Lead Through Strengths
co-hosted with lisa cummings
Welcome to the Lead Through Strengths podcast!
In every episode, you’ll enjoy an honest, unscripted conversation between Lisa & Brea – friends, fellow CliftonStrengths coaches, and your podcast co-hosts. You will learn, laugh, and leave with practical ways to lead through Strengths.
Available wherever you listen to podcasts. New episodes drop every-other Sunday. Click below to listen & subscribe!
New Episode
|
LISTEN NOW
|
New Episode | LISTEN NOW |
164. Goal Setting With Your Strengths
Feb 2, 2025
Does setting and getting goals light you up and get you groovin? Or maybe you’re not a big fan? Either way, this episode focuses on how to set yourself up for success – by using your Strengths, of course!
We believe that when you approach goal setting through the lens of your individual talents, it not only makes the process more enjoyable but also opens up a whole new realm of possibilities that you might not have considered before.
Tune in for personal anecdotes and insights about how leveraging your strengths can transform your goals from mundane tasks into inspiring challenges. We discuss the importance of having a solid action plan and the value of check-ins to keep you on track. Plus, we emphasize that even if a goal feels outside your natural strengths, you can still use your unique talents to achieve it.
So, whether you're looking to set a Big Hairy Audacious Goal or just want to make your bed every day (no judgment here!), this episode is packed with tips and strategies to help you set it and get it! 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
EPISODE LIST
163. Do You Nurture Your Nature
Jan 19, 2025
Did you know that frustration and burnout can often mean your talents are ‘hangry’. In today's episode, we dive into the delightful concept of nurturing your nature!
Life can be tough, and we all know that adulting isn't just a walk in the park. That’s why we discuss the importance of not just using your strengths, but actively nurturing and developing them to unlock their full potential.
You’ll hear us chat about the nuances of nurturing your talents, the idea of nourishing them like a well-cooked meal, and how to create opportunities for your strengths to thrive. We even share some personal reflections on our own talents and how we are intentional about feeding them.
So, if you’ve ever felt like your talents are a bit hangry or underutilized, this episode is for you! Join us as we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on how you can start nurturing your nature today. 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
162. Taking Time For Yourself
Dec 29, 2024
Maybe you're a super-planner (like Lisa), whose calendar resembles a game of ‘time Tetris’. Or maybe you’re a little more free-flowing, and “plan to be spontaneous” (like Brea). No matter how you do it, taking time to prioritize your well-being is essential.
In this episode, you’ll hear us discuss the importance of setting boundaries and making intentional choices about how you spend your time. We share our personal experiences and strategies, like booking vacations and massages, as well as creating those precious moments of spontaneity that can truly rejuvenate your spirit.
We even touch on our VIP Day offerings, where you can take a deep dive into your goals and aspirations with us as your guides. So, if you’ve been feeling the weight of life’s demands, this episode is your reminder to take a step back, breathe, and invest in yourself.
So, grab your planner (or just your favorite cozy blanket), silence the distractions. Take this time for YOU!🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
161. Will My CliftonStrengths Change?
Dec 15, 2024
People are always asking us, “Will my CliftonStrengths change?” and “Should I retake the assessment?”
Since these questions are really two sides of the same coin, the short answer to both is the same: probably not. For the longer answer, be sure to listen in as we explore if/when to retake, and how to get the most from your CliftonStrengths results. 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
160. Are Strengths Nature or Nurture?
Dec 1, 2024
We hear it all 👏🏻 the 👏🏽time 👏🏿: “Are strengths nature or nurture?”
In today's episode, we weigh in with our opinions on whether our strengths and talents are hardwired into our DNA or shaped by our environment and experiences. And, spoiler alert…we don’t always agree. 🫣
If you wonder about the interplay between your natural talents and the influences around you, this episode is for you.
You’ll enjoy some fun metaphors and personal anecdotes about the impact of childhood experiences and how understanding our nature can help us navigate our environments more effectively. 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
159. Can You Be Anything You Want?
November 17, 2024
Throughout our lives, many of us have been told we could become anything we want. Unfortunately, without understanding our natural talents and motivations, this belief can set us up to pursue goals that may not align with our true selves and capabilities.
That’s why we look to our talents: to understand our true desires, and align our aspirations with our strengths.
By embracing the strength-based mindset of becoming more of who you already are, you can achieve meaningful growth that aligns with your most authentic self. This approach fosters a healthier relationship with your aspirations, reduces pressure, and ultimately leads to greater happiness and success. 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
158. Believe In Yourself
November 3, 2024
From time to time, everyone struggles to believe in themselves. Especially when faced with challenges and changes in their lives. Too often, this doubt can lead to feelings of inadequacy, and hold us back from the growth we desire.
That’s why we look to our talents: to identify and question limiting beliefs, so we can shift our mindset to take actionable steps toward our goals, no matter how unattainable they may seem.
As always, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to help you believe in yourself and take those next steps on your journey of development and growth. 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
157. Appreciation & Recognition
October 20, 2024
We all know how good it is to feel valued at work. But, as a manager, is it worth the time and expense? And how can we ensure that our recognition resonates?
In today's episode, we dive into the powerful world of appreciation and recognition! We emphasize the importance of understanding individual preferences when it comes to appreciation, because what resonates with one person might not connect with another.
So, whether you're a manager or just someone looking to spread a little positivity, this episode is packed with insights and actionable ideas to help you create a culture of recognition in your workplace and beyond! 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
156. How To Get In Flow
October 6, 2024
Let’s dive deep into the concept of flow, that magical state where time seems to disappear and creativity flows effortlessly. Lisa & I share our personal experiences with flow—what it looks like for us, and the unique ways we prepare for those moments. You’ll hear us discuss the importance of creating space in your life, whether that means blocking off time in your schedule or setting the right environment with candles and epic soundtracks.
We also explore the difference between being in flow and simply being focused, and how understanding your own strengths can help you find your flow more often. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to get into that sweet spot of productivity and creativity, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to help you discover your own flow state. Get ready to embrace the freedom to flow! 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
155. Discovering Strengths At Home
September 29, 2024
Whether on a trip to Vegas, family reunion, or navigating the mountain’s edge, our strengths are there every step of the way. The question is, are they guiding, protecting, and supporting you? Or are they getting in the way, causing conflict and confusion?
If you're dealing with a frustrating situation at home, or just want to bring a little more joy into your relationships, this episode is packed with insights and tips to help you embrace your strengths in every aspect of life! 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
154. Rethinking Time Management
September 22, 2024
“Where did the time go?” “If only I had more time!” We’ve all been there. We believe time is our most valuable resource. Unfortunately, this often leads to overwhelm and guilt when our “to do” list keeps growing, and discouragement creeps in.
Is time truly our most valuable resource? What if there’s more to time management than meets the eye?
If you’re looking for productivity hacks or time management tips – this episode is for you. 🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
153. You’re So Good At That!
September 15, 2024
Receiving compliments is difficult for most of us. But what if I told you compliments could be clues to your greatest talents? Areas where you see natural glimpses of excellence are actually your greatest areas of potential.
So, get ready to embrace your inner rock star! It’s time to let your strengths shine.🌟
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
152. Doing What You Love
September 8, 2024
"They" say we spend over 30% of our life at work. For some of us over-achieving, workaholics burning the candle at both ends, that percentage is likely even higher.
If we're spending over a third of our lives working, shouldn't we love what we do? We think so! That's why this week's episode is about another one of the "5 Clues to Talent": Satisfaction.
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
151. How Did You Do That?
September 1, 2024
Recognizing what comes easy to you can clue you into your talent, lead to a deeper understanding of your strengths, and make hard work feel a little more easy-breezy.
Join us for this episode on the 2nd “Clue to Talent”: Rapid Learning.
Listen to the Full Episode | Read Episode Notes
150. What Do You Really, Really Want?
August 25, 2024
What do the Spice Girls, double rainbows, and pursuing our dreams all have in common? Yearning.
If you're someone who is looking to tap into your inner desires and explore what you really want out of life, this episode is for you.
Inspired by Gallup’s “Five Clues to Talent”, Lisa & Brea explore how our dreams and desires can clue us in to our hidden talents.
Listen to the Full Episode
149. What To Expect When You Take the CliftonStrengths Assessment
August 18, 2024
Are you getting ready to take the CliftonStrengths assessment? This episode is for you! Lisa & I have facilitated tens of thousands of these bad boys. So, we share the ins and outs of ‘what to know before you go’ - CliftonStrengths edition.
As always, you’re in for lots of laughs, personal anecdotes, and practical tips. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in!
Listen to the Full Episode
148. How to Pick a Coach
August 11, 2024
So, you’re ready to engage with a coach. Awesome! But there are SO many different coaches out there. How in the world do you choose? Lisa and Brea are here to help clear through the confusion and get you on the right path.
This episode is all about how to choose the coach that’s right for you, right now. Listen in as Brea & Lisa discuss what to look for in a coach, the different types of coaches available, the importance of finding a good fit, and more. If you're considering working with a coach, this episode will give you some great insights and advice.
Listen to the Full Episode
147. Getting Coached
August 4, 2024
If you're curious about coaching or looking to make a positive change in your life, this episode is for you!
Gallup says over 80% of people who discover their CliftonStrengths do NOTHING after taking the assessment. What a shame. We know awareness of our strengths is necessary for growth, but awareness alone doesn’t create change. You must put the knowledge into practice.
Coaching has a powerful impact on our lives. That's why, in this episode, we discuss the 'next step' of working with a coach. Listen in as we share some of our personal experiences working with a coach, practical tips on how to engage with a coach, and even how to improve your own self-coaching.
Listen to the Full Episode
146. Your First Strengths Experience
July 28, 2024
In this episode, Lisa & Brea discuss how they were introduced to the wonderful world of Strengths, and how it impacted their personal and professional lives.
Lisa discusses how reading "First Break All the Rules" as a manager changed her perspective on her team members and led her to appreciate their unique strengths.
Brea remembers how taking the assessment as a freshman in college provided her with language to articulate and appreciate her unique qualities that were often misunderstood or undervalued.
The co-hosts emphasize the importance of understanding and valuing the strengths of others, even if they differ from our own. They encourage listeners to explore all 34 talent themes and appreciate the value each one brings.
Listen to the Full Episode
145. Meet Your Hosts
July 21, 2024
What do Malbec wine, Kansas City, and dancing in the rain have in common? It’s Brea!
Listen in to meet Brea Roper, the new co-host of the Lead Through Strengths Podcast, with Lisa Cummings.