Episode 97: Lead With Curiosity to Effect Change [featuring Michael Ashford]

How is change truly affected and sustained? This may feel like a big, existential question, but one that is certainly worthy of asking.

During this episode, I talk with Michael Ashford, director of marketing at The Receptionist for iPad.

People need the autonomy to make decisions when change is being illicit-ed, and "facts don't solve fights."

I discuss my former gambling addiction, how hellacious it was, and how I was able to pull myself out of it.

We talk about how you can go from feeling extremely confident to feeling like "I know absolutely nothing" in a matter of moments.

Michael and I discuss failure, our own definitions of it, and how it can sometimes feel like, "The End." I personally think that failure, a dose of humility, and a little bit of self-doubt are absolutely crucial, personally and professionally.

This episode is deep, and we talk about some really profound existential experiences, including the importance of community and connection.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Understand how society often rewards certainty, but true growth and change come from embracing curiosity, approaching challenges with an open mind, seeking out new perspectives, and exploring different solutions.
2. Learn how to reframe failure and imposter syndrome as a learning experience to tap into our resilience and uncover new opportunities for growth.
3. Identify ways to build a network of diverse, supportive, and trusted individuals who can provide feedback, guidance, and support during difficult times.

It takes courage to face failure and impostor syndrome, especially when society tells you to seek certainty and avoid failure. However, if you lead with curiosity, embrace vulnerability and exploration, and welcome changes in your life, you'll be more likely to have greater personal growth and entrepreneurial success.

More about Michael:

Michael Ashford is a communications explorer and a tireless optimist. He has spent years researching leadership, conflict communications, and how to overcome political and social polarization in an effort to chart a path to help us bridge divides, communicate well, and find more common ground. Michael is the Director of Marketing at a Denver-based software company, The Receptionist, as well as a podcaster, a two-time TEDx speaker, and what he calls an "independent journalist" as a shoutout to his former career as a newspaper editor.

Grab a free trial of The Receptionist for iPad, with an extra free month for signing up.

Michael's Website: thereceptionist.com/privatepractice

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Mentioned in this episode:

A Thanks to Our Sponsor, The Receptionist for iPad!

I would also like to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. As you prepare for the new year as a private practice owner, one area of your business where you might be able to level up your client experience is from the moment that they enter your office and check in with you. For many private practices, the client check-in process can be a bit awkward and confusing. Clients often enter into an empty waiting room. And chances are you're wrapping up a session with someone else, so there's no way of knowing when they arrive. With a visitor management system like The Receptionist for iPad, you can provide clients with a discreet and secure way to check in for their appointment while instantly being notified of their arrival. What's more, The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check i...