• Expect the Unexpected: A Solution-Focused Approach (episode 237)
    Jul 10 2025

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher discusses the importance of expecting the unexpected and adopting a solution-focused mindset. She emphasizes the need to shift from a problem-focused approach to one that seeks solutions and celebrates small wins. Cher shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies for educators and individuals to foster a positive mindset, set intentional goals, and engage in empowering conversations that promote growth and change.

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
    11:06 Solution-Focused Mindset
    20:30 Transformative Conversations
    29:42 Setting Intentional Goals
    38:37 Embracing Change and Growth

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Show more Show less
    40 mins
  • Dr. Ravi Iyer: The Power of Focus, ADHD Management and Thriving in Life
    Jul 6 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Cher and Dr. Ravi Iyer explore the transformative power of intentional focus, the journey to delivering a TED talk, and the importance of embracing one's unique abilities, including ADHD. Dr. Iyer shares his personal experiences of overcoming rejection, finding self-worth, and the significance of mindfulness in achieving clarity and connection. The discussion emphasizes the potential within everyone to harness their strengths and inspire others, regardless of age or past struggles.

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Takeaways

    Intentional focus is crucial for personal growth.

    Rejections can lead to unexpected opportunities.

    Self-worth is a journey, not a destination.

    ADHD can be harnessed as a superpower.

    Mindfulness techniques can help manage racing thoughts.

    The power of connection enhances clarity and understanding.

    Storytelling is a process of external and internal discovery.

    Community support is vital in personal journeys.

    Embracing one's unique abilities can inspire others.

    Life is a continuous journey of learning and growth.

    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ravi Iyer 01:31 Ravi's Journey to the TED Stage 04:46 The Process of TED Talk Preparation 07:14 Community Engagement and Impact 10:37 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 13:10 The Power of Connection and Future Talks 15:52 Harnessing ADHD as a Strength 21:02 Therapeutic Approaches to ADHD 24:18 ADHD as a Natural Predator Architecture 27:03 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Potential 30:08 The Journey to Medical School 35:35 The Power of Focus and Connection 42:02 The Journey to Self-Acceptance

    Show more Show less
    45 mins
  • Mindset Matters Especially in the Solution-Focused Approach (episode 235)
    Jun 24 2025

    I almost didnt publish this one! Find out why....

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Show more Show less
    37 mins
  • Willpower For Hope-Centered Leaders (episode 234)
    Jun 14 2025

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    In this episode, Cher discusses the importance of willpower and agency, the role of community in sustaining motivation, and the need for compassion and understanding in educational settings. She emphasizes the finite nature of willpower, the significance of choosing a hopeful attitude, and the necessity of mindfulness and clarity in our daily lives. Cher also highlights the unique challenges faced by educators and the importance of recognizing the human element in their work.

    Chapters

    00:00 Embracing Change and Flexibility
    00:59 Understanding Willpower and Agency
    03:00 The Role of Community in Sustaining Willpower
    05:43 Compassion and Understanding in Education
    09:28 Choosing Attitudes and Managing Energy
    13:37 Finding Mindfulness and Clarity
    17:22 The Science of Hope and Pathways

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Show more Show less
    26 mins
  • Relational Hope: A Social Gift (episode 233)
    May 9 2025

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day conversation training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    In this episode, Cher discusses the relational nature of hope as she reflectd on insights she gained while attending and speaking at the SF24 2025 conference.

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Show more Show less
    38 mins
  • Marc Cordon on Mindset, Mental Chatter and His TEDx Journey (episode 232)
    Apr 14 2025

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation http

    In this engaging podcast episode, Cher and Marc Cordon explore the transformative journey of preparing for TEDx talks, the mindset required for significant life events, and the personal growth that comes from sharing ideas. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of public speaking, the importance of community support, and how podcasting serves as a platform for learning and growth. The conversation emphasizes the value of vulnerability and authenticity in sharing one's message, as well as the impact of TEDx on personal and professional development. In this engaging conversation, Marc Cordon and Cher explore the transformative power of declarations, the journey to achieving TEDx talks, and the importance of self-talk in shaping our experiences. They discuss how accessing inner strengths and reframing past experiences can lead to personal growth, especially for those from marginalized communities. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of authenticity and cultural identity in leadership, while also addressing the role of chatter in our lives and how we can find our own unique paths. In this conversation, Cher and Marc Cordon explore the transformative power of positive psychology, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and the challenges of navigating self-talk and identity. They discuss the impact of societal expectations and the concept of 'chatter' in our minds, emphasizing the need to acknowledge problems while focusing on what works. The discussion also delves into the dangers of toxic positivity and the significance of the Joy Revolution in fostering genuine happiness and growth.

    You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Patreon Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 12 mins
  • The Power of Insight in Coaching Conversations (episode 231)
    Mar 28 2025

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher discusses the concept of solution-focused coaching, emphasizing the importance of empowering individuals through insightful conversations. She highlights the distinction between coaching and counseling, the role of questions in facilitating insights, and the significance of fostering hope in conversations. Cher encourages listeners to adopt a solution-focused mindset in their daily interactions, aiming to elevate conversations and promote personal growth.

    You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Show more Show less
    21 mins
  • A New Look at Giving Support: MTSS Solution-Focused Style (episode 230)
    Mar 13 2025

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    In this episode, Cher discusses the importance of viewing situations from multiple perspectives, particularly in the context of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in school counseling. She emphasizes the need for tailored support for individuals, whether in educational settings or family dynamics, and highlights the significance of communication and ownership in fostering positive relationships and solutions. The conversation encourages listeners to adopt a solution-focused mindset and consider how they can providecomprehensive support to those around them.

    Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

    You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

    TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

    Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

    TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

    https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

    Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

    Show more Show less
    21 mins