“Everyone has their own process, and everything happens at the exact right moment it’s supposed to.” What a beautiful reminder from a wise friend who I’m very excited to share with you.She, herself, has an awesome podcast and has shared her journey and podcasting experience with me as I’ve traversed my own. It seemed only fitting to get to dig up some big things and explore with someone who had a hand in helping and encouraging me to get this little pod off the ground.So, in this episode we hear from Ming Shelby who has been a wonderful mentor, to say the least. I highly recommend soaking up the wisdom and quality time any mentors generously gift your way. The great ones are champions of both success and growth. And yeah, Ming is a prime example of this.She is a National Board-certified educator who has dedicated her career to inspiring students, teachers and administrators through positive learning experiences. She believes that courage is the critical ingredient for personal transformation and is building a community of courage beyond the classroom to support kids and adults. You can catch her sharing stories of courage for people to learn to thrive, not just survive, on The Courage Up Podcast! She shares inspiring people and their courage stories weekly, and pretty recently gave a TEDx talk on courageous conversations, which we get into during this episode. Ming lights up everything she does, and I have no doubt that that is what she’s on this planet to do.Listen in as Ming shares her contagious energy, mindset, and how she believes courage is the secret ingredient to a great life.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet MingThe Courage Up PodcastCourageous ConversationsMindsetObstacles OvercomeMing’s InspirationMing’s advice to people who care a lot (and everyone else)Standout Quotes from the Episode:“I want this world to be a little bit better, with me in it.”“If I’m on this Earth, I want to have purpose, I want to live with intention, I want to be kind and courageous and spread positivity and give grace and I want to lift myself and the people up around me.”“I just feel like I have this duty to the world and the people in it that, ‘hey I’m going to show up as my best self and make this world a better place.’”“I can't rely on others for my own personal satisfaction or value or happiness. That all comes from me”“What I realized was that when I was living into my values and choosing courage instead of choosing fear, and choosing abundance instead of choosing scarcity, then everything was going to work out.”“Hearing each other’s’ courage stories really helps us continue to show up courageously.”“If I care about you enough to have you in my life, then I care enough about you to have hard conversations with you.”“We all have unsavory bits, so we might as well just be honest with ourselves.”“Keep showing up authentically as you are because the world needs you, exactly as who you are. Who you are is so important to make this world an even better place.” Mentioned in the Episode:Book: Radical Candour by Kim Scott Connect with Ming:Ming’s WebsiteInstagramIf you love this episode, please take a few minutes of your time. Go over to iTunes, give us a five-star rating, and maybe leaving a lovely review. That helps podcast listeners like you find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

I’ve been looking forward to coming back to this space and this community of caring, with you all, after wrapping up that strange year that 2020 was. I am grateful that the July-quarantined Randi felt that this podcast was a thing that she was compelled to do. I’ve gotten to meet, reconnect, dig deeper, and share folks with you who are making positive impacts in this world and living purposeful lives.I very grateful to have connected with today’s guest and am excited to share her with you. I was lucky enough to have a very cool conversation with Erin Claire Jones, who has been featured in Forbes and Nylon, and uses Human Design to help thousands of individuals and companies step into their work and their lives as their truest selves and to their highest potential.For those who are new to it, in Erin’s words, Human Design is a synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern science that sheds light on a person’s energetic makeup, as well as specific tools one can use to live at their happiest, healthiest, highest potential. Listen in and Erin will explain in further detail the magic that she helps folks understand in themselves in order to better align their lives with their purpose.She gets into how she started, by putting Human Design to work in her own life and ended up showing the world a new way to work, a new path towards success, and a new perspective on living authentically.I recently grabbed myself a customized Blueprint from Erin, which is a customized, personal guide of one’s Human Design. That was both revealing and validating. And couldn’t wait to hear more about her journey in serving as a trail guide of sorts, providing tools for folks to live to their greatest potential for the greatest good. You’ve got to give a fuck or two to be doing that kind of work in the world, Right? By the way, keep listening to hear how you can get a discount for your very own Blueprint from Erin.During this chat Erin helps us understand how human design can offer insight into what is possible for not only individuals, but companies, and partnerships as well - by giving insight into who they are and how to care more about themselves and those around them in ways that are immediately applicable.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet Erin Claire JonesHuman Design: A tool for better understanding of self and othersTypes, Profiles, and Inner AuthorityErin’s journeyErin’s mindset Inspiring self-trust and collaborative teamsHelping others find their purpose Erin’s InfluencesKey Milestones of the Episode:[04:30] Human Design in a nutshell[06:00] Meet Erin Claire Jones[09:00] High level breakdown of Human Design[09:30] Human Design Type: Generators & Manifesting Generators[12:00] Human Design Type: Projectors[15:00] Human Design Type: Manifestors[16:30] Human Design Type: Reflectors[17:30] Erin’s Journey: Why Human Design?[20:00] A better understanding of self[22:00] Erin’s mindset and self-care[25:30] Human Design and Partnership[28:00] Inner authority and profile[36:00] Helping others find their purpose [37:30] Supporting teams and business with Human Design[43:45] Erin’s Influences and support system[49:00] Erin’s adviceStandout Quotes from the Episode:“I think why Human Design made sense to me is it just felt like a bridge. It felt like it satisfied all my cosmic loves.”“Human Design is such a clear tool, in not just understanding themselves on an individual level, but in terms of how to best work together collectively.”“We might recognize the thing before the world does. So, just trust that, you know? And stay aligned and know that the recognition will come at the right time.”“When we are in integrity as messengers and leaders and teachers, that is felt.”“I was trying to be all the things I wasn’t.”“What I love about Human Design is I think it inspires self-trust.”“It’s not a belief system, it’s a tool. Use it how you will. Take what resonates, leave the rest. Let it be the thing that empowers you and doesn’t limit you.” Mentioned in the Episode:Look up your Human DesignGet your Human Design Blueprint (discount code: YOUCARETOOMUCH) Connect with Erin Claire Jones:Erin Claire Jones on InstagramErin’s Website If you love this episode, please rate and review it on Apple/iTunes! It helps podcast listeners, like you, find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

No question about it; a lot of terrible things have happened this year. And Yeah, we could just say 2020 was shit. But was it all that way? Or did it make you have to look at and try connecting with yourself and others a little harder, a little longer, and maybe a little more honestly? Sure. We can say the chaos of 2020 has muddied everything and that we’re just trudging through, or we could say it made certain things a lot more clear. Or we could go with both. It’s probably both.On that note, I was energized and inspired by this conversation in this episode, learning more about our guest, and I can’t wait for you to hear it. He is someone who encourages me to think, and who is endlessly curious. This week I share with you a chat that I was fortunate enough to have had with Yoshino, a visual artist, photographer, and podcaster extraordinaire among other things.I was originally introduced and then re-introduced to Yoshino by an amazing mutual friend of ours, and he graciously let me pick his brain about podcasting early on in my journey with “You Care Too Much.” Somehow we ended up on the topic of empathy and I couldn’t not have him on the show after that.Yoshino hosts the Artist Decoded podcast, which he has been doing for the past five years now. He started it as an exploration of self, as an artist, and explores the inner workings, perspectives, vulnerabilities, and everything in between with other artists and experts - digging into the who and why of some of the most creative folks around. Yoshino is also co-founder of the Los Angeles-based arts collective, NOH/WAVE, which includes an online academy of workshops taught by an arsenal of talented artists. It’s very cool.One of my favorite things about Yoshino, Artist Decoded, and really all that he does is the element of human connection that seems to permeate throughout. It was at the beginning of last week’s episode that I was expressing how much more important connection feels right now, though it’s always been important… And Yoshino gives us insight into his perspective on authenticity, intentionality, and a mindset of honesty when it comes to both ourselves and others; all key ingredients for meaningful connection.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet YoshinoBeing present versus phoning it in Having intention for the things that you doEmpathy and masculine dualityArtistic viabilityHuman connection & vulnerabilityInfluences on Yoshino’s lifeKey Milestones of the Episode:[04:30] Meet Yoshino[05:10] Being present vs. phoning it in[9:00] From second-hand values to personal intuition[11:00] Being intentional & Deliberate[14:40] Digging into Artist Decoded[16:19] Effective communication [17:00] Multiple truths & empathy[19:50] Being a lover and a fighter [21:45] Artistic viability as a way of life[27:00] Being a life-long learner[29:18] Dedication[36:00] Yoshino’s mindset; balance, honesty, discipline [39:00] Vulnerability, authenticity, and perspective[44:30] Openness and human connection[51:20] People who have left a lasting impact on Yoshino[56:00] Discussion and healthy relationships[59:500] Something Yoshino is interested in trying[01:05:30] Organizations Yoshino supports Standout Quotes from the Episode:“I think that the more that I started listening to second-hand values of other people, and people’s projections of their internal mental structures on me, that’s when I think I stopped listening to my gut.”“I’m very deliberate about my pursuit of knowledge.”“I find that my happiest times are when I’m able to learn, you know, and whether that’s learn from people or learn from a book.”“I think a lot of times we’re conditioned to chase results, and the journey is actually more important.”“I feel like mindset is about discipline, honesty, balance, and being able to communicate that effectively to people that you love and so on and so forth.”“You’ll learn a lot about humanity by just sitting there and sharing that space.”“What is my contribution to this planet? How can I help in the best way that I can? And I think everyone has their own way of helping - our hearts beat for different things.”“That’s the difference; to build healthy relationships is you have discussions about things that you differ on and not try to find faults in the person for having their opinion on something.” Mentioned in the Episode:NOH/WAVE AcademyBlack Futures LabNational Bail Fund Network Connect with Yoshino:Yoshino StudiosYoshino Studios on InstagramArtist Decoded PodcastArtist Decoded on InstagramNOH/WAVENOH/WAVE on InstagramNOH/WAVE Academy If you love this episode, please rate and review it on Apple/iTunes! It helps podcast listeners, like you, find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

Connection is just feeling more important that ever, and this week’s guest does not disappoint on that front. I was lucky enough to catch up with Nurse Abi, who is a most essential activist amidst this pandemic and ever-changing social climate.Nurse ABi was born and raised in Metro Manila in the Philippines but has resided on stolen Ohlone Land (which is more widely known as Alameda County) for more than twenty years.She is an essential healthcare worker on the front lines, with more than 12 years of experience as a registered nurse. When she’s not in a medical center, Nurse ABI is a COVID Space Strategist and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Population Health Nursing. She is leveraging her experience, both publicly and digitally to educate well-meaning, at-risk communities to reduce COVID transmissions until a vaccine is available for all.Nurse ABi provides regular content on Instagram, can be found safeguarding folks from COVID exposure from protests to picnics, and is a not-so-secret admirer of a certain US Health Official, Dr. Fauchi. I’m looking forward to sharing this episode with you, because Nurse ABi is all heart and there’s really no better timing than the middle of a pandemic, during flu season nonetheless, to hear from a healthcare professional creating ripples upon ripples for humanity when humanity can feel bleak.I’m thrilled to introduce you to THE East Bay’s crusader for CDC compliance and self-proclaimed defender of human dignity, my lovely friend, Nurse ABi.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Population health strategiesCOVID exposure reduction & the ripple effectFamily, religion, and other things that have shaped Nurse Abi’s caringFolks who inspire Nurse AbiNurse ABi’s pandemic self-care tipsKey Milestones of the Episode:[05:00] Meet Nurse ABi[07:00] Supporting communities during the pandemic[9:00] Being present during protests[11:00] Being a holistic healthcare provider[14:00] Nurse Abi’s mindset; no half-assing[16:00] Nurse Abi’s inspiration; Dr. Fauci & Pope Francis[20:00] Possible hang-ups for people who care a lot, according to Nurse ABi[22:00] Public commitment [26:00] Modifying your life during a pandemic[28:00] The ripple effect[30:00] Raised by a single mother, and growing up Catholic[32:00] Getting into nursing[36:00] How Nurse Abi takes care of herself, while she’s taking care of others[38:00] Dignity for all[41:00] An organization Nurse Abi supports[43:00] Where to find Nurse ABi[45:00] Closing thoughtsStandout Quotes from the Episode:“You can still be vocally expressive, while still wearing your mask properly, or social distancing”“If there’s something that you’re privileged with, whether it’s your skin color or internet access, or education or your language proficiency - there’s always something to do to make it easier for other people.”“But then with the frustrations that the COVID guidelines or recommendations are putting on people, I felt so frustrated to see people not know what to do.”“I guess my natural tendency of translating that to easier terms for the. I guess for the lay person to be able to digest and understand.”“I feel like to protesters, I almost feel like it won't really hit further if they don't see me physically there. And for them, feeling the presence of a nurse among themselves, understanding where their pains are and understanding where there can be a bridge between COVID reduction and still like honoring what's in their heart as a human person.”“I want them to just know that they’re just these little modifications that you can fold into your flow and still have less risk for COVID and still have a little bit of what you want in your life.”“I’m just holding onto the fact that the ripple effect is real… All of us are little pebbles.” Mentioned in the EpisodeWhite Coats for Black Lives Connect with Nurse ABiNurse Abi on InstagramNurse Abi can be found on TikTok: @nurse_abi If you love this episode, please rate and review it on Apple/iTunes! It helps podcast listeners, like you, find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

I cannot wait for you to hear this week’s guest who may be a bit of a kindred spirit to some of you animal lovers out there. Her empathy spans from human to canine. It's Samantha Johnson of Pack Life LA. She's a rad dog trainer. And I'm going to go ahead and call her up puppy pack activist.Samantha started her business with the help of her business partner and pup, Baloo. It was catalysed by her rescue pit bull, Lily, who was abused, reactive, and transformed into a completely different dog after being rehabilitated and socialized in a pack alongside Baloo.Samantha has shadowed and worked with various trainers and was a trainer at Caesar Millan's Dog Psychology. From pre-med to dog training, Samantha's journey is one of somebody who cares deeply about everyday kindness, healthy relationships between humans and animals, and creating realistic goals and expectations for both people and pups. Samantha and her family always have a foster among the pack, and one of her passions is creating more awareness for our relationships to our dogs, more fostering opportunities, and positive impact beyond the home pack life. She helps dogs, families, rescues, and prison populations. Yep. You heard that right. And prison populations. It's just as interesting as it sounds.As a former dog mom and aspiring to one day again be a dog mom, I've learned a ton from following Samantha and Pack Life LA online and I think you will enjoy what this empathetic soul has to say in this episode of the podcast.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet Samantha JohnsonBeing born empatheticPrivilege and the responsibility of those who have it to create more equity in the worldThe intersection of human and dog psychologyTwo birds one stone; dog and inmate rehabilitationThe positive influences in Samantha’s lifeSamantha’s advice to people who care a lotKey Milestones of the Episode:[04:00] Meet Samantha Johnson[07:00] Samantha’s entrance into the rescue world[10:00] An innate sensitivity to the world[13:00] Having privilege is having a responsibility to help others[15:00] Getting dogs for the right reasons[17:00] The intersection of human and dog psychology [19:30] Samantha’s passion; Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change Program[22:00] Dog and inmate rehabilitation [25:00] Men’s prison vs girls’ juvenile programs[29:00] The impact of dog training in prison[30:00] Awareness; the dog at the end of the leash is a reflection of how you’re feeling[32:00] Samantha’s mindset and the power of the consumer[37:00] Everyday kindness, and someone Samantha looks up to[39:00] How inmates have changed Samantha’s life[43:00] Samantha’s advice to listeners; rest[46:00] Boundaries, balance, and letting yourself lean on others[49:00] More about supporting the Pawsitive Change ProgramStandout Quotes from the Episode:“I think that when you’re more affected by things, or open, you have more of craving to change it.”“And I just remember being like, I'm going to change the world. Like, I always like wanted to do that but had no idea, you know, how I would.”“From a young age, I understood that that was I was born lucky. I didn't do anything to deserve this. So, if someone else is born in a different situation, they didn't do anything to deserve that, but they had a harder deck. So, like, it's my responsibility to help them with that.”“You know, we really just don't necessarily take the time to understand dogs… I mean, literally you could scroll your Instagram and the amount of memes you see that like honestly encourage unhealthy behavior in dogs. Or I think nowadays, we really think that all dogs can handle being our emotional support and it's just not- or they're being labeled as that or being required to do that and it's, you know, it sounds harsh but it's really unfair to put on all dogs.”“All anyone really needs is knowing that somebody cares about them.”“Prison is a great way to make a criminal to be honest… It’s a problem when prison becomes a business, which it is in America.”“If a dog has separation anxiety, the best thing you can do is help it be ok not being around you. Not cuddle it and worry about why it has separation anxiety and allow it to be next to you all the time.”“The dog at the end of the leash is a reflection of how you’re feeling.” Mentioned in the Episode:Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change ProgramPawsitive Change Program on Instagram Connect with Samantha:Pack Life LAPack Life LA on InstagramSamantha Johnson on Instagram If you love this episode, please rate and review it on Apple/iTunes! It helps podcast listeners, like you, find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

This week, I had the privilege of chatting with Blair Imani; historian, outspoken advocate and activist, and a dynamic public speaker. She's also my favorite Pokémon and Star Trek enthusiast, and all-around queen of pop culture analogies. She's the author of two historical books, she centers women and girls’ global, black communities, and the LBGTQ community.Blair provides publicly accessible, weekly lessons on Instagram, and then she takes that education to a whole new level on Patreon. I'm so grateful for this chat. And I'm excited to get into this episode because Blair is, as she would say, an active participant in “making the world less terrible.” I'm going to say she's more actively making the world more accessible, inclusive, educated, kind, and all-around a nicer place to exist and connect.From getting arrested at protests to understanding that the way we show up may look different than the way somebody else does, Blair and I chat about the different ways that activism can look, as well as having the grace to accept and encourage folks wherever they are on their journey. Tune in for a good one, friends.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet Blair ImaniBeing an active participant in making the world less terribleHarm reductionBlair’s passion; educationBeing grounded in authentic humilityThe positive impact on Blair’s lifeBlair’s advice to people who care a lotKey Milestones of the Episode:[04:00] Meet Blair Imani[08:00] Blair’s background[14:20] Being an active participant in making the world less terrible[15:00] Harm reduction[18:00] What activism is NOT, via Lizzie McGuire[20:30] There’s always more to learn[24:00] Blair’s focus; education[27:00] Being authentic and kind[31:00] Human interaction is a kaleidoscope of opportunity[34:30] The loneliness of being authentically you[37:30] Getting comfortable being uncomfortable, when it comes to activism[45:00] Two traps that folks who care can fall into[48:00] How activism can look different for different people[49:40] Someone Blair looks up to[54:00] The Refrigerator of Justice[1:00:00] Something that Blair would love to try[1:04:00] An organization that Blair supportsStandout Quotes from the Episode:“But the fact is, you know, I was very much raised with this idea that if you do have more access than someone else, then it's your duty to use that in service of good.”“I think that it's just a better way of living. When you care about the people around you."“But we all bloom at our own pace. And if we think about ourselves as flowers, with many pedals who bloomed to the extent that we were nourished.” "Equity looks like people getting what they need to be successful and to thrive.”“And it's also, you know, a lesson about how we can all make the world less terrible. And the reason why I say less terrible is because it's pretty terrible. And if you say, ‘Make the world a better place,’ that can be so abstract for people because there has never been a perfect world and we have to create that together.”Mentioned in this EpisodeMuslims for Progressive Values Connect with Blair InstagramBlair’s link tree If you love this episode, please rate and review it on Apple/iTunes! It helps podcast listeners, like you, find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

It’s another week, which means another conversation with a cool somebody, caring enough about humanity to lend themselves to help make it better. This week we talk about making workplaces safe and more welcoming for all people, and specifically how getting more women into leadership positions can accomplish just that.For this episode I had the absolute joy of speaking with Stephanie Holt, who worked for more than 30 years in both the us and internationally. For more than half of that time, she held executive leadership positions in both public and private sector technology companies. Her name is Stephanie Holt. And her experience runs the gamut from multinational corporate settings to start up environments.And what I find so fascinating about Stephanie is that her focus has been on the intersection of business outcomes and creating places where people love to work. Currently Stephanie works to both transform more women into visionary leaders and make the workplace safe and welcoming for all. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience navigating rooms full of powerful folks.Listen in as Stephanie shares her plan of for leveraging that experience to help create a more diverse and inclusive lot in leadership for STEM and beyond.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet StephanieBeing an authentic voice on LinkedInStephanie’s experience with in STEMMindsetPitfalls for people who care, according to StephanieStephanie’s influencesStephanie’s advice to people who care a lotBeing who you are and running with your strengthsKey Milestones of the Episode:[03:27] Meet Stephanie Holt: leadership background in Technology[04:20] Getting more women in leadership roles[06:55] The role of men in an inclusive workplace[8:30] An authentic voice on LinkedIn[12:59] The Year of Stephanie[14:40] “Put it on Facebook”[17:00] Learning on LinkedIn[18:3] Pronouns[24:22] More women in STEM and the workplace, in general[26:05] It’s not one size fits all[28:04] Complimentary and team-building skills[31:30] Coaching and mentoring[35:18] A mindset of gratitude[36:32] Thinking about your legacy[39:20] Women in executive leadership is like a game of musical chairs[40:40] Telling relatable stories[42:58] Transferable skills: Experience doesn’t just come from the work you get paid for[48:26] People who have influenced Stephanie[50:31] Stephanie’s advice[56:17] Standing for STEM organization: virtual internshipsStandout Quotes from the Episode:“There are so many industries that are facing the same issues and I don't think they're really that hard to overcome. I think we just need to do the work”“If somebody shows you that they’re a racist, you should say something.”“My world domination plan has always been safe workplaces for everyone.”“You can lead a team and not have every single one of their skills.”“The superpower of companies that is often overlooked is internal women”“I don’t want to make a bunch of middle-aged, rich, white guys even more rich.”“Take what you’re good at and run with that. Don’t try to ever be somebody that you’re not.”“You never have enough time, or enough money, or you’re never quite mentally prepared for anything that you do. So, why not just do it?”Mentioned in this EpisodeSTEM-Away (Standing for STEM)STEM Leadership Collective Connect with Stephanie LinkedInSteph On Life (website) If you love this episode, please rate and review it on Apple/iTunes! It helps podcast listeners, like you, find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

In the thick of it, it may not feel like both powerlessness and power are universal experiences, but we’ve all been there. The guest on this episode talks about how, ultimately, we are in control of feeling into our own power and it really all comes down to the stories we tell ourselves.Dr. Payal Sharma - who studies power and stress in organizations and teaches at the Lee Business School at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas - joins me on the show to chat about power versus powerlessness, posttraumatic growth, and how she shows up in full caring with a mindset of presence.Dr. Sharma’s current research portfolio includes examining power dynamics in the hip hop and rap industry, and gender backlash against agreeable, vulnerable, and empathetic male leaders. She collaborates and brings said expertise to the forefront of ideas around relationship dynamics and personal power in partnership with some other thought leaders you may know of, including Mark Groves and James Silvas. I always learn so much from talking to Dr. Sharma and think you'll enjoy listening to this juicy and empowering episode. Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet Dr. Payal SharmaPosttraumatic growthPower dynamics in the rap and hip hop industryGender backlash against empathetic male leadersA mindset of presenceTwo people who have impacted Dr. Sharma’s lifeDr. Sharma’s advice to people who care a lotHip hop, rap, and bikes that go nowhereKey Milestones of the Episode:[03:15] Meet Dr. Payal Sharma[04:32] What is Posttraumatic Growth?[07:03] Power and Trauma in- and outside of organizations[10:13] Navigating posttraumatic growth[11:45] Vulnerability as a strength[13:09] Core values and where Dr. Sharma’s caring comes from [15:08] The gift of learning from each other[17:14] Attachment theory in both leadership and dating[21:15] Exploring gender backlash against male leaders[30:11] Gender stereotypes: Dr. Sharma and Eric Nicksick of Randy Couture’s UFC gym[32:34] Taking calculated risk for connection[35:16] Dr. Sharma’s mindset and cycling class[40:40] Walking life with your village[42:12] Powerlessness is about your environment[44:11] Dr. Sharma’s identity: hip hop and rap[48:50] People who have positively impacted Dr. Sharma[58:28] Dr. Sharma’s advice to people who care a lot[1:00:28] Something new that Dr. Sharma is looking forward toStandout Quotes from the Episode:“Posttraumatic growth is where you bounce forward because you can never go back to what you were.”“The stories that we tell ourselves can define how powerful or powerless we allow ourselves to feel in our own lives."“And the benefit of trauma is that it can help you understand that you're vulnerable, but that with that vulnerability also comes strength.”“I think when people feel voiceless, or they feel like they're not being heard, that's what triggers stories around loss of control, feeling as though you're powerless, and that's kind of the backdrop to what I study.”“And it's the leaders who are willing to talk about the harder things and talk about emotions, which not everybody is. But it's really the pathway, I think, to a deeper connection in the work setting and in our lives.”“For me, a cornerstone in any meaningful relationship that I have is if we lean in and we connect. Again, you don't have to agree,but you have to reveal yourself.”“The only person that gets to decide your worth and your value is yourself.”Mentioned in the Episode:UNLV Convocation 2020, Faculty KeynoteThe Embracing Project Connect with Dr. Payal Sharma:Website If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review "You Care Too Much" on Apple/iTunes! It helps podcast listeners, like you, find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

Have you ever been told that you care too much or been labeled “sensitive,” like it wasn't a good thing? It's quite possible that you’re someone who gives a fuck. And you're in the right place, kindred spirit.In this very first episode of "You Care Too Much," I share a little bit about who I am and why I think sharing more stories about purpose driven humans has the potential to shift the cultural narrative. I talk about empowering more people to lead with empathy, vulnerability & caring, while being in community with kindness-forward individuals and feeling seen as our authentic selves.And there may be a special guest... or two. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:The Nap Ministry If you enjoyed this episode, please take a few minutes to rate it five-stars on iTunes and leave a written review. It helps podcast listeners like you find us to connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More: Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.com Created, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems 

In this episode, we find out why Juniper Waller cares as much as she does, about what she does. She is a trauma-informed vocal embodiment coach and breathwork guide, helping folks step more fully into presence and speak truth to power. Juniper’s work is informed by a winding path; a background in holistic healing, social justice, work, music, and poetry. She comes from a long line of singer-songwriter empaths and fronts a band based out of Sacramento, California. She also has a cool, monthly, online, healing circle called Breathwork for Collective Liberation.Has anyone ever commented about your voice? You are not alone. I've been there, and our guest has some insights into how the voice can be a vulnerable, deep dive into the self.  Juniper helps us understand voice-related trauma, shares her journey, purpose, and gives us actionable tips for our day-to-day lives and well-being.Are you ready to learn and be inspired? Listen in to this episode.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Getting to know JuniperBreathworkMindsetPitfalls for people care too muchJuniper’s current idolAdvice from JuniperLizard brainHow to remain sane during quarantineKey Milestones of the Episode:[02:32] Juniper’s background[03:34] Getting to know Juniper and what she does[12:45] What inspired Juniper to do what she does today?[23:53] How does breathwork help people get more grounded?[26:33] The breathwork process[32:04] Why do we forget to breathe?[41:40] What kind of mindset is helpful for those to care a lot?[44:21] Juniper discusses possible pitfalls of empaths[47:02] People who have impacted Juniper[49:50] Juniper’s piece of advice[52:27] What is the meaning of the term "lizard brain?"[55:05] Tips to staying sane in  isolation[55:53] One thing Juniper has never done, but would like to tryStandout Quotes from the Episode:“Singing is so vulnerable. Singing is so heart opening.”“If you’re coming to someone, and you’re going to pay money and spend time on learning how to sing, you are ready, even if you don’t know consciously. What you’re asking for is like some serious deep diving into yourself.”“When your voice is put down, it goes to like a really deep place. It feeds one of our deepest fears as people that we don’t deserve to be heard.”“I believe that everybody’s creative and everybody benefits from having a creative practice, whether you share that with the world or not.”“There are many people in recovery who care too much, and many of them kind of reach for external substances to kind of quell that passion.”“With great power comes great responsibility.”“Ignoring doesn’t really work and suppresses a lot of things.”“Truly caring means we’re still connected to others.”Resources Mentioned in the Episode:The Artist’s Way- Julia Cameron*12 Step Program Connect with Juniper Waller: InstagramWebsiteBreathwork For Collective Liberation If you enjoyed this episode, please take a few minutes to rate it five-stars on iTunes and leave a written review. It helps podcast listeners like you find us to connect over a community of caring.HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems *Disclosure: Books denoted with an asterisk are hyperlinked to an affiliate program. We are a participant in that Bookshop.org affiliate program (at no extra cost to you). Bookshop.org is a website backed by the American Booksellers Association that lets consumers support independent bookstores across America by shopping online through affiliate pages on Bookshop’s website.

Do you want to make a difference in the world, but get hung up over the size of the impact or the thought of being the only one, when there’s so much to be done? The guest on this episode talks about how we can start with doing and encouraging the little things, even when they can feel like only a drop in the bucket. It could be as simple as treating everyone we meet with kindness, using less plastic, or channeling our unique essence to impact others… which is exactly what this episode's guest does in spades.Heather Chelan joins me on the show to chat about what she is doing to make her corner of the world a better place, and how she keeps going even when the rest of the world is seemingly over it. Cue her catchy song The Pandemic Isn't Over Just Because You're Over It...Heather lives in East London, creating original music as a songwriter. She also makes bad ass harmony enriched PSA videos under the pseudonym HEB On The Web. Heather’s music possesses both her love for present and past music influences, including Allen stone, India.Arie, and Mac Ayres. She writes from such an honest, simple, lyrical perspective that finds likeness in all the little day-to-day things that I think we can all relate to, as well as the things that spark the big conversations that we need to be having.Without a doubt, Heather cares a lot. Listen in as Heather shares her awesomeness with us.Key Talking Points of the Episode:Meet HeatherHeather’s PSA songs / videosHeather’s experience with TikTokMindset!Pitfalls for people who give a fuck, according to HeatherWho Heather admiresHeather’s advice to people who care a lotTaking the leap and moving to another countryKey Milestones of the Episode:[05:35] Meet Heather Chelan: Getting to know Heather[05:59] Why Rocky (her dog) so important to her[08:48] Why Heather gives a fuck[11:57] When Heather realized her work was making an impact[13:06] TikTok: Heather’s experience on TikTok and why she hates it[16:07] Heather’s PSA videos: some favorites[24:32] Black lives still matter[27:16] What it’s like to watch everything that’s happening in the US from a distance[29:31] What mindset does Heather think helps people who care a lot?[35:54] Heather’s thoughts on common traps for people who care a lot[37:21] Someone who has had an impact on Heather’s life[40:22] Heather’s advice[44:29] Heather’s move from the US to London[47:51] One thing that Heather hasn’t tried but would like to [53:10] An organization that Heather cares about[54:29] Heather’s advice to people who care a lotStandout Quotes from the Episode:“Maybe putting anything in song form already lightens it up a little bit no matter what it is.”“If we recognize the small things we can do, we can make changes to be better in our daily lives.”“Treat people like humans acknowledge that they exist.”“Look up from your phone every once in a while, and look at the world around you.”“Push the boundaries a little bit, test yourself out, and try out new things.”“Keep going. People are going to disagree with you. Save your energy for the good debates. You can’t take on everybody. Just be ready for some pushback, but keep caring.”“Giving a fuck isn’t 100% all or nothing.”Mentioned in the Episode:The Pandemic Isn't Over Just Because You're Over ItNational Bail Fund Network Connect with Heather: InstagramTwitterYoutubeTikTokApple MusicSpotifySound CloudPhoto of Heather by: Luis Arellanes (@arellanes.luis) If you enjoyed this episode, please rate five-stars and review on Apple/iTunes. That helps podcast listeners, like you, find us and connect over a community of caring. HOW ELSE CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Listen, Watch, Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google PodcastsFollow & Find Out More:Instagram | Twitter | youcaretoomuchpod.comCreated, Produced, Hosted & Edited by: Randi JohnsMusic by: Tefty & Meems

Hi, I’m Randi Johns, and if I had a nickel for every time I have heard, “you care too much..." Instead of heeding advice to give fewer fucks, I decided to double down on caring and start a podcast dedicated to elevating the voices of purpose-drivers, world-changers, and all those who reject the status quo, advocate for, and create ways to better the lives of many. I invite you to join me as I explore the stories behind cool humans doing great things. We will not only learn about their purposes or causes, but uncover and celebrate the "whys" behind what they do and who they are.However it is that you found your way over here to listen, I am happy to have your ears, hearts, and curiosity, while we create and connect through a community of people, like you, who give a fuck.Let's connect! Subscribe to "You Care Too Much" and follow us on Instagram and Twitter.