Tough Day Podcast

We’ve all heard the stat, “70% of change initiatives fail.” But why? In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ sits down with Phil Kirschner, founder of PK Consulting, LinkedIn Top Voice, and author of The Workline, to unpack what really makes change so hard for teams and leaders alike. Together, they explore why most “change management” efforts miss the mark, the hidden role of trust and vulnerability in successful transformations, and how to build a culture where experimentation (and even failure) is celebrated, not punished. Phil also shares why leaders need to stop “selling” change and start co-designing it, how to avoid the chaos of “move fast” cultures, and why the future of work demands curiosity, transparency, and a little more grace for ourselves along the way. What we cover:Why 70% of organizational change efforts fail — and what that stat really meansThe simple mindset shift that turns resistance into engagementHow the best leaders admit they don’t have all the answers — and invite others to help figure it outThe link between trust, vulnerability, and real transformation (spoiler: you can’t fake it) How to build a culture where failure isn’t fatal — it’s dataWhy “move fast” doesn’t always mean progress — and how to slow down without stallingLearn more about Phil Kirschner:Website: https://www.philkirschner.com/ Newsletter: https://www.flexos.work/the-workline LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philkirschner/ Learn more about KVJ | Tough DayWebsite: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan

We’ve all felt it — the weight of constant change, the pressure to keep performing, and the stress that never seems to let up. In this episode of Tough Day, KVJ sits down with Rachael Lowell — executive coach, founder of REworking Leadership, and creator of the SHIFT Framework and Team Map — to explore what really happens when pressure becomes the norm at work. Together, they unpack how chronic stress and constant disruption impact performance, the hidden role of self-regulation in leadership, and why trauma (yes, the T word) might be showing up in ways we don’t expect. Rachael also shares how leaders can build emotional capacity instead of burnout, use micro-practices to recover faster, and create teams that thrive on clarity, connection, and calm — even when everything around them is changing. What we cover:Why constant change keeps teams stuck in survival mode — and what it takes to reset The surprising ways chronic stress and trauma show up at work (even when you think you’re fine) How to spot when you’ve shifted from “high performing” to “high pressure” — and what to do next Why regulation, not resilience, is the real leadership superpowerHow micro-practices can help you recover faster and think more clearly under stressThe SHIFT Framework: a new way to map your team’s energy, pressure points, and capacity to adaptWhy calm leaders make clearer decisions — and how to build that steadiness into your cultureLearn more about Rachael Lowell:Website (REworking Leadership): https://reworkingleadership.com/ Website (SHIFT Snapshot): https://leadtheshift.ai/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-breadwinners/id1493354769 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachaellowell/ Learn more about KVJ | Tough DayWebsite: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan

You know that boss who sends emails at 12:03 AM? The one who’s always in a fire drill? Or the beloved, well-meaning leader who… doesn’t actually know how to lead? In this episode of Tough Day, host KVJ sits down with Mita Mallick, bestselling author and workplace culture expert, to unpack some of the most common (and quietly dangerous) archetypes of bad bosses — and what good leaders can learn from them.Mita shares stories and insights from her upcoming book, The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses, including how to spot macro managers, navigate kind-but-incompetent bosses, and protect yourself from gossipy higher-ups. Whether you’ve had a bad boss or been one, this conversation will help you lead and work better — starting now.✨ What we cover:What inspired Mita to turn her “burn book” into a leadership guideThe difference between trust and neglect in leadershipWhen kindness hides incompetence — and what to do about itHow to deal with manipulative gossip in the workplaceWhy team agreements and coaching moments matter📚 Pre-order Mita’s new book, The Devil Emails at Midnight Coming September 30, 2025 👉 Order here🔗 Connect with Mita Mallick: 🌐 Website: https://www.mitamallick.com 📘 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mitamallick Learn more about KVJ | Tough DayWebsite: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan

In this refreshing and eye-opening convo, KVJ sits down with powerhouse strategist and founder Janna Meyrowitz Turner to unpack what it really means to manage with care. From her early days building StyleHouse to launching her new venture, Antenna Up, Janna walks us through how caregiving and leadership aren’t opposites—they’re deeply connected.They talk about burnout, invisible labor, DEI misfires, and how men and women can (and must) work together to fix broken systems at work. Plus, the two design the perfect ice cream flavor for leaders trying to balance power and compassion (spoiler: it’s minty, meaningful, and definitely cool to care).If you've ever felt like managing people shouldn’t feel this hard, this one's for you.In this episode, you will hear:Management as caregiving: why it’s a mindset shift, not just a skill setBurnout, bandwidth, and balancing emotional labor at workThe sandwich generation of managers—why middle managers are stretched thinHow our early life systems shape leadership behaviorWhy men and women need to solve workplace problems togetherDEI backlash and the danger of excluding cis het white men from the conversationReal talk about invisible labor, emotional tolls, and why it’s okay to name the tensionPersonal brand alignment: leading with authenticity and clarityWhy humor, storytelling, and honesty are the unsung tools of good leadershipLearn more about Janna Turner | Antenna UpWebsite: https://www.jannamturner.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jannaturnerInstagram: @jannamturnerLearn more about Antenna Up and Buoys Club via Sinistry Capital (note: Antenna Up launches publicly in Fall 2025)Learn more about KVJ | Tough DayWebsite: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan

Feeling stuck in outdated workplace systems? In this episode of Tough Day, host KVJ sits down with Shelley Zalis—CEO, founder, and Chief Troublemaker of The Female Quotient—to talk about rewriting the rules of work for a more inclusive, human-centered future. Shelley shares her zigzag career journey, from breaking into market research by accident to sparking a global movement for equality in business. Together, they unpack why traditional systems are failing caregivers, why empathy is a power skill, and how conscious leadership can drive real transformation. Shelley also tackles workplace DEI fatigue, toxic culture, and why it's time to stop fixing women and start fixing the system.Tune in for real talk, bold insights, and the unapologetic leadership energy we need now more than ever.In this episode, you will hear:Why feminine leadership traits like empathy and collaboration are criticalHow The FQ fosters inclusive spaces and business opportunitiesThe evolution from the Girls’ Lounge to the Equality Lounge to global transformation workThe importance of designing workplaces for caregivers and the “messy middle”The danger of unconscious bias and the importance of conscious leadershipWhy DEI must be embedded in company strategy, not relegated to HRLearn more about Shelley Zalis | The Female QuotientWebsite: https://www.thefemalequotient.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyzalis Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan 

Feeling overwhelmed by the whirlwind of change at work? In this episode, host KVJ tackles the art of managing change and uncertainty with expert Pete Gerend, Partner at Bain & Company. Together, they explore the nuances of navigating workplace transformations, from the historical roots of change management to the modern challenges posed by technology and AI. Pete shares invaluable insights on how leaders can foster a growth mindset, the importance of communication during transitions, and practical strategies for individuals to embrace change.Tune in for this enlightening conversation, your essential toolkit for thriving amidst the complexities of the evolving workplace!In this episode, you will hear:The role of leaders in navigating change and uncertainty.Importance of communication and transparency during transitions.Strategies for individuals to embrace and adapt to change.The impact of technology and AI on workplace dynamics.Recognizing the emotional aspects of change and identity.The significance of building relationships in a changing environment.Practical tips for fostering a growth mindset among teams.Learn more about Pete Gerend | Bain & CompanyWebsite: https://www.bain.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-gerend/ Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan

Ever felt like you're carrying everyone else’s stress at work? Today on Tough Day, we’re diving into the power (and pitfalls) of empathy in leadership and teamwork with Michael Ventura—founder, advisor, educator, and author of Applied Empathy. Michael shares how cognitive empathy (not just "being nice") can create high-performing teams, the seven archetypes of empathy, and why asking better questions might be the key to your next career breakthrough. In this episode, you will hear:When caring too much can hold you back—and how to set boundaries.The power of inquiry to unlock deeper connections.The seven empathy styles and how they shape leadership.Can technology help us perspective-take better?How emotional intelligence is the secret weapon in an increasingly divided world.Learn more about Michael Ventura:Website: https://www.michaelventura.co/Applied Empathy book: https://www.amazon.com/Applied-Empathy-New-Language-Leadership/dp/1501182854Learn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan 

Ready to shake up the way we work? In this episode, host KVJ sits down with leadership expert and bestselling author Keith Ferrazzi to explore the radical shift from leadership to teamship. They dive into the biggest workplace transformations, the power of collaboration, and why traditional management is on its way out. Keith shares strategies for fostering candor and building resilient teams.Tune in for a conversation packed with practical insights and bold ideas—because the future of work is here, and it’s all about working smarter, together.In this episode, you will hear:The shift from leadership to teamship and why it mattersHow workplace collaboration has evolved over the past 20 yearsHow to overcome conflict avoidance in an organizationThe importance of psychological safety in teamsPractical strategies for team resilience and shared accountabilityThe future of work: AI, self-managed teams, and networked organizationsWhy traditional management structures are becoming obsoleteHow to balance speed and collaboration in a fast-paced environmentLearn more about  Keith Ferrazzi | Ferrazzi GreenlightWebsite: https://www.keithferrazzi.com Website: https://www.connectedsuccess.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithferrazziLearn more about KVJ | Tough Day   Website: https://tough.day/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kvonjan