Make It Happen

Episode Overview With life's constant challenges, building up your resilience reserves can make all the difference. In today’s MiniCast, I share my 3 favorite strategies to boost your mental and emotional strength which will aid you in tackling issues like overwhelm, fear of failure, lack of confidence, and mental health struggles. Don’t miss it. Key Segments 00:00 Introduction 00:41 Real-life Example 02:25 Statistics and Overwhelm 05:06 Fear of Failure 05:19 Lack of Confidence 11:05 Mental Health Struggles 11:56 Conclusion and Encouragement   I hope this episode gives you the tools and inspiration to start building your resilience reserves today. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show, and join the conversation on social media @speakmichelle I'd love to hear your thoughts and stories about resilience! And if you’re curious about what else affects happiness at home and in the workplace? Check out more of the 2024 State of Happiness Report here.  

Episode Overview In this mini episode, I talk about the pressing issue of why your employees aren’t sticking around. This working pandemic affects businesses across the globe and in just 4 minutes I share effective strategies to reinvigorate your workforce. I talk about understanding the emotional commitment employees have towards their organization and why it is crucial in fostering a productive and committed team. High engagement in employees not only enhances productivity, but it also boosts morale, retention rates, and innovation. Tune in as I discuss practical tips for leaders to create a thriving workplace culture. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: The Current State of Employee Engagement 00:22 Challenges Affecting Employee Engagement 01:35 Impact of Mental Wellness and Sense of Purpose 02:05 Actionable Tips for Leaders 02:46 Benefits of Live Events and Mentorship 03:13 Importance of Managerial Influence 03:42 Additional Research Insights 04:00 Closing Remarks Curious about what else affe

Episode Summary Join me in today’s episode where Lois Creamer, a renowned speaker and consultant in the speaking industry, and I have a conversation on the art of monetizing your message and the strategies that can transform speaking engagements into lucrative opportunities.  Lois dives deep into current trends affecting the speaking industry, emphasizing the importance of video content and virtual presentations, Lois's early interactions with the National Speakers Association (NSA) and her direct approach in helping speakers find their niche. This episode is packed with valuable insights. She also shares highlights from her newly updated book, “Book More Business: Make Money Speaking” which provides crucial advice on navigating modern market challenges. Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction to Lois Creamer 00:17 Initial Meeting and Insights on Positioning 01:01 Lois Creamer's Direct Approach 01:48 Transition to Helping Speakers 02:54 Importance of Niche Audiences 04:45 Current Trends in Speaking Industry 07:44 V

Episode Summary To say that happiness requires an intentional pursuit isn’t new, but today I share insights from the 2024 U.S. State of Happiness Report that validates the idea that happiness requires you to be intentional. I discuss factors that influence happiness, while examining data on generational trends, that provide us with actionable steps to build connections and joy in everyday life. I share research that shows how Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers view happiness differently. It’s a good one!   Key Points Discussed in This Episode:  00:00 Introduction 00:05 U.S. Happiness Study 2024 00:57 Universal Happiness Factors 01:32 Generational Differences in Happiness 02:08 Building Connections and Relationships 02:16 Challenges in Adult Relationships 03:06 Work Environment and Happiness 03:25 Intentional Happiness Strategies 04:32 Creating Your Happiness List 05:32 Reflecting on Past Joys 06:09 Adapting Happiness Over Time 07:29 Daily Pursuit of Happiness 07:46 Weekly Challenge and Community Engagemen

Episode Summary In today’s episode, I’m sharing all there is to know about resilience and why it should be considered a critical skill in the workplace, not just a personal trait. I share how resilience impacts productivity, teamwork, employee engagement, and present research findings that debunk the myth that resilience is merely a 'soft skill'.   Key Points Discussed in This Episode:  00:00 The Rollerblading Tale 02:08 Lessons from Embarrassment 03:37 Resilience in Life and Business 03:45 Research Findings on Resilience 05:51 Recommendations for Organizations 07:36 Training Methods for Resilience 10:08 The Importance of a Resilient Environment 11:31 Final Words   To learn more about resilience and its role in your life, download the 2024 State of Happiness Report. This comprehensive report includes an infographic and a three-video series about why happiness is a business challenge, complete with strategies to foster a happier and more productive team. Get it all sent straight to your inbox!   And make sure

Episode Summary In today’s quick discussion, I take you back to my first taste of entrepreneurship as a kid. It was a fun experience that got me hooked on the idea of being my own boss. I learned some valuable lessons about money, happiness, and what gives life meaning—lessons that still resonate today. In this episode, I chat about how each of our financial situations affect our feelings, and the connection between a higher income and feeling more fulfilled. I answer the age-old question: “Can money really buy happiness?” with data I pulled from my 2024 State of Happiness Study.  Join me as I discuss ways you can create joy and satisfaction in your life, no matter where you stand financially. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 - Introduction: Childhood Money Memories 01:30 - Money and A Sense of Purpose 02:02 - Financial Stressors in Modern Times 03:08 - Income, Education, and Happiness 03:49 - Finding Purpose Beyond Money 06:39 - The Joy of Giving Back 07:07 - Conclusion: Control Your Happiness   To learn more abou

Today I’m talking about "stretch capacity"—an analogy comparing your ability to handle the stressors and challenges of daily life to the elasticity of rubber bands. Join me as l discuss how everyone has different limits and how these limits are tied to resilience.    Key Points Covered in This Episode:  00:00 Introduction to Stretch Capacity  01:08 The Importance of Resilience  02:50 Impact of Current Events 03:31 Building Resilience Reserves: Three Principles  03:50 Principle 1: Focus on Habits  05:57 Principle 2: Movement  07:36 Principle 3: Practicing Gratitude  11:52 Conclusion and Resources    Call to Action:  If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Share this podcast with friends or colleagues who could benefit from learning about happiness and resilience. For more resources, visit my website https://www.speakmichelle.com/research Follow Me on Social Media:  @SpeakMichelle @bethehappyist

In today’s episode, I’m tackling a pressing issue—why women aren't as happy as men and what we can do about it. In my recent Happiness Research Study I conducted, I uncovered some surprising statistics about the happiness differences between men and women. And in this episode I explore factors contributing to these differences including confidence, career choices, and sense of connection. If you feel your happiness is lacking to that of your male counterparts, this episode is for YOU.   00:00 - Men’s Happiness vs. Women’s 00:23 - Statistical Differences 01:09 - Factors Affecting Happiness 03:51 - The Role of Connection 06:36 - Call to Action   These findings were nothing short of fascinating, and I was thrilled to share more on these insights with Fox 13 The Place earlier this month. Give it a watch and let me know what you think!   And don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for more insightful episodes. If you found this discussion helpful, please share it with your friends and family. Your support helps

In today's episode, I discuss how comparing yourself to others can be a significant hindrance to your happiness and overall well-being. I explore the effects of social comparison, backed by research findings on happiness, and provide practical strategies to reclaim your joy and focus on your own path.   00:00 Introduction to Happiness Research 00:18 Workplace Interactions and Happiness 01:26 Impact of Social Media and Comparison 03:49 Strategies to Reclaim Your Happiness 03:56 Conclusion: Honor Your Path Let's face it - a lot of our happiness is affected by others, or at least perceived to be affected by others. That's what I discovered (and talk about!) in my 2024 State of Happiness research report. It's time we change that and reclaim our happiness.

In today’s episode, I share a personal story that touched me a few years ago about a memorable trip to Disneyland with my dad. He taught me the importance of having a sense of purpose and how it can significantly enhance the satisfaction of life. I share actionable advice to help you create and maintain a sense of purpose in your daily life that will bring you longer lasting joy and happiness.   00:00 - A Disneyland Trip to Remember 02:38 - The Meaning of Life 04:14 - Finding Purpose in Everyday Moments 06:12 - The Crossing Guard with a Difference 08:37 - The Impact of Small Acts 09:14 - Creating Your Own Sense of Purpose Looking for more ways to find happiness? Check out the findings in our groundbreaking happiness and resilience research, and follow along as we share the findings at www.speakmichelle.com/research.

Have you ever encountered someone completely captivated by a newfound hobby? Now, imagine that same devotion, but applied to the pursuit of happiness because that’s where I find myself right now! Eager to share my discoveries with you. My enthusiasm for happiness runs deep, and now, equipped with compelling evidence from my 2024 State of Happiness Study, I am more driven than ever to spread the joy. And that’s precisely what I do in today’s episode!   00:00 - Introduction 00:34 - Personal Background 01:23 - Key Statistics 01:42 - Significance of Happiness 04:10 - Actionable Tips 05:44 - Episode Wrap-up   Feeling inspired to add more happiness to your life? Make sure to subscribe to the podcast for more doable tips backed by actual research!  Remember, happiness is contagious; let's spread it far and wide!  

Join me today as I explore key communication strategies and insights from the book, 'Exactly What to Say' by Phil Jones in today's MiniCast. I recently attended Phil Jones' "Open Book Mastermind" in New York and was blown away by his insights, particularly his emphasis on focusing on one business at a time to foster growth. Phil's book further impressed me with its practical phrases for effective communication, especially in sales environments. His emphasis on simplicity and clarity in business strategy inspired me to streamline my approach and explore new revenue streams. I've since adopted his techniques in my interactions, witnessing positive shifts in my relationships and business endeavors. In this episode, I encourage you to explore resources to enhance your communication and build meaningful connections in all aspects of life. Buy the book here!   00:00 Introduction 00:14 Phil Jones - The Mastermind 00:45 Building the Right Business 02:06 Brand Building and Communication 02:27 Key Communication Phrases

In my book "The HappyIST," I share 30 happy habits for living my happiest life, and today I want to discuss tip number 14: Asking myself, "Should I be frustrated or can I be flexible?" I share an experience where needing to embrace flexibility resulted in a preserved relationship. This principle is applicable in various everyday situations. Listen as I share how to manage your expectations, be kind, and ultimately, opt for flexibility to enhance your happiness, relationships, and personal growth. Let's not just look for the bright side but live there. If you'd like to purchase The HappyIST for yourself, click here! 00:00 Introduction to Happiness Principles 00:15 A Personal Story of Flexibility Over Frustration 01:49 The Moment of Transformation: Choosing Flexibility 03:17 Applying Flexibility in Everyday Life 03:53 The Broader Impact of Choosing Flexibility 06:06 Conclusion: The Path to Living Your Happiest Life

143. MiniCast - Happiness During Challenges In this mini episode, I explore the topic of maintaining happiness through challenging times. I open up about discovering joy amidst adversity and draw from my personal life experiences. There's one story I don't often share and how it taught me invaluable lessons about facing challenges with a positive spirit. Join me as we explore the power of gratitude and personal evolution in times of difficulty. Get ready to be uplifted and find out how to harness happiness, even when the going gets tough. Time Stamps 00:00 Discovering Happiness Through Challenges 00:19 The Power of a Gratitude Journal 01:57 A Shift in Perspective: The Impact of Gratitude 03:19 Gratitude as a Lifelong Practice 04:32 Facing Life's Challenges with Gratitude 05:38 Creative Ways to Practice Gratitude 07:44 The Transformative Power of Focusing on the Positive 08:35 Encouragement to Embrace Gratitude 08:57 Conclusion: The Journey of Happiness and High Performance  

In today’s episode, I dive into creating holiday traditions that set you up for a more joyful and peaceful holiday season. The holidays are a special time for creating lasting memories and connections with loved ones, but they can also bring stress and pressure. In this conversation, we'll explore how to craft the happiest holiday traditions that bring peace and comfort whether you're a holiday enthusiast or not. There's something for everyone in this discussion. We explore three key ideas that will help you this season by intentionally including things that create peace and comfort during the holidays and we talk about finding peace and connection by adapting traditions during tough times. Let's create traditions that bring us joy and comfort, no matter what the season holds. 00:00 The Importance of Holiday Traditions 01:33 Creating Personal Traditions That Matter 02:45 Involving Family and Friends in Your Traditions 05:22 Intentionality in Tradition: Making It Meaningful 06:21 Reflecting and Planning: A P

On this week’s episode of Make It Happen, I sit down with Cheryl Johnson. She breaks down the myths of cooperatives and points out the impact that using cooperatives can bring to communities. Then don’t miss pick my brain where I talk about the usefulness of hashtags.   (00:44) Pick my brain: How do I use Hashtags? Hashtags work on some platforms but not all. Don't use them in Facebook, it hurts you in the algorithm. Most other platforms are good for them.  Social Media Examiner is a great resource for current trends and advice on things such as hashtags.  (04:43) Cheryl Johnson Interview: (06:24) Cheryl talks about how she got involved with cooperatives.  (07:08) Cooperatives is not socialism like many people think it’s more about bringing people together.  (08:15) Michelle talks about how Cheryl is good at listening and creating a space that is safe for people to discuss views and social topics respectfully. (09:28) Cheryl says at the core of communications with others when talking views should be empath

Becky Kemp is a speaker, author, and life coach. Today on Make It Happen she talks about the power of word choice, and how changing certain words in our vocabulary can change our lives. Then I give a few of my favorite power words.   (00:58) Favorite Things: Books “Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World” by Kristen Welch “Raising World Changers in a Changing World” by Kristen Welch “Your New Playlist” by John Acuff  Podcast show with John Acuff: https://www.speakmichelle.com/make-it-happen-podcast/105   (03:47) Becky Kemp Interview:  (04:10) Becky is a speaker, author, and life coach.  (05:50) Becky struggled in the past with negative self-talk weighing her down. (07:14) “Change your words and it can change your life” was a phrase that came to her while praying and she let this phrase take her on a journey that changed her life.  (09:45) Michelle asks Becky about her philosophy of the word effect.  (11:25) Our thoughts are what drive how we feel.  (12:26) Be more intentional about how we show up ea

In today's episode, I sat down with Rebecca on Make It Happen and talk about how we can be more confident in this life full of challenges. Then I give a few tips on launching a podcast during pick my brain.   (00:45) Pick my Brain: What are your top 3 tips for launching a podcast? Have at least 6-8 episodes ready upon launch Highly recommend think about your next 20 episodes and have them outlined, most never make it past 10 episodes.  Crystal clear who your audience is   (02:32) Rebecca Haughey Interview:  (02:50) Rebecca Haughey is a confidence coach helps people reach where they want to be. (03:36) Rebecca gives advice of power tools that she uses each day (05:11) Rebecca shares a quote that says “we live in 80% distortion” (06:58) Rebecca shares that once we have thought it brings emotion, we need to weed out facts from stories (10:04) Rebecca talks about feeling feelings first and then move on and move forward (10:58) Be aware because what you can see you can manage (12:54) Rebecca talks about transit

This week’s Make It Happen is a great one. I sit down with Pamela Henrie, and she talks about her success choice system and the planner she created. She gives tips on the different things we can do with our lives to assure we find success. Then I talk about a few of my favorite holiday traditions. (00:48) Pick My Brian: How do you know the difference between plagiarism and repurposing material? When using other material just make sure you attribute the work to that person rather than just taking it and claiming it as yours.    (03:58) Pamela Henry Interview: (04:20) Pamela is a success expert.  (04:43) Pamela talks about what the success choice system and planner that she created (06:05) Pamela felt stuck at one point in her life and wanted to improve her life which took her on a journey.  (08:22) Pamela talks about the importance of everyone’s reasons of why we do things.  (10:34) Pamela talks about importance of daily intentions (11:19) Pamela talks about refinement  (14:08) Pamela talks about routines (

Join me in this week’s episode of Make It Happen episode where I sit down with Ashlee Stratton and talk about growing your business and life passions. Ashlee talks about how to get over the mental game of trying to manage life and the things you are passionate about. Also, I answer this week’s pick my brain that asks how to convince yourself to move forward when in paralysis. (00:32) Pick my Brain: How do I convince myself to move forward if I am in paralysis? Give yourself permission to do some research but give yourself a deadline  Get it started and just try even if you have to tweak as you go You are not alone    Ashlee Stratton Zoom Segment: (04:21) Ashlee is passionate at helping women and moms pursue their dreams (05:57) Michelle asks Ashlee how she got into her passion project? (07:12) Dan Clarks classes changed Ashlee’s life (07:27) Ashlee interviews moms who are going after their goals and starting businesses (09:10) Ashlee shares an experience about Stephen Covey that she had (10:32) Ashlee talk