The Tamara Experience
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Tamara Ghandour is the pioneer in human-centered innovation, the creator of the proprietary, research-based Innovation Quotient Edge assessment (the only tool that helps people discover their Everyday Innovator style), curator of Everyday Innovators Digital Magazine (innovation tools at your fingertips), sought after keynote speaker, author, and mom of two teenage boys and one oversized dog that loves to spoon. Her big goal is to unleash one million Everyday Innovators into the world.
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324 episodes
This episode is all about my experience in the messy middle—what it felt like when I was deep in the dip, why it was so hard to keep going, and what helped me not walk away when everything felt like a mess. I open up about the grip of impostor syndrome, how clapping back at my inner lizard brain (aka Bernard) gave me a little space to breathe, and the ongoing tug-of-war between wanting to grow and wanting to quit. I share moments from biking through the Swiss Alps, hiking a 14er, and facing the sting of someone challenging the work my team had poured our hearts into—because whether it’s a mountain or a meeting, the J-Curve shows up everywhere. And sometimes, the mess is the lesson.
Lesley Jane Seymore is one of the few media entrepreneurs to successfully stay relevant in an industry that saw massive disruption, and for many irrelevancy. Lesley shares with me why being comfortable reinventing yourself is essential in a rapidly changing world, the importance of always having a pivot plan, and how to deal with resistance to change. As the president and founder of ConveyClub she has masterfully leveraged technology to bring women across the globe together and she also shares with us why connection and listening to customers matter! Check out Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Listen in as Felicia helps us better understand how to use daily mental wellness habits to live a better life, the power of plant-based medicines and how taking a break can be the difference between white knuckling and moving forward with ease. Felicia and I talk about some of the pivot points in life that have made a big impact, how the brain sometimes keeps us stressed out, and what to do to overcome the hurdles life throws at you. Check out Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Join us as we delve into the transformative power of mindfulness, breathwork, and yoga with wellness entrepreneur and yogi, Ashton August. Discover practical breathwork techniques to de-stress anytime, explore the art of mindfulness in everyday tasks like laundry, uncover the rejuvenating benefits of the "legs up the wall" technique, and learn how to connect deeply with your purpose in life. Ashton shares insights and practical tips that will inspire you to embrace these practices and unlock your true potential. And she shares about her passion for "vanlifing" and going for the things on that "wish" list. Check out Learn more about Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Feeling drained? Tune in to discover four simple, actionable tips to decrease exhaustion and increase your energy daily. I'm not talking about a one-time boost, I'm talking about powerful tips to help you manage your energy daily, not feel so overwhelmed and exhausted, and be more productive and innovative, every day. I cover everything from the 5-minute morning method to taking breaks through the day to get rid of mental residue to doing the thing you fear the most, first. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Delve into the world of more focus and less stress with renowned Focusologist, Penny Zenker. We explore the transformative power of a "Reset Mindset", and finding clarity amidst life's chaos. Learn firsthand the art of asking the right questions to navigate challenges and how to conquer the tug-of-war with time, energy and values. We also talk about why Penny thinks the Rubik's Cube is the best metaphore for life. Get ready to reclaim control over your time and energy. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Let's unravel the obstacles hindering a thriving culture of innovation, and what to do to overcome them. I deep dive into the treacherous pitfalls that stifle innovation and growth in organizations worldwide. I cover the relentless cycle of constant launch and abandon to the insidious habit of saying "yes, but." I also explore the dangers of a culture centered around presentations and the importance of making decisions outside the confines of the conference room. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Find out how something as simple yet powerful as forgiveness (learning and letting go) can revolutionize your work environment. In this episode, I delve into the transformative power of forgiveness and how it serves as the ultimate innovation hack. Discover how letting go of grudges and past mistakes can clear mental clutter, build trust, and encourage risk-taking. Forgiveness also boosts morale, enhances collaboration, and fosters a culture where creativity and innovation thrive. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
In this episode I dive deep into why your problem-solving skills matter more than your job skills or expertise, and how to develop the skills that really matter - creative-problem solving, critical thinking, adaptability, decision-making and risk-taking. You'll be shocked at the workforce disruption statistics I share and feel a sense of empowerment and optimism when I share how to be the high-performing, high-value person you are meant to be to tackle this uncertain world. Here's a hint - they are mindset shifts and actions you can take daily. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Get ready to unlock your Everyday Innovator advantage and discover the keys to thriving in change, chaos, and uncertainty. In this episode I share the 7 steps to tapping your zone of genius, why regret is worse than fear, answer audience questions about how to bring their ideas to life, and more. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
THIS IS A SPECIAL POP UP EPISODE: Step into a world where health, mental clarity, and success intertwine. I'm joined by none other than Dave Asprey, the trailblazing founder of the biohacking movement. With a resume boasting roles as the current president of Danger Coffee, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the visionary behind Upgrade Labs, Dave has dedicated his life to mastering the art of hacking both body and mind.Delving deep into the secrets of upgrading your health, mental state, and overall success. But this conversation is more than just a discussion—it's a roadmap to an upgraded you. Discover how to not just manage your triggers, but obliterate them from your life. Explore the 5 "Fs" that ignite our inner drive and propel us towards our goals (or sabotage us). And, uncover the true source of fear and how that shows up in your daily life. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
Tracy "JackieO" LaTourrette, celebrated as Colorado's "First Lady" of fighter pilots, broke barriers as one of the world's pioneering women to fly combat-ready F-16s. Graduating amidst a predominantly male cohort from the US Air Force Academy, she earned a prestigious appointment from President George H.W. Bush. Tracy's entry into the Air Force predates the authorization for women to fly combat aircraft. In our conversation, we delve into her remarkable journey of resilience, decisive leadership, and winning the moments so that you can win the mission, both in the cockpit and in life. Other podcasts you might enjoy:
If you feel stuck in a rut or like the ability to be an innovator is out of reach, this episode is for you. I dissect the myths holding you back from greatness and reveal the seven unexpected keys to unlocking your zone of genius. From thinking innovation is only for the select few to the myth about being fearlessness, we'll delve deep into the secrets of being an Everyday Innovator. Plus, I'll answer questions that listeners called in that range from how to get legacy thinkers on board with change to how to differentiate in a crowded world. Call in your questions: 720-798-4535! Join the Aha!Academy Waitlist: Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube Other podcasts you might enjoy:
For founder Anthony Gonzales "uno mas" was the internal mantra he used to keep going when embarking on his fitness journey - just one more pull up, one more burpee, one more attempt at a clean and jerk. His phrase "uno mas" became the mantra for himself and those around him, inspiring the creation of Uno Mas Ropa - fun, urban designed apparel with that phrase on it. In this episode we dig into why he started this company, what it means to be all in for your dreams, how to move with intention, overcoming imposture syndrome, being brave enough to ask, avoiding regret, and how to deal with "no." Other podcasts you might enjoy: Join the Aha!Academy Waitlist: Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube
Justin’s foray into the world of business started with running his own business while still in elementary school, dishwashing at 14 and culminated in a leadership position in a top financial firm. Now he is the CEO of Work.Meaningful. where he works with clients to create rhythms of sustainable excellence and author of "I Respectfully Disagree." He is also a dad and mountain climber. We dig into how to bring meaning to your work, not wait to find it, and how to disagree respectfully in a divided, dug-in world. Other podcasts you might enjoy: Discover your unique Everyday Innovator archetype Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube
L. David Marquet is a retired Naval officer and was the captain of the USS Santa Fe, a nuclear submarine. As captain he turned what was considered the worst performing crew into the highest performing team. He did this by dropping the command and control model for what he calls intent-based leadership. In this episode we delve into his experience as a nuclear submarine captain, why you should stop giving orders and start sharing intent, how to change your language so that you develop leaders, not followers, and why you probably aren't thinking big enough. He is also the author of the best selling books and Language is Leadership. Other podcasts you might enjoy: Join the Aha!Academy Waitlist: Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube
We've all been there - in that place where we feel undervalued, left behind, or worse, invisible. It happens in work, in our relationships, and in life. In this episode, Tamara shares her top tips for staying ahead, staying open minded, and avoiding the invisible trap. She also delves into how fixed minds fall behind, especially in a changing world. You'll hear the best advice she ever received about her career and how you can avoid being disrupted. Other podcasts you might enjoy: Get your Everyday Innovator Certification Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube
If you're eager to boost your persuasive powers, gain more support, and have a bigger impact on others, then this episode is crafted just for you. I'll guide you through seven practical strategies that you can start using right away to become a more effective influencer. We all understand the difference between merely having an idea, a product, or a goal, and actually rallying others to join us in achieving those ambitions. Grasping the essence of influence is key to turning aspirations into realities. I will share insights into the rule of reciprocity and its significance, how taking a moment to pause can encourage others to embrace your ideas, the importance of recognizing your unique style of influence (your Everyday Innovator archetype), and how influence is like a rubberband, among other things. Other podcasts you might enjoy: Get your Everyday Innovator Certification Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube
I dive into what it means to be a "Rebel with a Cause" and how being yourself and challenging the status quo is the most valuable and authentic way to approach work and life. I talk about how rebels with causes are driven not by disruption, but by purpose, change, and impact. I share what it takes to be a strong Everyday Innovator, why it matters, and how you can unlock your greatest strategic advantage - your innovative mind. This is an episode about how to live up to your full potential. Other podcasts you might enjoy: Get your Everyday Innovator Certification Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube
This is a podcast for those wanting to be ready to tackle the tail winds and head winds that life throws your way. I dive into the essence of being prepared for the future through the 5 critical areas: collaborative spirit, agility and resilience, appreciation and awareness, everyday innovator mindset, and strategic decision-making and risk-taking. I share why each area matters, unpack their meanings, and bring to life real-world stories showcasing the strengths and pitfalls encountered by individuals and organizations alike. My goal is to offer you actionable insights and strategies, fostering both personal and professional growth. Join me on this journey to navigate the complexities of the future with confidence and expertise, making every step an opportunity for mastery. Other podcasts you might enjoy: Join the Aha!Academy Waitlist: Watch Coffee with Tamara live and check out other insights and ideas on YouTube
Let's embark on a journey to demystify the science of breakthroughs, turning what often feels like a magical and random occurrence into a deliberate and repeatable process. Imagine unlocking the power to generate forward momentum, ease, and impact in your life at will. This episode is not just about finding those elusive breakthroughs; it's about defining them as discoveries that propel us forward, faster, and with more significant effect. We'll explore the common traps that keep us stuck, unveil practical exercises to ignite our creative spark, and emphasize why taking action is the key to turning breakthroughs into realities. If you've ever felt like you're just going through the motions, yearning for that one big idea to change everything, this podcast is your beacon in the dark.This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a roadmap to unlocking your full potential and transforming your life and work. Don't let another day pass without harnessing the power of breakthroughs to create a future filled with success, creativity, and impact. Episode Highlights: #1 Leapfrog to Success with The A to B Activity: Discover the secret behind why some people seem to achieve their goals effortlessly while you're left feeling like you're always catching up. Tamara introduces a simple yet powerful activity that not only showcases the true impact of genuine breakthroughs but also reveals how you might be unknowingly complicating your journey towards your goals. This segment promises to reshape your understanding of progress and set you on a more efficient, impactful path. #2 Mind Games: Breaking the Brain's Barriers to Innovation: Ever wonder why your most groundbreaking ideas feel just out of reach? Tamara delves into the neuroscience behind why our brains resist innovative thoughts and outlines three critical habits you need to quit to overcome this blockade. This enlightening discussion sheds light on the mental traps that hinder our creative processes and how to outsmart your own brain to foster a culture of breakthrough thinking. #3 Brainpower Unleashed: Activating Creativity Through Simple Acts: Stuck in a creative drought? Tamara shares her top activities for jumpstarting your brain's innovation engine, anywhere, anytime. From the surprising cognitive benefits of laughter to the unexpected inspiration found in mundane tasks like doing the dishes, this segment is packed with actionable tips to elevate your creative thinking and unlock new realms of possibilities. #4 Optimize Your Mental Mastery - Harnessing Your Everyday Innovator Style: Understanding your unique approach to innovation is crucial for tapping into your highest potential. Tamara highlights the importance of recognizing your Everyday Innovator style, offering strategies to tailor your daily activities and environment to maximize your cognitive efficiency. This segment is a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their creative output and achieve their best breakthroughs. #5 From Thought to Action - The Crucial Step Beyond Ideation: Wrapping up the episode, Tamara shares a humorous yet poignant story illustrating a common misconception: that ideation is equivalent to action. She stresses the importance of moving beyond the brainstorming phase, reminding us that the true value of breakthroughs lies in the steps we take afterward. This final highlight is a call to action for listeners, challenging you to transform your innovative ideas into tangible outcomes. Why This Episode Matters: Without these insights and strategies, you might continue to find yourself trapped in a cycle of stagnation, missing out on the life-changing benefits that come with real, actionable breakthroughs. Coffee with Tamara live streams every Wednesday at 9am PST/ 10am MST/ 12pm EST. Listen in, ask questions, share your thoughts. Linkedin: YouTube: Facebook:
In this riveting episode of our podcast, we delve into the heart and soul of perseverance, purpose, and transformation with the legendary Karl Mecklenburg. His journey from a 12th round draft pick to becoming an indispensable force for the Denver Broncos is nothing short of awe-inspiring. A member of the Broncos Ring of Fame, six-time Pro Bowler, and three-time Super Bowl contender, Karl's 12-year career epitomizes endurance and excellence in a league where the average player's tenure is a mere fraction of his. Our conversation explores the profound life lessons Karl has gleaned from the gridiron—lessons that have propelled him through life's challenges and triumphs. Through his story, we uncover the power of purpose, the necessity of honesty and forgiveness, and the resilience required to navigate change and remain relevant in a constantly evolving world. A Few Episode Highlights: 1. Unearthing Greatness Against All Odds: Discover Karl's remarkable journey from being a 12th round draft pick to securing his place as one of the most crucial members of the Broncos' defense. Learn how he transcended his role on the field by making himself indespensible to the team. And hint, it's not about how he played. 2. The Power of Positioning and Mentorship: Tamara and Karl dissect the transformative impact of finding one's rightful place in both professional and personal spheres - how the guidance of a mentor or champion can unveil hidden potential, emphasizing the importance of standing out and aligning oneself with life-changing allies. 3. The Cornerstones of Improvement: Honesty and Forgiveness: Karl shares insights into how embracing honesty and forgiveness can catalyze personal and professional growth. Reflecting on his experiences with playbacks in football, he illustrates how confronting truth and embracing forgiveness are vital for enduring improvement and success. 4. Navigating Life Beyond the Field: Engage with Karl's reflections on transitioning from NFL stardom to the next chapters of his life. This segment offers perspectives on understanding one's direction, values, and priorities when faced with significant life changes. 5. Embracing Failure as a Pathway to Progress: In a powerful close to our discussion, Karl imparts a message on the essence of failure and the resilience needed to move forward. His viewpoint on overcoming setbacks and persisting in the face of unmet expectations is a masterclass in enduring success. This episode is a testament to the indomitable spirit of human resilience and the transformative power of purpose-driven living. Karl Mecklenburg's life story is an inspiring blueprint for tackling adversity, embracing change, and forging a path of relevance and indispensability in life and work.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with self-acceptance and identity transformation. In this inspiring episode of our podcast, we sit down with Supriya Surender, an alopecia warrior and the empowering voice behind BaldieBoo. Supriya opens up about her journey, offering invaluable insights on how to prevent negative thoughts and challenging situations from dominating our lives. She shares her personal strategies for staying aligned with her path of purpose and passion, every single day. Together, we delve into the powerful synergy of trust and action, and how this dynamic duo becomes a magic formula for building momentum in life. Whether you're facing personal challenges or just seeking a dose of inspiration, join us for this uplifting conversation with Supriya and discover how to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Episode Highlights: #1 Embracing Change: Supriya's Inspiring Journey Through Alopecia: Dive into an emotional and uplifting episode where Supriya shares her heart-wrenching yet empowering journey of losing her hair to Alopecia. Discover how she bravely faced her identity crisis and emerged stronger, crafting a new, resilient self-image. #2 Transforming Adversity into Positivity: Supriya's Awakening from Despair: Supriya recounts the pivotal moment she realized her self-pity was dominating her life. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how to shift from a negative mindset to cultivating a life centered around positivity and hope. #3 Emotional Mastery: Supriya's Techniques for Recognizing and Releasing Feelings": Learn from Supriya's personal strategies for acknowledging and letting go of negative emotions. This is a practical guide to emotional health, offering listeners effective techniques to understand, accept, and move beyond their feelings. It's a valuable resource for anyone seeking to gain control over their emotions and forge a path to emotional wellbeing. #4 Seizing Opportunities: Tamara's Insight on Recognizing Life's Open Doors": Listen as Tamara delves into the importance of being open to change and recognizing new opportunities - how to avoid missing life-changing chances due to being stuck in old patterns. It's an eye-opener for anyone looking to identify and seize the opportunities that life presents. #5 The Power of Trust and Action: Supriya's Formula for Seizing Opportunities": Explore Supriya's belief in the dynamic duo of trust and action as key drivers for embracing new opportunities. This episode is a motivational guide emphasizing the importance of trusting the process of life and actively pursuing new paths. It's perfect for listeners seeking inspiration to take action and capitalize on the doors that open in their lives. Coffee with Tamara live streams every Wednesday at 9am PST/ 10am MST/ 12pm EST. Listen in, ask questions, share your thoughts. Linkedin: YouTube: Facebook:
Discover the surprising reasons why stress might be your nemesis when it comes to creativity and innovation, and how to overcome it. From the neuroscience of stress to the unexpected consequences that are impacting your daily life, I've got it all covered. I'll dig into how stress is minimizing your creative problem-solving abilities, decision making and innovator talents. Tune in to learn how chronic stress is making you sick and dumb, how it shows up every day and I'll give you some easy to implement exercises to help you stress less and create more, everyday! Episode Highlights: #1 IMPAIRED COGNITIVE FUNCTION: Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone associated with the body's "fight or flight" response. Tamara talks about how stress impairs cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. #2 PUTS BLINDERS ON: High levels of stress often lead to a narrowed focus. This tunnel vision limits your ability to think broadly, hindering the exploration of alternative perspectives and creative solutions #3 STAY STAFE: Stress tends to increase aversion to risk and promotes a conservative approach. When under stress you may be less likely to experiment with unconventional or novel concepts, stifling the creative process. Tamara also talks about how not changing and staying in place is actually the riskiest thing you can do. #4 MISTRUST: Effective innovation often relies on the exchange of diverse ideas and constructive collaboration. When stress is high, communication and collaboration break down. This leads to mistrust and lack of respect. #5 MASSIVE BURNOUT: Prolonged stress can lead to burnout and decreased motivation. Innovation requires a high level of engagement and passion for exploring new possibilities. Chronic stress can sap individuals of the energy and enthusiasm needed to tackle creative challenges, resulting in a lack of motivation to initiate or sustain innovative projects. #6 NO MORE SERENDIPITY: Serendipity is often a catalyst for innovation. Stress, however, can create a mindset focused on survival and immediate concerns, blocking you from recognizing and capitalizing on unexpected opportunities. You don't see them anymore. #7 STRESS LESS TIPS: Tamara shares her top tips for stressing less and creating more. All of this has been validated by her experience and research. She covers everything from the 50/20 rule to color therapy to cold plunging to "one thing" prioritizing method. Join the for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, early release bonuses, and to add your two cents about this episode and more!
In this edition, we’re unleashing the power of Ask Me Anything (AMA), fueled by the burning inquiries of the . Today’s question comes from John in Atlanta, a small business owner. John asked: I'm wondering, at times I think I'm being innovative or disruptive, but then I look at the results and I'm not sure I'm being innovative enough. How do I know if I'm being innovative or headed in that direction. Episode Highlights: #1 INNOVATION VERSUS INCREMENTAL: How to know if you are being innovative versus incremental. Tamara digs into knowing when you stand out versus when you barely move forward, or adding to the noise versus rising above. #2 REAL DEFINITION OF INNOVATION: Tamara explains that real innovation is simply thinking differently about what's right in front of you #3 INCREASING CHANCES OF SUCCESS: When you start from a place of innovation you increase your likelihood of success. While failure can happen for many reasons, if you start from a place of innovation you are more likely to succeed #4 QUESTIONING THE BIG THING: Tamara opens up about how she has recently had a lot of conversations with herself about what's next. She's thinking about the big breakthrough and the next horizon in life. If you’re watching the live stream, be sure to pipe in, ask your questions, and drop your insights. Collective wisdom fuels our growth, so let’s embark on this journey together! Join the for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, early release bonuses, and to add your two cents about this episode and more!
