How to Overcome Networking Fears and Build Meaningful Connections with Nicole Wood

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

#MBA #Careers #Business #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Silicon Valley Change

36:16

DANMMMMM…Have I got a show for you! First, a lot of Sister Wives tea - new rumors have surfaced Janelle Brown is leaving the show. Plus, Gabe Brown gives a life update after losing and tragically finding his brother Garrison dead. Sadly, Garrison took his own life in March 2024. Then we head over to discuss the new Welcome To Plathville tea. The first pictures of Micah Plath have surfaced after being beat up by his brother Issac and it doesn’t look good for the future of his modeling career. Lastly, we discuss the latest in the Justin Baldoni v Blake Lively case, Justin is back on social media and it was the perfect social media return. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Open and new Sister Wives news 00:05:43 - Janelle Brown leaving the show? Sister Wives Closet is officially closed 00:12:45 - A new pic of Micah Plath’s broken nose has surfaced 00:18:18 - Justin Baldoni back on social media and Taylor Swifts team is pissed at Justin Baldoni MY Go Big Podcasting Courses Are Here! Purchase Go Big Podcasting and learn to start, monetize, and grow your own podcast. USE CODE: MOM15 for 15% OFF (code expires May 11th, 2025) **SHOP my Amazon Marketplace - especially if you're looking to get geared-up to start your own Podcast!!!** https://www.amazon.com/shop/thesarahfrasershow Show is sponsored by: Download Cash App & sign up! Use our exclusive referral code TSFS in your profile, send $5 to a friend within 14 days, and you’ll get $10 dropped right into your account. Terms apply Horizonfibroids.com get rid of those nasty fibroids Gopurebeauty.com science backed skincare from head to toe, use code TSFS at checkout for 25% OFF your order Nutrafol.com use code TSFS for FREE shipping and $10 off your subscription Rula.com/tsfs to get started today. That’s R-U-L-A dot com slash tsfs for convenient therapy that’s covered by insurance. SkylightCal.com/tsfs for $30 OFF your 15 inch calendar Quince.com/tsfs for FREE shipping on your order and 365 day returns Warbyparker.com/tsfs make an appointment at one of their 270 store locations and head to the website to try on endless pairs of glasses virtually and buy your perfect pair Follow me on Instagram/Tiktok: @thesarahfrasershow ***Visit our Sub-Reddit: reddit.com/r/thesarahfrasershow for ALL things The Sarah Fraser Show!!!*** Advertise on The Sarah Fraser Show: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.com Got a juicy gossip TIP from your favorite TLC or Bravo show? Email: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

24 days ago 35:45

MP3•Episode home

Networking can feel intimidating, salesy, or even downright uncomfortable. But what if there was a way to make networking genuinely enjoyable—and incredibly effective?

In this episode of What’s Possible, host Ilene Schaffer talks with Nicole Wood, CEO and co-founder of career coaching firm Ama La Vida, about overcoming the fear of networking. Nicole shares her personal journey from management consulting to entrepreneurship, emphasizing how authentic relationships can become your greatest professional asset.

You’ll discover:

Practical strategies to overcome networking anxiety
How to build genuine professional relationships (without feeling awkward!)
Mindset shifts that transform networking from a chore into something rewarding
Simple habits to maintain your network without overwhelm

Join us and find out what’s possible when you turn networking from a source of stress into your secret weapon for success.

- - - - - - -
Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube
Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

90 episodes

How to Overcome Networking Fears and Build Meaningful Connections with Nicole Wood

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

published 24 days ago

MP3•Episode home

Networking can feel intimidating, salesy, or even downright uncomfortable. But what if there was a way to make networking genuinely enjoyable—and incredibly effective?

You’ll discover:

Practical strategies to overcome networking anxiety
How to build genuine professional relationships (without feeling awkward!)
Mindset shifts that transform networking from a chore into something rewarding
Simple habits to maintain your network without overwhelm

Join us and find out what’s possible when you turn networking from a source of stress into your secret weapon for success.

90 episodes

#MBA #Careers #Business #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Silicon Valley Change

All episodes

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
In the Moment: Navigating Uncertainty by Building Trust 12:18

3 days ago12:18

12:18

Feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty in your leadership role? You're not alone. Uncertainty levels today are as high as they were during the peak of the pandemic. In this "In the Moment" episode, Ilene Schaffer and executive coach Niels Gott discuss how leaders can effectively navigate uncertainty by prioritizing trust, psychological safety, and resilience. Niels shares his "two-minute trust booster," a simple yet powerful tool leaders can use immediately to strengthen team relationships through recognition, curiosity, and genuine support. Tune in to discover practical strategies to calm uncertainty, embrace failure as a pathway to innovation, and empower your team to thrive even in the most uncertain times. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
You Are the Boss: How to Lead with Joy, Self-Awareness, and Authenticity featuring Sabina Nawaz 39:22

10 days ago39:22

39:22

What if the secret to becoming an impactful leader wasn’t about chasing power—but about managing pressure and creating space for authentic self-awareness? Ilene Schaffer is joined by Sabina Nawaz, elite executive coach and author of the book, You Are the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be (and Others Need) . Together, they explore practical tools leaders can use to understand and manage the pressures of leadership, from building their “shut-up muscle” to enhance listening, to using mapping exercises to strengthen team communication and clarity. Sabina emphasizes how leaders can reduce the gap between how they’re perceived and their true intentions by leading with transparency, curiosity, and kindness. They discuss why slowing down, embracing moments of reflection, and prioritizing self-awareness can transform leadership from reactive to proactive. Listen in to discover actionable steps to shift from feeling pressured and overwhelmed to becoming a more present, authentic, and effective leader—for yourself, your team, and your organization. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
In the Moment: Why Real-Time Feedback Matters 13:16

17 days ago13:16

13:16

Ilene Schaffer sits down with leadership expert Lisa Sansom to talk about the power of timely, specific feedback in the workplace. They explore why waiting for formal reviews just doesn’t cut it—and how real-time feedback can transform employee engagement, motivation, and trust. Backed by Gallup research, Lisa shares why being ignored is worse than receiving critical feedback and offers simple, actionable tips for giving feedback that actually lands. Whether you’re a manager looking to better support your team or a leader striving to build a culture of connection, this conversation is packed with insights to help you show up and speak up—right when it matters most. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
How to Overcome Networking Fears and Build Meaningful Connections with Nicole Wood 35:45

24 days ago35:45

35:45

Networking can feel intimidating, salesy, or even downright uncomfortable. But what if there was a way to make networking genuinely enjoyable—and incredibly effective? In this episode of What’s Possible , host Ilene Schaffer talks with Nicole Wood, CEO and co-founder of career coaching firm Ama La Vida, about overcoming the fear of networking. Nicole shares her personal journey from management consulting to entrepreneurship, emphasizing how authentic relationships can become your greatest professional asset. You’ll discover: Practical strategies to overcome networking anxiety How to build genuine professional relationships (without feeling awkward!) Mindset shifts that transform networking from a chore into something rewarding Simple habits to maintain your network without overwhelm Join us and find out what’s possible when you turn networking from a source of stress into your secret weapon for success. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
In the Moment: From Peer to Leader - Navigating the Shift with Humanity 12:35

4 weeks ago12:35

12:35

What happens when you’re promoted to lead the people you once worked alongside? It’s one of the trickiest transitions in leadership—and one of the most powerful growth opportunities. In this episode, Ilene Schaffer sits down with SVC coach Alex Jack to explore how new leaders can navigate this shift with empathy, presence, and purpose. We talk about the importance of building trust, choosing curiosity over control, and understanding that leadership is less about hierarchy—and more about humanity. If you’re stepping into a new role or supporting someone who is, this conversation is filled with practical insights for leading well without losing connection. Let’s find out what’s possible when we put relationships first—and lead with intention. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
Finding Calm in the Chaos: Mindfulness Strategies for Leaders with Kim Nicol 38:21

5 weeks ago38:21

38:21

Feeling overwhelmed by constant change and workplace stress? In this enlightening episode, Ilene Schaffer sits down with mindfulness coach and facilitator Kim Nicol to explore practical ways leaders can find calm amid chaos. Kim shares her own non-linear career journey—from law school to coaching—and reveals how mindfulness practices transformed her approach to leadership, stress, and communication. Together, they discuss easy-to-implement strategies, such as mindful breathing and self-compassion, to help you reduce stress, boost clarity, and improve team dynamics. Whether navigating a stressful conversation, organizational change, or personal growth, discover how mindfulness can empower you to lead with greater presence, curiosity, and kindness. You can learn more about her work and explore her upcoming offerings at kimnicol.com . - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
In the Moment: The Power of Showing Up with Intention 16:30

6 weeks ago16:30

16:30

Do you underestimate the impact of a simple text or quick check-in? In this mini-episode, Ilene Schaffer and Alex Jack explore how intentional acts of kindness and proactive support can dramatically strengthen our relationships. Through heartfelt stories and practical insights, they highlight how being present, creating psychological safety, and making small, genuine gestures can transform connections both personally and professionally. Discover why showing up—without expectation—can be the most meaningful gift of all. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
Making Work Meaningful: Unlocking Your Team’s Full Potential with Tamara Myles and Wes Adams 49:37

7 weeks ago49:37

49:37

What if the secret to increasing your team's productivity and engagement isn't about working harder, but making work more meaningful? Ilene Schaffer sits down with Wes Adams and Tamara Myles, authors of Meaningful Work: How to Ignite Passion and Performance in Every Employee , to explore their groundbreaking research on meaningful work. Wes and Tamara reveal their transformative "Three C’s" framework— community, contribution, and challenge —and explain how simple, actionable leadership practices can unlock remarkable outcomes for employees and organizations. Learn why 90% of workers prioritize meaning over money, how meaningful work can increase productivity by thousands per employee per year, and practical strategies you can start using today to build a thriving, engaged workforce. If you're ready to elevate your leadership and bring deeper purpose to your organization, this episode is a must-listen. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
Radical Listening: The Secret to Transforming Connections with Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener & Dr. Christian van Nieuwerburgh 47:48

8 weeks ago47:48

47:48

What if the key to deeper connections, greater well-being, and enhanced performance at work was simply learning to listen? Join Ilene Schaffer in an insightful conversation with coaching experts Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener and Dr. Christian van Nieuwerburgh, authors of the upcoming book "Radical Listening." Together, they reveal how intentional, empathetic, and strategic listening transcends traditional active listening, becoming a powerful tool for building trust, enhancing communication, and unlocking potential. Discover practical ways to listen with intention, when interruptions can be beneficial, and why truly listening can radically transform your personal and professional relationships. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
In the Moment: The Myth of "It's Too Late" 7:44

9 weeks ago7:44

7:44

It's time for a wake up call. In this mini-episode, we explore the myth of 'too late' and how to reclaim your time to pursue your dreams and aspirations. Ilene Schaffer, CEO of Silicon Valley Change Executive Coaching, encourages listeners to dust off those long-forgotten goals and evaluate them through the lens of their future 80-year-old self. She provides a step-by-step process to prioritize what's truly important and take small, actionable steps to make it happen. Don't let the fear of missing the boat hold you back - it's never too late to go after what you truly want. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
Leading Through Uncertainty: Positive Leadership with Niels Gott 40:12

10 weeks ago40:12

40:12

In a world where the only constant is change, effective leadership means more than just managing—it’s about inspiring and supporting your team through uncertainty. Host Ilene Schaffer sits down with Niels Gott , an SVC executive coach and veteran with a unique blend of military precision and heartfelt empathy. They discuss the transformative power of positive leadership and uncover the mindset shifts and practical tools that leaders can employ to make a change. Niels shares actionable strategies and the profound impact of fostering vulnerability, self-efficacy, and a supportive work environment. Plus, you'll learn how positive leadership not only enhances team resilience but also drives organizational success. Tune in to find out what's possible when we lead with positivity. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
In the Moment: Why Saying No Matters 7:36

11 weeks ago7:36

7:36

When was the last time you said no? Ilene Schaffer explores why mastering the art of saying no is crucial for maintaining boundaries and ensuring personal well-being. Learn how saying no to some things means saying yes to what truly matters—be it your health, family, or personal goals. In under ten minutes, Ilene provides practical insights on making intentional choices that honor your boundaries and contribute to a meaningful, purposeful life. Say yes to tuning in, and find out how to balance your yeses and nos effectively. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
How to Combat Burnout, Build Resilience, and Lead Well with Paula Davis 42:37

12 weeks ago42:37

42:37

Dive into a new era of leadership with Paula Davis, Founder and CEO of the Stress & Resilience Institute, as she unveils transformative strategies from her latest book, "Lead Well." In this episode, Paula sits down with Ilene Schaffer to share practical, research-backed approaches to enhance team well-being and resilience, emphasizing a balanced "me and we" perspective. You’ll learn how to implement sticky recognition, amplify autonomy, ensure workload sustainability, and foster systemic resilience within your organization. Plus, Paula explains the significant business benefits of prioritizing well-being, including reduced attrition and increased productivity. Join us to learn how small, yet powerful gestures can profoundly impact team morale and engagement, and explore how you can lead in a way that not only directs but deeply cares. Tune in to redefine success and find out what’s possible when leadership goes beyond the basics to truly lead well. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
In the Moment: What is Self-Determination Theory? 15:00

13 weeks ago15:00

15:00

Ready to supercharge your leadership? Ilene Schaffer sits down with productivity expert Sharon Danzger to learn how self-determination theory. They discuss three crucial elements—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—that can transform your approach and uplift your team. When used intentionally, these elements can enhance motivation, productivity, and overall well-being in the workplace. - - - - - - - Learn more about Silicon Valley Change Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Connect with Ilene Schaffer Website | Instagram | LinkedIn This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.…

What’s Possible w. Ilene Schaffer

1
From Manager to Leader: Guiding the Next Generation of Senior Leadership with Dr. Chrissy Roth-Francis 45:16

14 weeks ago45:16