The Reboot Podcast

How can changing our relationship to pain transform our lives? In this reflective episode, Jerry is joined by George Loewenstein, Professor of Economics and Psychology at Carnegie Mellon University and author of the book The Opposite of Happiness. Alongside meditation teacher and author Sharon Salzberg, they explore the roots of human misery, blending insights from behavioral economics, psychology, and Buddhist wisdom. They share honest stories about depression, insights into why our "feelings about feelings" can be so overwhelming, and why hope isn't always as helpful as we think. Sharon brings a Buddhist perspective, breaking down ideas like the "second arrow"...

Who we are as leaders is shaped by the stories we carry and the environments we've experienced. In this deeply heartfelt and introspective episode, Jerry is joined by Pam Manfredo Curtis, CEO coach and author of The Origin of a Leader. With a career spanning 35 years and a PhD in industrial-organizational psychology, Pam Manfredo Curtis brings wisdom earned from coaching executive teams across industries and a personal journey rooted in family conversations, empathy, and resilience. Together, they unpack how our childhood environments and formative experiences shape the belief systems and blocks we carry into adulthood and leadership. They explore the...

How you care for yourself as a coach deeply influences the quality and impact of your work. When we carve out space to reflect on the emotions and patterns coaching activates within us, we open pathways to deeper presence, connection, and transformation—both for ourselves and those we serve. In this episode, Jerry Colonna and Liz Stewart dive into the heart of coaching supervision: what it is, why it's vital, and how it differs from mentoring. They highlight some of the unseen burdens coaches carry, the importance of having a reflective practice, and the sacredness of creating genuine, ethical relationships wi...

What lies beneath our drive for money and success? Is it really about safety, or are we chasing something formed in our earliest years? In this episode, Jerry Colonna is joined by Michelle Masters, author of Wired for Money, as they explore how childhood experiences and inherited patterns shape our adult relationship with money, self-worth, and belonging. With candor and compassion, Michelle shares stories from her work with clients, including billionaires who still feel anxiety, and explains why our deepest money issues can't be solved by intellect alone. Together, they illuminate how lasting change comes from tending to the subconscious...

What does it take to create truly transformational workplaces, especially when performance management so often feels transactional or disconnected? In this episode, Jerry sits down with Angela Mckenna, newly appointed coach at Reboot and a veteran in HR, executive leadership, and organizational development. Angela shares wisdom drawn from years inside high-growth companies, examining why performance management is often so challenging and how organizations can move toward deeper clarity, honesty, and engagement. Together, Jerry and Angela explore the essential role of transparency, skilled managers, and genuine conversations in building cultures where people thrive. She reflects on how workplace dynamics are evolving...

What does it mean to truly be "okay with being okay?" For many of us, the pursuit of growth, success, and improvement is relentless, often leaving little room for simply accepting ourselves as we are. But what if the real work of adulthood is learning to quiet the inner gremlins, embrace our own enoughness, and build belonging from the inside out? In this episode, Grace Belangia joins Jerry on the podcast for a second time to discuss rejection, self-worth, and the courage to create community. Together, they explore the importance of building one's own table of belonging and how courageous...

What does it mean to be responsible to suffering, not just the pain we carry within ourselves, but the vast, daily hurt we witness in the world around us? In this rich continuation, Jerry is joined by two dear friends, Sharon Salzberg and Parker J. Palmer, to explore our collective responsibility to one another in fractured times. Together, they examine how the root of so much suffering, personal and systemic alike, lies in our refusal to acknowledge the truth of our interconnection. When we turn away from that truth, we don't escape pain; we deepen it. But when we find...

When life upends our expectations, the space between what was and what's next—the neutral zone—can feel like wilderness. It's a time of uncertainty, discomfort, and profound possibility. Yet, how we navigate these transitions shapes not just the trajectory of our personal lives, but the culture and resilience of our organizations. In this episode, Ray Foote joins fellow Reboot Coach Ali Schultz for a deep exploration of the Neutral Zone, drawing from William Bridges' classic framework on change and transition. Together, they reflect on their own experiences and share what it really means to metabolize transition at the organizational and...

When suffering surrounds us, personal, collective, and historical, how do we make meaning without being defined or hardened by pain? In this candid and compassionate conversation, Jerry Colonna invites his teacher and dear friend, Sharon Salzberg, to explore "the end of suffering" and the transformative power of wise hope, compassion, and agency, especially in turbulent times. Rooted in Buddhist wisdom but accessible to all, Jerry Colonna and Sharon Salzberg discuss what it means to relate differently to suffering, without denying its presence or being overtaken by it. Together, they reflect on the paradox of holding both pain and joy, and...

One gentle exhale before the blank page of a new year unfolds. Take a moment to settle, reflect, and set intentions with this guided meditation recorded by Reboot Coach Marty Janowitz. You may find this centering practice valuable as you reflect on all that has happened in the past year and set intentions for the year to come. At Reboot, we often use meditation to sit with thoughts, feelings, and other parts of our experience that we so seldom make time for in our busy work lives. Find a quiet place to spend some time surfacing and working through whatever...

What is lost when technology tries to imitate human care? On this episode of The Reboot Podcast, Jerry Colonna sits down with Dr. Judson Brewer, psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and author, to explore the hidden risks and surprising possibilities of AI-powered therapy. Together, they reflect on Dr. Brewer's essay, "The Hidden Danger of AI Therapy," and discuss how chatbots, designed to please rather than challenge us, can subtly reinforce self-centered thinking and undermine real healing. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step guides: How To: Leave a Review on Your Computer: www.reboot.io/leave-itunes-review-via-computer/ How To...

What does it mean to find strength in the midst of suffering, and how can our deepest wounds serve as the roots of profound connection, leadership, and healing? In this episode, Jerry Colonna is joined by Oliver Ravn, CEO and founder of Chronicare, a purpose-driven startup dedicated to building disease-specific peer communities for those living with chronic illness. Oliver reflects on his personal journey through chronic illness, sharing raw stories of loneliness, stigma, and resilience. Together, Jerry Colonna and Oliver Achard Ravn examine the masks we wear, the wounds we carry, and the moments when compassion transforms isolation into community...

At the heart of entrepreneurship lies not just innovation and ambition, but a deeper journey of self-discovery, resilience, and embracing our most authentic selves. Entrepreneurship, often glamorized for its successes, can just as easily lead us into the depths of uncertainty, loneliness, and self-doubt. Yet, as we face these challenges with open hearts, we discover the possibility for profound transformation—both in our work and in ourselves. In this episode, we welcome Melissa Bernstein, entrepreneur, creator, and co-founder of Melissa & Doug. With candor and warmth, Melissa shares insights from her latest book, The Heart of Entrepreneurship, reflecting on her lifelong da...

In this powerful episode of The Reboot Podcast, Jerry sits down with Shaka Senghor, author, mentor, and leading voice in criminal justice reform, for a tender conversation about transformation, freedom, and what it truly means to be redeemed. Together, Jerry and Shaka explore what it actually means to be free. They discuss how the deepest forms of imprisonment are not always physical, but are instead forged in our minds—made of grief, shame, anger, and old stories. Shaka shares how his path of healing, reading, and a practice of gratitude helped him reimagine his life, and how his writing became bo...

Influence is a force that weaves its way through every layer of our organizations and lives. Yet its true essence, what gives it power and meaning, often lies beneath the surface, quietly shaping outcomes not through authority or force, but through trust, connection, and presence. In this episode, Ali Schultz sits down with fellow Coach Courtney Joyce for a deep and candid conversation about what it means to influence others, whether you're early in your career, leading cross-functional teams, or navigating challenges as an executive. Together, they explore how true influence is more akin to building bridges than issuing commands...

In a world saturated with distraction and the persistent pull of technology, how do we remember what truly matters? In this episode, Soren Gordhamer, founder of Wisdom 2.0 and passionate explorer of mindfulness in modern life, joins Jerry for a frank and heartfelt conversation about his new book, The Essential: Discovering What Really Matters in an Age of Distraction. Together, they explore the ongoing tension between ancient wisdom and contemporary life—discussing how our stories, our technology, and our hunger for achievement can draw us away from our deepest values and authentic selves. The pair asks what it means to live an...

In times of rapid change and growing complexity, how we collaborate and the frameworks we employ can determine whether our teams thrive or falter. In this episode, Ali Schultz and fellow coach Ray Foote discuss the intentional structures that help teams flourish. Together, they illuminate not just the tools available for guiding group dynamics, but also the subtle, often unconscious patterns that govern our relationships at work. The duo explores the power of establishing group norms, surfacing unspoken behaviors, and making the unconscious conscious. They highlight the transformative power of cultivating honesty, naming what's true, and leaning into crucial conversations...

How do we navigate seismic shifts in our industries and our lives while striving to remain true to ourselves and those we care about? In this episode, Jerry sits down with Randy Goodman, recently retired Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Nashville, to reflect on a career arc that spans decades of change, challenge, and profound personal growth. Randy opens up about his time at the helm of Sony Music Nashville, leading through a rapidly transforming business landscape, the global pandemic, and the social upheaval of recent years. Together, Jerry and Randy explore the concept of "ending well," and what...

Jerry Colonna sits down with Christian Fenner and Mathias Tholey, co-founders of Nucao, alongside Sebastian Ross, the driving force behind the School of Founders at IESE Business School in Barcelona. Christian and Mathias share their entrepreneurial journey from a crisis of purpose while working in traditional careers to founding a sustainable chocolate company deeply rooted in addressing environmental and social challenges. They dive into the trials of initial successes, the allure of scaling rapidly, and the crucial recalibrations they had to make when the realities of business set in. Sebastian sheds light on the role of the School of Founders...

In this episode, Miriam Meima and Ali Schultz explore one of our favorite topics: intuition. Intuition is the ability to understand something immediately, without conscious reasoning. They discuss our hunches about how refining our intuition can benefit us at work and what that might entail. They also provide a few exercises to help you engage with your own intuition, allowing you to incorporate it more into your life and work. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step guides: - How To: Leave a Review on Your Computer: www.reboot.io/leave-itunes-review-via-computer/ - How To: Leave...

How do we connect with our deeper emotional landscape? Miriam Meima joins Ali to explore the power of emotional intelligence and what our feelings can teach us about ourselves. Together, they unpack the unexplored corners of human experience and share the practical "7 Steps to Sanity" framework—a tool for riding emotional waves, finding clarity, and moving forward with purpose. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step guides: - How To: Leave a Review on Your Computer: www.reboot.io/leave-itunes-review-via-computer/ - How To: Leave a Review on Your iPhone: www.reboot.io/leave-itunes-review-via-iphone/ Never miss an...

Some days can get away from you before you sit down at your desk, while other days can be a slog. As our days pull us along or come at us, we ride the waves of our own regulation. Being able to find our center when we get knocked off course can help us navigate the day with more ease and grace. In this podcast episode, Miriam Meima and Ali talk about ways to set yourself up for the day--no matter what happens. They inquire about and surface ways to help you stay present and anchored in a full-bodied way...

Where are your delicate and vulnerable spots that, when touched, cause a defensive reaction? In this thought-provoking episode, Ali explores the concept of fragility with Kelly Wendorf, founder of Equus and author of "Flying Lead Change." Kelly, a horse-wise woman and insightful author, unpacks how our most vulnerable spots trigger defensive reactions in both personal and professional settings. She illuminates the origins of our fragile responses, examining how shame triggers can impact our leadership and decision-making, and contrasts fragility's "power-over" mindset with the transformative potential of robustness. The dialogue moves beyond identifying fragile behaviors to examine practical approaches for cultivating...

Join Jerry Colonna and Luis Duarte for a thought-provoking conversation on the power of interconnectedness and the importance of finding purpose in our lives. Luis, a passionate entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Amoofy, shares his inspiring journey of building a company centered around human connection and the transformative power of storytelling. Discover how Luis's personal experiences, shaped by his family's history and his own challenges, led him to create a platform that fosters deeper connections and promotes empathy. Explore the profound impact of storytelling on personal growth and societal change, and learn how we can navigate the complexities of our interconnected...

In a world where intentional action seems like a rarity, Nicole Ortiz, Director of Leadership and Belonging at the Denver Zoo, stands out with her deliberate approach to work and life. In this powerful episode, Jerry Colonna sits down with Nicole to explore the concept of intentionality, exploring how it shapes her approach to leadership and her work in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Nicole shares how her role at the Denver Zoo has evolved and highlights why welcoming resistance, holding space for curiosity, and cultivating self-awareness is the key to fostering a more inclusive and compassionate work environment. As Nicole...

In this Reboot Extras episode, Ali sits down with Liz Stewart and Kelly Wendorf to talk about Reboot's upcoming Coach Retreat, the value of coach supervision, and how working with horses can support coaches in their growth towards maturity and mastery. Liz is a coach supervisor, and Kelly is the founder of EQUUS - an equine facilitated learning campus situated in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step guides: - How To: Leave a Review on Your Computer: www.reboot.io/leave-itunes-review-via-computer/ - How To: Leave a Review on Your iPhone...

In this episode, Miriam Meima returns to discuss the art of generative listening with Ali Schultz. They explore the significance of optimizing interactions, the pitfalls of selective listening, and the importance of cultivating open communication. Miriam unpacks the levels of listening, emphasizing the transformative power of level five listening. Together, Miriam and Ali unravel the complexities of communication, providing practical insights for navigating high-pressure situations and cultivating generative listening as a foundational leadership skill. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step guides: - How To: Leave a Review on Your Computer: www.reboot.io/leave-itunes-review-via-computer...

In this episode of The Reboot Podcast, Jerry sits down with Rob Castaneda, the founder and CEO of Service Rocket. Together, they unpack the importance of empathy, fostering a sense of belonging, and celebrating the rich tapestry of experiences that employees bring to the table. Rob shares powerful personal stories illuminating the contrasting effects of inclusion and exclusion, highlighting how embracing cultural heritage can strengthen not just individuals, but entire organizations. Discover how Rob's leadership philosophy, shaped by his heritage and commitment to belonging, has propelled Service Rocket to success. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step...

In this episode, Ali Schultz reunites with coach Miriam Meima for a heartfelt conversation about imposter syndrome. They move beyond simply acknowledging the phenomenon, and instead, share practical strategies for managing it effectively. Miriam offers a fresh perspective, framing imposter syndrome as the gap between our perceived capability and perceived expectations, and provides advice for making those situations feel less overwhelming. The duo emphasizes the power of choice, and how when we recognize the stories we tell ourselves, we can break free from their grip. Ali and Miriam share simple techniques like breathwork for managing fear and highlight the importance...

There's more to leadership than building the next billion-dollar unicorn. Our guest, João Barros, has walked a fascinating path – from professor to CEO and back again. In this candid conversation with Jerry, João reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, making the gut-wrenching decision to close down his business, and how attending a Reboot Bootcamp empowered him during this difficult time. Join us as we challenge conventional success paradigms, honor diverse paths to leadership, and highlight why João embodies the essence of a servant leader. Discover why embracing change and letting go can lead to the most profound lessons. Leave...

How can leaders create a safe space for honest conversations, even when those truths challenge the status quo? In this episode of Wisdom for Work, Reboot Coaches Ali Schultz and Virginia Bauman unpack the concept of "conditions of courage," exploring how fostering psychological safety within teams goes hand-in-hand with individual leaders cultivating self-awareness about the conditions that empower them to be honest. Through personal stories and insightful discussion, they unpack the power of setting boundaries and how embracing courage and authenticity in the workplace generates healthier relationships and boosts productivity. This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to...

In this episode of The Reboot Podcast, Jerry Colonna sits down with the insightful Chip Conley, author of Learning to Love Midlife: 12 Reasons Why Life Gets Better with Age. Together, they explore the transformational journey of embracing midlife as a time of growth and wisdom. Chip shares his personal tale of crisis and renewal, emphasizing the fear and cultural pressures surrounding aging. They ponder the role of an elder and the importance of embracing uncertainty, impermanence, and transition in life. The conversation touches on the significance of emotional intelligence, the three stages of transition, and leaving a positive legacy for...

We all have that nagging voice in our head, the inner critic, that loves to point out our flaws. But what if there was a way to silence that bully and amplify a different voice, your inner advocate? In this episode, Ali chats with fellow coach Miriam Meima about taming the inner critic and unleashing your inner champion. This episode is for anyone who has felt like they're not good enough, replays past conversations in their head, or struggles to see their unique strengths. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step guides: - How To...

In this Podcast Extra, Andy Crissinger delves into the world of coaching and its transformative impact on corporate culture with guest Steph Yiu, Chief Customer Officer at WordPress VIP and leader at Automattic. They explore the extensive Reboot program at Automattic, which focuses on trust, open feedback, and building a supportive environment for personal and professional growth. Steph shares her journey of incorporating coaching tools into her leadership role, and they discuss how these tools have empowered her to lead through complex organizational reorganizations and facilitate tough conversations. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step...

How do you engage your team to bring out their best? In this Wisdom for Work, Reboot Coaches Andy Crissinger, Jen Cody, Jim Marsden, and Chris VandenBrink gather to explore the critical importance of clarity, communication, and understanding within a team dynamic. The group highlights the significance of understanding team members' working preferences, motivations, and values to build relationships, set expectations, and create clarity within the team. Join the conversation as they explore practical strategies to unlock your team's potential and discover why an engaged team is not just desirable but essential for success and overall well-being. Leave us a...

If you're a leader, few things can ruin your day more than needing to fire someone. It's just plain hard to do, even when you know it's the right decision. In this insightful discussion, Ali and fellow coach Heather Jassy share advice for effectively and compassionately handling the challenging task of letting someone go from their job. Heather shares her script for handling the firing process with clarity and empathy, acknowledging the discomfort and awkwardness of such conversations while striving to maintain kindness and professionalism. This podcast is full of valuable insights and practical strategies for leaders to consider when...

What does it mean to lead bravely? In this powerful episode, Jerry Colonna explores the essential elements of ethical leadership with David McQueen, author of "The Brave Leader." David sheds light on the difference between ethical and moral decision-making, emphasizing the courage and resilience needed to navigate the gray areas while staying true to core values. He emphasizes the importance of not just fostering diversity, but building true inclusion, where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered to contribute. Together, they discuss the need for brave conversations, acknowledging limitations, and embracing vulnerability as essential tools for building trust and fostering...

As a leader, how do you decide which inputs to listen to? What strategies do you use for personal growth and reflection? How do you create a work environment that supports and uplifts your team? In this episode, Reboot Co-founder Dan Putt engages in a candid conversation with Noah Kagan, the CEO of AppSumo and author of the forthcoming book Million Dollar Weekend. Noah opens up about his path of personal and professional growth, sharing practical tools and hard-won wisdom for overcoming insecurities, finding your authentic leadership style, and creating a work environment where the collective thrives. The pair discuss...

Delegation is one of the most essential skills to master as a leader. Done well, it's the fundamental behavior that impacts the culture, execution, and the bottom line. It creates inclusive leaders, flexible businesses, and the fostering of leaders in each seat in the organization. In this episode, Reboot Coaches Ali Schultz and Virginia Bauman dive into the world of delegation, highlighting the importance of clarity, trust, and accountability in the process. Virginia shares a valuable mental model for delegation, emphasizing the factors of individual readiness and task importance. The pair explore the challenges faced by leaders in delegating tasks...

In today's episode, Jerry Colonna engages in an insightful and deeply personal conversation with Emma, Gill, and Lizzy, the co-founders of Brood, a startup aiming to revolutionize modern family care. They share their experiences navigating the complexities of launching a startup amidst the pandemic, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the intense emotional and psychological challenges faced by startup founders. With Jerry's support, the triad explores their relationship to conflict and how to best navigate cycles of rupture and repair. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! Follow our step by step guides: - How To: Leave a Review on Your...