Episode 32: Professional Coaching with Danielle McCombs

In this episode, we delve into the complex world of AI in the workplace with Dr. Chris Coultas, an organizational psychologist and founder of Reason Talent Solutions. Chris shares his expertise on how organizations can effectively adopt AI while enhancing productivity and engagement. We touch on the delicate balance between leveraging AI to enhance productivity and ensuring that human skills and critical thinking remain intact.  https://www.reasontalent.com/  

In this episode, Danielle McCombs shares her journey from commercial real estate to becoming an executive coach, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, understanding saboteurs, and holistic growth for personal and professional fulfillment. We discuss internal saboteurs, career change, work-life balance and more.  The Opposite of Smalltalk Podcast https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellemccombs/  Take the Sabatour Assessment here...   

…and we're back.  The Gurus took a short hiatus but are back with a brand new episode and a lot planned for this fall!  In this one, Amy, Mike and Vivienne share some of the craziest jobs from their past and what they might have learned from them.  This is one's funny and maybe a bit embarrassing!  Join us.   

Is employee well-being a compelling challenge for employers?  How are they meeting that challenge and how are corporate well-being programs changing in 2026? In this episode, Amy, Mike and Vivienne talk with well-being strategist, writer and speaker, Shannon Arens with Sequoia who shares what their latest trends report reveals!  It's clear that well-being is now a strategic priority, not just a perk. Let's discuss how trends in mental health and AI can empower organizations to foster healthier work environments.  What are your thoughts on the importance of well-being in the workplace?  The full report by Sequoia is linked below.   To download the 2026 Wellbeing Trends Report: https://www.sequoia.com/reports/2026-wellbeing-trends/ To view the webinar: "Employer Approaching to Wellbeing in 2026: GLP-1, Mental Health, Cost Containment, AI, and More": https://www.sequoia.com/event/employer-approaches-to-wellbeing-in-2026/  https://shannonarens.com/

In late 2025, the Gurus assembled for an in person panel discussion about many aspects of work life.  We shared the stage with Chao Dou. Chao, founder of chaos.cura, designs immersive experiences for teams and organizations that want to reconnect with what it feels like to be truly present together.  We were so intrigued by Chao that we have asked her to join us on the podcast to talk about how people connect…or don't…in a post covid/AI world.  Join us for a fascinating discussion about the rapidly changing digital landscape.  And as we're talking about AI, we want to include an intro written by our podcast platform, Riverside.FM: In this episode of "Just Three Workplace Gurus," hosts Amy, Mike, and Vivian welcome Chao Dou, an Applied Research Consultant, to discuss the evolving dynamics of the workplace in the digital age. Chao, who has a rich background spanning China, the United States, and Singapore, brings a unique perspective on cultural influences and human behavior. Her insights delve into the impact of AI and technology on workplace interactions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining human connections amidst technological advancements. Chao's thoughtful exploration of what it means to be human in a rapidly changing world offers listeners a chance to reflect on the balance between digital tools and personal interactions.   Have a listen and tell us which intro you like better!  

In May of 2024, Vivienne, Amy and Mike met with our colleagues Meera Agrawal and Joe Brady to talk about the current state of Real Estate. A lot has changed in the office since then so the Gurus are back with Meera and Joe to discuss what's going on in early 2026. Is lunch still a big draw?  What do offices look like and are the mandates really working?  We'll discuss it all so please listen in.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/meera-agrawal-8698501a/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joebradycushmanwakefield/  

 The New Retirement with Samantha Rembo In this episode, Mike and our HR specialist friend Samantha Rembo talk about their experiences in retirement, and with Amy and Vivienne, what the challenges can be.  Is there a new name for retirement in the 21st century?  Rewirement? Evolution?  Phase II?  Here we explore what you should think about as you head toward this part of your life. We also talk with Samantha about her new venture Elevated Assistants.  Join us!  https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantharembo/ https://www.elevatedea.com/   

In this week's episode, Amy, Mike and Vivienne discuss the evolution of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with Learning and Development professional Timothe Davis.  Timothe shares his perspective around DEI being stress-tested in the current workplace environment, the importance of moving from DEI awareness to best practice and understanding that meritocracy and DEI are not opposing goals. Join us

Happy New Year from Just3WorkplaceGurus.  Hosted by Jomal McNeal, Workplace Experience Strategist, and David Gray, Real Estate Tenant Rep and Workplace Strategist, the Mosh Pit is a weekly live chat among Workplace professionals exploring the challenges of the post Pandemic Workplace.  Today, Amy, Vivienne and Mike get a chance to chat with our colleagues and friends Jomal and David about their experience hosting a live Workplace Chat and what they've learned hosting more than 250 sessions.  What a great way to spend an hour!  Join us! 

We three Gurus thought we'd do an end of the year wrap-up with a look back and a look forward. Join us for some highlights and lowlights.