Life Habits

"Just be yourself" might be the worst advice you've ever been given.In this episode of the Life Habits Podcast, we're taking apart the myths running modern life — and the research that actually helps you navigate it.Suzanne makes the case for why "being yourself" has become a shield for bad behavior and what to do instead. MJ unpacks the quiet rise of incivility, it’s causes, and what we can do about it. Mandy takes on the perfection trap, and Karel digs into the Dark Triad of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy and how to survive these toxic personalities showing up in our workplaces and lives.Tell us in the comments which trap has had the strongest grip on you? And please rate and follow us plus share us with your friends and colleagues.Dr. Leanne ten Brinke’s “Dirty Dozen” checklist from her book “Poisonous People”. The "Dirty Dozen" Checklist1. Do they tend to manipulate others to get their way?2. Have they used deceit or "white lies" to get what they want?3. Do they use flattery or "love bombing" for ulterior motives?4. Do they tend to exploit others for their own gain?5. Do they lack remorse or seem indifferent after hurting someone's feelings?6. Do they seem unconcerned with the morality of their actions?7. Are they often callous or insensitive to the needs of others?8. Do they lean toward being cynical or distrustful of everyone’s motives?9. Do they have a constant need for others to admire them?10. Do they want others to pay attention to them at all times?11. Do they frequently seek prestige or status, even at the cost of relationships?12. Do they expect special favors from others as if it’s their right?

Are you just "existing" at work, or are you actually thriving? In this episode of the Life Habits Podcast, host Karel Vredenburg is joined by co-hosts Mandy Kloppers, MJ Shaar, and Suzanne Joy Clark to explore the "messy reality" of modern work life. Using evidence-based research, the team dives into why global happiness is on the decline and provides actionable, science-backed strategies to reclaim your fulfillment.

Many people are is talking about the latest MIT research on AI, but are we missing the bigger picture? In this episode, we strip away the hype and conduct a critical reappraisal of the findings that the popular press describe as "AI is rotting your brain".IN THIS EPISODE: We dig into the actual study behind the headlines to separate evidence-based and generalizable fact from media over interpretation fiction.The Headline vs. The Reality: What the study actually showed and the reasons why we should be cautious in interpreting it.Advice for Effective Use of AI: We provide practical suggestions for a healthy way of using AI that enhances your own skills, optimizes your use of AI, and keeps or gets you employed. The Implications: We also discuss what all this means for the future of human intelligence and workforce productivity.

In this episode, Karel and Paige continue their insightful conversation with Jeff Wetzler, a human potential and learning expert and co-founder of Transcend. They explore the power of fostering curiosity in leadership, organizations, and personal relationships. Drawing from his book, Ask: Tap into the Hidden Wisdom of People Around You, Jeff shares practical frameworks for leveraging feedback, breaking down divisive barriers, and mastering skills that are essential for growth and collaboration in a polarized world.

Cindy Carrillo, author of Finding Your Nxt, discusses the importance of embracing change and finding your next phase in life. She shares quotes that inspire her and emphasizes the need to be intentional about setting goals and making changes. Cindy also addresses common blockers to change, such as fear of the unknown, fear of failure, and the willingness to settle. She encourages people to break free from financial constraints and take small steps towards living a life they truly want. Cindy's book and coaching programs provide guidance and support in finding your next.

In this continuation of last week’s conversation, Karel and Paige welcome back Topaz Adizes to the Life Habits Podcast. Together, they delve into themes of shared humanity, the profound impact of social media on communication, and the vital role of empathy in meaningful conversations. They explore strategies for navigating vulnerability in relationships, crafting thought-provoking questions, and creating safe spaces that foster understanding and connection. Discover the importance of active listening and the transformative potential of thoughtful dialogue. This conversation sheds light on bridging divides and fostering connection, especially in today’s polarized society.Quotes from this Episode:“When you accept love, you are also accepting pain.” — Avery to Kennedy {THE AND}“Something about you reminds me of being human, the most beautiful parts of being human.” — Gabrielle to Luna {THE AND}Tip JarSupport the PodcastEpisode ResourcesKey Takeaways:Humanity thrives in connection: It’s found in the connections between us, not solely within us.Empowering questions shape conversations: Asking thoughtful questions leads to more constructive dialogues.Vulnerability deepens relationships: It’s an essential component for creating meaningful connections.Social media’s impact: While it connects us, it often amplifies division rather than fostering understanding.Empathy requires discomfort: Practicing empathy involves listening to opposing views and sitting in discomfort.Safe spaces are crucial: Open and honest dialogue depends on creating spaces where people feel safe to share.Questions as gifts: Frame questions without an agenda to foster genuine curiosity and connection.We are not our ideas: Recognizing this allows our ideas to evolve and grow over time.Understanding perspectives: Effective communication requires acknowledging and respecting different viewpoints.Transformative power of questions: Changing the questions we ask can lead to profound and meaningful conversations.

In this episode, Karel builds on the previous episodes which focused on dealing with job loss, being effective at getting a job, and designing and marking yourself. He now focuses on "future-proofing your career." Karel shares practical strategies for career development, including using strategic foresighting to anticipate industry trends, creating an "aspirational resume" to set goals, and performing "premortems" to avoid potential pitfalls. He also introduces the concept of "career workouts," encouraging listeners to approach career advancement as they would physical fitness—with regular, structured efforts, tracking progress through a career journal, and conducting "career checkups" with mentors. Drawing on quotes from notable figures like Wayne Gretzky and Mahatma Gandhi, Karel underscores the importance of proactive, goal-oriented habits in building a resilient, fulfilling career.

In this episode, Karel discusses the current state of gender equality, reflecting on the progress made and, importantly, the challenges that remain. He emphasizes the importance of individual actions in promoting gender equality and shares practical advice for everyone. The episode also includes a edited reprised previous episode on gender equality, reviewing skills and habits that you can adopt individually to make a difference.

In this episode, we dive into the powerful principles from Seven Rules of Self-Reliance, the brand-new book by renowned author and communications expert, Maha Abouelenein. Fresh off the book’s release, Maha shares actionable insights on how self-reliance can be the key to unlocking personal and professional success. Discover how to stay focused, build a resilient mindset, and navigate obstacles with confidence. Maha also explores the critical role of reputation and relationship-building, offering practical advice on authenticity, patience, and knowing when to ask for help. Whether you’re looking to transform your career or strengthen your personal growth, Maha’s wisdom will inspire you to craft a life-changing narrative. Don’t miss this conversation—it’s packed with strategies to help you believe in yourself and take charge of your future.Quotes from this episode:"Stay low, keep moving"“Your brand is what people say about you when you’re not in the room.” — Jeff Bezos"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." — Mahatma GandhiTip JarSupport the PodcastEpisode ResourcesKey Takeaways:Invest in Yourself: Self-reliance starts with building your own skills and being resourceful.Overcome Challenges by Creating Value: Focus on helping others, even when faced with obstacles.Build Authentic Relationships: Genuine networking leads to deeper, more meaningful connections.Patience Fuels Success: Personal growth and long-term success require perseverance.Reputation Matters: How you treat others is the foundation of your personal and professional reputation.Stay Adaptable Through Learning: Continuous learning strengthens resilience and adaptability.Leverage Self-Awareness: Know where you need help and where you excel to grow effectively.Create Your Own Opportunities: Don’t wait—actively pursue and create the opportunities you seek.Small Steps Matter: Every action toward your goals brings you closer to success.Your Story Shapes Your Reality: The most important narrative is the one you believe about yourself.

In this episode, Karel reflects on the two people who have had the greatest influence in his life. These aren't your typical current social media influencers. They're instead people who provided him insights, lessons, and habits for everyday life.The first is the late Stephen R. Covey and second is Gerritdina Leida Vredenburg, Karel’s late mother. He recorded a tribute episode after each of these influencers in his life passed away. Covey published a book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" in 1989. Karel read it that same year and it changed his life. In fact, that book also inspired the creation of this podcast series 16 1/2 years ago. Karel’s late mother was and still is the most influential person in his life sharing her wisdom, creativity, and iconoclastic perspective on life.Karel reprises edited versions of the two previous episodes that detailed the key lessons each of these influencers taught him and we hope that you too will find them inspirational.

In this episode, Karel and Judy Wilkins-Smith discuss how to uncover and maximize your superpowers. They explore the concept of superpowers as the unique skills and qualities that individuals possess and how they can be developed and amplified. They also delve into the importance of understanding and acknowledging the emotional inheritance from our ancestors and how it shapes our behaviors and beliefs. Judy shares practical steps for listeners to identify their superpowers and work towards their goals.

Paige is taking a much needed break for health reasons. We wish her a restful and restorative break. Paige did find and schedule our amazing guest for today’s episode, Paul Osincup, a speaker and positive workplace strategist, and the author of “The Humor Habit”. Karel interviews Paul about his book 'The Humor Habit.' They discuss the power of humor in the workplace and in life, and how humor can be learned and developed as a habit. They also explore the health benefits of humor, such as reducing stress and increasing happiness. Paul shares practical tips and exercises for incorporating humor into daily life, including immersing oneself in humor, practicing a 'yes and' mentality, and finding levity in difficult situations.Key Takeaways:Humor is a habit that can be learned and developed.Humor has numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and increasing happiness.Immersing oneself in humor and seeking out funny content can help cultivate a sense of humor.Practicing a 'yes and' mentality can help build resilience and find humor in difficult situations.Finding levity in everyday life and incorporating humor into the workplace can improve well-being and foster connection.

In this episode, Amy Weinland Daughters shares her transformative journey of writing handwritten letters to all 580 of her Facebook friends, revealing the profound impact it had on her relationships and understanding of connection. She delves into the importance of being untroubled by failure and untouched by triumph, urging us to listen to our instincts, even when they defy logic. Amy also introduces her simple yet powerful framework for deeply connecting with others, which involves sitting in a quiet space, reflecting on the person, and writing from the heart. Whether through handwritten letters, digital messages, or other personal gestures, Amy encourages us all to reach out and foster meaningful connections.Quotes from this episode:“I would love to go through life being untroubled by failure and untouched by triumph.” — Carol Burnett“There will be a few times in your life when all your instincts will tell you to do something, something that defies logic, upsets your plans, and may seem crazy to others. When that happens, you do it. Listen to your instincts and ignore everything else. Ignore logic, ignore the odds, ignore the complications, and just go for it.” — Judith McNaughtKey Takeaways:Embrace Resilience: Be untroubled by failure and untouched by triumph, continuing to pursue your goals despite the ups and downs.Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your instincts, even when they go against logic, odds, or complications. Sometimes, what seems crazy to others can lead to profound outcomes.Focus on Connection: Connect with others on a deeper level by focusing on what unites you rather than what sets you apart.Express Your Thoughts: Write letters or notes to express support, gratitude, or concern, reminding yourself that small gestures can make a big difference in the world.Reach Out Personally: Take the time to reach out to people individually, whether through handwritten letters, digital messages, or other means, and offer your support to strengthen your relationships.Tip JarSupport the PodcastEpisode ResourcesPlease note: This podcast does not provide medical advice, only personal experiences, so please consult your doctor.