The Optimized Mind

Latest Episodes:

Exploring the Next Chapter with Gina Schaefer Oct 17, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate brings Gina Schaefer back for the one-year anniversary of the show. This is particularly special as Gina was Dr. Kate’s very first interview on the podcast.

The discussion focuses on Gina’s next chapter after retiring from two decades at the helm of 13 hardware stores in the greater Washington, DC area. Dr, Kate and Gina take a deep dive into the lessons learned through building a successful hardware business focused on human potential and doing good in the community. The conversation also focused on Gina’s plans moving forward and the ways in which she will continue to focus on fostering human potential and giving back in a meaningful way.

Gina Schaefer is the Founder and Co-Owner of 13 hardware stores located in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD, and their suburbs. She and her team of 300 have helped millions of customers shop right where they live, in their urban communities, despite continuous pressure from bigger, stronger competitors.

Gina is a professional speaker and storyteller, engaging audiences on topics that include competing in a male dominated field, building a strong corporate culture, business succession planning, and all things small business.

In her book, Recovery Hardware, Gina chronicles her experiences building a business while learning from non-traditional teachers like folks from the recovery community and returning citizens. She serves as an advocate and spokesperson for causes directly related to raising wages, anti-monopoly legislation and small business development.

She draws her inspiration from fellow entrepreneurs who strive to be creative, think differently and help make a difference. People like Judy Wicks, founder of the White Dog Cafe in Philadelphia who inspired her to use her voice as a force for good; Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig, founders of gourmet food group Zingerman's Community of Businesses in Michigan, from whom Schaefer learned innovative business strategies and Father Gregory Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, who taught her that nonprofit organizations need to think beyond simple charity.

Gina serves as board chair for the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and is a member of CCA Global Partners’ Board of Directors. She spent 9 years on the corporate board of Ace Hardware and 12 with the House of Ruth. She relaxes by making greeting cards (she's a big believer in the power of the written note), kayaking, traveling, and reading.

Gina’s guiding principle comes from a treasured quote “I always wondered when somebody would do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody”.

To learn more about Gina, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-schaefer-56380a8/
@recoveryhardware

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Maximizing Sales with Lisa J Smith Oct 10, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Lisa J. Smith, entrepreneur and founder of Smith Co., a sales consulting company focused on modern midsize B2B businesses. The discussion focuses on the elements of successful sales consulting, with emphasis on mindset and a strong social-emotional foundation. Dr. Kate and Lisa also take a deep dive into the nuances of successful entrepreneurship and the lessons learning through starting a company during COVID-19.

“Lisa J. Smith is the CEO and founder of SMITH co., a sales consulting firm focused on modern midsize B2B businesses. She launched the company in June 2020 as a “COVIDpreneur.” Despite the turbulent economic landscape, she reached six figures in her first year. Having spent 30 years selling B2B services in every economic environment imaginable, Lisa has gained a multitude of diverse experiences. She deeply understands her client’s challenges because she’s been there. SMITH co is in the business of revealing and removing sales obstacles. We believe that shifting your mindset using simple, repeatable processes is the most effective way to increase your revenue and transform your business.”

To learn more about Lisa, visit:
www.smithcous.com

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Take a Shot at Happiness with Maria Baltazzi Oct 03, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Maria Baltazzi, an Emmy-winning TV producer, wellbeing teacher, world traveler, and luxury travel designer specializing in transformative adventures.

The discussion focuses on Maria’s unique perspective on the idea of conscious living and her own path to living consciously as a way to preserve her own sense of well-being. The discussion also focused on Maria’s upcoming book – Take a Shot at Happiness – How to Write, Direct and Produce the Life you Want. The book provides invaluable insight into the idea of how we can all create happiness within our own unique context.

Maria Baltazzi is a Happiness Explorer. Her calling is to help you become happier and live more consciously. Maria's experience as an Emmy-winning TV producer, wellbeing teacher, world traveler, and luxury travel designer specializing in transformative adventures has given her a unique lens into conscious living.

Like all of us, Maria has faced challenges personally and professionally. Instead of letting life setbacks defeat her, Maria was inspired to embark on a life-changing journey where she realized eight Happiness Essentials that create a happier, more fulfilling life. Now, Maria helps you discover your path to happiness in a fun, creative way that combines journaling and phone photography.

Maria holds an MFA in film from ArtCenter College of Design and a PhD in Conscious-Centered Living from the University of Sedona. Additional studies include Mindfulness Meditation Teaching Training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, Primordial Sound Meditation Teacher Training from The Chopra Center, Happiness Studies with Tal Ben-Shahar, Positive Neuroplasticity Training with Rick Hanson, Spiritual Psychology with Ron and Mary Hulnick at the University of Santa Monica, Positive Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, the Science of Happiness at the University of Berkley, and an Inner MBA from MindfulNYU.

In her own happiness journey, Maria finds joy in giving back. She has walked over 7500 miles to raise funds for charity, including marathons on all seven continents, and is still going. Maria's adventurous life has also involved climbing the 15,000-foot trail to Machu Picchu, leading African safaris, making pilgrimages along the Camino de Santiago, summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro twice, and trekking to Everest Base Camp.

Maria has developed and produced shows throughout the world. She was one of

the original supervising producers of the TV mega hit, Survivor.

To learn more about Maria, visit:
@mariabaltazzi
www.mariabaltazzi.com

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Building Mindset with Brian Davidson Part 2 Sep 26, 2023

Show notes

The discussion is a continuation of episode #1 taking a deeper dive into the ways in which we can foster a positive mindset, a sense of resilience and grit, allowing people to maximize potential across domains. Dr. Kate and Dr. Davidson once again examine the nuances of these issues with a keen focus on the importance of a strong locus of control, along with the multiple other variables impacting the development of mindset over time.

Dr. Brian Davidson is the founder and president of MindVue. As chief architect of the MindVue Profile assessment and MindVue's learning solutions, Brian applies his work in measuring and developing mindsets to support businesses, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, sports teams, and the military in maximizing human performance. Driven to build hope, grit, and resilience across the globe, he has had the privilege to work with leading organizations such as Johnson & Johnson, the San Antonio Spurs, Workday, and the United States Military Academy (West Point). As a passionate educator, he has helped teach people the importance of mindset skills and has guest lectured at educational institutions throughout the world such as the University of Pennsylvania, University of Florida, University of Kansas, in addition to helping tens of thousands of students across India.

Brian is a frequent writer on the topics of mindsets, mental wellness, and performance optimization and is a contributing author for Routledge's forthcoming (2024) Multidisciplinary Handbook of Character Development as well as a reviewer for the Journal of Character and Leadership Development. Brian graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Iowa with High Distinction and Honors, earning a degree in psychology and a teaching endorsement in secondary education. He holds a master's degree in counseling psychology and a doctorate (with Honors) in educational leadership and policy studies, both from the University of Kansas, where he has also served as a senior research consultant and adjunct professor.

To learn more about Brian,visit:
www.mindvue.com

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Optimizing Mindset and Performance with Brian Davidson Sep 19, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Dr. Brian Davidson, founder of MindVue, a mental performance company that measures and builds mindset skills to optimize performance and enhance mental wellness. The discussion focuses on the ways in which we can foster a positive mindset, a sense of resilience and grit which allows people to maximize potential across domains. Dr. Kate and Dr. Davidson take a deep dive into the nuances of these issues with emphasis on the importance of a strong locus of control, along with the multiple variables impacting the development of mindset over time.

To learn more about Brian, visit:
www.mindvue.com

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Driven with Elliot Kallen Sep 12, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks to Elliot Kallen, entrepreneur, author and founder of Prosperity Financial, which he has run for the past 30 years. The discussion focuses on Elliot’s recent book – Driven – which he co-authored with fellow entrepreneur Adam Torres (episode 43) in which they explore the many paths to entrepreneurship. Dr. Kate and Elliot explore the variables related to successful entrepreneurship through an authentic and human lens. They take a deep dive into the charity, A Brighter Day, which Elliot created following the tragic loss of his son to suicide in 2015. The idea of how we can all live our best lives, now, while making a difference and giving back is woven throughout this inspiring conversation.

Elliot H Kallen is a leader who brings over 30 years of passion and robust entrepreneurial business ownership experience to his elite Financial Planning & Advising practice. He has built international organizations, been a CEO of two other companies before forming Prosperity Financial Group, Inc. and is a frequent keynote speaker to charities, podcasts and radio shows on motivation, leadership, charitable work, marketing, and various financial subjects.

Elliot holds a BA degree in both Accounting and Economics from Rutgers University in New Jersey and has served on various Boards, as an active member and/or President, including The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Diablo Valley, the American Cancer Society of Contra Costa County & Congregation B’nai Shalom, where he has been actively involved in raising millions of dollars for these organizations. As President of Prosperity Financial Group, a top-tier Financial Advisory Firm, and Partner in Prosperity Wealth Management, he has led his organizations to be actively involved with many charities as this has been a lifelong theme.

Elliot is also President of A Brighter Day Charity, the 501c(3) he began following the suicide of his youngest son, Jake, in 2015. This charity unites stress and depression resources with teens and their parents with the goal of stopping teen suicide. The resources of A Brighter Day have touched thousands of families and are having a major impact on the lives of our teens and parents.

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Building Human Capital with Christina Jordan Sep 05, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Christina Jordan – Mom, healthcare philanthropist and Tedx Speaker. The discussion focuses on Christina’s vision of what it means to raise our own human capital and how she has done this in her own life to be at her best across domains. The power of sharing our stories, embracing the human experience and connecting on a deep level with ourselves and others are ideas woven through this powerful conversation.

Christina Jordan has 20+ years of experience in healthcare philanthropy. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience in individual gift fundraising utilizing her invaluable interpersonal skills to build networks and raise millions of dollars for causes she is most passionate about. She is the Founder of “Be Brave Today”, as well as a board member of many non-profits to share with others her expertise in raising money for causes that help those less fortunate. Christina resides in Southern California with her two sons Blake (13) and Chase(17) and is an avid “Boy Mom,” running her boys from sport to sport. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from California State University, Chico. That which gives her incredible joy and fills her soul is helping others, including her two sons, build their own personal capital, what she calls “human capital,” to excel in life by following the passion that fuels their soul.

To learn more about Christina, visit:
www.christinabjordan.com

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Finding Power Within with Rachelle Babler Aug 29, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Rachelle Babler, a TEDx speaker, #1 International Best-Selling Co-Author, and Entrepreneur & Advocate. The discussion focuses on the evolution of Rachelle’s eclectic career and the lessons learned through her journey. Dr. Kate and Rachelle dig into the power of listening to our intuition as a guide and integrating daily meditation as a way to quiet our minds and find power within.

Rachelle Babler is a TEDx speaker, #1 International Best-Selling Co-Author, and Entrepreneur & Advocate who grew up in Southern California.

She has had an eclectic background of careers: Paramedic turned Forensic Analyst turned Entrepreneur. After being diagnosed with a rare brain tumor and diving into personal development work, she quit her job cold turkey to pursue her “why” and discovered what that was during a global pandemic.

She is a storytelling strategist supporting clients who want to amplify their voice, message and brand through various media platforms such as the TEDx stage and through music.

She is grateful she took a leap to create a purpose-driven business and to show her two children, Austin and Camryn, that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.

To learn more about Rachelle, visit:
www.rachellebabler.com

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Step Into Your Power with Robin Osborn Aug 22, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with Robin Osborn, business coach and brain tumor survivor. The discussion focuses on Robin’s journey through and beyond her life saving brain surgery to remove a baseball size tumor and the lessons learned through this difficult experience. Robin shares how her depth of experience in everything she does has grown in that she is more present and more connected to the people around her. The impact of this experience has been profound for Robin and her family across domains. Robin’s story is powerful and a clear reminder of the strength of the human spirit.

Robin Osborn is an executive coach and business consultant who was recently given a second chance at life after undergoing emergency surgery to remove a baseball-sized tumor from her brain. Remarkably, the tumor was benign but her recovery was no small feat– it took Robin a year to walk one mile. The same tools she uses to inspire transformation in her clients helped her achieve miraculous results in her own recovery! Robin’s passion for exceeding expectations has allowed her to help hundreds break through their personal and professional goals and, through this work, her own practice continues to develop.

Robin has nearly a decade of experience championing companies from good to great, while giving leaders a simple yet powerful tool to consistently transcend their goal: “The Frustration to Freedom Framework.” This framework combines all of Robin’s financial, operational, and leadership expertise and it is with this that she leads C-Suite executives and their teams to excellence by helping them build confidence, conquer team issues, gain clarity, and deliver real results.

Prior to coaching and consulting, Robin was at the helm of her family business for 33 years in Southern California. She took over for her father at the age of 21, managing over 40 employees, with an employee retention record of over 28 years. With big shoes to fill and the company facing adversities, Robin found and implemented the operational tools that doubled the company’s revenue in only 18 months. This experience gave Robin an intuitive understanding of both the employees’ and customers’ needs and catapulted her into the career she has today.

To learn more about Robin, visit:
www.robinosborn.com
linkedin.com/in/robinosborn

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

Giant Leaps Learning with Michael Trezza Aug 15, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with entrepreneur and CEO of Giant Leaps Learning, Michael Trezza. The discussion focuses on the work of Giant Leaps Learning in helping kids to develop social emotional learning and leadership skills to prepare them for an increasingly complex world. Lessons on discourse, connection and giving a sense of agency back to kids are at the heart of this fascinating discussion.

Michael is a 20+ year technology entrepreneur and CEO with a formal education in fine art and painting. His experience and love for tech, psychology, nature, art & music shaped his unique perspective on work and life. Becoming a father opened his eyes to the shortcomings of traditional education to prepare a new generation for what he sees as a rapidly changing world and he discovered his why. Michael's mission is to inspire and engage people to become curious, capable, passionate, purposeful, and globally aware leaders, and to find true success in all aspects of their lives.

To learn more about Michael, visit:
www.giantleapslearning.com

To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund/

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