Ask Christa! is the place where you can ask questions about how to work through business challenges and workplace issues. Each episode focuses on one common question and offers additional resources to learn more. Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact © 2025 Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Can I Improve My Presentation Skills? (S3E36)
16:24
16:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:24Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about improving presentation skills as a way to advance their career. Christa emphasizes the importance of connection with the audience, every-day practice, rigorous preparation, and finding one’s unique style. She discusses the complexities of communication, the typical pressur…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How can I run meetings better? (S3E35)
13:31
13:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:31Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the common challenges of effective meeting management, emphasizing the importance of preparation, understanding the purpose of meetings, and fostering a culture of respect—especially a respect for time. She provides practical tips for structuring effective meetings, ensuring they serve the team's nee…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! What Do Executives Do? (S3E34)
18:01
18:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:01Summary In this episode of Ask Christa, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about the role of executives in any size organization. She explores the fundamental responsibilities of executives, emphasizing the importance of accountability, communication, decision-making, performance, and efficiency. She also reviews the traits that make eff…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Much Finance Should I Learn? (S3E33)
17:33
17:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:33Summary In this episode of Ask Christa, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about how much finance knowledge and learning a founder needs as they get a business started. She emphasizes that while finance is crucial, it is not the sole focus of a business. Christa discusses the various functions within a business, particularly the rol…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! What Do Boards of Directors Do? (S3E32)
18:29
18:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:29Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the essential functions and responsibilities of a Board of Directors (BODs). She talks about how BODs serve as oversight bodies, the importance of matching board composition with organizational needs, and the evolving functions of boards as companies grow, and a BOD’s responsibility t…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (6/6) - What Areas of a Business Do Founders Overlook? (S3E31)
13:38
13:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:38Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the listener question asking what aspects of a business are commonly overlooked by founders. She emphasizes the critical importance of having an executable plan, understanding customer needs, having a sound perspective on business, and the necessity of detailed planning for success. Christa also disc…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (5/6) - What is Outsourcing and Should All Businesses Do It? (S3E30)
10:51
10:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:51Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the concept of outsourcing, explaining that every business engages in outsourcing to some extent, emphasizing the importance of leveraging outsourcing to enable businesses to focus on their core competencies: what they do best. The key to outsourcing is being intentional about what sta…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (4/6) - Why Do So Many Startups Fail? (S3E29)
13:02
13:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:02Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common question of why so many startups fail. She explores the assumptions about founders, the importance of vision and mission, market fit, business management, and effective leadership in startup success. She discusses how founders are often driven by a deep belief in the vision…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (3/6) - What's the Best Funding Model for Startups? (S3E28)
18:06
18:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:06Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the various funding models available for startups, understanding which model aligns best with a founder's objectives and business goals. She reviews the misconceptions surrounding funding, the significance of ownership and leverage, and the complexity of products in determining fundin…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (2/6) - What's More Important, Funding or Product? (S3E27)
16:19
16:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:19Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's dilemma about whether to prioritize product development or seek funding for a prototype. She emphasizes the importance of understanding market research, protecting intellectual property, and building value before approaching investors. That puts you in a position of stren…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Business Basics Series (1/6) - How Do I Learn About Business Basics? (S3E26)
13:29
13:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:29Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo introduces a new series focused on business basics, addressing common questions about how to learn about business. The episode itself explores the fundamentals of learning about business. She emphasizes the importance of understanding personal learning objectives and how they shape the lea…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Can I Feel Less Intimidated by Business? (S3E25)
11:43
11:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:43Summary In the Season 3 opener of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common intimidation felt by individuals entering the business world and engaging in business concepts, particularly those from non-business backgrounds. She emphasizes that business is fundamentally about understanding people and processes, and that anyone can learn the nec…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! When Should I Leave? (S2E24)
13:10
13:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:10Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about the decision to leave a job to pursue career growth. She explores the dynamics of personal engagement and fulfillment in the workplace, the difference between jobs that are merely transactional and those that provide deeper meaning, and the importance …
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! What Are the Top Skills of Effective Managers? (S2E23)
15:02
15:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:02Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the essential skills of effective managers, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and the ability to apply learned skills in real-world scenarios. She discusses the challenges of management, particularly in matrix organizations, and highlights the need for personal growth and un…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Do I Do More with Less?? (S2E22)
17:35
17:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:35Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common workplace challenge of being asked to do more with less. She critiques the phrase 'doing more with less' as a misguided approach for austerity that often leads to employee burnout and a scarcity mindset. Christa discusses the historical context of austerity measures, their …
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Can We Manage Time If We Have No Control of Time? (S2E21)
12:50
12:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:50Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo explores the complexities of time management, emphasizing that time is a human construct and that managing time is not the same as controlling it. She discusses the importance of understanding personal perceptions of time without the pressure of control, encourages listeners to make friends with time, and offe…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! What Does a Healthy Work Culture Look Like?? (S2E20)
10:57
10:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:57Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the complexities of workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of employee engagement over mere satisfaction. She discusses how a healthy work culture is characterized by trust and respect, with a mindset that organizational performance is sustained by getting the best out of your e…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Why Organizational Structure Matters!! (S2E19)
15:38
15:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:38Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo discusses the strategic role of organizational structures in business success. She explores various organizational structures, explains how they directly impact employee and organizational performance, and how org structures impact decision-making and employee empowerment. The conversation highlights the impor…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Does Management Training Matter? (S2E18)
15:08
15:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:08Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the critical importance of management training in today's workplace. She emphasizes that effective management is essential for organizational performance, team success, and employee retention, especially in matrix organizational structures. Christa outlines necessary skills that manag…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Do I Stop Putting Up with Bad Behavior (Put-Downs) at Work? (S2E17)
12:38
12:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:38Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about dealing with a disrespectful coworker whose style is to put others down. She emphasizes the importance of respect and dignity, and the impact respect and dignity has on organizational performance. She discusses how to understand and utilize harassment polici…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Managing an Interrupting Boss (S2E16)
12:19
12:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:19Summary In this episode of Ask Christa, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenge of being interrupted by a manager during your team meetings—in front of your team. She explores the concept of an interrupting culture, the reasons behind interruptions, including excitement, poor listening skills, and power dynamics. Christa provides practical strategies…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How to Give Feedback to a Defensive Team Member?? (S2E15)
11:33
11:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:33Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges of giving feedback to defensive coworkers. She explores the reasons behind defensive behavior (including low self-esteem and past criticism), the importance of understanding it, and offers strategies for effectively providing feedback. Christa emphasizes the need for self-care, resetti…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How to Introduce a New Idea within a RIGID TEAM? (S2E14)
10:37
10:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:37Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about introducing new ideas in a resistant team environment. She explores the underlying reasons for resistance, particularly focusing on learned helplessness, and offers strategies for effectively pitching new ideas. Christa emphasizes the importance of learning…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Season 1 Reflections: What if You Consider Yourself First? (Negotiations, Conflict Management...) (S2E13)
9:17
9:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:17Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo wraps up the first season of her podcast by emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in navigating business challenges and workplace issues. She discusses how understanding our own needs and concerns can enhance our ability to influence, negotiate effectively, and handle conflict management more productive…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! What if Failure Didn't Exist in the Business World?? (S1E12)
9:01
9:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:01Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the concept of failure in the workplace, emphasizing that it is crucial to focus on learning and achieving goals rather than being weighed down by the fear of failure, and the importance of reframing our understanding of failure and success. She discusses how perceptions of success and…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Ugh, I Yelled at Work, and I'm Ashamed-- What Do I Do?? (S1E11)
14:29
14:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:29Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about yelling at work due to stress. She discusses the impact of workplace stress on performance, behavior, and emotional responses, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing stress levels by diffusing stress to get back to a “Green” zone. She offers practical stra…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Strategy Series (3/3): How Do I Create Goals If There's No Strategy?? (S1E10)
14:06
14:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:06Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common challenge of creating goals aligned with a company's strategy, particularly when that strategy is, or corporate goals are, unclear. She discusses the importance of understanding corporate goals, the process of crafting and drafting individual goals, and practical steps to a…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Strategy Series (2/3): HELP!! I Don't Know My Company's Strategy!!! (S1E9)
13:36
13:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:36Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the common concern of employees feeling that there is no clear strategy within their organizations. She discusses the importance of understanding what constitutes a strategy, how to identify existing strategies, and the steps employees can take to engage with leadership about strategi…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Strategy Series (1/3): What is STRATEGY?? (S1E8)
10:42
10:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:42Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the concept of strategy in organizations, emphasizing its importance in achieving goals and navigating uncertainties. She discusses the common misconceptions of strategy as well as how many small and mid-sized companies lack clear strategies and the implications of this on their operat…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Do I Raise My Freelance Rates (without chickening out!)? (S1E7)
28:23
28:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:23Summary In this conversation, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges freelancers face when considering raising their rates. She emphasizes the importance of viewing oneself as a business, mindset, preparation, and effective communication strategies to navigate these discussions with clients. Christa provides practical advice on how to overcome fear…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Humility or Imposter Syndrome? (S1E6)
4:45
4:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:45Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo explores the complexities of imposter syndrome—which is actually and originally called imposter phenomenon—and humility. She distinguishes between the two concepts, explaining that imposter phenomenon is a feeling of self-doubt regarding one's achievements, often attributing success to external…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! How Do I Startup a Business? (S1E5)
10:12
10:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:12Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the essential steps to starting a business, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's feelings about and commitment to the business idea, creating a strong foundation, and utilizing available resources. She highlights the various funding options and the significance of address…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Adapting to Change as a SUPERPOWER!!! (S1E4)
17:27
17:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:27Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges of managing necessary changes in the workplace. She emphasizes the discomfort that often accompanies change and offers strategies for reframing our approach to it. By focusing on adaptation rather than mere handling of change, individuals can find stability and growth opportunities. Ch…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Do All Startups Need Advisors? (S1E3)
9:59
9:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:59Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo discusses the critical role of advisors for early-stage startups. She emphasizes that all businesses, even those just starting out, can benefit from having advisors who provide honest and supportive assessments. Effective advisors help founders navigate the complexities of transforming ideas in…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Fear of Making Mistakes as a Source of POWER! (S1E2)
6:54
6:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:54Summary In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the fear of making mistakes when stepping out of comfort zones, particularly in new job roles and promotions. She emphasizes the personal nature of fear and encourages listeners to value it as a perspective rather than a hindrance. Christa provides practical tips for reframing fear and mistakes as op…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Forget About Inspiration-- Learn How to MOTIVATE!!! (S1E1)
8:10
8:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:10Summary In this episode of Ask Christa!, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenge of inspiring a team when one lacks the energy to do so. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between inspiration and motivation, advocating for a shift in focus from being an inspirational leader to a motivating one. Christa discusses the signifi…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Season 1 Preview (April 20th Launch!!)
1:27
1:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:27Hi everyone, and welcome to the season one preview of Ask Christa! the place where you can ask questions about how to work through business challenges and workplace issues. I’m Christa Dhimo, and our first season hits on a few big themes, and managing and leading in an organization takes up a lot of space, which I love. I offer answers to questions…
…
continue reading

1
Ask Christa! Trailer (coming in April 2025!)
1:07
1:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07Hi everyone and welcome to Ask Christa! the place where you can ask questions about how to work through business challenges and workplace issues, like starting and scaling a business, developing your career at any stage and growing skills as a professional and as a person too. I'm Christa Dhimo and after decades of getting through a lot of differen…
…
continue reading