In this episode, Denise and Tim discuss their best and worst job experiences, reflecting on the lessons learned and the impact of workplace culture. They explore the importance of mentorship, leadership, and finding joy in work, while sharing personal stories from their careers at Eddie Bauer and other companies.

• Eddie Bauer was a formative experience for both speakers, teaching them valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork.
• The importance of a supportive and value-driven workplace culture is emphasized throughout the discussion.
• Both speakers reflect on the impact of mentors and leaders who shaped their careers positively.
• The conversation highlights the challenges of working in environments lacking empathy and support.
• Denise shares her experience as a principal, describing it as her worst job due to the lack of connection and support.
• The speakers discuss the significance of aligning personal values with organizational values in their careers.
• They emphasize the need for joy and passion in work, and how it affects overall job satisfaction.
• The episode explores the concept of 'fawning' in difficult work situations and the importance of authentic relationships.
• Both speakers express a desire to recreate the positive aspects of their past work environments in future roles.
• The discussion concludes with a call for listeners to share their own job experiences and insights.

Summary

In this conversation, Denise Waters shares her experiences with personal overwhelm, the challenges of parenting, and the differences in perspectives on sports and optimism. The discussion explores the balance between order and chaos in daily life, the dynamics of relationships, and the importance of understanding personal differences. Denise reflects on her journey of self-awareness and growth, emphasizing the need for grace and flexibility in navigating life's challenges.

Takeaways

• Denise discusses the physical toll of yard work and personal projects.
• The difference in raising a son versus a daughter is highlighted.
• Denise feels overwhelmed with various responsibilities and commitments.
• The conversation shifts to sports and differing perspectives on fandom.
• Denise expresses her desire for a hopeful approach to sports.
• The importance of understanding personal differences in relationships is emphasized.
• Denise reflects on her work-life balance and the chaos of parenting.
• The discussion includes how personal experiences shape perspectives on rules and order.
• Denise shares insights on how to navigate personal and professional challenges.
• The conversation concludes with reflections on personal growth and finding balance.

Keywords

yard projects, personal overwhelm, sports optimism, order vs chaos, relationship dynamics, parenting, self-awareness, personal growth, emotional intelligence, life balance

In this episode, Denise & Tim reflect on their recent trip to Italy, exploring how travel shapes perspectives and fosters connections. The conversation covers their experiences in Sorrento, the challenges faced during the trip, the cultural immersion through cooking classes, and the historical significance of Pompeii. The hosts emphasize the importance of teamwork and personal growth through travel, while also looking ahead to future adventures.

Takeaways

• Travel broadens our horizons and challenges our perspectives.
• Experiencing local culture enhances the travel experience.
• Teamwork is essential when navigating travel challenges.
• Cooking classes provide a unique insight into local traditions.
• Traveling with a group can foster unexpected connections.
• Sorrento offers a blend of tourist attractions and local charm.
• The Blue Walk provides immersive cultural experiences.
• Pompeii serves as a powerful reminder of history's impact.
• Travel can reveal personal strengths and weaknesses.
• Future travel plans can inspire excitement and anticipation.

Keywords

travel, Italy, Amalfi Coast, teamwork, cultural experiences, cooking classes, Pompeii, travel challenges, personal growth, connection

In this engaging conversation, Denise and Tim explore the profound impact of travel on personal growth, relationships, and family traditions. They share memorable trips, including their engagement story, and discuss how travel has shaped their lives and strengthened their bond. The couple reflects on the joys and challenges of traveling together, the importance of authenticity in relationships, and the lessons learned from family travel. They also look forward to future adventures, emphasizing the excitement and growth that comes with exploring new places.

Summary

In this conversation, Denise and Tim explore the critical role of listening in communication, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in conversations. They share personal anecdotes and discuss the challenges posed by biases and the importance of creating space for untold stories. The dialogue highlights the significance of asking the right questions and being present in conversations, especially in a divided world. The episode concludes with a listener challenge to practice active listening and foster connections.

Keywords

listening, empathy, communication, bias, storytelling, relationships, understanding, connection, conversation skills, personal growth

Takeaways

• Listening is an active skill that can be practiced.
• Empathy is essential for understanding others' perspectives.
• Bias can hinder effective listening and connection.
• Creating space for untold stories is crucial in conversations.
• Asking the right questions can deepen understanding.
• Listening to understand is more important than listening to respond.
• Connection is built on shared emotions, not just events.
• We need to be aware of our biases in conversations.
• Building a community of listeners enhances communication.
• Practicing listening can improve relationships and trust.

Sound Bites

"Empathy is challenging in listening."

"Listening is a skill you can practice."

"Listening to understand is critical."

Summary

In this episode, Tim Waters shares his personal journey, exploring his identity through various roles such as husband, father, soldier, and coworker. He reflects on the values of loyalty and service, particularly from his time in the military, and discusses his love for adventure and the outdoors. Tim emphasizes the importance of these experiences in shaping who he is today and invites listeners to engage with him and his wife, Denise, as they share their stories in future episodes.

Keywords

Tim Waters, personal journey, identity, service, loyalty, adventure, podcast, veteran, family, outdoor activities

Takeaways

Tim defines himself through various roles: husband, father, soldier.

He values loyalty in the workplace and personal life.

Tim's military service shaped his identity and values.

He has a passion for mentoring veterans transitioning to civilian life.

Adventure and the outdoors are key to Tim's sense of peace.

Tim believes in finding spirituality in nature rather than traditional settings.

He encourages listener engagement and feedback for future episodes.

Tim's experiences have broadened his perspective on life.

He reflects on the balance between different life roles.

Tim's journey is ongoing, with new opportunities on the horizon.

Sound Bites

"I am a husband to Denise."

"I can find God in the outdoors."

"We're always happy to take suggestions."

In this episode, Denise Waters explores the complexities of family dynamics, sharing her personal experiences and insights. She discusses her family's history, the impact of divorce, and the importance of support systems. Denise reflects on navigating relationships within her extended family, the challenges of grief, and the legacy of emotional health. She emphasizes the need for open communication and the potential for change in family dynamics, encouraging listeners to consider their own family patterns and how to create a supportive environment.

Takeaways

• Family dynamics can be messy, funny, and complicated.
• Support systems are crucial, especially in complex family structures.
• Divorce can significantly impact family relationships and individual identity.
• Grief is a recurring theme in family dynamics and can shape how we cope with loss.
• Open communication is key to navigating family dynamics effectively.
• Recognizing and addressing emotional health is important for family well-being.
• Sarcasm and teasing can be harmful in family relationships.
• Creating family connections goes beyond blood relations.
• Small shifts in behavior can lead to significant changes in family dynamics.
• Understanding family history helps in navigating current relationships.

Sound Bites

"It's okay to be sad."

"What little shift can you do?"

"We all lived the same history."

Keywords

family dynamics, personal history, grief, relationships, support systems, communication, family legacy, navigating relationships, family roles, emotional health

Summary

In this conversation, Denise Waters and her partner discuss their experiences and insights on parenting, particularly focusing on the challenges and joys of raising three boys. They explore the dynamics of parenting from a distance, the impact of deployment on family relationships, and the importance of maintaining strong connections among siblings. The conversation also touches on the expectations versus reality of parenthood, the roles each parent plays, and the cherished memories that define their family life.

Takeaways

• Parenting continues even when children are not physically present.
• Family dynamics play a crucial role in maintaining relationships.
• Deployment can significantly impact the parent-child relationship.
• Intentionality in parenting helps foster sibling bonds.
• Memorable moments with children shape family identity.
• Parenting roles should be flexible and shared.
• Open communication is vital for addressing children's stress.
• Building relationships through shared experiences is essential.
• Cherished memories create lasting family connections.
• Parenting is a continuous learning journey.

Sound Bites

"You can still parent from afar."

"You're never done parenting."

"I'll keep that card forever."