EducationSelf-Improvement

Shine A Light

Christine Miles

Shine A Light with Christine Miles is a leadership podcast about the power of listening. Hosted by keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder of The Listening Path, Christine shares practical tools and interviews with powerful communicators to help leaders ask better questions, listen to understand, and make people feel truly heard. When you shine a light, clarity emerges, culture strengthens, and performance follows.

Play

Open in

20 episodes
weekly
Avg 47 min
English

Episodes 20

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

#43
Wednesday · 52 min
Pt 1: Breaking Free From the Patterns We Inherit with Dr. Traci Arends | #43
What if the patterns holding you back today began long before you ever had a chance to choose them? In this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Traci Arends, founder of She Fully Alive, to explore how childhood experiences, family trauma, and inherited expectations shape the way we show up in our adult lives. Drawing from her own journey through grief, difficult relationships, and years of personal transformation, Traci shares how she learned to recognize old patterns, rebuild her confidence, and create a more intentional life. Together, Christine and Traci unpack the power of self-awareness, the importance of setting boundaries without resentment, and why healing requires us to actually feel our emotions rather than avoid them. In this conversation, you'll discover: How childhood experiences and generational trauma influence adult relationships. Why self-awareness and quiet reflection can help you break familiar patterns. How to set boundaries, practice self-compassion, and make space for grief. Why understanding your past doesn't mean excusing the pain it caused. You can't change the story you inherited, but you can change what you carry forward. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about healing, reconnecting with yourself, and creating a healthier legacy for the generations to come.
#42
October 21 · 53 min
The Best Digital Future Starts Offline with Emily Cherkin | #42
In this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Emily Cherkin, M.Ed., The Screentime Consultant, former middle school teacher, and advocate for more intentional technology use in education. Emily is leading the fight for a Tech-Intentional™ childhood. After witnessing how screens transformed hernclassroom—and experiencing firsthand how a traumatic brain injury affected her own ability to process visual stimulation—Emily became an unexpected activist, challenging schools to rethink their reliance on educational technology and put children's needs first. In this episode, you'll discover: ● Why less screen time can mean more learning: How hands-on experiences, human connection, and real-world problem-solving help children build essential skills. ● The difference between teaching technology and teaching through technology: Why schools should question whether digital tools are effective, safe, legal, and truly better than a human educator. ● How parents can lead by example: Practical ways to rethink screen habits, set boundaries, and help children build healthier relationships with technology. Technology isn't going away—but we can be more intentional about how and when we use it. Emily challenges parents, educators, and leaders to question the status quo, protect the human side of learning, and remember that when we know better, we can do better. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about raising capable, connected kids in a screen-saturated world—and why sometimes, moving forward means getting back to basics. Connect with Emily Cherkin: Website: https://thescreentimeconsultant.com Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#41
October 14 · 48 min
The Leadership Skill That Changes Everything with Olga Yakimakho | #41
What if the most powerful thing a leader could do is stop talking and start listening? In this episode of Shine the Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Olga Yakimakho, a global leader in organizational effectiveness, talent development, and leadership strategy, to explore how curiosity, empathy, and human connection can transform the way we lead. From growing up in the former Soviet Union to working across more than 30 countries, Olga shares how her global experiences—and the deeply personal challenge of navigating her young son's rare heart condition and transplant—reshaped her perspective on leadership, resilience, and what truly matters. In this episode, you'll discover: ● Why active listening and curiosity are essential to leading people from different backgrounds and experiences. ● How vulnerability and life-changing experiences can reshape your leadership philosophy and priorities. ● Why the best leaders stay open to learning, challenge assumptions, and invest in the unique talents of others. Leadership isn't about having all the answers or commanding the room. It's about seeing people as human beings, understanding their stories, and creating the conditions for them to thrive. Tune in for a powerful reminder that the best way to lead others is to stay curious, listen deeply, and never stop learning. Connect with Olga Yakimakho: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olga-yakimakho/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#40
October 7 · 53 min
The Superpower of Reaching Out with John Doran | #40
What if the life you're looking for begins when you stop trying to control it? What if the biggest thing holding you back as a leader isn't your ability—it's the authority you're unintentionally giving away? What if one simple act—reaching out—could change the course of a life? In this heartfelt conversation, educator and wellbeing advocate John Doran shares the lessons that have shaped his three decades in education, from a father who taught him about possibility to mentors who showed him the power of believing in others. He explores why genuine connection, emotional intelligence, curiosity, and gratitude may matter more than ever in a world increasingly shaped by technology and AI. Together, Christine and John explore: ● Why reaching out is a superpower—and how a simple message or conversation can open unexpected doors. ● The power of emotional intelligence and listening, especially as young people prepare for a rapidly changing world. ● Why educators are "magic makers" who often plant seeds without ever knowing when—or if—they will see the impact. ● The importance of gratitude, and why we should give people their flowers while they can still smell them. ● How curiosity can break down barriers and help us find common ground with people who see the world differently. John's message is ultimately about possibility: slow down, listen deeply, notice people, and have the courage to make the first move. You never know what ripple your words—or your kindness—might create. Connect with John Doran: Website: https://4schools.examcraftgroup.ie/author/john-doran Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#39
September 30 · 48 min
From Top Performer to Great Leader with Ashley Rudolph | #39
What happens when being great at your job is no longer enough to be great at leading others? Ashley Rudolph went from individual contributor to VP in just five years, leading multimillion-dollar deals and teams of more than 250 people. But her fastest growth came with some of her hardest lessons, including learning how to lead someone who once outranked her, stop micromanaging, and shift from an executor mindset to an executive one. In this episode, Ashley and Christine explore: • Why being a high performer does not automatically make you a great leader • How friction at work can be a signal that you are ready for growth • Why relationships are the foundation of leading without authority • How self-reflection can transform your leadership style • Why the right role, industry, timing, and relationships can completely change your career trajectory Your next level may not require working harder. It may require stepping back, listening differently, and getting honest about what you really want.
#38
September 23 · 55 min
Are You Giving Away Your Authority? with Leigh Toomey | #38
What if the life you're looking for begins when you stop trying to control it? What if the biggest thing holding you back as a leader isn't your ability—it's the authority you're unintentionally giving away? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Leigh Toomey, founder and CEO of Lead Her Ship Educational Solutions, to unpack the subtle ways women can undermine their own authority without even realizing it. Drawing on more than 25 years across education, nonprofit, and business, Leigh explores why women often feel they need one more certification, one more accomplishment, or one more title before they're truly ready to lead—and why that mindset can keep them stuck. Together, Christine and Leigh explore: ● The hidden ways women "leak" authority: From people-pleasing to how we communicate, frame ideas, and carry ourselves in the room. ● Why you don't need the title to be a leader: If you're already doing the work, waiting for someone to validate your leadership can keep you from recognizing the authority you already have. ● Delegation as a leadership skill: How learning to delegate intentionally can reduce exhaustion, strengthen teams, and ultimately help shift organizational culture. ● Imposter syndrome and worthiness: Why confidence isn't always the issue—and how the feeling that you need to continually prove yourself can quietly hold you back. Leigh's message is not about becoming someone you're not. It's about taking a closer look at where you've been giving your power away—and making intentional choices to reclaim it. You don't have to wait until you feel completely ready to lead. Sometimes, the first step is simply recognizing that you're already doing it. Connect with Leigh Toomey: Website: https://leadhershipeducationalsolutions.com/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#37
September 16 · 51 min
Stop Fixing Your Teen with Ashley Radzat | #37
What if the best way to help your teenager is to stop solving their problems for them? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine talks with educator, teen coach, and author Ashley Radzat about the often misunderstood "third stage" of parenting, when kids move from childhood toward independence and everything that worked before suddenly stops working. Ashley explains why the teen years are a critical period of brain development, identity formation, and separation from parents, and how our instinct to protect and problem-solve can actually undermine a teenager's confidence and sense of capability. They explore: • Why teens need parents to shift from being the "pilot" to being the coach • How natural consequences help kids develop confidence and problem-solving skills • Why parents need to regulate their own emotions before they can help their teens regulate theirs • How focusing on "what works" can change the way parents and teens communicate If you're raising a teenager, working with teens, or simply trying to build healthier relationships, this conversation offers a hopeful reminder: sometimes giving someone space to figure things out is the most powerful way to show up for them.
#36
September 9 · 55 min
What If You Stopped Controlling Everything? with Tim Shields | #36
What if the life you're looking for begins when you stop trying to control it? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with writer, storyteller, and intentional-creation advocate Tim Shields for a fascinating conversation about consciousness, energy, and the stories we tell ourselves. Tim shares how a lifetime of curiosity, meditation, travel, and unexpected experiences led him to question the narratives that shape our reality—and ultimately to embrace a more intentional way of moving through the world. Together, Christine and Tim explore: ● The stories that quietly run our lives: How early experiences can create conditioning that feels like truth, even when it may simply be a story we've learned to believe. ● Getting out of your head and into your life: Tim explains how meditation helped him reconnect with his body and become more aware of what was happening beneath the constant noise of the mind. ● Letting go of control: From traveling alone through unfamiliar places to embracing uncertainty, Tim shares why some of life's most meaningful experiences happen when we stop trying to dictate exactly how things unfold. ● Intentional creation: Tim describes his approach to becoming more deliberate about what you want, how you think, and how you show up in the world. This is a conversation about curiosity, courage, and the possibility that the answers we're searching for aren't always somewhere out in the world—they may begin by becoming quiet enough to hear ourselves. If you're ready to question an old story, loosen your grip on control, or simply become more intentional about the life you're creating, this conversation with Tim offers plenty to sit with. Connect with Tim Sheilds: Website: https://timshields.com/author/photoacademy/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#35
September 2 · 51 min
What If Leadership Felt Like an Adventure? with Jen Recla | #35
What if becoming a better leader had less to do with having all the answers—and more to do with embracing the adventure? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Jen Recla, leadership coach, trainer, and founder of Recla Coaching and Consulting, to explore what it really takes to lead through uncertainty, change, and growth. With more than 15 years of experience in leadership development and organizational growth, Jen shares how her own experiences of being thrown into leadership—and learning along the way—shaped her approach to helping leaders build confidence, connection, and high-performing teams. Together, Christine and Jen explore: ● Why so many leaders are asked to lead before they're actually prepared—and how coaching, mentoring, and support can change that experience. ● The power of fun, adventure, and curiosity in leadership, especially when navigating uncertainty and difficult conversations. ● Why vulnerability and sharing the messy parts of success matter, reminding us that growth rarely happens in a straight line. ● How leaders can move beyond simply managing people to creating teams that are engaged, resilient, and ready to grow. Jen brings an honest and refreshing perspective to leadership: you don't have to have it all figured out to make an impact. Sometimes the most meaningful growth happens when you're willing to embrace the uncertainty, learn from what doesn't work, and keep moving forward. Connect with Jen Recla: Website: https://www.jenrecla.com/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#34
August 26 · 48 min
Is AI Making Us Less Creative? with Leslie Grandy | #34
What if our obsession with getting faster answers is actually costing us our best ideas? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with Leslie Grandy, author of Creative Velocity: Propelling Breakthrough Ideas in the Age of Generative AI, for a thought-provoking conversation about creativity, innovation, and the role AI should—and shouldn't—play in our thinking. Leslie challenges the idea that creativity belongs only to naturally "creative" people and shares practical ways to build the creative muscle, challenge the status quo, and use AI to expand our thinking rather than replace it. Together, Christine and Leslie explore: Why exploration matters more than speed when solving problems—and what we lose when we rush to an answer. How to use AI as a creative partner, including frameworks like SCAMPER to push beyond predictable answers and explore new possibilities. Why we shouldn't outsource our creativity to AI, and how human context, judgment, values, and imagination remain essential. How organizations can use generative AI not just for efficiency, but for ideation, imagination, and innovation—while helping their people feel elevated rather than threatened by the technology. If you've ever felt like you're "not creative," or wondered how to keep your human ingenuity alive in an increasingly AI-driven world, this conversation offers a powerful reframe: creativity isn't something to outsource—it's a muscle worth strengthening. Connect with Leslie Grandy: Website: https://www.lesliegrandy.com/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#33
August 19 · 44 min
The Patterns That Run Your Life with Chuck Wisner | #33
What if the patterns you rely on every day are quietly shaping your relationships, leadership, and results? In this episode, host Christine Miles sits down with Chuck Wisner, author of The Art of Conscious Conversations, to explore how the behaviors we develop early in life can follow us into the workplace—and how awareness can be the first step toward changing them. Chuck shares how recognizing our patterns, understanding the needs beneath our reactions, and creating psychological safety can transform difficult conversations and relationships. In this episode, you'll discover: ● How unconscious patterns influence the way we lead and communicate ● Why awareness can be the first step toward meaningful change ● How vulnerability and psychological safety create better conversations ● Why slowing down can ultimately help you move faster Chuck and Christine explore what happens when we replace judgment with curiosity and approach conversations with an "open hand" instead of a "fist." If you're ready to understand your patterns, communicate with greater intention, and build stronger relationships, this conversation is a powerful place to start. Connect with Chuck Wisner Website: ChuckWisner.com Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#32
August 12 · 42 min
Stop Doing It All Yourself with Elizabeth Lawler | #32
What if asking for help isn't a weakness—but one of the smartest things you can do? In this episode, host Christine Miles sits down with entrepreneur and innovator Elizabeth Lawler to explore the power of letting go, building better support networks, and recognizing when doing everything yourself is holding you back. After years of building successful technology companies—including ventures acquired by major public companies—Elizabeth shares the personal pivot that changed how she approached work, leadership, and life. In this episode, you'll discover: ● Why asking for help can be a strength, not a weakness ● How to build stronger personal and professional support networks ● Why handing things over can create better outcomes for everyone ● What happens when we stop measuring our worth by everything we do Elizabeth's story is a powerful reminder that success doesn't have to mean carrying every responsibility yourself. Tune in for a candid conversation about vulnerability, community, delegation, and creating a life where you have room to thrive. Connect with Elizabeth Lawler: Website: https://drelizabethlawler.com/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#17
August 5 · 42 min
Stop Chasing the Wrong Success with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer | #31
In this eye-opening episode, host Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer to unpack the truth about human capital, leadership, and why so many high-achievers feel unfulfilled. Drawing from decades of experience in behavioral science and leadership development, Dr. Cynthia explains how our unique talents—shaped by life experiences, not just learned skills—hold the key to meaningful success. Together, they explore how people often "box themselves in" by chasing titles, status, or expectations that don't align with who they truly are. Key Takeaways: Why your natural talents matter more than learned skills How chasing titles can lead to misalignment and burnout The critical difference between wanting success—and wanting the right success If you've ever felt stuck in a role that looks good on paper but feels wrong in practice, this conversation will challenge you to rethink your path. 🎧 Tune in and start aligning your work with who you really are. Connect with the Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer: Website: https://www.dr-cynthia.com/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#30
July 29 · 38 min
Why Connection Changes Everything with Dr. Suzanne Simpson | #30
In this episode, host Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Suzanne Simpson to explore the profound impact of secure attachment on how we show up in life, work, and relationships. Drawing from her experience as an educator and mental health professional, Dr. Simpson shares how early connection shapes behavior—and how awareness, empathy, and accountability can help us rewrite those patterns. From navigating "toxic" workplace dynamics to raising emotionally secure children, this conversation offers a powerful lens on human behavior and healing. Key Takeaways: Why secure attachment is the foundation of confidence and connection How to respond with empathy without losing personal responsibility The balance between compassion and boundaries in relationships If you've ever struggled to understand someone's behavior—or your own—this episode will challenge you to look deeper, respond differently, and build stronger, more meaningful connections. Connect with Dr. Suzanne Simpson Website: https://www.drsuzannesimpson.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsuzannesimpson/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#29
July 22 · 44 min
Why You're Being Ignored with Jake Stahl | #29
What if you're not being overlooked because you're bad—but because you're forgettable? In this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Jake Stahl, CEO, author, and communication strategist, to unpack the hidden psychology behind influence and first impressions. With over 30 years of experience training thousands of professionals, Jake shares why most people fail to truly connect—and how understanding the "second profile" (the real decision-maker behind every person) can completely transform the way you communicate. From decoding nonverbal signals to mastering presence, this conversation dives into what it really takes to be seen, heard, and remembered in any room. In This Episode: Why people get ignored—and how to become unforgettable The power of nonverbal signals and hidden buying cues How to speak to the real decision-maker behind every interaction You don't need to be louder or more polished—you just need to connect in a way that actually lands. Because the moment you learn to truly see people... is the moment they start to see you. Connect with Jake Stahl Website: www.orchestraight.com Book: https://www.amazon.com/Own-Room-Communicate-Heard-Respected/dp/1968318259 Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/own-the-room-how-to-control-perception-read-the-room/id1800525151 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakestahl/ Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#28
July 15 · 50 min
Change Your Words, Change Your Life with Christy Whitman | #28
What if the life you're living today is being shaped by the words you speak every day? In this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles welcomes transformational leader, two-time New York Times bestselling author, and energy expert Christy Whitman for an inspiring conversation about the connection between our thoughts, emotions, and the reality we create. From the heartbreaking loss of her sister to discovering meditation and building a life dedicated to helping others, Christy shares the pivotal moments that transformed her perspective—and the practical tools anyone can use to live with more purpose, peace, and joy. Together, they explore how shifting your mindset isn't about ignoring life's challenges—it's about choosing a response that keeps you moving toward the life you truly want. In This Episode: How your thoughts and words shape your daily experience The difference between living in lack and living in abundance Why self-compassion is the bridge to resilience and personal growth Practical ways to create more flow, peace, and intention in everyday life Three simple questions that can change the way you make decisions forever No matter where you are in your journey, this conversation is a reminder that every moment offers a new choice—and every choice has the power to create a different future. Because when you change the conversation within, you begin to change the life around you. Connect with Christy Whitman Website: https://christywhitman.com Free Resource: https://watchyourwords.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristyWhitman Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#27
July 8 · 35 min
The Secret to Sustainable Success with Victoria Mensch | #27
What if happiness isn't waiting at the finish line—but hidden in the small moments along the way? In this inspiring episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Dr. Victoria Mensch, Founder and CEO of the Silicon Valley Executive Academy, to explore why the world's most innovative leaders aren't just building better technology—they're building better lives. Drawing from her unique journey from psychology to Silicon Valley leadership, Dr. Mensch shares her powerful Microjoy Method, a practical approach to preventing burnout, embracing change, and rediscovering the moments that truly make life meaningful. In This Episode: Why achieving your biggest goals doesn't guarantee happiness The surprising power of "microjoys" in creating resilience and fulfillment How innovation, emotional intelligence, and human connection drive lasting success Why learning to enjoy the process matters more than reaching the destination If you've ever felt exhausted by chasing the next achievement or wondered how to thrive through constant change, this conversation will leave you inspired to redefine success on your own terms. Sustainable success starts with one small moment of joy. Connect with Dr. Victoria Mensch: Website: https://svexecutive.academy LinkedIn: Victoria Mensch Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#26
July 1 · 44 min
The Leadership Skill Everyone Overlooks | #26
What if the most powerful leadership strategy isn't having the right answers—but helping people feel seen? In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with talent and learning executive Eileen MacDonald Cooke to explore how empathy, curiosity, and honest conversations transform workplaces. Drawing from her experience leading learning and development initiatives for organizations like Amtrak and CVS Health, Eileen shares why understanding employees' worlds—not just managing performance—is the key to lasting organizational success. In this episode, you'll discover: Why employees perform better when they feel seen and understood How leaders can navigate difficult conversations with honesty and empathy The hidden challenges facing frontline workers—and how organizations can better support them Why learning and development should focus on performance, not just training Practical ways to create a culture where people want to grow Whether you lead a team of five or an organization of thousands, this conversation offers practical insights that will change how you think about leadership, learning, and human connection. Because the best leaders don't just solve problems—they understand people first. Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#25
June 24 · 47 min
The Crash That Changed Everything with Ryan Brad | #25
One split-second decision changed Ryan Brady's life forever—and led him to discover a purpose far bigger than himself. In this powerful episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with international speaker, TEDx mentor, and podcast host Ryan Brady to explore how surviving a traumatic brain injury at 17 reshaped his view of life, purpose, and possibility. Ryan shares the devastating car accident that left him in a coma, the long road to recovery, and the unexpected lessons that led him to the TEDx stage before the age of 22. Together, they discuss the power of curiosity, resilience, storytelling, and why asking for helpcan accelerate growth in ways we never expect. In This Episode: How a near-fatal accident became the foundation for Ryan's mission The surprising role curiosity played in rebuilding his life What rejection taught him about achieving big goals Why storytelling has the power to change behavior and save lives The ripple effect of sharing your message with the world This conversation is a reminder that our greatest challenges often contain the seeds of our greatest purpose—and that one courageous conversation can change everything. Connect with Ryan Brady LinkedIn: Ryan Brady Instagram: @ryan.w.brady Podcast: Speaking to Expand Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com
#24
June 17 · 48 min
The Audacity to Start Again with Erika Rothenberger | #24
One ordinary morning, Erika Rothenberger walked into work and came face to face with a life-changing act of violence that forced her to rethink everything. In this powerful conversation, Erika shares how surviving a brutal random assault became the catalyst for a deeper transformation. From overcoming trauma and rebuilding confidence to becoming an advocate, author, speaker, and leader in a male-populated industry, she reveals what it truly means to live an audacious life on your own terms. You'll hear how resilience is built long before you need it, why your inner circle matters more than you think, and how small daily habits can create extraordinary change. In this episode: • The 3-3-30 method for building confidence and intention • How to move from survival mode to purpose-driven living • Why healing begins when you stop hiding your story • The surprising connection between gratitude, resilience, and growth • What "audacious" really means and why it looks different for everyone Erika's story is a reminder that life's hardest moments do not have to define you. Sometimes the greatest expansion begins after the biggest setback. If you're navigating a challenge, carrying an old wound, or feeling called to something bigger, this conversation will remind you that courage is not about having no fear. It's about choosing to move forward anyway. Connect with Erika Rothenberger: Website: https://www.erikarothenberger.com

Showing 1–20 of 20 episodes