit opens its season against the defending Super Bowl Champions, and the best quarterback in the league and could be the all-time best.
This one is going to be a shootout, but you can’t bet against Patrick Mahomes.
Winner: Kansas City
Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons
Two pretty young teams with young quarterbacks. The Falcons have Desmond Ridder at the helm, who didn’t take over until the end of the season. Carolina has the first overall pick Bryce Young behind center. With both quarterbacks being young, expect a lot of turnovers.
Atlanta is a bit older and added a bunch of players in the offseason in running back Bijan Robinson, safety Jessie Bates III and defensive end Calais Campbell on the defensive side of the ball.
Both teams are young, but the Panthers are younger.
Winner: Atlanta
Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns
Are the Cleveland Browns contenders to win the tough AFC North? Sure, but one of the teams they have to beat is their opponent in Week 1, the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Bengals are potentially the third-best team in the whole league because of their offense consisting of Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. The defense is also solid.
All around the Bengals are the better team and in a close one get the win on the road.
Winner: Cincinnati
Jacksonville Jaguars at Indianapolis Colts
After running back Jonathan Taylor requested a trade, the Colts were sent into a tailspin. This franchise is rebuilding, and Indianapolis is hoping it has its guy in first-round pick Anthony Richardson.
A team that’s not rebuilding is the Jaguars. The Jaguars won a playoff game last year and are only getting better. Trevor Lawrence made a big leap from Year 1 to Year 2, and he just got a WR1 Calvin Ridley, who was one of the best receivers in the league before his injury and then his suspension.
This one will be close too, but Jacksonville has it.
Winner: Jacksonville
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Minnesota Vikings
The Buccaneers are in their first season without the G.O.A.T. Tom Brady, and now, Baker Mayfield is behind center, which is a clear downgrade. Mayfield isn’t terrible, but not Brady.
The Minnesota Vikings have added more weapons for Kirk Cousins and that’s on top of the best receiver in the league Justin Jefferson.
The Vikings’ defense has declined, but it’s enough to stop Tampa Bay’s offense, which wasn’t that great when Brady was there.
Cousins usually plays well in the 1 p.m. slot, so it’s the Vikings in this one.
Winner: Minnesota
Tennesee Titans at New Orleans Saints
This game is a toss-up. Both teams aren’t great but have some good things going for them.
The New Orleans Saints look like the better squad with new quarterback Derek Carr, but the Titans have some firepower on offense.
The Saints have a strong defensive line, but Derrick Henry is Derrick Henry and a freight train.
The Titans pick up the win on the road.
Winner: Tennessee
San Fransico 49ers at Pittsburgh Steelers
This game could be an interesting one. The 49ers could be without Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa for this game, which is a big blow to that defense.
The Steelers are an interesting bunch with some firepower on defense and are in Year 2 with quarterback Kenny Pickett. Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season but this might be the first one because of how good the AFC North could be.
If this game was in San Fransico, it’s not close, but the Steelers could put up a fight at home.
This is the upset of the week because of how good a coach Tomlin is, and the game is at home.
*Upset* Winner: Pittsburgh
Arizona Cardinals at Washington Commanders
Both of these teams aren’t the greatest. Arizona will be without Kyler Murray, and with some of their offsesason transactions, it looks like the Cardinals have already given up on the season.
The Commanders have a young squad with Sam Howell at the helm and could have a shot at the playoff.
Any team that plays the Cardinals in the first couple of weeks gets a free win.
Winner: Washington
Houston Texans at Baltimore Ravens
Houston is another team in the NFL that is rebuilding around a young core in quarterback C.J. Stroud and pass rusher Will Anderson.
The Ravens aren’t rebuilding. Quarterback Lamar Jackson just got paid and has a bunch of new weapons.
The Ravens get off to a good start and win at home.
Winner: Baltimore
Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears
Green Bay could be the biggest question mark in the NFL. The Packers lost Aaron Rodgers but have had Jordan Love in the back pocket for a couple of years now.
The Packers’ defense is solid with one of the best cornerbacks in the game Jaire Alexander.
Chicago is on the cusp of a playoff appearance, but not there yet. Justin Fields just added D.J. Moore to his arsenal, so he should improve from Year 2 to Year 3.
This game is another tossup, but there is more known about the Bears.
Winner: Chicago
Las Vegas Raiders at Denver Broncos
“Broncos country, let’s ride” was nothing but bad last year. Russell Wilson had one of his worst NFL seasons, but now the Broncos have Sean Payton as their head coach. That’s gonna make a little difference.
The Broncos defense is pretty decent and has Pat Surtain, arguably the best corner in the league.
Las Vegas could be good but also could be bad because who knows how Jimmy Garoppolo does on his new team.
Denver is at home, so it takes the edge in another close one.
Winner: Denver
Philadelphia Eagles at New England Patriots
The Eagles have the best roster in the NFL on paper. Jalen Hurts had a great season last year, and the Philadelphia defense is loaded and just stocked up with defensive rookies from the two-time National Champions Georgia Bulldogs.
The Patriots do have Bill Belichick, one of the best coaches, but their roster doesn’t compare to the Eagles’ roster.
Philadelphia is a Super Bowl favorite this year, so the Eagles win this one.
Winner: Eagles
Miami Dolphins at Los Angeles Chargers
This game is going to be an absolute shootout. Two offenses that are loaded with weapons.
The Chargers have Justin Herbert on a new massive contract and just added rookie receiver Quentin Johnston. Los Angeles also has one of the best pass rushers in Joey Bosa, too.
Miami has maybe the best receiver duo in the league in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. However, can Tua Tagovailoa stay healthy? Who knows.
The Dolphins loaded up on defense. They added linebacker David Long and safety DeShon Elliott and they also added corner Jalen Ramsey, but he’s not going to play.
The Chargers win this one because it’s in Los Angeles.
Winner: Los Angeles
Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks
After a poor season last year because of multiple injuries, the Rams are back in full force after their Super Bowl win in 2022.
The Rams have Cooper Kupp back and Matthew Stafford, who are two of the biggest components of the squad, but Kupp is still a bit banged up, so he might not play.
The Seahawks are coming off a playoff appearance even with Russell Wilson not there. Geno Smith won Comeback Player of the Year and looked the best he’s ever been.
Seattle is home to the 12th man and will be still a tough place to play for a still little banged-up Rams squad.
Winner: Seattle
Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants
The New York Giants went from the outhouse to the penthouse last year in Year 1 under Brian Daboll.
The Giants added a pair of rookies at corner and acquired tight end Darren Waller and defensive player Isaiah Simmons, who can do it all.
The Cowboys gave Dak Prescott another weapon in Brandin Cooks and have a new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer.
The Cowboys defense also added Stephon Gilmore to boost an already solid defense.
This should be an interesting one on Sunday night, but Dallas has a better roster overall.
Winner: Dallas
Buffalo Bills at New York Jets
The Aaron Rodgers era is upon us in New York and his first game is no easy task.
The Buffalo Bills had some problems toward the end of the season with quarterback Josh Allen and their No. 1 receiver Stefon Diggs, but it seems like that’s settled now.
Rodgers has a lot of familiar faces on his offense and potentially a top 5 receiver Garrett Wilson to throw to and a strong defense behind him.
However, the Bills will play spoiler in Rodgers’ first game out in a close one on Monday night.
Winner: Bills
Do you have a sports story you want me to share? Or do have suggestions on any sports-related content you want to see OnTheStacks? Tweet me @RipchikSpencer
Attitude and Aptitude | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Attitude-and-Aptitude.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Attitude-and-Aptitude.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
The Harmonious Fusion of Attitude and Aptitude in Leadership
The only place aptitude comes before attitude is in the dictionary! However, when it comes to leading people there is a duality that forms the bedrock of effective leadership: attitude and aptitude. From my time in the U.S. Army this was considered character and competence. Who are you showing up as and how are you continually learning to grow your expertise?
Let’s explore the synergetic relationship between attitude and aptitude in leadership. Join me as we uncover how this harmonious fusion shapes exceptional leaders and guides us toward excellence.
Attitude: The Foundation of Character
Attitude encompasses the mindset, values, and beliefs that you bring to your role. It forms the core of a leader’s character, influencing behavior, decision-making, and interactions. The U.S. Army leadership doctrine recognizes that a positive attitude, driven by a commitment to ethics, integrity, and respect, is essential for building trust and fostering a cohesive team. Character is demonstrated by the alignment of our actions, decisions, and relationship with ethical behavior. Attitude and how we show up as an authentic ethical leader ready to bring positivity to the people we lead, and the work environment is where we begin to build momentum.
Aptitude: The Building Blocks of Competence
Aptitude refers to the skills, knowledge, and capabilities that you possess. Competence arises from a leader’s mastery of their field, a willingness to learn and adapt, and a dedication to continuous improvement. The U.S. Army leadership doctrine underscores the importance of honing technical and tactical proficiency, as well as embracing a growth mindset to navigate evolving challenges. Competence can be developed over time by opening yourself up to learning from a wide variety of sources. We must take ownership of learning and accept that it is a journey, not a destination. Aptitude and our commitment to honing our proficiency, combined with a positive attitude, is where we take momentum and convert it to kinetic energy.
Balance: Attitude and Aptitude in Leadership
Character-Driven Decision-Making: A positive attitude anchored in moral and ethical principles guides leaders to make principled decisions, ensuring the welfare of their team and the mission’s success.
Building Trust: Attitude plays a pivotal role in building trust within teams. Leaders with a transparent and respectful attitude foster an environment where trust thrives.
Learning and Adaptation: A growth-oriented attitude propels leaders to continuously learn, adapt, and innovate. This flexibility enhances their aptitude and enables them to navigate complex scenarios.
Lead by Example: An attitude of humility and accountability fosters an environment where leaders lead by example, demonstrating competence and encouraging their team to do the same.
Cohesive Team Dynamics: When leaders exhibit a positive attitude and possess aptitude, team members are inspired to collaborate, strive for excellence, and support one another.
U.S. Army Leadership Doctrine: A Guiding Light for all leaders
The U.S. Army’s leadership doctrine emphasizes that character and competence are the cornerstones of effective leadership. It recognizes that a leader’s character, driven by a positive attitude, influences their ability to connect with their team and uphold moral and ethical standards. Meanwhile, their competence, developed through continuous learning and honing aptitude, enables them to lead with expertise and credibility.
Fusion for Exceptional Leadership
The dynamic interplay between attitude and aptitude defines exceptional leadership, echoing the principles of the U.S. Army leadership doctrine. By cultivating a positive attitude rooted in values and ethics, and enhancing our aptitude through continuous learning, we navigate the path to becoming leaders who inspire trust, exhibit competence, and elevate both ourselves and our teams.
Let’s embark on this journey of harmonizing attitude and aptitude. As we nurture our character, strive for competence, and align our actions, we’ll shape a future where exceptional leadership thrives, propelling us toward success, unity, and enduring achievement.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
What is Psychological Contract Fulfillment | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Psychological-Contract-Fulfillment.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Psychological-Contract-Fulfillment.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
When we lead people on our team, we have expectations. However, our team members also have expectations of us AND of the organization. This is known as psychological contract fulfillment. Have you ever worked for an organization and realized they are not coming through on their promises. Whether it be flexibility in schedules, monetary compensation, or even the team atmosphere. You have a feeling that this is NOT what you signed up for, then what? You become less engaged, more stressed, and start looking for a way out. What is that gap in unmet expectations and what is the result?
Today, we explore the profound impact of upholding the psychological contract, understanding its components, and leveraging it to foster trust, engagement, and success. Let’s see the landscape of psychological contract fulfillment and uncover strategies to create a harmonious and thriving work environment.
Understanding Psychological Contract Fulfillment: The Unseen Commitment
The psychological contract is an unwritten agreement that outlines the mutual expectations and obligations between employees and employers. Fulfilling this contract is essential for building trust, motivation, and a sense of belonging within the team. Research supports that when psychological contract fulfillment is high among team members positive relationships between trust, mutual supportive behaviors, a team effectiveness are strengthened.
Exploring the Components of Psychological Contract Fulfillment
As a leader you are representation of the organization. It’s important that you understand your team will look to you to come through on promises and commitments made by the organization. These come in two forms:
Promised Expectations: These are the explicit commitments made by the organization to its employees, such as compensation, job security, and career advancement opportunities.
Implied Expectations: These are the unspoken, implicit expectations that arise from workplace culture, norms, and interactions. They include respect, recognition, and a supportive work environment.
Strategies for Psychological Contract Fulfillment
Open Communication: Regularly engage in transparent conversations with team members to understand their expectations and concerns. Address any discrepancies to ensure alignment.
Fairness and Equity: Ensure that promises made to employees are fulfilled. Fair treatment, equitable opportunities, and consistent policies are crucial for maintaining trust.
Recognition and Appreciation: Acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of team members. Recognize their efforts in alignment with both promised and implied expectations.
Professional Development: Offer opportunities for skill enhancement and career growth. Fulfilling promises related to training and development can boost employee loyalty.
Work-Life Balance: Respect employees’ need for work-life balance. Addressing implied expectations regarding a supportive and flexible work environment enhances job satisfaction.
Benefits of Psychological Contract Fulfillment
If you and the leadership team across the organization get this right, there can be long lasting benefits. Research has found support for positive outcomes from high levels of psychological contract fulfillment.
Enhanced Employee Engagement: Fulfilling both promised and implied expectations fosters a sense of commitment, leading to higher engagement and productivity.
Improved Retention: When employees feel their expectations are met, they are more likely to remain loyal to the organization, reducing turnover.
Positive Organizational Culture: A culture built on trust and psychological contract fulfillment promotes collaboration, innovation, and a positive workplace atmosphere.
Strengthened Employer Brand: Organizations that consistently uphold the psychological contract are seen as trustworthy and attractive employers.
Cultivating Trust Through Fulfillment
Trust is a foundational element of positive team effectiveness and performance. Trust starts with staying true to your word and delivering on your promises. By aligning promised and implied expectations, we foster an environment of trust, engagement, and mutual respect. Through open communication, fairness, recognition, professional development, and work-life balance, we can uphold the psychological contract and lead our teams to unparalleled success.
As we fulfill our commitments to our team members, we create a powerful foundation for a workplace defined by collaboration, loyalty, and growth. Together, we will cultivate a culture where trust flourishes, and our teams thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared achievement.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Bounce Back with Resilience | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Resilience.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Resilience.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
Embracing Resilience in Leadership
“When you get setback, be ready to bounce back!” That’s something I said during a conversation about embracing resilience with a few colleagues this week and they chuckled. We were talking about takeaways from a Mastermind program we were all in together. Personally, my competitive drive and self-imposed expectations can set me up for disappointment. Although, that same energy is what keeps me moving forward. What I’ve realized is that resiliency is what bridges the gap from setback to bounce back. Be the bouncing ball, not the egg that gets dropped and splats!
Let’s explore the profound significance of resilience in leadership, understanding its characteristics, strategies for its cultivation, and the transformative impact it can have on both leaders and their teams. Let’s see if you believe resilience can be harnessed, practiced, and improved.
Understanding Resilience in Leadership: Thriving Amidst Challenges
Resilience in leadership is the capacity to navigate setbacks, adversities, and uncertainties while maintaining a steadfast sense of purpose and a positive outlook. It’s the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and inspire others through one’s own example. Think about times when something didn’t go your way. An idea you pitched got shot down. A recommendation you made didn’t get accepted. Or, like me, the proposal and pricing you sent out for a workshop got rejected. It’s ok to kick rocks for a second, but HOW did you get up, dust off, and carry on? Your team members are taking cues from you. Modeling resilience for a swift comeback will resonate with your team.
Exploring the Characteristics of Resilient Leaders
Adaptability: Resilient leaders embrace change and quickly adjust their strategies to fit evolving circumstances.
Emotional Intelligence: Resilient leaders are in touch with their emotions and those of their team members, using empathy to navigate challenges.
Optimism: Resilient leaders maintain a hopeful outlook even in the face of adversity, inspiring positivity within their teams.
Problem-Solving: Resilient leaders approach challenges as opportunities for growth, focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
Strategies for Cultivating Resilience
Mindfulness and Intentional Thinking: Practicing mindfulness and prioritizing self-care helps leaders stay centered and manage stress. Block time in your day for reflection and intentional thought about how to recover or adjust from a setback.
Continuous Learning: A growth mindset and a commitment to learning enable leaders to adapt to new situations with confidence. Draw from a wide variety of sources including conversations with people in your network. You can learn from podcasts, articles, and just be opening up and hearing someone who may have had a similar situation.
Building Support Networks: Surrounding oneself with mentors, peers, and a strong support system provides guidance and encouragement during tough times. Can’t stress this enough. Don’t just seek comfort and vent. Find the people that will help move you from problem identification to problem solving.
Positive Communication: Cultivating a culture of open and positive communication encourages team members to share challenges and find solutions collaboratively. Use affirmative questions and be explicit with positive phrasing. This doesn’t mean to mask or use rose-colored glasses. Be transparent, but ensure you choose your language to stay challenge-oriented vs threat-oriented when bouncing back.
Benefits of Practicing Resiliency
Effective Decision-Making: Resilient leaders make well-informed decisions even under pressure, considering both short-term and long-term consequences.
Employee Engagement: Resilient leaders inspire team members by handling challenges with grace, enhancing their engagement and morale.
Change Management: Resilient leaders guide teams through change, helping them embrace transitions and maintain productivity.
Innovation: A resilient mindset encourages innovative thinking, as leaders are willing to experiment and explore new approaches.
Navigating Leadership with Resilience
Setbacks will occur. You may not know when or where, but they are a known unknown. Resilience is a keystone, enabling us to navigate challenges with grace and inspire those around us. By embodying adaptability, emotional intelligence, optimism, and problem-solving, we foster a culture of growth and resilience within our teams.
Let’s embark on this journey of cultivating resilience in leadership. As we practice mindfulness, embrace continuous learning, and build support networks, we’ll witness the transformation of our leadership approach. Together, we’ll shape a future where resilience propels us forward, empowers our teams, and guides us toward success even in the face of adversity.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Creativity and Play for Success | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Creativity-and-Play.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Creativity-and-Play.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
Unleashing Success Through Creativity and Play: A Leader’s Guide
In the fast-paced world of leadership, where results, strategies, and goals often take center stage, there’s an often underestimated secret weapon that can propel teams and organizations to new heights: creativity and play. The idea of infusing work environments with creativity and play might seem unconventional, but the benefits they offer are far from trivial. In this article, we’ll delve into the significance of incorporating creativity and play in leadership, explore relevant research, and provide actionable ways for leaders to implement these principles.
The Power of Creativity and Play in Leadership
At first glance, creativity and play might seem like distractions from serious work. However, they are powerful tools that can enhance problem-solving, team cohesion, and innovation. For leaders, fostering environments where these elements thrive can yield numerous advantages.
Why Creativity and Play Matter for Leaders:
Enhanced Problem-Solving: Creativity encourages individuals to think beyond conventional solutions. Leaders who embrace creativity empower their teams to tackle challenges from new angles, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.
Boosted Employee Engagement: When work feels like play, employees become more engaged and invested in their tasks. This leads to higher job satisfaction and increased productivity, ultimately benefiting the organization.
Strengthened Team Dynamics: Playful interactions break down hierarchical barriers and promote collaboration among team members. This can lead to improved communication, trust, and overall team cohesion.
Innovation Catalyst: Creative and playful environments are breeding grounds for innovation. Leaders who embrace these qualities are better positioned to drive their organizations forward and stay ahead of the competition.
Results Backed by Research:
Numerous studies underline the positive impact of creativity and play on workplace dynamics. For instance, a study by Teresa Amabile and her team at Harvard Business School found that creativity is a key driver of employee motivation, job satisfaction, and overall performance. Another research paper published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology suggests that playful activities can enhance employee well-being, particularly in high-stress work environments.
Implementing Creativity and Play at Work:
Encourage Open-Mindedness: Create spaces where employees feel comfortable sharing unconventional ideas. Regular brainstorming sessions and idea-sharing forums can promote creative thinking.
Embrace Flexibility: Allow flexible work arrangements that cater to individual preferences. Allowing employees to choose when and where they work can foster a sense of autonomy, enhancing their engagement and creativity.
Gamify Tasks: Introduce elements of gamification to everyday tasks. Setting up challenges, rewards, and friendly competitions can infuse a sense of play into routine work.
Dedicated Creative Time: Allocate time for employees to explore personal creative projects related to their roles. This “creative time” can lead to fresh insights and innovative solutions.
Team-Building Activities: Organize team-building activities that involve games, puzzles, and collaborative challenges. These activities promote teamwork, communication, and problem-solving in a playful context.
Get out of The Box:
As leaders, the role of fostering creativity and play cannot be underestimated. The benefits, ranging from improved problem-solving to heightened employee engagement, are too substantial to ignore. By creating an environment where employees feel encouraged to think outside the box and engage in playful activities, leaders can pave the way for innovation, collaboration, and lasting success.
So, next time you’re charting out strategies and setting goals, remember that a touch of creativity and a dash of play might be the missing ingredients that lead your team to unparalleled achievements.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedInDr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Building Collective Purpose | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Build-Collective-Purpose.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Build-Collective-Purpose.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent!Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
Building Collective Purpose
In the dynamic world of leadership, one of the most powerful forces is building a collective purpose within our teams. Today, we delve into the art of uniting individuals with diverse talents and backgrounds towards a common goal. When I led teams in the Army, collective purpose made a big difference in how people showed up. It was the super glue that helped hold us together when times got tough. Knowing that we were serving something bigger than ourselves. Feeling connected to something that required us to work together instead of being individual contributors allowed us to move mountains.
Building collective purpose ignites passion, fosters collaboration, and unlocks the full potential of our teams. I want to share with you this powerful difference maker. Together, let’s explore the strategies and benefits of aligning our team members under a shared purpose that fuels our journey towards greatness.
Understanding Collective Purpose: The Essence of Unity
Purpose is the enduring intention to achieve a long-term meaningful objective that makes a positive lasting impression on the world. A collective purpose is the shared understanding and belief in a team’s purpose. This will drive commitment and actions within your team.
Collective purpose is the driving force that unites individuals around a shared mission or vision. It transcends individual objectives and brings together team members with diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences, aligning them towards a common goal. As leaders, we hold the key to ignite this collective purpose and unleash its transformative power within our teams. Take a moment to reflect. Do you have a group of individual contributors that are moving forward at the same time? Or, is your team bonded together by a shared sense of purpose and are supporting each other to move forward in synch towards their common objective?
The Strategies for Building Collective Purpose
Define a Compelling Vision: A clear and compelling vision acts as a magnetic force, attracting team members towards a shared objective. Craft a vision that inspires passion, resonates with each team member, and reflects the impact of their collective efforts.
Communicate with Authenticity: Be an authentic communicator, sharing your vision with genuine passion and conviction. Your enthusiasm will be contagious, stirring the hearts of your team members and rallying them around the common cause.
Foster Open Dialogue: Encourage open dialogue and active listening within your team. Create a safe space where team members can express their ideas, concerns, and aspirations. Embrace diversity of thought, as it enriches the collective purpose.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate your commitment to the collective purpose through your actions. Embody the values and principles that underpin the vision, inspiring your team members to do the same.
Celebrate Milestones: Recognize and celebrate achievements, both big and small. Acknowledge the efforts of each team member and the progress made towards the collective purpose. Celebrations foster a sense of camaraderie and strengthen the bond among the team.
The Benefits of Collective Purpose
Heightened Motivation: A shared purpose elevates team members’ motivation, giving them a sense of belonging and pride in their work. When individuals feel connected to a larger mission, they become intrinsically driven to excel.
Enhanced Collaboration: Collective purpose promotes collaboration, breaking down silos, and fostering a spirit of cooperation. Team members collaborate not just for their individual gain but for the greater good of the team and organization.
Resilience in Adversity: During challenging times, a collective purpose acts as an anchor, keeping the team resilient and focused on overcoming obstacles. Together, the team can navigate through adversity and emerge stronger.
Increased Innovation: A united team is more likely to innovate and think outside the box. Diverse perspectives converge to create innovative solutions that lead to growth and success.
Embrace the Power of Collective Purpose
As leaders, we possess the extraordinary ability to unite our teams under a common purpose, igniting a shared passion for excellence. Leverage your position of power for good. By defining a compelling vision, fostering open dialogue, and leading with authenticity, we build a collective purpose that propels our teams towards unprecedented achievements.
Together, let’s celebrate the benefits of collective purpose – heightened motivation, enhanced collaboration, resilience in adversity, and increased innovation. Embrace the power of collective purpose, and watch your team rise to new heights of success, impact, and fulfillment. Together, we will create a future defined by unity and greatness.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Exploring Decision-making Styles | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Decision-Making-Style.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Decision-Making-Style.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
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Exploring Decision-Making Styles
Today, we embark on an insightful journey into the world of decision-making styles, bringing you the research from Susanne Scott and Reginald Bruce. In the dynamic landscape of leadership, decision-making is a fundamental skill that significantly influences the success of individuals and organizations alike. Understanding the five distinctive decision-making styles can equip you with the knowledge to make sound judgments and drive positive outcomes. Let’s dive in!
When we talk about decision-making styles, we’re basically referring to the typical ways people make decisions. It’s your usual approach or habits when facing choices. Another way to understand it is as the way each person sees and handles decision-making tasks. Decision-making styles are the learned, automatic response that you have when in a decision-making situation. It’s essential to note that this isn’t a fixed personality trait; instead, it’s more of a habit-based tendency to react in a certain manner when dealing with specific decisions.
The Five Decision-Making Styles
Research into decision-making has uncovered five primary decision-making styles, each representing a unique approach to making choices.
Rational Decision-Making Style: Leaders with this style analyze decisions meticulously, relying on logic, data, and objective information. They consider all available facts before arriving at a conclusion. Rational decision-makers excel in structured situations where a systematic evaluation is required.
Intuitive Decision-Making Style: Intuitive leaders rely on their gut feelings, instincts, and insights when making decisions. They have a natural ability to grasp the essence of a situation quickly, even when faced with limited information. Intuitive decision-makers excel in fast-paced and uncertain environments.
Dependent Decision-Making Style: Leaders with this style seek external guidance and validation when making choices. They often turn to others for advice and support, which can foster collaborative decision-making but may also lead to indecisiveness.
Avoidant Decision-Making Style: Avoidant decision-makers tend to procrastinate or actively avoid making choices, particularly when faced with difficult or high-stakes decisions. This style can hinder progress and create challenges in leadership roles.
Spontaneous Decision-Making Style: Leaders with a spontaneous style make quick decisions based on their immediate reactions and preferences. While this can lead to fast action, it may also increase the risk of overlooking crucial information.
Each decision-making style has its strengths and weaknesses, making it essential for leaders to recognize their dominant style and adapt their approach to different situations.
Harnessing Decision-Making Styles
Know Yourself: Reflect on your decision-making style and recognize its influence on your leadership outcomes. Self-awareness is key to understanding your biases and making more conscious decisions.
Embrace Diversity: Encourage diversity in your team, both in terms of skills and decision-making styles. A mix of approaches can lead to well-rounded decisions and innovative solutions.
Balance Rationality and Intuition: Understand when to rely on rational analysis and when to trust your intuition. A combination of both can lead to comprehensive and well-informed decisions.
Address Avoidance: If you tend to avoid decision-making, identify the underlying reasons and work on building confidence in making choices. Seek support from mentors or colleagues if needed.
Assess Decision Outcomes: Regularly evaluate the results of your decisions. Learn from successes and failures to refine your decision-making skills over time.
Empowering Your Decision-Making Skills
Decision-making styles play a vital role in leadership effectiveness. We explored five distinct styles: rational, intuitive, dependent, avoidant, and spontaneous. Being aware of your dominant style and understanding its implications will help you make better decisions as a leader.
As you lead your team or organization, remember that effective decision-making involves a balance of rationality and intuition. Embrace diversity within your team and foster an environment where various styles can thrive. Address any avoidant tendencies and cultivate a proactive approach to decision-making.
Thank you for joining us on this exploration of decision-making styles in leadership. We hope this knowledge empowers you to harness the strengths of your style and make impactful decisions that drive success. Until next time, lead with confidence and wisdom!
Let’s Work Together:
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Dr. Will Ramey Delivers TEDx Talk on Shared Leadershiphttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Will-Ramey-TEDx-Drexel-1.jpg19201080OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Will-Ramey-TEDx-Drexel-1.jpg
Dr. Will Ramey recently delivered a personal, and thoughtful TEDx Talk at Drexel University titled, “Shared Leadership: The Collaborative Edge for the Future of Work.”
During his TEDx Talk, Will opened up about his deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and how his concept of Shared Leadership played a crucial role while leading a maintenance recovery team.
“Leading a team that engaged in Shared Leadership save my life.” – Will Ramey
Shared Leadership is the idea that leaders who shift and share leadership responsibilities with their team will have more engaged and effective teams that outperform others.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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Bounded Rationality and Decision Making | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Bounded-Rationality.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Bounded-Rationality.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com.
Embracing Bounded Rationality: Navigating Decision-Making with Wisdom
Today, I want to delve into the intriguing concept of bounded rationality, which impacts our decision-making processes and shapes the outcomes of our actions. Leaders shoulder the responsibility of decision authority and time is never on our side. So, let’s explore this concept together and uncover three valuable ways leaders can mitigate its impact for more informed decision-making.
Understanding Bounded Rationality
Have you ever made a hasty decision in the moment, only to regret it later? I have…hopefully I’m not alone in this. I remember a former boss telling me to stop being so responsive. Ok, that blew my mind. As a leader, I am here to make decisions. I was trained to move forward with the 80% solution on time. What I discovered was that the quality of my decisions could have been better if I were to make some small adjustments to the process. One of the cognitive culprits effecting my decision making is known as bounded rationality.
Bounded rationality is a notion that challenges the traditional view of humans as fully rational beings capable of making objective decisions. Proposed by Nobel laureate Herbert Simon, it recognizes that our cognitive limitations, combined with time constraints and imperfect information, restrict our ability to make completely rational choices. Instead, we rely on heuristics, mental shortcuts, and simplifications to navigate the complexity of decision-making.
The Impact on Decision-Making
Bounded rationality casts a powerful influence on our decision-making processes, sometimes leading us astray from optimal outcomes. Here are a few ways it can impact our choices:
Cognitive Biases: Our minds are susceptible to biases, such as confirmation bias, availability bias, and anchoring bias, which skew our judgment and limit our ability to consider all relevant information objectively.
Satisficing: Instead of aiming for the best possible outcome, we often settle for “good enough.” Satisficing can save time and mental effort, but it may prevent us from discovering more optimal solutions.
Overlooking Complexity: Due to limited cognitive resources, we tend to oversimplify complex problems, making decisions based on incomplete or superficial information. This simplification can lead to suboptimal choices and missed opportunities.
Mitigating the Impact
While bounded rationality may seem like an insurmountable hurdle, leaders can adopt strategies to mitigate its impact and make more informed decisions. Here are three effective ways to navigate the challenges it poses:
Enhance Cognitive Flexibility: Developing cognitive flexibility allows leaders to consider multiple perspectives and explore alternative solutions. Encourage diverse thinking within your team and foster an environment where individuals feel comfortable challenging the status quo. By embracing diverse viewpoints, you open the door to fresh insights and creative problem-solving.
Leverage Data and Analytics: In today’s data-driven world, leaders have access to an abundance of information. By leveraging data and analytics, they can make more informed decisions based on evidence rather than intuition alone. Establish systems to collect and analyze relevant data, allowing you to identify patterns, trends, and potential opportunities hidden within complex scenarios.
Embrace Deliberate Reflection: In the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced lives, it’s crucial for leaders to carve out time for deliberate reflection. Regularly stepping back from the noise allows you to reassess your decisions, identify potential biases, and consider alternative courses of action. Incorporating mindfulness practices, journaling, or engaging in insightful conversations can help facilitate this reflective process. Nature and Decision-Making | Dr. Will Ramey
Find the Balance
Bounded rationality reminds us that, as humans, we are not infallible decision-making machines. Recognizing our cognitive limitations and the impact they have on our choices is the first step toward wiser decision-making. By embracing cognitive flexibility, leveraging data and analytics, and engaging in deliberate reflection, leaders can navigate the challenges of bounded rationality and guide their teams toward more informed and optimal outcomes.
Remember, wisdom lies in acknowledging our limitations and continuously seeking to expand our understanding. As we embrace bounded rationality, we embark on a journey of growth, both individually and collectively, transforming our decision-making processes into sources of inspiration and excellence.
Let’s Work Together:
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
OnTheStacks and Elevation Wellness Team up to Produce ‘Elevate Your Health’ Video Clip Serieshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/OTSxElevation-Wellness.jpg19201080OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/OTSxElevation-Wellness.jpg
OnTheStacks is thrilled to announce our content collaboration with Elevation Wellness, NEPA’s premier wellness center dedicated to transforming lives through integrative medicine. As part of this collaboration, we teamed up to develop and produce an engaging short-form video series that shares Elevation Wellness’ Founder and Managing Director Louie Helmecki’s insights and passion for helping lower barriers to feeling good. Elevate Your Health with Louie Helmecki is a weekly video series of ‘shorts’ dedicated to helping you take your health to new heights!
A new video will be posted every Monday at 9:30am on the OnTheStacks YouTube Channel.
“Our mission at Elevation Wellness is to empower people to feel, look, and perform their best – simple as that,” said Louie Helmecki. “Working with OnTheStacks is helping us extend our reach and share what we are passionate about while encouraging people to prioritize their wellness journey. Wins all around.”
OnTheStacks and Elevation Wellness recognize the growth of short-form video as a means to inspire and deliver quick-hitting value to individuals who are seeking it. By producing short thought leadership content, we aim to provide easily digestible insights that can positively impact people’s lives. The content will cover various aspects of smart, proven integrative approaches to boosting wellness.
“We are honored to be working with Elevation Wellness to create a thought leadership series that inspires and educates people about wellness options out there for them,” shared OnTheStacks Founder and CEO Bill Corcoran Jr. “At OnTheStacks, we believe in the power of storytelling to educate, entertain, and drive change. We are excited to leverage our digital media and production expertise to help Elevation Wellness reach new audiences.”
A huge shout out to OTS Executive Producer and Advisor, Jimmy T. Martin and our Director of Production, Eric Curtis, for their vision and expertise!
Stay tuned for the upcoming thought leadership content from OnTheStacks and Elevation Wellness, as we embark on this impactful journey of inspiring transformation, one big idea at a time.
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Avoiding Decision Fatigue | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Decision-Fatigue.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Decision-Fatigue.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
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Conquering Decision Fatigue: Unlocking the Potential of Effective Leadership
Decisions, decisions, decisions. Leaders, your day is filled with making decisions. Allocating resources, shifting priorities, unplanned absences, selecting people for promotion or training opportunities. It can be overwhelming. I’ve come home and said, “Please don’t ask me to make any more decisions today.” I hit what is known as decision fatigue.
As leaders, we navigate a sea of choices every day, and understanding the impact of decision fatigue on our teams and ourselves is crucial. Fear not, for I bring good news—there are practical strategies to mitigate decision fatigue and harness the power of effective leadership. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and explore this concept together!
Understanding Decision Fatigue:
Decision fatigue refers to the mental exhaustion that occurs when we make a series of decisions, one after the other, without sufficient breaks. Researchers have found that the average person makes 35,000 decisions a day, some conscious, some unconscious. These decisions take time and energy each and every time. Our brains have a limited capacity for decision-making, and as we exhaust this cognitive resource, our judgment, creativity, and productivity suffer. Think of it as a mental energy tank that depletes with each choice we make throughout the day.
The Impact on Leading a Team:
Decision fatigue can have a profound impact on leadership, both at an individual level and within teams. When leaders are fatigued, their ability to make sound judgments and thoughtful decisions becomes compromised. This can lead to a decline in overall team performance and morale. Additionally, fatigued leaders may be more prone to taking shortcuts, relying on impulsive or automatic responses rather than carefully considering all options.
Mitigating Decision Fatigue: 3 Strategies for Effective Leadership
Prioritize and Delegate:
As leaders, we often feel the need to be involved in every decision, big or small. However, this approach can be overwhelming and counterproductive. To combat decision fatigue, prioritize your decisions based on their importance and impact. Identify tasks and choices that can be delegated to capable team members, empowering them to make decisions within their areas of expertise. This not only lightens your load but also promotes team growth and ownership.
Implement Decision-Making Frameworks:
Decision-making frameworks are like roadmaps for your brain. By creating and utilizing predefined frameworks, such as checklists or decision trees, you can streamline your decision-making process and reduce cognitive load. These frameworks serve as guides, ensuring that important factors are considered without getting lost in the overwhelming sea of options. Remember, frameworks don’t limit creativity; they enhance it by providing structure and clarity.
Take Strategic Breaks:
Pausing to recharge your mental energy tank is vital for combating decision fatigue. Build strategic breaks into your day to allow your brain to recuperate. These breaks can take the form of short walks, mindfulness exercises, or engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. By stepping away momentarily, you give your brain a chance to reset, fostering clarity, focus, and renewed decision-making capacity. Nature and Decision-Making | Dr. Will Ramey
Make the Adjustment
Decision fatigue is a formidable foe that can hinder effective leadership and team performance. By understanding this concept and implementing strategies to mitigate its impact, leaders can navigate the treacherous waters of decision-making with greater clarity and efficiency. Remember, prioritize and delegate, implement decision-making frameworks, and take strategic breaks. By incorporating these practices into your leadership style, you’ll unlock the potential for better decision-making and cultivate a more energized and productive team.
Stay focused, step away when needed, and let’s conquer decision fatigue together!
Let’s Work Together:
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Leadership Lessons and Mini-Golf | Dr. Willl Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Golf.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Golf.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
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Navigating Success One Putt at a Time
I’m a big nerd! I’ll be the first to admit it. I geek out about the science of leadership, teamwork, organizational behavior. Sometimes it’s hard to shut that side of my brain off. For example, while out on a fun-filled family day at the mini-golf course I started to see some parallels between leading and mini-golf. Maybe it was the fresh air, sunshine, and family time. Let’s dive in!
Leadership skills can be cultivated and honed through a variety of activities, and even a casual game like mini-golf offers valuable lessons that can enhance one’s leadership abilities. Mini-golf, with its unique challenges and intricacies, presents an opportunity to explore key leadership principles. From strategic planning to adaptability, this classic game offers valuable insights into effective leadership. We delve into the leadership lessons that can be gleaned from the world of mini-golf, shedding light on how this recreational activity can shape and strengthen leadership skills.
Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making:
Mini-golf requires strategic thinking and decision-making similar to its larger counterpart. Each hole presents a new challenge, demanding careful analysis of the course layout, obstacles, and angles to determine the optimal shot. Likewise, leaders must navigate their organizations through complex situations, weighing multiple factors and making informed decisions. Mini-golf teaches leaders to assess risks, anticipate consequences, and strategically plan their moves. By embracing the strategic mindset cultivated on the mini-golf course, leaders can make well-informed decisions, optimize resources, and steer their teams towards success.
Adaptability and Flexibility:
Mini-golf courses often feature diverse and unexpected obstacles that require adaptability and flexibility in gameplay. Leaders face similar unpredictability in their professional journey, encountering unforeseen challenges and shifting landscapes. Mini-golf teaches leaders to think on their feet, adjust their strategies, and embrace change with grace. By remaining adaptable and flexible, leaders can inspire their teams to navigate ambiguity, explore new approaches, and seize opportunities even in uncertain circumstances.
Resilience and Learning from Failure:
Mini-golf, like any sport, involves moments of failure and disappointment. Missing a putt or encountering obstacles can test one’s resilience and determination. Leaders, too, face setbacks and failures on their path to success. Mini-golf teaches leaders the importance of bouncing back, learning from failures, and maintaining a positive attitude (Leader Self-Awareness). By embracing a growth mindset and encouraging their team members to do the same, leaders can create a culture of resilience and continuous improvement. Learning from failures becomes a catalyst for innovation, fostering a sense of empowerment and progress within the organization.
Effective Communication and Collaboration:
While mini-golf is often an individual activity, it can also be enjoyed as a team endeavor. Collaborative mini-golf events require effective communication and coordination to achieve a shared goal. Leaders must likewise foster a culture of open communication and collaboration within their teams. Mini-golf teaches leaders the value of clear communication, active listening, and leveraging individual strengths for collective success. By promoting effective teamwork, leaders can create an environment that encourages idea-sharing, enhances problem-solving, and cultivates a sense of camaraderie among team members.
From the Putting Green to the Boardroom
Mini-golf may be a recreational activity, but it offers valuable leadership lessons that transcend the greens and windmills. Strategic thinking, adaptability, resilience, and effective communication are all critical skills honed on the miniature course. By embracing these leadership principles learned from mini-golf, leaders can navigate their organizations with confidence and agility. Mini-golf teaches leaders to make strategic decisions, adapt to changing circumstances, bounce back from failure, and foster a collaborative environment. So, whether you’re putting on a mini-golf course or leading a team in the boardroom, the lessons from mini-golf can equip you with the skills to become a more effective and inspiring leader in any domain.
Let’s Work Together:
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Tresean Gore Responds to Bo Nickal Ahead of UFC 290https://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tresean-Gore-3.png19201080OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tresean-Gore-3.png
Tresean Gore Responds to Bo Nickal’s Comments ahead of UFC 290.
In March of 2023, Bo Nickal appeared as a guest on theOnTheStacks Podcast(more below)
Tresean recently appeared as a guest on the OnTheStacks Podcast to chat about his origin story, UFC journey, his upcoming fight vs. Bo Nickal at UFC 290, and more! Brought to you by Sweat Tent, the most EPIC Backyard Accessory of 2023! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com
You can watch the full episode where this clip originated here: https://youtu.be/tuaTumi0XLU UFC Middleweight Fighter, Tresean Gore, aka “Mr. Vicious.”
In this powerful conversation, Tresean opens up about the struggles of his upbringing in his hometown in rural South Carolina. When he was 19 years old, he moved to Georgia with $600 and a dream. Some days, he had to fish for food just to survive.
Tresean’s story is a testament to the power of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the discomfort that comes with chasing greatness, while his childhood struggles serve as a remarkable reminder of the strength, courage, and resilience it takes to overcome adversity. Tresean is set to fight Bo Nickal on July 8th at UFC 290.
Bo Nickal predicts the outcome of his next fight against Tresean Gore on July 8th, saying, “there’s no way this guy gets out of the first round with me.”
Bo Nickal went on to say that a first round finish will be consistent throughout his career going forward.
And in an even bolder statement, Bo Nickal says, he doesn’t think “anybody even has what it takes to make it more than 5 minutes with me” (in the Octagon).
These comments came during a 98-minute Exclusive conversation that Bo Nickal had with OnTheStacks Podcast host, Bill Corcoran Jr. on Wednesday March 29th. (recorded March 24th)
This was Bo Nickal’s first in-depth interview since his UFC debut win on March 4th against Jamie Pickett.
Bo Nickal is the hottest prospect the UFC has seen in its 30 year history!
Watch the full episode below on our YouTube Channel.
Bo Nickal EXCLUSIVE: Faith, Family, Fighting, & Unfinished Business | Ep.152
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Even after an illustrious wrestling career at Penn State University, where he was a 3x National Champion for the renowned Nittany Lions wrestling program, Bo Nickal says he has unfinished business. He recently amassed global recognition following his March 4th Pay-Per-View victory against Jamie Pickett.
You’ve seen Bo on mat and in the Octagon, but this is a version of Bo you haven’t seen. In this 98-minute exclusive interview with OnTheStacks, Bo speaks openly about his family life and upbringing, the role faith plays in his life, and the transition from a winning career on the mat to a promising future in the Octagon as a top rated fighter in the UFC.
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Stand Up Paddleboarding & Leadership | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SUP.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SUP.png
Reasearch Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
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Leadership Lessons from the Lake
I’m shifting gears a little this week to share something more personal. I’ve recently taken up stand up paddleboarding. I wanted a way to get out on the water and soak up some vitamin D. Honestly, I’ve been searching for ways to stay mentally healthy and aligned. Getting outdoors and surrounding myself with as many elements of mother nature as possible has helped me align, gain clarity, and increase my ability to be present with my family, my team, and myself. While out on the water I find time to let my mind go where it needs to go. Often times leaders don’t make time to reflect Leaders – Make Time to Reflect or practice mindfulness because of the hustle and bustle we place on ourselves. While packing up my board I realized there is a lot of parallels between learning to stand up paddleboard and leadership.
Here’s a list of ten lessons from stand up paddleboarding that can be applied to leading a team:
Balance: Just like maintaining balance on a paddleboard, leading a team requires finding equilibrium. A leader must distribute resources, handle conflicts, and manage priorities to keep the team on track.
Clear Vision: Paddleboarding requires looking ahead to maintain stability and steer in the right direction. Similarly, leading a team involves having a clear vision and setting goals to guide everyone towards success.
Communication: Effective communication is vital in both paddleboarding and team leadership. A paddleboarder communicates intentions, hazards, and directions to others, while a leader must ensure effective information flow, active listening, and concise messaging within the team.
Adaptability: Paddleboarders often encounter changing weather conditions or unexpected obstacles. Similarly, leaders must adapt to unforeseen circumstances, adjust strategies, and guide the team through uncertainties.
Trust Building: In SUP, maintaining balance relies on trust in your equipment and capabilities. Likewise, leaders need to build trust within their team by fostering open communication, delegating responsibilities, and demonstrating reliability.
Collaboration: Paddleboarding with others can improve stability and make the experience more enjoyable. Similarly, successful team leaders foster collaboration, encourage diverse perspectives, and leverage the collective strengths of team members.
Decision Making: Paddleboarders make quick decisions to navigate obstacles or changing currents. Similarly, leaders must make timely decisions, analyze risks, and choose the best course of action for the team’s progress.
Resilience: Falling off the paddleboard or encountering challenges is common. Both paddleboarders and leaders need resilience to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failures, and inspire the team to persevere.
Feedback: Paddleboarders adjust their technique based on the feedback received from their body and the water. Likewise, leaders should provide constructive feedback to team members, encourage continuous improvement, and be open to receiving feedback themselves.
Enjoyment: Stand-up paddleboarding is not only about reaching a destination; it’s also about enjoying the journey. Similarly, team leaders should create a positive and enjoyable work environment that fosters camaraderie, motivation, and a sense of fulfillment for team members.
Clarity and Alignment
By drawing parallels between stand-up paddleboarding and team leadership, we can gain insights into the skills and mindset required to lead effectively. Lessons and learning are all around us if we open ourselves up to it. Get outside, get in nature, and give yourself the gift of clarity and mindfulness. If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go further, let’s go together!
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Nature and Decision-Making | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Outdoors-Decision-Making.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Outdoors-Decision-Making.png
Research Back Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
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The Top Five Benefits of Being Outdoors and How It Enhances Decision-Making Skills
I’ve had days where I go from building to building, meeting to meeting, and only see the light of day through the occasional window. By the end of the day, my mind is fuzzy, my frustrations run high, and I don’t want to make any more decisions. Unfortunately, my role requires a high cognitive load. One way to enhance decision-making is to get outdoor exposure.
In our increasingly fast-paced and digitally connected world, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet profound benefits of spending time outdoors. From scenic walks in nature to engaging in outdoor activities, immersing ourselves in the natural world offers numerous advantages for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Moreover, studies suggest that being outdoors can significantly enhance our decision-making abilities. In this article, we will explore the top five benefits of spending time outdoors and how it contributes to becoming a better decision maker.
Reduced Stress and Enhanced Cognitive Function:
Stepping out into nature provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing us to unwind and reduce stress levels. Exposure to natural environments has been shown to lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and a calmer state of mind. When stress is reduced, cognitive function improves, enabling clearer thinking, increased focus, and better decision-making skills.
Improved Mental Clarity and Creativity:
The outdoor environment stimulates our senses, providing a refreshing change from the often sterile and monotonous indoor settings. Spending time outdoors exposes us to diverse stimuli, such as fresh air, natural sounds, and vibrant colors, which can enhance mental clarity and spark creativity. These factors contribute to improved cognitive flexibility, enabling us to think outside the box, explore alternative perspectives, and make more innovative decisions.
Energizing Body and Mind through Physical Activity:
Outdoor activities offer more than just an opportunity to embrace nature; they inspire movement and exercise. Regular physical activity increases blood circulation, optimizing oxygen flow to the brain, and releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. As we elevate our physical activity levels, our energy soars, providing a valuable boost to our decision-making capabilities. Scientific evidence reveals that those who engage in outdoor exercise regularly display sharper cognitive skills, improved memory retention, and enhanced problem-solving abilities.
The Power of Sunlight: Illuminating Decision-Making Potential:
Sunlight is not just a radiant source of warmth; it also bestows us with vital vitamin D. This essential nutrient plays a central role in regulating brain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which profoundly impact our mood and emotional stability. Research suggests that insufficient vitamin D levels contribute to cognitive impairment and increased vulnerability to depression. By embracing the outdoors and embracing natural sunlight, we can optimize our vitamin D levels, supporting the neural processes crucial for sound decision-making.
Heightened Connection with Nature and Increased Intuition:
Nature has a remarkable way of connecting us with the world around us and fostering a sense of mindfulness. Being outdoors provides an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the natural environment, which can inspire introspection and self-reflection. This connection with nature enhances our ability to tap into our intuition and gut feelings, essential components of effective decision-making. By trusting our instincts and aligning with the wisdom of the natural world, we can make decisions that are more authentic and aligned with our values.
Finding ways to get outdoors takes a little coordination and planning. Here are three ways you can be more intentional to get outdoors and improve, not only your health, but your decision-making.
1. Incorporate Outdoor Meetings or Walking Discussions:
One effective way for leaders to leverage the benefits of being outdoors is by incorporating outdoor meetings or walking discussions into their work routine. Instead of confining meetings to stuffy conference rooms, consider taking your team outside to a nearby park, garden, or even a rooftop terrace. Walking meetings not only provide a change of scenery but also stimulate physical movement, which can enhance blood flow and cognitive function. This dynamic environment encourages open dialogue, creativity, and a more relaxed atmosphere, fostering better decision-making by capitalizing on the benefits of the outdoors.
2. Encourage Outdoor Breaks and Mindfulness Practices:
Leaders can create a culture that values and promotes outdoor breaks and mindfulness practices within the workplace. Encourage employees to take short breaks outside during the day, whether it’s for a breath of fresh air, a walk around the block, or simply enjoying a few moments of solitude in a nearby green space. These outdoor breaks allow individuals to recharge, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity, which in turn can lead to improved decision-making skills. Additionally, leaders can introduce mindfulness practices such as guided meditation sessions outdoors, further amplifying the benefits of the natural environment in nurturing focused attention and presence. How Mindfulness Helps You Lead | Dr. Will Ramey | OnTheStacks
3. Organize Outdoor Team-Building Activities:
To foster a collaborative and innovative work environment, leaders can organize outdoor team-building activities. These activities can range from adventure challenges, such as hiking, rock climbing, or canoeing, to more relaxed gatherings like picnics or team sports. Outdoor team-building experiences not only promote camaraderie and trust among team members but also provide an opportunity for individuals to step outside their comfort zones, adapt to new situations, and think creatively. By engaging in outdoor activities together, teams can strengthen their bonds, enhance communication, and develop better decision-making dynamics that can translate into the workplace.
Get Outside to Make Better Decisions
The benefits of spending time outdoors extend far beyond physical fitness and relaxation. Engaging with nature provides a myriad of advantages, including reduced stress levels, improved cognitive function, enhanced creativity, increased energy, and a heightened sense of intuition. By embracing the outdoors, we can cultivate our decision-making skills, making more informed choices in our personal and professional lives. So, next time you’re faced with a decision, consider stepping outside and allowing the power of nature to guide you toward the best possible outcome.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Anchoring Bias and Decision Making | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Anchoring.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Anchoring.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Overcoming Anchoring Bias: Empowering Leaders to Make Informed Decisions
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Introduction
As leaders, we often find ourselves making critical decisions that impact our teams and organizations. However, a cognitive bias known as anchoring bias can subtly influence our judgment. It can hinder our ability to make objective choices. Anchoring bias refers to the tendency to rely too heavily on the first piece of information encountered when making decisions. This information may not be relevant or accurate.
Have you ever been in a meeting or strategic session and the first idea that got thrown out was the one that kept getting built on? Admittedly, when I have a strong desire to see a specific outcome, I may be the first to contribute to the conversation. Say it with confidence, back it with supporting evidence, be the first to strike and the team tends to anchor to your idea. I’ve learned over the years, that anchoring bias can limit the creative solutions that may still be floating around in a colleague’s head but hasn’t been vocalized, especially when you hold a leadership position in an organization. Not good! In this article, we explore the concept of anchoring bias, its impact on leadership, and provide strategies to counteract its effects.
Understanding Anchoring Bias
Anchoring bias occurs when our initial exposure to a piece of information anchors our subsequent judgments and decisions. This bias can occur in various professional scenarios, such as negotiating contracts, setting performance targets, or evaluating project timelines. The anchor, whether consciously or subconsciously, influences our thinking and skews our perception of what is reasonable or appropriate. As leaders, it is essential to recognize and address this bias to avoid making biased decisions that may have detrimental consequences for our teams.
The Impact of Anchoring Bias when Leading a Team
Inaccurate Decision-Making: Anchoring bias can lead leaders to base their decisions on incomplete or biased information, leading to poor outcomes for their teams and organizations.
Limited Exploration of Alternatives: When anchored to a specific piece of information, leaders may fail to consider alternative perspectives or solutions, stifling creativity and innovation within their teams.
Unfair Evaluation and Compensation: Anchoring bias can affect performance evaluations and compensation decisions, as leaders may anchor their judgments based on initial information, overlooking actual performance and potential.
Overcoming Anchoring Bias
Awareness and Critical Thinking: The first step to overcoming anchoring bias is developing an awareness of its existence and potential influence on decision-making. Actively question and challenge your own assumptions and initial judgments. Engage in critical thinking by seeking additional information and alternative perspectives before settling on a decision. Encourage open discussions within your team to promote diverse viewpoints and challenge anchoring biases collectively.
Utilize Multiple Anchors: Instead of relying solely on one anchor, consider using multiple anchors or reference points when making decisions. Gather a range of relevant data, perspectives, and benchmarks to create a more comprehensive picture. This approach broadens your understanding and helps counteract the influence of a single anchor. By considering multiple perspectives, you can make more informed and objective decisions that benefit your team.
Implement Decision-Making Processes: Establishing structured decision-making processes can help mitigate the impact of anchoring bias. Encourage your team to analyze and discuss various options before settling on a decision. Implement techniques such as devil’s advocacy, role-playing, or red teaming to challenge assumptions and break free from anchoring biases. By incorporating diverse perspectives and critical thinking into your decision-making process, you reduce the likelihood of being solely influenced by a single anchor.
Seek Feedback and Diverse Opinions: Actively seek feedback from your team members, colleagues, or mentors to gain alternative viewpoints and challenge your own biases. Encourage a culture of open communication where team members feel comfortable expressing their opinions, even if they differ from your initial judgments. Create forums for brainstorming and collaboration to harness the collective wisdom of your team, allowing for fresh ideas and perspectives to challenge anchoring biases.
Be aware of your cognitive biases
Anchoring bias can unknowingly hinder a leader’s ability to make well-informed decisions. By raising awareness, engaging in critical thinking, utilizing multiple anchors, implementing decision-making processes, and seeking diverse opinions, leaders can counteract the influence of anchoring bias. Overcoming this bias empowers leaders to make more objective decisions, foster innovation within their teams, and drive greater creative collective outcomes.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Top 10 Health & Wellness Benefits of Saunahttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Sauna-Beni.jpg19201080OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Sauna-Beni.jpg
Want to own your physical and mental health?! A sauna can do just that. At least for me it has!
If you follow me on social media, you most likely saw me getting my sweat on in the last few weeks in a really awesome portable sauna product called SweatTent. (More onSweat Tent that below)
The opportunity to try it out came by way of a good friend of mine and while I was recently sweating my 🥜s off, I jotted down the top 10 health and wellness benefits of sauna-ing…
One or more links in this article contain an affiliate link. If you click and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission that helps us keep the (podcast) mics on!
Source list with links at the bottom of the article.
Top 10 Health and Wellness Benefits of using a Sauna:
1. Improved Blood Circulation: Sauna sessions promote vasodilation, enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles and organs.
2. Detoxification: Sweating in a sauna helps eliminate toxins from the body, promoting a healthy detoxification process.
3. Relaxation and Stress Relief: Sauna therapy induces relaxation, reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
4. Muscle Recovery and Pain Relief: The heat in a sauna helps relax muscles, relieving tension and promoting faster recovery after physical exertion.
5. Boosted Immune System: Regular sauna use can enhance the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting infections.
6. Skin Health: Sweating in a sauna opens up pores, allowing for deep cleansing of the skin and promoting a healthy complexion.
7. Weight Loss and Metabolism: Sauna sessions can aid in weight loss by increasing metabolism, burning calories, and improving fat mobilization.
8. Cardiovascular Health: Sauna use can help improve cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate, dilating blood vessels, and improving overall circulation.
9. Respiratory Health: The warm and humid environment of a sauna can help alleviate respiratory conditions such as congestion, asthma, and allergies.
10. Improved Sleep Quality: Sauna sessions promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can lead to improved sleep patterns and better overall sleep quality.
If you’re seeking a way to unwind, rejuvenate, and experience the remarkable benefits of sauna therapy anytime and anywhere, the Sweat Tent portable sauna is the ultimate solution.
Embrace the portability, cherish the tranquility, and unlock a world of wellness with this extraordinary backyard portable sauna!
Before starting sauna sessions or any new health regimen, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.
Dunning-Kruger Effect | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/DK-Effect.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/DK-Effect.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics by Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! The most EPIC Backyard Accessory of 2023! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com
The Dunning-Kruger Effect and its Impact on Leadership: Action-Oriented Tips for Success
Have you ever overestimated your abilities to accomplish a task or influence a situation? Leadership is a complex and challenging endeavor that requires a keen understanding of one’s own abilities and limitations. However, a cognitive bias known as the Dunning-Kruger effect often hinders effective leadership. Coined by psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger the effect occurs when a person’s lack of knowledge and skills in a certain area cause them to overestimate their own competence. By contrast, this effect also causes those who excel in a given area to think the task is simple for everyone and underestimate their relative abilities as well.
In the context of leadership, this can have significant repercussions for decision-making, team dynamics, and overall organizational success. The more experience I gain, the more I realize how little I know. I see this effect playing out in work environments all the time. The dissonance of skills and abilities vs reality. Ego may get in the way. I started to truly grow and improve as a leader when I sought out multiple sources of feedback. The more candor, the better!
In this article, we explore the Dunning-Kruger effect and its relevance to leadership. We provide three action-oriented tips for leaders to mitigate the impact of this bias and enhance their effectiveness. Let’s hold up that mirror and get started.
Understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect:
The Dunning-Kruger effect stems from a lack of metacognitive ability—the capacity to accurately assess your own skills or knowledge. In leadership, this bias can manifest in various ways, such as overconfidence, failure to seek feedback, reluctance to delegate, and ineffective decision-making. Leaders who fall victim to the Dunning-Kruger effect may make ill-informed choices, dismiss alternative viewpoints, and create a culture that stifles growth and innovation within their teams. Take a step back, realize your self-assessments have a biased filter, and find balance in collecting information.
Action-Oriented Tips for Leaders:
Cultivate Self-Awareness: Developing self-awareness is paramount for leaders aiming to mitigate the Dunning-Kruger effect. Actively seek honest feedback from colleagues, mentors, and team members to gain insights into your blind spots and areas for improvement. Encourage a culture of open communication, where individuals feel comfortable providing constructive criticism. Regularly reflect on your own performance, acknowledge your limitations, and take steps to address them. Embrace continuous learning and self-development to enhance your leadership skills.
Foster a Diverse and Inclusive Environment: The Dunning-Kruger effect thrives in echo chambers where differing perspectives are dismissed or ignored. As a leader, promote a diverse and inclusive environment that encourages different viewpoints and challenges the status quo. Surround yourself with talented individuals who possess complementary skills and experiences. Foster a culture of psychological safety where team members feel empowered to express their ideas and concerns. Embrace diversity of thought and encourage healthy debate, as it leads to more informed decision-making and better outcomes. Unleashing the Power of Inclusivity | Dr. Will Ramey
Embrace Humility and Delegate Effectively: Leaders who succumb to the Dunning-Kruger effect often feel compelled to micromanage tasks or make decisions in isolation. Try embracing humility and recognize that you cannot possess expertise in all areas. Build a team of skilled professionals and delegate responsibilities appropriately. Empower team members to take ownership of their work, make decisions, and contribute their expertise. Foster a collaborative environment where everyone’s skills are valued, leading to more innovative solutions and stronger team cohesion.
Key Takeaways:
The Dunning-Kruger effect can hinder effective leadership by fostering overconfidence and inhibiting self-awareness.
Mitigate the impact of this bias by cultivating self-awareness, seeking feedback, and embracing continuous learning.
Foster a diverse and inclusive environment that values different perspectives and encourages open communication.
Embrace humility as a leader and delegate effectively, leveraging the expertise of your team members.
Awareness of the Dunning-Kruger effect and its potential influence on your leadership abilities is crucial when seeking to enhance your effectiveness. By cultivating self-awareness, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, and embracing humility, you can overcome this bias and create an environment conducive to growth, innovation, and success. Seek feedback, be transparent about your limitations, then lead your team to new heights and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
Unleashing the Power of Inclusivity | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Inclusivity.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Inclusivity.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! The most EPIC Backyard Accessory of 2023! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at SweatTent.com
This week we delve into the invaluable concept of inclusivity and its profound impact on team success. We share powerful ways leaders can set the conditions for inclusivity to flourish in their team. Let’s dive in!
Who is on the team matters:
The right people, in the right place, doing the right things together, can move mountains. I’ve worked on a variety of teams throughout my career. One of the common denominators of teams that I have enjoyed leading has been a diverse team composition. Being surrounded by people that see the world differently, approach problem solving differently, and who challenge me to think differently, makes for a high growth and highly satisfying experience.
According to research by Josh Bersin, more diversity equals more innovation. In his research, companies that ranked as more inclusive were 1.7 times more likely to be innovation leaders in their market, and 1.8 times more likely to be change-ready.
Understanding Inclusivity:
Inclusivity is the cornerstone of team success, enabling diverse perspectives, talents, and experiences to converge. When individuals from various backgrounds and walks of life come together, they form a potent cocktail of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving prowess. The true beauty lies in the realization that our individual strengths are amplified when we embrace and celebrate our differences.
Breaking Down Barriers:
Leaders play a pivotal role in setting the stage for inclusivity to flourish within their teams. They must actively dismantle barriers, whether visible or invisible, that hinder collaboration and prevent the full participation of team members. By cultivating an environment of psychological safety (Model Psychological Safety), leaders empower individuals to speak up, share their unique insights, and challenge the status quo without fear of judgment or retribution.
Embracing Diversity:
A crucial step in fostering inclusivity is recognizing and valuing the diversity that each team member brings to the table. Diversity encompasses a broad range of dimensions, including race, gender, ethnicity, age, socioeconomic background, and more. Leaders must actively seek out and embrace this diversity, understanding that it unlocks a wealth of perspectives and approaches that can propel the team towards unprecedented success.
Active Listening and Empathy:
Leaders must develop and demonstrate active listening skills, striving to understand the experiences, needs, and challenges faced by their team members. By empathizing with diverse perspectives, leaders build trust and demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusivity. This empathy creates a safe space for individuals to express themselves and fosters a culture of respect and understanding.
Fostering Collaboration:
Collaboration lies at the heart of inclusivity. Leaders must foster an environment that encourages open communication, cooperation, and the exchange of ideas. Creating opportunities for team members to work together on diverse projects not only strengthens bonds but also fosters a sense of shared purpose. By celebrating both individual and collective achievements, leaders reinforce the importance of inclusivity as an integral aspect of the team’s fabric.
Continuous Learning and Growth:
Leaders must promote continuous learning and growth within their teams, encouraging individuals to expand their knowledge and embrace new perspectives. By investing in training and development programs that address unconscious biases and promote cultural awareness, leaders equip team members with the tools to navigate the challenges that arise from diverse perspectives. These initiatives also demonstrate a commitment to ongoing improvement and reinforce the value placed on inclusivity.
Conclusion:
Inclusivity is not merely a buzzword but a fundamental principle that unlocks the full potential of teams. By embracing diversity, fostering collaboration, and creating a culture of empathy and respect, leaders can set the conditions for inclusivity to thrive. Through the power of inclusivity, teams can overcome challenges, ignite innovation, and achieve remarkable outcomes that surpass expectations. I encourage you to embark on this journey of inclusivity, for it is a pathway to a brighter future, both personally and professionally.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
NBA Finals Preview and Predictionhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NBA-Finals-Preview-and-Prediction.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/NBA-Finals-Preview-and-Prediction.png
By Spencer Ripchik
Here we are—the NBA Finals.
After a long and short Western and Eastern Conference Finals, there are just two teams that remain, the Denver Nuggets and the long shot Miami Heat.
The Eastern Conference Finals was the more exciting of the two but didn’t look it after the first three games.
Miami won the first three games in dominant fashion. The next three games were a different story. The Boston Celtics won three straight forcing Game 7. If the Celtics won, it would’ve been the first team to come back down 3-0.
But, there still hasn’t been a team to come back down 3-0 as the Heat moved on.
The Nuggets made quick work of the Los Angeles Lakers and beat them in four games, giving Denver a week-plus rest to prepare for the Championship.
It’s the No. 1-seeded Nuggets against the No. 8-seeded Heat to see who will be crowned NBA Champions.
NBA Finals
The better team on paper is the Denver Nuggets.
The Nuggets have the best player left in center Nikola Jokić, who leads the team in points, rebounds, blocks and assists per game, averaging a triple-double.
The Lakers had no answer for Jokić. He led the team in scoring in half the games and had 30-plus points in those games.
He’s a problem for teams without a solid big man. Los Angeles had Anthony Davis, but he couldn’t do anything to stop Jokić.
When the Lakers focused too much on Jokić, they got beat out on the perimeter and by Denver’s other stars.
Guard Jamal Murray is also averaging over 20 points per game this season and had his best series in the Playoffs against the Lakers.
He had over 20 points in all four games and over 30 points in three of them. He’s a problem too.
Then if those two are heavily guarded, Denver has another star Michael Porter Jr., who has great vision and can shoot, too.
He didn’t put up the massive numbers like the other two Nuggets’ stars in the Eastern Conference Finals, but he didn’t need to since his teammates were racking up the points.
If there’s one team that can handle a Big 3, it’s the team Denver is playing against, the Miami Heat.
The Heat dealt with the No. 1-seeded Milwaukee Bucks, who were loaded with stars, and the Celtics, who have one of the best Big 3’s in the league with Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart.
Miami’s been doubted series in and series out, but it has come out on top every time and it’s thanks to the chemistry the team has built up since the Heat’s appearance in the 2020 NBA Championship.
The squad is led by Jimmy Butler, who might be having the best playoffs out of any player. Butler led the team in scoring in five of the seven games in the Eastern Conference Finals and dropped 28 in Game 7 against the Celtics.
He’s been finding the basket with ease and in the final couple of games of the series didn’t need to do all the work.
Players like Duncan Robinson and Gabe Vincent have stepped up to support on the offensive end.
This series is going to come down to whether or not the Heat can stop Jokić. Jokić has been really good in the paint and Miami does have a player to stop him, Bam Adebayo.
At 6-foot-9, he’s undersized, so he could have trouble stopping the bigger Jokić, which might be the reason why the Nuggets take the series.
However, the Heat have been doubted the whole Playoffs and the person who has been the go-to guy when the team has been doubted is Butler. The man who makes something out of nothing.
With that being said, Jokić is too big of a problem for the Heat to stop and even if they do, they have a bunch of other players that can score at a high rate.
Prediction: Nuggets in 6
Do you have a sports story you want me to share? Or do have suggestions on any sports-related content you want to see OnTheStacks? Tweet me @RipchikSpencer
Smashing Your Goals as a Leader | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Smashing-Goals.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Smashing-Goals.jpg
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Understanding who you want to become and putting a system in place helps you achieve your leadership goals. We share three steps to take so you can make sustainable and continuous growth as a leader to get the outcomes you desire. Let’s get into it!
Jumpstart Your Goals
When is the best time to start…NOW! It’s not a new year, it’s not a major milestone. However, you’ve got goals you want to accomplish. You have something you want to overcome. Focus on that feeling of optimism. It’s always the right time to refresh, restart, or reimage yourself. It’s a fantastic time to jumpstart, set goals, and build or break habits. The time is now! Whether your goals are professional or personal here are three pieces of the puzzle that will help you achieve whatever outcome you set for yourself.
Let’s think of this as an equation: Who I Want to Be + My Habit System = My Desired Outcome
1. Start with the End in Mind
Identifying a goal or objective you want to achieve is great but don’t forget, it is actually the result or outcome you are looking for. It comes at the end of the equation. Take time to visualize your outcome. Picture yourself at the end, having achieved your goal.
Who is around you? How do you feel? Now walk it back in time – What steps did you take to get there? How long did you take to get there? Visualization is a powerful tool when it comes to future oriented achievement. It allows you to see yourself succeeding.
2. Understand WHO you are becoming
Let’s move to the left side of that equation. It’s not just the result but the journey to get you there. It’s imperative to understand what achieving this goal means to who you are trying to become. Who do you want to become by the end of this journey? What is important for you to feel? What is important to you about achieving this outcome? Who do you need to show up as?
Identifying a clear concise outcome is great, what will keep you moving towards that goal is being highly self-aware of the tie it has to who you are becoming in the process. To dive deep and tap into the true importance of your desired outcome, you can practice a little “self-coaching”.
Try this reflective writing process. Write out and answer these questions:
What is the outcome I’m trying to achieve? What happens if I’m able to achieve this outcome? Who is impacted? How will achieving my goal change who I am? Who do I want to become along the way?
The goal is the outcome – making it personal and being self-aware of who you want to become by achieving the goal is powerful. It gives your goal more purpose beyond the surface level of accomplishment.
3. The Habit System
The last piece of the equation is putting a system in place for change. The system you put in place will lead you to your desired result. Think about it from the wide world of sports. The outcome is to Win. To win you must score the most points. To score points you must have a process in place… The process can be thought of as your how. Different goals require different systems. Systems will bring about the change you seek, through your habits. Understanding the habit loop will help you put the best system in place for achieving your goal.
Take the outcome you want and break it down into manageable achievable steps. What’s the first step you can take? What resources do you need? How will you be accountable? When will you start? Now we are ready to enter the Habit Loop.
The Loop
According to James Clear, Author of Atomic Habits, the habit loop starts with a 1. cue that triggers a 2. craving, which motivates a 3. response, which provides a 4. reward, which satisfies the craving and, ultimately, becomes associated with the cue. Together, these four steps form a neurological feedback loop that allows you to create automatic habits.
Ultimately – You want to make good habits fun and attractive and you want to break bad habits by making them unattractive and invisible.
Remember to celebrate the small wins along the path. Small wins or setbacks have a multiplying impact over the long term. Build your positive momentum.
Looking forward to seeing you achieve your professional and personal goals!
If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
The Power of Mental Health in Leadership | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mental-Health.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mental-Health.jpg
Research backed approaches to leadership and team dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Mastering the Mind: The Power of Mental Health in Leadership
May is mental health awareness month. As leaders we are stewards of well-being at work. Our actions contribute to the work environment for our teams. We must also understand how to safeguard our own mental health to be at our best. This week we take time to explore how leaders can strengthen and protect their mental health and promote a positive environment for their team. Let’s dive in.
Leading the way for Mental Health
I’ve stumbled at leading by example for positive mental health practices. I thought I could box everything up, bury myself in work and as time moved on so would I. Not true! Focusing on action and hitting the gym had short term positive results. In the long run, it was costing me. I didn’t learn how to clear my head, acknowledge my thoughts, and understand what was happening to move on in a positive way. That all changed when I started practicing mindfulness and learning how to be a coach. I would focus on physical well-being (doing) or accomplishing whatever was next on my list (doing). What I was avoiding was feeling, emotion, and acknowledging my thoughts (being). I was a human doing, not a human being. As a leader, and for the good of my team, I needed to balance doing and being.
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of modern business, it is essential for us to recognize that our greatest asset lies within ourselves and our teams. By fostering a positive mental health environment, we can unleash our full potential, drive innovation, and inspire those around us to reach new heights. So, let us explore the importance of mental health and discover how we can safeguard our own well-being while nurturing the thriving minds of our teams.
The Leader’s Mental Well-being
As leaders, we are the catalysts for progress and change. However, this responsibility can sometimes come at a cost to our mental well-being. The pressures of decision-making, high expectations, and constant demands can lead to stress, burnout, and even emotional exhaustion. Therefore, it is paramount that we prioritize our own mental health to ensure our long-term effectiveness as leaders.
Self-awareness: The foundation of mental health lies in self-awareness. By recognizing and acknowledging our emotions, strengths, and weaknesses, we can better navigate the challenges we face. Embrace mindfulness practices, such as meditation and reflection, to cultivate a deeper understanding of your own mental state. How to Practice Mindfulness
Self-care: Treat yourself with kindness and caring, as you would for anyone on your team. Prioritize self-care activities that replenish your energy, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones. Remember, when your cup is full, you have more to offer those around you.
Seek support: Leaders are not immune to struggles. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from mentors, coaches, or mental health professionals. By creating a support network, you can gain valuable insights, guidance, and a safe space to share your challenges.
Creating a Positive Mental Health Team Environment
Leadership involves fostering an environment where team members can flourish. When we prioritize the mental health of our teams, we create a foundation for success and create a space where innovation and collaboration thrive.
Open communication: Encourage a culture of open dialogue where team members feel safe to discuss their mental health concerns. Regular check-ins and one-on-one meetings can provide an avenue for support and ensure that individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.
Normalize self-care: Lead by example and openly prioritize self-care activities. Encourage your team to take breaks, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that promote their well-being. When self-care is seen as a valuable practice, it permeates the entire organization.
Promote work-life balance: Recognize that employees have lives outside of work and encourage a healthy balance between work and personal life. Flexible schedules, remote work options, and time off for personal matters can help reduce stress and improve overall mental health.
Training and resources: Invest in mental health training and provide resources for your team. Offer workshops on stress management, resilience, and emotional intelligence. Consider partnering with mental health professionals to provide counseling services or employee assistance programs.
Lead the Way
In the pursuit of excellence and progress, let us not overlook the significance of mental health. As leaders, we have a responsibility to prioritize our own well-being while creating an environment that fosters the mental health of our teams. By practicing self-awareness, self-care, and seeking support, we fortify our own minds. Simultaneously, by encouraging open communication, promoting self-care, and providing resources, we empower our teams to unleash their full potential.
Remember, the strength of a team lies in the well-being of its individual members. When we prioritize mental health, we create a culture of resilience, empathy, and collaboration. Together, we can overcome challenges, adapt to change, and achieve extraordinary results.
As leaders, we have the power to shape the narrative around mental health and create an environment where mental well-being is valued, supported, and nurtured. In this fast-paced and ever-evolving world, mental health has emerged as a critical factor in both personal and professional success. The positive impact of prioritizing mental health goes beyond the individual level—it ripples through entire organizations, driving productivity, engagement, and overall well-being.
Looking for a personal coach to help you strengthen your self-awareness and navigate leading people? Let’s talk! Connect with me on LinkedIn Dr. William Ramey | LinkedIn
My journey with the Sweat Tent portable sauna has been nothing short of transformative. This innovative portable sauna product has redefined my approach to relaxation and well-being.
Its exceptional portability, coupled with the myriad of health benefits it offers, has made it an indispensable part of my life now!
If you’re seeking a way to unwind, rejuvenate, and experience the remarkable benefits of sauna therapy anytime and anywhere, the Sweat Tent portable sauna is the ultimate solution. Embrace the portability, cherish the tranquility, and unlock a world of wellness with this extraordinary backyard portable sauna!
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If you watched the video above and you’re already convinced about the Sweat Tent, tap the link below to get yours! If you want to learn more before deciding to make a purchase, keep reading below. 👇🏼
The moment my Sweat Tent arrived, I eagerly unwrapped it, ready to embark on my personal well-being journey.
As I carefully unfolded and assembled the tent, I marveled at its thoughtful design. Made from durable materials, the Sweat Tent felt sturdy and built to withstand outdoor elements.
Its lightweight nature and compact size made it a breeze to transport and set up in my preferred location, which in my case, was my backyard.
The Sweat Tent Experience:
Stepping into the portable sauna, I instantly felt a sense of calming and relaxation. The spacious interior accommodated me comfortably, allowing me to stretch out and fully unwind.
It comfortably fits up to 3 adults. You can probably squeeze 4, but it’ll be a bit tight.
The breathable fabric ensured adequate airflow, preventing any stuffiness and creating a pleasant environment.
The Sweat Tent’s wood-fire stove provided consistent and intense heat, promoting relaxation and easing muscle tension.
Health Benefits and Wellness:
The Sweat Tent’s portability not only granted me relaxation but also delivered numerous health benefits I’ve been seeking.
Sauna sessions have long been revered for their detoxifying properties, increased blood circulation, and alleviation of muscle soreness.
As I indulged in regular Sweat Tent sessions, I noticed my body and mind reaping the rewards almost instantly.
A World of Possibilities:
The Sweat Tent’s portability and versatility opened up a world of possibilities.
It became my sanctuary for relaxation, no matter where I found myself. Whether I craved solitude amidst nature or wanted to share the experience with friends or family, the Sweat Tent has become a constant companion.
You can literally take it anywhere, depending on your local municipality rules for backyard fires or burns of course.
What is the Tent Made of? Does it Release any Harmful Chemicals?!
The Sweat Tent is made of Oxford 210D Nylon that is rated to 300°F, meaning it will not melt or leach chemicals at 200°F (the approximate highest temperature the sauna will go). The tent windows are made of a high-temperature performance TPU.
The Sweat Tent went through testing using the highest quality, USA NIST calibrated equipment on the market from Forensics Detectors. The test results show that when the Sweat Tent is heated to 200°F there are zero concentrations of CO or VOCs present in the air.
The Price Tag
Of course you’re wondering about the price! At first you may think $1199.00 is a big price tag, but it’s actually very affordable compared to its competitors. And if you’re on the fence about it, you won’t find a better product at this price point anywhere else.
You can even finance the purchase for either 6 or 12 months with a shop now, pay later option at checkout.
The $1199.00 price includes everything you need to start sweating:
Insulated portable sauna tent
Stainless steel wood-burning stove
Rock basket
Sauna rocks
Thermometer
Fire poker
Heat-resistant gloves
*The cedar bench, bucket & ladle do cost extra as mentioned in my video unboxing and review above, but are well worth the additional cost to complete the Sweat Tent experience!
Peace of Mind
Every Sweat Tent comes with a 1 year manufacturer warranty out of the box.
They also have a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If you’re not 100% satisfied with your Sweat Tent, you have 30 days to return it for a full refund.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Sweat Tent was nothing short of remarkable.
Its exceptional design, ease of use, and ability to provide a relaxing and rejuvenating escape in the comfort of my own backyard made it an absolute game-changer in my wellness routine.
The Sweat Tent exceeded my expectations, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a convenient and portable sauna experience, at the most affordable price on the market.
A Look in the Mirror: Leader’s Self-awareness | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Selfawareness.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Selfawareness.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
In order to lead others, you have to be able to lead yourself. I’m not talking about management and organizational skills. I am talking about knowing who you are, how you show up, and what impact you are having on others. This is self-awareness and it is a sub-dimension of emotional intelligence. Here we share what it is, why it’s important to leadership, and how to develop yours over time.
Who’s looking back in your mirror?
Mirror, Mirror on the wall, how can I be the best leader of them all? If only it were that easy. Developing self-awareness requires you to be open, acknowledge what you are not good at, then deciding to act. Self-awareness is only the first part of practicing good leadership, deciding to take steps to improve is the next.
I have found myself standing at this crossroads several times in my career. When someone holds that mirror up to me, I have a decision to make a) be thankful and absorb the feedback I’m receiving then do nothing, b) be thankful and absorb the feedback I’m receiving then choose to make a change, c) engage in a defensive conversation about my behavior and give 15 different excuses as to why I did what I did… I can admit at times I’ve chosen all three. What I find most beneficial is option a) and/or b). Being grateful for the feedback that someone shared so that I can increase self-awareness is always a good option.
As a leader, you have a responsibility to guide and inspire your team. But in order to be an effective leader, you need to first understand and improve yourself. That’s where self-awareness and self-improvement come in.
Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Self-improvement is the process of taking steps to become a better version of yourself. In leadership, both self-awareness and self-improvement are crucial for success. Let’s take a closer look at why.
Raise your awareness to connect with your team
Self-awareness is an essential component of effective leadership. Here are just a few reasons why:
Better decision-making: Leaders who are self-aware are better able to make decisions that align with their values, goals, and strengths.
Improved communication: Self-aware leaders are better able to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and expectations to their team members.
Increased emotional intelligence: Self-awareness is a key component of emotional intelligence, which is critical for effective leadership.
Stronger relationships: Self-aware leaders are better able to build strong relationships with their team members, creating a positive and supportive work environment.
With this awareness comes the choice to act. As you start to develop awareness and piece together how your actions have impact on your team, now you have a choice. Are you getting the most out of your team? Are you effectively leading your team through influence, communication, and relationships? If not, it’s time for self-improvement.
Improve yourself – improve your team
Here are benefits you’ll get out of continuously development of your leadership abilities:
Continuous learning: Leaders who are committed to self-improvement are always seeking to learn and grow, which can help them stay ahead of the curve in their industry.
Improved skills: Self-improvement can help leaders develop new skills and improve existing ones, making them more effective at their job.
Better adaptability: Self-improvement can help leaders become more adaptable and flexible, which is essential in today’s rapidly changing business environment.
Increased resilience: Leaders who prioritize self-improvement are better able to bounce back from setbacks and challenges, making them more effective in the long run.
How to Develop Self-Awareness and Self-Improvement as a Leader
So how can you develop self-awareness and self-improvement as a leader? Here are some tips:
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing can help you become more self-aware and present in the moment. (For more on this subject: How Mindfulness Helps You Lead | Dr. Will Ramey)
Seek feedback: Ask for feedback from your team members, colleagues, and mentors on your strengths and weaknesses.
Reflect on your values and goals: Take time to reflect on your core values and long-term goals, and think about how your actions align with them. (For more on this subject: Leaders – Make Time to Reflect | Dr. Will Ramey)
Develop a growth mindset: Adopt a growth mindset and embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement.
Set goals: Set specific, measurable goals for improving your skills and abilities, and track your progress over time.
By developing self-awareness and committing to self-improvement, you can become the best leader you can be. By understanding yourself and continuously improving, you can inspire and guide your team towards success. So why not start today? Not sure how to get started and want to explore the benefits of getting a personal coach? Reach out to me. Let’s work together to help you unlock your potential and reach your goals.
NBA West and Eastern Conference Finals Preview and Predictionshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/nba-conference-finals-and.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/nba-conference-finals-and.jpg
By Spencer Ripchik
Then there were four. This NBA Playoffs has been pretty crazy with the No. 1-seeded Milwaukee Bucks losing in the first round and the slow-starting Los Angeles Lakers still in it.
The Boston Celtics battled back against the Philadelphia 76ers, taking the No. 3 seed to seven games where forward Jayson Tatum dropped a historic 51 points.
The longshot in the playoffs the Miami Heat who knocked off the Bucks in the first round, are still striving after beating the New York Knicks in the second round.
The No. 1 seed in the West, the Denver Nuggets, is still chugging along after besting the star-loaded Pheonix Suns.
With the second round over, it now just leaves the Western and Eastern Conference Finals, which is a replica of the 2020 Final Four teams in the Bubble.
That year the Lakers raised the trophy, but this year, they aren’t the favorite to win the Championship.
There are just a handful of games left in the playoff and soon there will be just two teams left, representing the West and the East.
Western Conference Finals
The No. 1-seeded Nuggets vs. the No. 7-seeded Lakers. Despite the large gap in seedings, this could be the more competitive of the two series.
Los Angeles sports the No. 7 seed, but it hasn’t been playing like it at all as of late after taking down Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors.
After becoming the all-time scoring leader in the regular season, LeBron James is hunting for his fifth NBA Championship and he has a good shot at it.
In the first series against the Memphis Grizzlies, the Lakers had a different leading scorer in all six games, but against the Warriors, they turned to James and the other star Anthony Davis.
Davis’ health is the biggest question mark, already getting banged up a couple of times in the playoffs, but when he’s healthy he makes Los Angeles a tough team to stop.
Denver is kind of a one-man show with two-time back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic leading the team in scoring and rebounds on most nights.
However, the Nuggets do have a lot of young guys who can shoot, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr.
Both teams have depth and an arsenal of players that can score. The Nuggets have a better roster than the Lakers and have played better all season, but Denver doesn’t have LeBron James.
If anyone can take a No. 7 seed to the Championship, that started the season really bad, it’s LeBron James. However, James is going to need some help.
Davis is the difference maker in this series. If he’s healthy, the Lakers are going to be really tough to beat, but if he goes down, Denver will be in the Championship.
Los Angeles in 6
Eastern Conference Finals
The Boston Celtics escaped the 76ers on the back of Tatum after they rode the back of Marcus Smart in game 6.
After defeating Philadelphia, the Celtics became the favorites to win the title and rightfully so.
Boston is the most complete team left with Tatum, Smart and Jaylen Brown making up the core.
Tatum’s been the go-to guy all season for the Celtics, leading them in points, rebounds and assists per game and he’s going to have to be on his A-game against the hot Heat.
Miami has the lowest odds to win the title, but it’s been grinding out series behind one of the best players left in the playoffs, Jimmy Butler.
Butler took over against the Bucks in the first round and played really well against the Knicks in the second round.
However, Miami isn’t as complete as the Celtics. The Heat has been banged up this playoff and lost Tyler Herro after he broke two of his fingers against Milwaukee.
To pair with Butler, the Heat have Bam Adebayo, but Butler has been most of Miami’s offense. He’s been the team’s leading scorer in 10 out of the Heat’s 11 playoff games and there is a high chance that he is the series leading scorer, but that might not be enough.
The Celtics don’t need Tatum to ball out every game like Miami needs Butler, too. Boston has Smart and Brown who can put up numbers and support Tatum, whereas Butler doesn’t have the big-name stars to carry if needed.
If the Celtics can stop Butler, then it’s going to be the Heat on a plane to Cancún in a couple of days.
Celtics in 5
Do you have a sports story you want me to share? Or do have suggestions on any sports-related content you want to see OnTheStacks? Tweet me @RipchikSpencer
Emotional Intelligence in Leadership | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Emotional-Intelligence-and-Leadership.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Emotional-Intelligence-and-Leadership.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
As a leader, you are expected to inspire and guide your team towards success. But what sets the most effective leaders apart from the rest? According to research, one key factor is emotional intelligence. Here we share what it is, why it’s important to leadership, and how to develop yours over time.
Something unique about my career path is that I have never actually performed the tasks or been in the role of the teams’ I’ve led. I’ve never had the technical expertise or requisite knowledge to be considered a subject matter expert. What I do believe has set me apart when leading teams is my focus on people. I realized the need to develop and grow my emotional intelligence. Doing so enables me to connect and build relationships with my team so we can communicate, remove roadblocks, and build a shared understanding of goals and objectives for performance, without requiring a high degree of technical expertise.
Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is the ability to recognize and regulate your own emotions, as well as understand and respond to the emotions of others. While IQ and technical skills are certainly important, studies show that EQ may be an even stronger predictor of leadership success.
So why does EQ matter in leadership, and how can you develop this important skill set? Let’s take a closer look.
Understanding Emotional Intelligence
EQ has five key components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Let’s break these down:
Self-awareness: This involves understanding your own emotions, strengths, and weaknesses, and how they impact your behavior and decisions.
Self-regulation: This involves managing your own emotions and impulses in a constructive way, rather than letting them control you.
Motivation: This involves having a strong drive to achieve goals and a positive outlook on the future.
Empathy: This involves understanding and responding to the emotions of others, and being able to see things from their perspective.
Social skills: This involves building strong relationships and networks, and being able to communicate effectively with others.
Each of these components is important for effective leadership. Leaders who are self-aware, emotionally stable, motivated, empathetic, and skilled at communication are better able to inspire and motivate their teams, resolve conflicts, and navigate challenging situations.
The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
So why does emotional intelligence matter in leadership? There are several reasons:
Better communication: Leaders with high emotional intelligence are able to communicate clearly and effectively with their teams, building trust and rapport.
Stronger relationships: Leaders with high emotional intelligence are able to build strong relationships with their team members, creating a positive and supportive work environment.
Improved decision-making: Leaders with high emotional intelligence are able to regulate their own emotions and make decisions based on reason, rather than being swayed by emotions.
More effective conflict resolution: Leaders with high emotional intelligence are able to understand and respond to the emotions of others, making them more effective at resolving conflicts and negotiating solutions.
Increased team performance: Leaders with high emotional intelligence are able to motivate and inspire their teams, leading to higher levels of engagement, productivity, and overall performance.
Developing Emotional Intelligence
The good news is that emotional intelligence can be developed, even if you don’t naturally possess all of the components. Here are some strategies for developing your emotional intelligence:
Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help you become more aware of your own emotions and better able to regulate them. (See my article: How Mindfulness Helps You Lead)
Seek feedback: Ask for feedback from others on your emotional intelligence and be open to constructive criticism.
Practice empathy: Put yourself in the shoes of others and try to understand their perspective and emotions.
Build relationships: Make an effort to build strong relationships with your team members, and work on your communication and social skills.
Set goals: Set goals for improving your emotional intelligence and track your progress over time.
By developing your emotional intelligence, you can become a more effective leader and inspire your team to achieve great things. So why not take the first step today?
Emotional Displays with Purpose | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Emotional-Displays.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Emotional-Displays.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Have you ever thought about how your emotional displays impact your team’s behavior? Well, it turns out that your emotions play a significant role in your followers’ organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). We share how to put your emotional intelligence into action and impact your team’s willingness to take on tasks outside of their job description.
Your Team is Watching
About seven years ago I finally came to a realization. I always knew and learned that how you behave as a leader matters. It makes a difference in your day. Fundamentally I understood that when you hold a formal leadership position in an organization, you have an inherent responsibility to model positive behavior. We all understand that, comprehend it, but what does it look like, how can you practice it, and put your emotional displays to work. Early in my leadership journey I would wear my emotions on my sleeve. All of the positive emotion and negative emotion would come out and be on display. I’d go home exhausted. The amount of pivots in my day, the ups and downs wore on me. Gaining an understanding of how my emotional displays, both positive and negative, impacted my team opened my eyes. Learning to harness my emotions and engage my emotional intelligence, has helped me, as well as, my team become more effective and go above and beyond.
What is OCB?
If you’re not familiar with the term, organizational citizenship behavior, or OCB, refers to the discretionary actions that employees take to improve the overall effectiveness of their workplace. These actions mean going beyond what is expected from the job description and can include things like helping coworkers, volunteering for tasks, and offering constructive feedback. These behaviors lead to positive team dynamics and can impact team effectiveness and performance over time.
A study published in The Leadership Quarterly found that when leaders express positive emotions, such as joy or pride, their followers are more likely to engage in OCB. On the other hand, negative emotions like anger or frustration can decrease OCB. The findings also suggest that the level of emotional contagion (i.e., the degree to which followers “catch” their leader’s emotions) effects the relationship between leaders’ emotional displays and followers’ OCB.
Link between Leader’s emotions and OCB
Leaders’ emotional displays have a significant impact on their followers’ organizational citizenship behavior.
Positive emotions expressed by leaders have a more significant impact on followers’ OCB than negative emotions.
Emotional contagion mediates the relationship between leaders’ emotional displays and followers’ OCB.
We often underestimate the power of emotions and how they can shape our team’s behavior. As leaders, we need to be more self-aware of how our emotions can impact our team. By expressing more positive emotions, being mindful of negative emotions, and leading by example, we can create a more positive and productive work environment for our team.
Displaying Positive Emotions
What can you do to be more purposeful and display positive emotions as a leader?
Here are some tips:
Express positive emotions: As a leader, you set the tone for your team’s emotions. So, when you’re feeling happy or proud, share that with your team! Celebrate successes and show gratitude for hard work. This will encourage your team to engage in positive behaviors.
Be mindful of negative emotions: Of course, as a leader, you’re not going to be happy all the time. But when you’re feeling angry or frustrated, try to be mindful of how you’re expressing those emotions. Instead of lashing out, take a deep breath and consider how you can express your emotions in a constructive way.
Lead by example: Finally, remember that your team is looking to you for guidance. If you want your team to engage in positive behaviors, you need to lead by example. Show your team what it means to be a positive, productive member of the organization.
Like it or not, as a leader, your emotions play a crucial role in shaping your team’s behavior. By expressing positive emotions, being mindful of negative emotions, and leading by example, you can encourage your team to engage in positive organizational citizenship behavior. So, let’s spread positivity and make our organizations even better!
Reference: “How leaders’ emotional displays shape followers’ organizational citizenship behavior” by Lukas F. Koning and Gerben A. Van Kleef published in The Leadership Quarterly 2015
Connecting with your Team | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Relationships-and-results.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Relationships-and-results.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Connecting with your team can be complex as a leader. Here we share ideas on how to build those connections and strengthen team dynamics over time.
The Complexity of Connection
As a team leader, building strong connections with your team members is essential to creating a positive and productive work environment. When your team members feel connected to you, they are more likely to trust you, communicate openly with you, and work collaboratively with their peers. However, connecting with your team members can be complicated. How do build genuine relationships without compromising your ability to soundly manage performance?
Early on in my leadership career I was taught to get to know your team, take a genuine interest in their lives, understand what motivates them, and learn everyone by name. As a Lieutenant in the Army, I made it part of my daily routine to get out and talk with my Soldiers where they were working. I found out who was married, who had kids, where people were from, etc. The difficulty came with balancing that with assigning tasks, making disciplinary recommendations, and correcting performance. How could I not become biased or allow someone’s personal situation to sway my judgement. The easy answer would be to swing the other direction. Put up walls. Keep people at double-arms distance. However, if this happens you become unapproachable. How do you lead when your team doesn’t feel comfortable bringing up concerns or issues?
Finding the Balance
To strike a balance in the work environment you can reflect on your communication rhythm. When do you communicate, where do you communicate, how do you communicate, and what is the purpose of your communication. When you make intentional decisions about communication with the intent to connect to your team you can start to build bonds and balance driving for results. Think about the routines you have when you communicate. Start-up meetings, do you mix the daily goals with the opportunities to recognize your team or acknowledge an anniversary, birthday, etc? Conversations in the workspace, do you take time to check in and encourage your team members to share their concerns or teach your something about their role? Formal feedback conversations, do you deliver balanced feedback on performance and share opportunities for professional development?
Here are some tips on building strong connections with your team
Get to know your team members personally: Take the time to learn about your team members’ interests, hobbies, and aspirations. Knowing what makes them tick can help you understand them better and show that you care about them as individuals.
Be approachable and available: Make sure your team members know that they can come to you with any questions, concerns, or ideas. Create an open-door policy, get out of your office, and encourage your team members to reach out to you when they need support or guidance.
Show appreciation and recognition: Make sure you acknowledge your team members’ hard work and achievements. Celebrate milestones, acknowledge team members who go above and beyond, and show your gratitude for their efforts.
Communicate clearly and effectively: Communication is key to building strong connections with your team members. Make sure you are clear and concise in your messaging and encourage your team members to do the same. Listen actively, ask questions, and be open to feedback.
Lead by example: As a team leader, you set the tone for the team. If you want your team members to be respectful, collaborative, and communicative, you need to model those behaviors yourself.
Invest in professional development: Show your team members that you care about their growth and development by investing in training and development opportunities. This can help your team members develop new skills and expertise, which can lead to more meaningful and rewarding work.
Encourage teamwork and collaboration: Encourage your team members to work together and collaborate on projects. This can help build trust, foster creativity, and create a sense of camaraderie.
The Power of Connection
Research has found support for the power of connection between team leaders and team members. One study found that employees who had a positive relationship with their supervisor were more likely to report job satisfaction and higher levels of engagement. Another study found that employees who had a positive relationship with their supervisor had higher levels of organizational citizenship behaviors, such as helping coworkers and going above and beyond their job duties. This can lead to increased productivity and improved job performance. In addition, research has shown that positive relationships between supervisors and their subordinates can lead to reduced turnover rates. One study found that employees who had a positive relationship with their supervisor were less likely to leave the organization.
Overall, there is ample research to support the notion that positive relationships between leaders and their team members can have significant positive outcomes for employee satisfaction and business performance. As a team leader, investing in these relationships is not only the right thing to do for your employees, but it can also have a positive impact on the success of your organization.
Balancing Relationships and Results | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Relationships_Results-1.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Relationships_Results-1.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Balancing Relationships and Results: Leaders need to get positive results without sacrificing relationships with your team. This can feel like walking a high wire without a net. We share numerous ways to finding that balance so you can achieve results and maintain strong relationships with your team.
Leadership is a People Business
We all know that leadership is a people business. We’ve heard great thought leaders like Simon Sinek share his perspective that when you focus on people, the numbers will come. That can be easier said than done for some in leadership positions.
My first job out of the military was with a Fortune 50 company working in their distribution channel. I thought I had this whole leadership thing all figured out. Know the objective goals, understand processes, motivate my team to smash those goals, and all is right in the world. TOO EASY! Soon, I had the top performing team in my department. My boss took me for a developmental walkaround, and he began asking me about my relationships with my team and my peers. I remember thinking to myself – what does that matter at all? Have you seen my numbers?! It wasn’t until a few years later that I truly grasped what he was trying to get me to understand.
Finding the Balance
Leadership is about balancing relationships and results. On one hand, a leader must be able to build strong relationships with team members in order to create a positive and productive work environment. On the other hand, a leader must also be able to deliver results by setting and achieving goals. If you favor relationships, you may avoid having difficult conversations. If you favor results, you may not be connected enough to get the best out of your team.
The key to balancing relationships and results is to understand that they are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they are closely linked and dependent on one another. Strong relationships with team members can lead to better communication, increased trust and collaboration, and ultimately better results.
For a deeper dive into understanding how to balance relationships and results I recommend a book by my good friend and colleague Mark Stevens: The Square and the Triangle
Leadership Tips
Here are some ways to balance relationships and results when leading your team:
Communicate effectively: Regularly communicate with team members to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Go see your team where they work and encourage team members to voice any concerns or issues.
Show appreciation: Show appreciation for your team members’ hard work and contributions. Recognize and reward their achievements and provide constructive feedback on areas where they can improve.
Build trust: Build trust by being reliable and consistent. Keep your promises and be transparent in your decision-making. Share the why behind decisions and seek out team members input when possible.
Encourage teamwork: Encourage teamwork by fostering collaboration and cooperation among team members. Hold team-building activities and create opportunities for team members to work together to achieve common goals.
By following these tips, you can effectively balance relationships and results when leading your team. Remember that strong relationships lead to better results and a positive work environment, and that both are important for the success of your team and your organization.
Psychological Safety in Remote Teams | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Remote-Psych-Safety.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Remote-Psych-Safety.png
How to build psychological safety into remote teams
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
The future of work is changing and that includes the work environment itself. Remote teams have increased, and leaders need to instill psychological safety within their remote teams, just like their face-to-face teams. I share three tips of how to use technology to create psychological safety within your remote team so you can maintain high performance and cohesion.
Developing Psychological Safety in Remote Teams
Do you feel disconnected from your remote team? Are you struggling to build trust and communication among team members who are not physically together? It’s time to stop ignoring the challenges of remote teams and start fostering psychological safety.
Building psychological safety in remote teams can be challenging due to the lack of face-to-face interaction and isolation. However, leaders who use technology to facilitate communication and collaboration and create a sense of connection and community among team members can foster psychological safety and build a high-performing remote team.
For a deep dive check out “Hybrid: A Guide for Successfully Leading On-Site and Remote Teams” by Travis Hearne. I connected with Travis through a mutual friend. Travis is a nine-year USMC veteran and CEO of Titanium Leadership. We both share the desire to equip leaders, with the skills and abilities they need to lead well and be successful no matter if their team is in person, remote, or a hybrid.
How to Cultivate Psychological Safety in Remote Teams
Making your team comfortable with taking risks and feeling safe to be creative is a daunting challenge when they all work under one roof. It is possible to shape a psychologically safe remote work environment. Most of us were thrust into leading remote or hybrid teams within the past three years. It was a struggle for me at first because I enjoyed the spontaneous collisions and moments of levity throughout the day with my team. We adapted quickly to insert social moments on top of our business communication cadence when we switched to a hybrid environment.
Here are three tips to get you started:
Use video conferencing, instant messaging, and real time collaborative tools to facilitate communication and collaboration among remote team members. These tools allow for real-time interaction and can help create a sense of connection.
Create a sense of community by scheduling regular team-building activities and virtual social events. Making time and encouraging remote team workers to connect for a virtual coffee allows them to get to know one another and build trust.
Address isolation and feelings of disconnection by encouraging team members to take breaks, step away from their screens, and engage in activities that promote mental and physical well-being. A team that is healthy and well-rested is more likely to be productive and engaged.
Adapting to the Future of Work
It’s time to adapt and overcome the challenge of working with a remote team. By using technology, building a sense of connection and community, and addressing isolation, you can create a high-performing remote team.
Remember that developing psychological safety in remote teams is an ongoing process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt and change. The use of technology can help but it’s also important to understand that it can’t replace human interaction and the importance of addressing isolation.
Modeling Psychological Safety | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Modeling-Psych-Safety.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Modeling-Psych-Safety.png
Modeling Psychological Safety
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Leading by example includes acknowledging that you are not perfect. Leaders that build inclusion and model psychological safety will set the conditions for psychological safety to emerge within their team. I share one of my own bouts with perfectionism and share three ways you can start to model psychological safety for your team. Let’s jump in!
Perfection can be the enemy
We have all heard a variation of the quote “perfectionism is the enemy of…progress, good, creativity.” I personally like Mark Twain’s summation, “Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection.” Perfectionism can drive you to achieve great accomplishments, but it can also paralyze progress for you and your team.
The world of work is changing, so must how we lead. A leader cannot be an omnipotent being that has all the answers all the time. Believe me, you will burn yourself out and ruin relationships striving for perfection. Early in my career I thought I needed all the answers before I could lead. During a training exercise when I was learning to lead in the Army, we were on our objective. I was put in charge of the operation. Things were going well. We were on our objective a little longer than planned. I wanted to ensure everything was done just right! Then the simulated artillery fire came in. The scenario started to change, and I wasn’t prepared for it. Perfectionism drove me to feel the need to have everything done right. I wasn’t listening to my team or accepting their ideas on trying different approaches. Our team got stuck on the objective, we couldn’t adapt quickly because I thought I needed to complete the first mission perfectly…or so I thought.
I realized then what I really needed was to access the collective knowledge of my team. I needed to have relationships with my team members and understand their needs. We needed to be able to continuously try, assess, adjust, and execute. If my team was only moving forward once something was completed perfectly, we would fail. Embracing this idea meant I needed to take down the façade of perfection and model psychological safety.
How to Model Psychological Safety
Leaders who model psychological safety in their own behavior create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. By being vulnerable, showing empathy, and actively listening to team members, leaders can build trust, open communication, and create an environment where everyone feels heard.
But how do you model psychological safety in your own behavior? Here are three tips to get you started:
Be a role model for your team by being open and transparent in your own behavior. Share your own vulnerabilities and mistakes and show that it’s okay to not have all the answers.
Show empathy and actively listen to your team members to create a sense of trust and understanding. When team members feel that their ideas and concerns are being heard, they will be more likely to share them.
Encourage feedback by being out and about with your team. Be curious and open to learning from them, then actively seek out feedback from your team members. Show your team that you value their input and are willing to make changes based on their feedback.
You don’t need to be perfect. Start modeling psychological safety in your team. By being a role model for openness, empathy, and feedback, you’ll create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas, leading to increased engagement, reduced turnover, and improved team performance.
Remember that leading by example and modeling psychological safety is not only beneficial for your team, but also for you. You can open yourself up to learn and grow from the feedback and ideas of the team.
Bo Nickal Predicts Outcome of His July 8th Fighthttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bo-Nickal-1.png19201080OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bo-Nickal-1.png
Bo Nickal predicts the outcome of his next fight against Tresean Gore on July 8th, saying, “there’s no way this guy gets out of the first round with me.”
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Bo Nickal went on to say that a first round finish will be consistent throughout his career going forward.
And in an even bolder statement, Bo Nickal says, he doesn’t think “anybody even has what it takes to make it more than 5 minutes with me” (in the Octagon).
These comments came during a 98-minute Exclusive conversation that Bo Nickal had with OnTheStacks Podcast host, Bill Corcoran Jr. on Wednesday March 29th. (recorded March 24th)
This was Bo Nickal’s first in-depth interview since his UFC debut win on March 4th against Jamie Pickett.
Bo Nickal is the hottest prospect the UFC has seen in its 30 year history!
Watch the full episode below on our YouTube Channel.
Bo Nickal EXCLUSIVE: Faith, Family, Fighting, & Unfinished Business | Ep.152
This episode is brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at Sweat Tent
Even after an illustrious wrestling career at Penn State University, where he was a 3x National Champion for the renowned Nittany Lions wrestling program, Bo Nickal says he has unfinished business. He recently amassed global recognition following his March 4th Pay-Per-View victory against Jamie Pickett.
You’ve seen Bo on mat and in the Octagon, but this is a version of Bo you haven’t seen. In this 98-minute exclusive interview with OnTheStacks, Bo speaks openly about his family life and upbringing, the role faith plays in his life, and the transition from a winning career on the mat to a promising future in the Octagon as a top rated fighter in the UFC.
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Final Four Preview and Predictionshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/final-4-predicts.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/final-4-predicts.jpg
By Spencer Ripchik
Final Four Preview and Predictions: The NCAA Tournament has been nothing but chaos and the Final Four shows it.
A 4-seed, two 5-seeds and a 9-seed make up this year’s Final Four teams, which is completely different compared to last year’s Final Four, which was filled with Blue Bloods.
The highest seed left is No. 4 UConn, who’s been one of the hottest teams in the NCAA Tournament, knocking off Gonzaga by a whopping 28 points in the Elite Eight.
If this NCAA Tournament has shown anything it’s that the numbers next to a team’s name doesn’t matter. No. 1 Purdue was upset in the first round by No. 16 Fairleigh Dickinson, so anything can happen.
The longshot this weekend is No. 9 FAU, who takes on No. 5 San Diego State. UConn takes on No. 5 Miami for its bid to the National Championship game.
There were once 68 teams, after Saturday, there will be just two remaining. What two will they be?
No. 4 UConn vs. No. 5 Miami
No. 4 UConn has been on a hot streak, winning every game in the NCAA Tournament by more than 10 points.
The Huskies are led by their one-two punch in junior forward Adama Sanogo and sophomore guard Jordan Hawkins.
Sanogo and Hawkins average over 15 points each and Hawkins played a big role in UConn’s dominant win over No. 3 Gonzaga in the Elite Eight.
UConn coach Dan Hurley’s plays have been on another level in the NCAA Tournament and are one of the main reasons why UConn’s offense clicks.
The supporting cast of Sanogo and Hawkins is also really strong. Guards Tristen Newton and Andre Jackson Jr. can make plays to help the attack for the Huskies.
The Huskies’ offense is hot, but a hotter offense is who they play, Miami.
Miami made a run in the NCAA Tournament a year ago as a 10-seed, making the Elite Eight, and most of the players on that squad came back for this run.
Guard play is the Hurricanes’ specialty, and Miami has a trio of them, junior Isaiah Wong, senior Jordan Miller and sophomore Nijel Pack.
Wong, the lead guy last year, has the same role in 2023. He leads the team averaging 16.2 points per game.
With both teams having strong offenses, it is going to come down to who can create the most stops and the Huskies have the edge.
UConn has held every NCAA Tournament team to under 65 points, including No. 2 Texas, who puts up 78 points per game.
However, it’s not going to be an easy task with the shooters Miami has. If the Hurricanes can outshoot UConn from deep, it could be Miami headed to the National Championship.
Overall, though, UConn’s the more balanced squad, so the Huskies will be the one in the Championship.
Prediction
UConn 76, Miami 71
No. 5 San Diego State vs. No. 9 FAU
No. 9 FAU, the low team on the totem pole but still in the Final Four, comes out of the chaotic East that had No. 1 Purdue lose in the first round.
On their path to the Final Four, the Owls knocked off No. 4 Tennesee, and a Lil Baby “Low Down” powered No. 3 Kansas State in the final minutes.
No. 5 San Diego State has a strong NCAA Tournament resume too, beating No. 1 Alabama by a couple of scores and edging out No. 6 Creighton.
The Aztecs have been besting teams with their defense and physicality under the rim. San Diego State has one of the best defenders in the nation playing the 5, senior Nathan Mensah.
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 26, 2023
At 6-foot-10, 230 pounds, Mensah is a force in the paint and leads the team with 1.7 blocks per game.
Mensah holds down the fort in the paint and junior guard Lamont Butler guards out by the perimeter. Butler locks up the shifty guards and posts a team-best 1.5 steals per game.
Out on the perimeter and in the paint, San Diego State’s defense is hard to crack, but FAU has the firepower offensively to put an end to the Aztecs’ run potentially.
The firepower has come from sophomore guard Johnell Davis. Davis is the Owls’ playmaker. He leads the team in scoring and in steals per game.
Davis has a flurry of players around him, too. Freshman Nicholas Boyd averages 8.9 points per game and comes off the bench. The depth of the team is their biggest strength.
The depth is going to have to unload on San Diego State’s defense, though. The Aztecs’ physicallty and defense might shake up the Owls.
There has never been a seed higher than an 8-seed, and that’s not going to happen this year.
Prediction
San Diego State 68, FAU 60
Do you have a sports story you want me to share? Or do have suggestions on any sports-related content you want to see OnTheStacks? Tweet me @RipchikSpencer
Bo Nickal EXCLUSIVE: Faith, Family, Fighting, & Unfinished Business | Ep.152https://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bo-Nickal-3.jpg19201080OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bo-Nickal-3.jpg
Bo Nickal EXCLUSIVE: Faith, Family, Fighting, & Unfinished Business | Ep.152
This week’s OnTheStacks guest in the blu door studio is the 4-0, undefeated rising star of the UFC, Bo Nickal & is brought to you by our friends at Sweat Tent! Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at Sweat Tent.
Even after an illustrious wrestling career at Penn State University, where he was a 3x National Champion for the renowned Nittany Lions wrestling program, Bo Nickal says he has unfinished business. He recently amassed global recognition following his March 4th Pay-Per-View victory against Jamie Pickett.
You’ve seen Bo on mat and in the Octagon, but this is a version of Bo you haven’t seen. In this 98-minute exclusive interview with OnTheStacks, Bo speaks openly about his family life and upbringing, the role faith plays in his life, and the transition from a winning career on the mat to a promising future in the Octagon as a top rated fighter in the UFC.
Bo Nickal is set to fight Tresean Gore on July 8th at UFC 290.
Bo Nickal EXCLUSIVE: Faith, Family, Fighting, & Unfinished Business | Ep.152
Official Press Release of Ep.152 with Bo Nickal: Tap here
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Building Team Psychological Safety | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Team-Psychological-Safety.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Team-Psychological-Safety.png
Building Team Psychological Safety, with Dr. Will Ramey
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Helping your team feel psychologically safe at work leads to creative solutions, richer connection within your team and helps take the pressure off you to have all the answers. I share the trap leaders can fall into, what psychological safety is, and how to encourage it within your team. Let’s get into it!
One or more links below may contain an affiliate link, which if you make a purchase, we might earn a commission that helps us keep the mics on!
The “Expert” Leader Trap
Team leaders sometimes feel that they need to have all the answers. Do you find yourself thinking that if you don’t have the best idea, your team members may not view you as “the leader”. Do you ever feel threatened by the talent and brilliance of the members of your team? You’re not alone. Often times, leaders believe they need to know everything, have all the answers, and be the best at everything. As we continue to work in fast paced ever changing work environments, we need to adapt how we lead.
I made this mistake early on in my leadership career. If I wasn’t the resident expert I wouldn’t be truly respected as a leader. It did have positive benefits. I consumed massive amounts of information. I learned new processes quickly. The downside was, I was not as connected to my team and did not give them space to bring up their ideas. They were not growing, and I was the reason why.
If you want the most creative solutions, the most innovative ideas, and the biggest buy in from your team, you must open up and embrace a different approach to leading. You’ve got an entire team that thinks differently, has a variety of perspectives and experiences that they bring to work. Leverage the collective power of your team by building trust with psychological safety.
What is Psychological Safety?
Amy Edmondson, an Organizational Behavior Scientist and expert in psychological safety has helped shape the definition. Psychological safety is a shared belief held amongst team members that they are safe to take risks and will not be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes. When team members feel safe to share their thoughts, they are more likely to voice concerns, share new ideas, and engage at work. This leads to better decision-making, increased creativity and improved team performance.
Think about it. Did you ever have a good idea but felt shy about bringing it up? Maybe you watched as a someone you worked with tried something new, failed, then got ridiculed. How likely are you to try something new or bring up your idea in a work environment like that?
I led teams in the U.S. Army, we needed creative solutions, and sometimes we needed them fast. I relied heavily on the insights and ideas from my team members. The best ideas come from those closest to the problems. Therefore, I had to lead by creating a space where we were willing to try new ideas and continually refine them in order to learn and grow.
How do you create a culture of trust and psychological safety in your team?
Check out these three tips to get you started:
Encourage open communication by creating channels where team members can share their ideas, thoughts, and concerns without fear of punishment. This can be done through regular team meetings, virtual suggestion boxes or one-on-one conversations.
Create a culture of trust by being transparent, honest and fair in your interactions with team members. When team members see that you are trustworthy, they will be more likely to trust one another.
Lead by example by being open to feedback and being willing to admit when you’re wrong or when you don’t know something. If team members see that you are willing to be curious, learn, and admit your mistakes, they will be open up too.
It’s time to embrace your team’s ideas and start building trust with psychological safety. By creating a culture where team members feel safe to share their thoughts, you’ll be amazed at the new ideas, perspectives and solutions that will come to the surface.
As a leader, it’s important to remember that creating a culture of trust and psychological safety is an ongoing process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt and change.
Framework for Difficult Conversations | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Difficult-Conversations.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Difficult-Conversations.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Doctor
Having communication frameworks for difficult conversations with your team members allows you to be confident, calm, and focused. We give you a model to effectively address behaviors and drive high performance. Let’s get into it!
The Impact of Conversations
As a team leader take a moment to think about how many people you interact with every day…
Your list is probably very diverse with internal or external personnel at every level of an organization. You must be able to shape your message with precision and clarity depending on your audience. Depending on the situation you will need to frame your conversation accordingly. Every opportunity that you can converse and communicate with your team is an opportunity to connect and influence.
Balancing Relationship and Performance
Time and again studies show that relationships with their boss is a source of stress for team members. This stress can lead to poor performance amongst other negative outcomes. As a leader how we communicate makes an impact on the relationships with our team members. Having strong relationships with team members and being able to communicate expectations clearly is something great team leaders understand. After coaching over a dozen leaders this past year there was a common roadblock that kept popping up regarding communication that was causing hesitation and stress for these team leaders. These team leaders did not know how to hold a difficult conversation with a sub-par performer on their team. They knew they were working around these sub-par performers. They knew they should be addressing the performance for the overall good of the team.
These team leaders were in a position to drive positive change. They were high performers promoted based on their past performance and future potential. They were not ones to shy away from a challenge. However, when it came to having a clear, open, candid conversation with someone on their team that wasn’t performing well, these leaders were uncomfortable and avoiding the situation because they didn’t have the knowledge or experience to prepare, sit down, listen, and shoot straight about what needed done to correct the situation.
Let me share a communication framework that worked for these leaders. It will work for you to successfully speak with your team members about poor performance and shed some of that stress you’re carrying around with you.
The DESC Model
When preparing for a conversation with a team member that isn’t hitting the mark refer to the DESC model. This model provides you an opportunity to shape your thoughts, communicate the facts, and share with the person what you are observing, what impact it has, what you want to see going forward, and what happens if the performance isn’t corrected. This model is concise and allows for fact-based communication.
1. DESCRIBE: Share what is happening or what someone is doing that causes a problem. State facts only. No opinions. No disapproval. Just facts. Speak in terms of “I” statements.
2. EFFECT: What effect or impact does this situation have on the organization or on you personally.
3. SOLUTION or SUGGESTIONS: What exactly would you like to have change? What does right look like? Be specific.
4. CONSEQUENCES: Share what good things will happen if this change is made and/or what bad things will happen if this change is not made.
Prior to the conversation, write out the DESC model and fill in your points. Take time to go over the conversation using the DESC model in sequence, so you are as prepared as possible.
Benefits of DESC
Using a framework for difficult conversations allows you to collect your thoughts and communicate with brevity and clarity. Being able to have a complete conversation will ensure that you are doing everything you can to help your team member recover and get back on track. As a team leader, sticking to a framework will also keep the conversation focused on the matter at hand. You will feel more confident and deliver an impactful message while maintaining a positive relationship.
I’ve used and shared this framework with dozens of leaders. It works. Communication and how we show up makes a huge difference in our work environment. Leverage every opportunity you can as a leader to positively influence your team, even if that means having the tough conversations. It may not feel any better, but it will get easier as you prepare and use the DESC Model.
First Round NCAA March Madness Upsets & Recaphttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/march-madness-upset-alert.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/march-madness-upset-alert.jpg
By Spencer Ripchik
Selection Sunday is in the past, which means March Madness is in full swing
The college basketball season has been very chaotic with no true No. 1 team emerging. No. 1 Alabama is listed as the No. 1 overall team in the bracket but looked rocky at points in the season.
There has only been one No. 1 seed to lose in the most chaotic part of the bracket, the first round. The Crimson Tide, who played Texas A&M CC, were alright.
However, there are a bunch of other teams that are on upset watch in the first round with some of the picks from yesterday coming to fruition.
Here are a couple of upsets to take a look at before Day 2 of action tips off plus some of the upset picks recapped.
No. 11 Providence over No. 6 Kentucky
Two teams that have been up and down all season. No. 11 Providence and No. 6 Kentucky.
At the start of 2023, the Wildcats were on the bubble but found their stride toward the end of the season. Kentucky was upset by Vanderbilt in the SEC Tournament and could be on upset watch again.
Providence has had a rough stretch of games and has lost four of its last five, so the Friars are in need of a bounce back game.
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 5, 2023
The Bulldogs are another hot team in the NCAA and have a ranked win earlier in the season over Mississippi State.
Miami also might not be entirely healthy with sophomore forward Norchad Omier’s health in question. If he’s not good to go, then Drake can strike against a shaky Miami defense.
No. 12 VCU over No. 5 St. Mary’s
St. Mary’s had a solid start at the beginning of the season with big wins over Gonzaga and San Diego State, but the past couple of games haven’t been kind to the Gaels.
Randy Bennett’s squad lost twice to Gonzaga at the end of the season and an odd loss to Loyola Marymount.
Like in the West Coast Conference finals, St. Mary’s can crack under pressure and did so in 2022 too, losing to UCLA in the second round.
VCU has been rolling and won the Atlantic 10 this year. The Rams’ bread and butter is their defense.
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 12, 2023
They allow just 62.9 points per game, which is the 23rd-best in the NCAA. St. Mary’s defense is also solid, so it should be a defensive battle.
VCU and St. Mary’s average the same points per game, but the Rams are one of the best teams in the NCAA at forcing turnovers.
When the Gaels have lost this year it’s been because they cough the ball up.
This should be one of the best No. 12-No. 5 games of the Tournament, but VCU could have the edge because of its ability to force turnovers and that St. Mary’s isn’t great in big games.
No. 13 Furman over No. 4 Virginia
Furman is one of the hottest teams in the NCAA Tournament of late, winning 14 of its last 15 games this season.
The Paladins are led by their guards and especially senior Mike Bothwell, who leads the team with 18 points per game. With him are junior Marcus Foster and sophomore J.P. Pegues, who both average over 10 points per game.
The offense is rounded out by senior forward Jalen Slawson to give Furman a senior one-two punch.
Virginia has been up and down this season with its methodical offense. The Cavaliers’ slow-paced offense makes them win if it’s a low-scoring game.
Furman averages the 11th-most points per game, so if this is a battle of offenses, the Paladins have more firepower.
What Happened?
This one was hit right on the money. With the clock winding down, Furman’s J.P. Pegues nailed a 3-pointer to give the Paladins the lead, which was the triple that picked up the win.
Senior forward Jalen Slawson led Furman with 19 points in the 68-67 upset victory.
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 16, 2023
The game was back-and-forth and the difference maker was the Paladins’ 3-point shooting. Virginia led in almost every stat but shot 16.7% from deep compared to Furman’s 35.7%. The Paladins knocked down 10 3-pointers in the win.
The Cavaliers’ struggles in the NCAA Tournament continue as they now have a 1-3 record against 13-seeds and up since 2018.
No. 12 Charleston over No. 5 San Diego State
A No. 12 seed over a No. 5 seed. There’s usually one of those every year and this could be the 2023 version.
No. 12 Charleston is hot off a CAA Championship and is 31-3 on the season. The competition the Cougars have faced off against hasn’t been great, but coach Pat Kelsey has his squad on a 10-game win streak.
The Cougars average 80.8 points per game, which is the 15th most in the NCAA, and it comes from a variety of scorers. Five Cougars average over 10 points per game.
— Charleston Basketball (@CofCBasketball) March 8, 2023
San Diego State won the Mountain West over Utah State and is currently 27-6 on the season. However, the Aztecs’ losses are all in big games and the first round is a big game.
San Diego State lost to Arizona by 17, St. Mary’s and also lost to Arkansas. The other three losses are to other schools in the Mountain West.
The Aztecs have the defense, but the offense is lacking with only one player over double digits. If San Diego State can’t stop the Charleston offense then the Aztecs could be in trouble.
What Happened?
This one was close, but San Diego State held on, winning 63-57 to move on to the second round.
Charleston had the lead toward the end of the game and was looking like it had some momentum. However, the Aztecs made some big shots toward the end of the game, and when they were fouled, they made their free throws.
San Diego State was led by senior guard Matt Bradley, who finished with 17 points on 7-for-15 shooting.
The Aztecs face off against Furman on Saturday.
Do you have a sports story you want me to share? Or do have suggestions on any sports-related content you want to see OnTheStacks? Tweet me @RipchikSpencer
Visual Management for Leaders | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Visual-Management.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Visual-Management.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Visual Management: Making your tasks visible, knowing what needs started, and what’s in process pays dividends when it comes to where you are spending your time, effort, and energy. We provide how to get started with a simple and effective approach to visual management of your tasks. Let’s get into it!
The Time Vortex
Team leaders get pulled in a hundred different directions throughout the day. One conversation sparks another conversation which leads to a new task that requires a phone call which turns into…wait…what was I planning to do today?
As a team leader your responsibility increases as does your span of control. You are no longer an individual contributor. What doesn’t increase is the amount of time you have to get things done. Your team needs your time. Your peers need your time. YOU need your time. How can you keep track of your priorities, know what you and your team are working on, and when to celebrate accomplishments? Let me introduce you to the “To-Do, Doing, Done” board.
The To-Do, Doing, Done board operates on the Kanban principle. This principle is aimed to do work just-in-time and reduce waste. It is a visual management tool used to identify what works needs to be done. This simple and effective visual management tool can be applied to your priority task list to reduce wasted energy and cognitive load from continuously switching tasks, trying to recall what needs started, what is in process, and what is done. Make work visible, limit the amount of work in progress, and celebrate the wins when work gets done.
Get Started with Your Board
You can get started with something as simple as a whiteboard with sticky notes or go high tech with the use of an app. Whatever method you choose must be easy for you to access, be clear with what is in what column and be visible to you throughout your day. I prefer high touch/low tech solutions. For this approach you will need a pad of sticky notes, a marker or pen, and a board that you can write on.
1. Divide your board into three columns labeled: To-Do, Doing, Done
2. Determine the time span that you want your board to represent. To get started it can represent a daily board. If it’s not too overwhelming you can set your board up as a weekly board. This means that the tasks in your To-Do column should be able to move through the Do and to the Done column by the end of your week.
3. On the sticky pads write down your tasks, one per sticky. Ensure your tasks are clear and concise. They should be single steps. If you have a big project, break the tasks down into a single step.
4. Review your tasks. Write down an estimate of how long the task should take to complete. Determine how many of these tasks you can tackle based on the time range of your board.
5. Stick all your notes on the board in the To-Do column based on their priority.
6. Move the first couple over to the Doing column and get busy!
7. When you complete a task move it from Doing to Done. Them pull the next task over from To-Do into the Doing column.
8. Repeat until all your tasks are in the Done column.
There are a number of customizations you can make. You can color code your sticky notes based on the Eisenhower Matrix priority list. Learn more about how to use the Eisenhower Matrix here: Eisenhower Matrix for Prioritizing Tasks
You can use this board for tasks that you assign to team members too. Be sure to write the person you assigned the task to on the sticky note. As you move through this process you will add new tasks to your To-Do column and archive the completed tasks from you Done column.
Benefits of the Board
As a team leader you can use the tasks in the done column as a way to celebrate the accomplishments of your team. You can also add a column called “Reflect”. These would represent completed tasks that you want to circle back to your team on so you can learn more; What went well? What needs to change? Being a team leader can take a toll on you. There never seems to be enough time in the day to get everything done and spend time with your team.
The good news is that putting systems in place to make what you are working on visual you will have the benefit of focus and control. This system helps to eliminate distractions. By making team tasks visible you can engage with your team through follow ups and collaboration. It also provides a visual reminder of what you are doing and contributing to help push your team forward and meet the organizations goals. Now, get out there and get started!
Interested in learning how to reclaim control of your time and feel less stressed when you look at your calendar? Check out my virtual course Prioritize & Execute – Leadership Development
How to Prioritize Your Leadership Tasks | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Prioritize.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Prioritize.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Leaders know that if everything is a priority, then nothing is a priority. We share how to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance so you can clear your head, control your day, focus on impactful tasks, delegate, and successfully lead your team. Let’s jump in!
The Fog of Your Day
In the chaos of your day as a team leader it may feel like everything is time sensitive and everything is an emergency. This feeling contributes to a fuzzy view of where to place focus and spend your time. The constant calls, unplanned pop-ins, and displacement of other people’s tasks onto your lap can envelope you like a thick fog rolling across the road. When that happens, you can’t see clearly. How then do you determine what to prioritize, what can wait, and what just doesn’t really need to be done at all?
As a team leader in the U.S. Army, I was taught how to quickly discern between urgent, non-urgent, important, and unimportant tasks. I had to be able to pause, assess, take in information, and move out in a direction to execute and accomplish our team’s objectives. Time was always our most limited resource, we had to spend it wisely. Let me share with you a simple and effective system you can use to help you cut through the fog and see where to clearly spend your time.
The Eisenhower Matrix
Take a moment to look at your work calendar. What is it that you need to do today? With a variety of different tasks and the needs of your team competing for your time and attention how do you decide what to do when? Try applying the principles of the matrix. The Eisenhower Matrix is a quadrant that separates tasks based on urgency and importance.
The “Do” Quadrant: Urgent and Important
These tasks are most urgent and most important for you to do today. These should be tasks that require your direct attention, will have the biggest impact, and need done first. These tasks should be placed in your most productive part of your day where you can focus without disruption.
The “Decide” Quadrant: Not Urgent but Important
These tasks need to get done, but not right now. Making time for strategic planning, responding to emails or phone calls, professional development, and getting out to see your team. These types of task help achieve your long-term goals, require your skillsets or authority, but are not time sensitive.
The “Delegate” Quadrant: Urgent but Not Important
These tasks need to get done but are not critically important. Routine tasks such as last-minute meeting requests, data entry, presentation chart preparation etc. Take time to ask yourself, “Do I need to be the one doing this task?” If the tasks don’t require your specific skill sets, they are candidates for delegation. Take the opportunity to grow and develop your team members and give them autonomy in completing these tasks.
The “Delete” Quadrant: Not Urgent and Not Important
These are the distraction tasks. These are the tasks that are leftover that may not need to be done at all. Do you really need that additional pre-brief? Do you need to approve a status update on a project or attend the update meeting? Instead, could you extend trust and encourage your team to move forward without your presence because you clearly communicated intent.
Adapt the Matrix to Your Style
There is a ton of information on how to get the most out of this matrix. The truth is you need to adapt it to your needs and style. Some team leaders may want to do this at the start and close of every day. Others may want to color-code the quads to get a visual of the most important and urgent tasks. Team leaders may be successful doing this at the open and close of their week. Find what works for you. Start by looking at your daily or weekly calendar of tasks. Place those tasks in the quads and move out. This doesn’t have to be perfect to be effective, sometimes “high touch” and “low tech” options work the best.
Make the time to determine what YOU will DO. DECIDE when to schedule tasks that YOU need to do later. DELEGATE tasks that need done now but can be executed by your team. DELETE the tasks that distract you from focusing on what has the most impact. Become effective with this technique and the fog will lift so you feel clear and confident while you move your team forward.
BOBBY ARVON | An OnTheStacks ORIGINALhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/BOBBY-ARVON-OnTheStacks-ORIGINAL.jpg800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/BOBBY-ARVON-OnTheStacks-ORIGINAL.jpg
OnTheStacks went backstage with Scranton native and Billboard Hot 100 recording artist, Bobby Arvon to capture exclusive behind the scenes content from the December 4th 2022 live performance of The Bobby Arvon Show with Marko Marcinko & the “Emmy Award” nominated Scranton Jazz Festival Big Band featuring special guest performer Lorenzo Medico.
Early in Bobby’s music career he was told by an agent that he didn’t have a recording voice. He later went on to become a Billboard Hot 100 recording artist, leading to many TV appearances, notably Dick Clark’s American Bandstand, The Merv Griffin Show, and more! You may also recognize Bobby’s voice from the lead on the theme song of one of the most popular American television sitcoms, “Happy Days.”
Bobby had been wanting to get back to his Scranton Pennsylvania roots and perform a show in his hometown. Through a mutual friend, Bobby met Lorenzo, who owns ARTIC Entertainment. As a performer himself, Lorenzo connected the dots between Bobby and fellow Scranton native, Marko Marcinko, to put together this live show at the Kirby Center for the Creative Arts in Kingston Pennsylvania.
This was Lorenzo’s first live production with his company, ARTIC Entertainment. Short for Art in community, his company is focused on promoting, producing, and cultivating the film, live music, and theater arts industry in Northeast Pennsylvania.
This video is an OnTheStacks Original and was shot and edited by OnTheStacks Director of Production, Eric Curtis
Lorzeno Medico (left), Owner of ARTIC Entertainment, Singer/Songwriter Bobby Arvon (middle), and Bill Corcoran Jr. (right), Founder & CEO of OnTheStacks. Photo by Darren Elias.
A few days prior to the December 2022 performance, Bill Corcoran Jr. interviewed both Bobby Arvon and Lorenzo Medico in Ep.136 of the OnTheStacks Podcast. You can watch the full episode here:
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Dr. Will Ramey Chosen as Keynote Speaker for 2023 Young Professionals Conferencehttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-Turquoise-Animated-Modern-Business-Conference-Video.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-Turquoise-Animated-Modern-Business-Conference-Video.png
The Young Professionals Council selected Dr. Will Ramey to be their Keynote Speaker for their 5th Annual Conference on Wednesday, March 22nd from 8:30am-3:30pm at the THINK Center in downtown Wilkes-Barre.
This day-long Young Professionals Conference is geared towards developing Northeastern Pennsylvania’s talented professionals and features speakers from the region between the ages of 20-45.
The theme of the 2023 Young Professionals Conference is “The Future of NEPA” and will feature two tracks of breakout sessions with topics like wellness, personal finance, leadership development, innovation, and getting involved in our community!
Dr. Ramey be speaking about The Collaborative Edge: Embracing Shared Leadership in a New Era of Teamwork.
Grow your network, make time for professional development, and build community with the vibrant and driven group of young professionals.
For more information about the 2023 Young Professionals Conference or to register, tap here!
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The Big Rock Theory: What Really Matters | Dr. Will Rameyhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Big-Rocks.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Big-Rocks.png
Research Backed Approaches to Leadership and Team Dynamics with Dr. Will Ramey, The Leadership Dr.
Applying the Big Rock Theory to how you approach leadership leads to less feeling of overwhelm, a higher sense of control, and more time being spent on what matters most. We share how to sort through the big rocks, the pebbles, and the sand at work so you can maximize your day as a leader and be the best for your team. Let’s get into it!
Where Did My Time Go?
As a team leader have you ever asked yourself “Where did my day go?” or “What on earth did I accomplish today?” After asking yourself that question the feeling of frustration or disappointment tends to wash over you. Not completing tasks or accomplishing what we set out to accomplish in our day can lead to feelings of frustration and inferiority. This feeling cues our follow-on behavior. What do leaders tend do…roll up our sleeves to work harder, which typically means longer hours, working through breaks, or taking work home.
None of these solutions are optimal. What is a team leader to do? Take a step back and breathe for a moment. Leaders should take time to look at their day, identify what is most important, and know where to place their efforts for maximum impact. How can leaders identify what is most important to least important?
The Big Rock Theory
As the story goes, a time management expert was speaking to a group of new team leaders. He stood in front of the group and pulled out a large mason-jar and set it down on the podium. He produced about a dozen rocks and placed them, one at a time, into the jar. When the jar was filled to the top and no more rocks would fit inside, he asked, “Is this jar full?” Everyone in the group said, “Yes.” Then he said, “Really?”
He reached behind the podium and pulled out a bucket of pebbles. He dumped them in and shook the jar, so the pebbles worked their way into the space between the rocks. Again, he asked the group, “Is the jar full?” By this time the leaders began to understand. “I don’t think so,” one of them answered. “Good!” he replied.
He reached behind the podium for a bucket of sand and started dumping the sand in the jar. It went into all of the spaces left between the rocks and the pebbles. “Is this jar full?”, He asked. “No!”, the leaders shouted. “Good.”, he said. He grabbed a pitcher of water and poured it in until the jar was filled to the brim.
He looked at the group and asked, “What is the point of this illustration?” One leader raised their hand and said, “No matter how full your schedule is, if you try really hard you can always fit some more things in it!” “No,” the speaker replied, “that’s not the point. The truth is: If you don’t put the big rocks in first, you’ll never get them in at all.”
Identify Your Big Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand
1. Identify what the ‘big rocks’ are. Performance conversations? Recognition for a team member? Presentation to the CEO? Ask yourself – What absolutely must get done today that is impactful and meaningful? What does your team need from you today? Where does your team need YOU most today?
2. What are those pebbles? These are the tasks that you need to get done but are less urgent and less important than your big rocks. Think about administrative functions. Actions that are necessary to keep the team moving but aren’t necessarily making big impacts or overly time sensitive. Are these tasks that could be delegated to your team members? Or maybe they need done but it can wait until the end of the day.
3. Where is the sand? These tasks are the least important and least urgent but tend to be time detractors. Do I really need to reply to this email right now? Does this article that was just forwarded need read immediately? These are the tasks that can either be scheduled for later, delegated to someone else, or maybe even deleted from doing at all.
The hidden benefits of identifying your big rocks
1. The feeling of overwhelm will go down as you funnel down where you are spending your time.
2. Your sense of purpose will increase knowing you are prioritizing work where you have the most impact for your team.
3. You will have more time for connecting with your team as you begin to make a habit of prioritizing your tasks day to day, week to week, and month to month.
I learned this approach as a young Lieutenant in the Army leading a team of 114 Soldiers responsible for maintenance operations, both in garrison and deployed to Iraq. I needed awareness of what was going on, but everything could not be a priority for me. If everything was a priority and waited for me, it would bottleneck. Instead, I needed to understand where to spend my time and where to take risks, delegate, and schedule tasks accordingly.
I doubled down and put this method to work when I became a Senior Leader of larger teams. Time is a finite resource. As a team leader you have more demands on your time, especially as your team grows in size and responsibility. Prepare yourself to overcome the stress and challenge of time management as a team leader.
Remember to put the BIG ROCKS in first or you’ll never get them in at all. Stay focused. The next article will explain just how to prioritize tasks once you identified the big rocks and pebbles that need done.
Reviewing the 3 Big NBA Trades One Week Laterhttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Reviewing-the-3-Big-NBA-Trades-One-Week-Later.png800600OnTheStacksOnTheStackshttps://onthestacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Reviewing-the-3-Big-NBA-Trades-One-Week-Later.png
By Spencer Ripchik
The NBA trade deadline is now a week past and a couple of players have been getting accustomed to their new homes.
The three biggest trades were Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns, Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers bolstered up its lineup with several trades.
A week has passed and some of the new faces have already started to make an impact while others may take some time to get used to their new surroundings.
The All-Star break is here, so in the meantime, here is the breakdown of how these couple of trades have gone so far.
Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks
Point guard Kyrie Irving was a problem as soon as he arrived to play for the Brooklyn Nets in 2019.
In 2020, Irving refused to get the coronavirus vaccine, which was the only way he could play in most NBA stadiums around the country. His refusal to get the vaccine made him miss half the games that season.
Then, Irving made a comment about antisemitism, which led to the Nets suspending him, causing him to miss eight games.
The Nets and Irving had enough, so Irving was sent off to Dallas to play with star Luka Dončić, who at the beginning of the season looked like the clear MVP.
The Nets are trading Kyrie Irving to the Mavericks, source tells ESPN.
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