Uncomfortable by Choice: Developing a "Be Ready to Lead" Mindset

In this solo episode of the Even Better podcast, Sinikka Waugh talks about how having productive meetings can make workdays even better. We've all sat through meetings that feel like a waste of time, but when done right, meetings are powerful tools for collaboration, alignment, and momentum. Sinikka directly addresses those all-too-relatable moments when meeting participants find themselves asking internal questions like: Why are we even here? Why am I here? Who is that person sitting over there, and why are they here? Didn't we already cover this?  Tune in to discover practical strategies for diagnosing meeting frustrations, setting clear intent, keeping conversations on track, and ensuring every participant feels their time is valued and well-spent.

In this Even Better episode Sinikka Waugh welcomes Rachel Klein where they explore how a upbringing grounded in service, compassion, and caring for others shaped her lifelong commitment to community work. Rooted in her early connection to local volunteer efforts like The Helping Hand, Rachel reflects on the fundamental belief that everybody deserves dignity, respect, and nutritious food without feeling ashamed for needing help. Together, Sinikka and Rachel unpack what it takes to create truly safe, welcoming spaces for people navigating life's hardest moments. Rachel shares practical insights on extending grace, both to neighbors carrying unseen burdens and to ourselves, and explains how small, visible signals of acceptance can make a lasting impact. They also dive into the vital relationship between self-care and sustainable service, discussing why protecting your mental health and taking breaks is essential to showing up fully for your family, team, and community. Tune in for an inspiring, heart-centered conversation on leading with empathy and extending grace in an uncertain world! Rachel Klein is the Executive Director of The Helping Hand of Warren County, a local nonprofit food and clothing pantry. She joined the organization in 2019 and became Executive Director two years later. Grounded in faith and a deep connection to her community, Rachel is passionate about welcoming people with dignity, compassion, and grace.

In this Even Better episode Sinikka Waugh welcomes Kristy Turner where they walk through Appreciative Inquiry: A Different Approach to Change. Traditional problem-solving often focuses on diagnosing what's broken and trying to fix it, but Appreciative Inquiry flips that script by focusing on what's already working well and building upon it. In this conversation, Sinikka and Kristy unpack what Appreciative Inquiry is and highlight how it fundamental differs from traditional approaches to organizational and personal change. Together, they explore the immense power of asking generative questions (questions that spark curiosity, foster optimism, and unlock new possibilities) and share real-world examples of Appreciative Inquiry in action. Tune in to learn how shifting your focus toward strengths and positive potential can transform how you lead, collaborate, and drive lasting change!   Kristy Turner, M.A. is the founder of Mindful Solutions & Mediation LLC, where she provides leadership development, executive coaching, facilitation, organizational development consulting, and mediation services for businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations. With a Master of Arts in Psychology and experience as a certified mediator, Kristy specializes in helping individuals and organizations strengthen communication, build trust, navigate change, and develop practical solutions that last. Prior to launching her consulting practice, Kristy served as Executive Director of Postville Child Care Services, where she led organizational growth, managed operations and staff, developed community partnerships, and advocated for workforce and childcare solutions that supported local families and employers. A passionate community leader, Kristy is actively involved in numerous initiatives across Northeast Iowa, including the Allamakee Leadership Institute, Community Heart & Soul, the Postville Lions Club, workforce development efforts, leadership education programs, and projects focused on strengthening rural communities. Her work is grounded in the principles of emotional intelligence, active listening, appreciative inquiry, and the belief that meaningful progress happens when people feel heard, valued, and connected. Kristy lives in Northeast Iowa with her husband and four children and is dedicated to helping individuals, organizations, and communities grow through collaboration, understanding, and purposeful leadership.

In this Even Better episode Sinikka Waugh welcomes Aaron Santos where they dive deep into the real potential, myths, and future of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Together, they explore the "art of the possible" with AI, looking far beyond basic language models to how AI is revolutionizing 3D modeling, electronics, medicine, and materials. Aaron debunks common AI myths, breaks down what AI is actually good or bad at, and shares how to test AI tools scientifically. They also discuss how AI lowers the barrier to entry for personal creativity and student capstone projects. Beyond AI, the conversation expands to why the world often feels worse than it actually is and offers a refreshing, hopeful look at breakthrough technologies; from nanotechnology and longevity research to brain-computer interfaces. Tune in to discover what a healthier, more optimistic relationship with the future really looks like and how you can prepare for what's next!   Aaron Santos is an assistant professor of physics at Simpson College. With a BS in physics from MIT and a PhD in physics from Boston University, Santos has worked with emerging technologies for over 25 years. During a hiatus from Simpson College, he worked as a Data Science Supervisor building AI/ML models at EMC Insurance. He later led EMC's Pop-Up Innovation Lab. He returned to Simpson with a goal of better training students for the AI world they are about to enter. Santos's other professional pursuits include co-founding two companies: the nanotechnology research company DNP123 Co and the genetic detection company NanoBio Designs. Santos has authored two books, How Many Licks? Or, How to Estimate Damn Near Anything (Running Press, 2010) and Ballparking: Practical Math for Impractical Questions (Running Press, 2012), both of which teach the art of estimation to a lay audience. His third book, Nanotech Reboot, explores the history, science, and future directions of nanotechnology and is under contract with Harvard University Press.

In this Even Better episode Sinikka Waugh welcomes Greg Goodman where they explore what it truly takes to cultivate a "Be Ready to Lead" mindset and accelerate leadership impact in today's changing workplace. Sinikka and Greg dive into creating an authentic leadership brand built on a growth mindset, the freedom to fail, and the understanding that you are never behind because real growth is a continuous process. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on staying curious and taking clear steps toward leading with purpose! Greg Goodman is a creative solution leader and executive-level change strategist with over twenty- five years of experience leading complex transformation initiatives across multiple industries that include finance, biotech, insurance, manufacturing, media, and higher education among others. In addition to his program leadership practice, Greg is a Ph.D. candidate (ABD) at Drake University studying organizational behavior and emergent leadership development in young professionals. A dynamic communicator, educator, and mentor, he designs and delivers professional development and leadership programs that help people translate big ideas into real-world practice. In addition to his doctoral work, Greg holds an MBA in Management Information Systems and a B.S. in Biochemistry from Iowa State University.

In this Even Better episode Sinikka Waugh welcomes Katrina Kennedy where they walk through the 5 Ways to Use Reflection to Improve Performance. Whether you are looking to boost your personal effectiveness or help your team achieve better outcomes, taking time to reflect is one of the most powerful tools in your professional toolkit. In this conversation, Sinikka and Katrina explore how turning self-examination into a regular habit (from how you prepare before a task to how you process daily wins, frustration, and curiosity) can transform the way you work. Tune in to discover practical ways to weave reflection into everything you do so you can continuously learn, adapt, and elevate your performance! Katrina, known as the "trainer's trainer," is a facilitator, speaker, and author with 25+ years in learning and development. Author of the book, Learning That Lasts, she has helped thousands of subject matter experts design and deliver engaging learning experiences in a variety of industries. She shares training insights and ideas at www.katrinakennedy.com.

In this Even Better episode, Sinikka Waugh welcomes Wendi Fredregill where they walk through the 5 Signs It's Time to Stop and Figure Out What's Next. Together, they explore what it truly means to do your own "you" and unpack how to recognize when it might be time for a change. This episode especially hits home for those who are running on high all the time—whether you are constantly taking care of others or managing your own business. Tune in for a insightful conversation on pausing, checking in with yourself, and getting clear on your next step before burn out sets in! Wendi Fredregill spent 24 years in the hair industry, first behind the chair, then as a salon owner, before training as a coach. Now she runs Hey Wendi, where she works with women running service businesses on two things most people split apart: the back end that needs building, the systems, the website, the tech, and the belief that needs coaching, the pricing fear, the imposter syndrome, the stuck spots no system fixes. She calls it the building and the believing. Most people do one. She does both.

In this Even Better episode Sinikka Waugh welcomes Sardek Love where they dive deep into the concept of uncertainty and how to navigate it effectively. Together, they unpack the fundamental differences between uncertainty and change, shedding light on why people react to them differently. The conversation explores human behavior, explaining how we tend to freeze up when uncertainty hits rather than stepping forward and taking action. Tune in to gain a clearer understanding of your own responses to the unknown and discover practical insights for breaking through paralysis to keep moving forward. Sardék Love, known as the engagement expert, is an internationally recognized CEO, author, and keynote speaker. He is renowned for his expertise in equipping leaders for maximizing employee engagement. With two popular books, international speaking engagements in 32 countries, a weekly video blog series, and accolades as a top global thought leader in talent development, Sardék Love is a powerhouse in captivating, educating, and inspiring audiences in person or virtually.

In this solo Even Better episode Sinikka Waugh walks through the 3 Repeatable Tactics to Navigate Change (No Matter Where You Are in the Journey). Change can feel overwhelming, unpredictable, and downright uncomfortable, but navigating it doesn't have to be a mystery. In this actionable and inspiring discussion, Sinikka breaks down practical, proven tools you can use immediately to manage transitions smoothly; whether you are just starting a new shift at work, right in the thick of a major transition, or guiding others through uncertainty. Tune in to discover how treating change as a manageable process rather than an isolated event empowers you to build resilience, maintain momentum, and take your clear next step forward!

In this episode of Even Better, host Sinikka Waugh sits down with Erin Freeberg, owner of Adorn Gift and Home and Feed and Foster in Indianola, Iowa. Erin shares her journey of building businesses grounded in authenticity, creativity, and a desire to create community both in town and within the home. Together, they explore the realities of independent business ownership, from the fear and uncertainty to the deep sense of purpose and impact. Erin reflects on the importance of intentional choices, the role local businesses play in shaping community identity, and the legacy we model for the next generation. This conversation is an invitation to get out, experience more, and invest in what truly matters. -- Small business owner. Civic minded. Community focused. Iowa native. Erin Freeberg is an entrepreneur, community advocate, and small business owner based in Indianola, where she owns and operates two beloved retail destinations focused on thoughtful living, connection, and curated experiences. With a background in marketing, public relations, and community engagement, Erin is passionate about creating spaces that bring people together while championing small-town vibrancy and local business growth. Known for her creative eye and civic-minded leadership, she blends style, hospitality, and heart into everything she does. Facebook: @adorngiftandhome @‌feedfoster Instagram: @adorngiftandhome @‌feedfoster