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Ever found out secondhand that someone had a problem with you? In this episode, Chris and Mel explore the feedback flow and why the most costly feedback is the kind that never reaches the person it's about. Discover why we so often go around people instead of to them, and how going direct builds trust, makes room for context and keeps things from snowballing.Learn the feedback flow: be direct, try again, then bring someone else in, openly. Plus, a quick refresher on the SBII framework: situation, behavior, impact and inquiry.Play along with a round of "Direct or Around” and put your feedback knowledge to the test. Additional resources:S04E04 - Continuous Feedback, Continuous Growth: https://growfurtherpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes/continuous-feedback-continuous-growth

Melissa and Chris continue their series on tough conversations by exploring a critical truth: people often respond less to what you say and more to how you say it. From tone, pace, volume and warmth to body language and facial expressions, non-verbal communication can build trust and psychological safety or quickly derail a conversation. Using their "Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself" approach, they share practical tips to help you recognize the signals you're sending, align your message with your intent and increase the likelihood of productive, authentic conversations.

Ever hesitate before giving tough feedback, or feel your stomach drop when someone says, “I have some feedback for you”? In this episode, Chris and Mel explore why psychological safety is the foundation for productive feedback conversations and how the right approach can help people lean into feedback instead of pulling away from it. Discover how psychological safety helps people receive feedback without feeling threatened and creates the conditions for growth.Learn three practical techniques for delivering feedback more effectively: start with heart, exercise humility, and model curiosity. Explore how simple shifts in language, like using “what” questions instead of “why” questions, can reduce defensiveness and encourage more productive conversations.

What do Apple, Disney, CVS and you have in common? Branding! In this episode of the Grow Further podcast, Chris and Mel discuss personal brand, anchored by Maya Angelou’s idea that people remember how you made them feel. They emphasize that everyone has a brand at work, in families and in communities, and the key is intentionally shaping it authentically rather than creating a persona.  Also in this episode: Defining what is a personal brandA guided reflection on current versus desired brandsChallenges to strengthen your personal brand.

Feeling stuck in the grind or reacting on autopilot? In this episode of Grow Further, Chris and Mel explore awe, an often overlooked emotional state that can widen perspective, calm stress and help us respond more thoughtfully when life feels overwhelming. Blending research, personal stories and simple practices, they show how moments of wonder, big or small, can support resilience, connection and meaningful change. Also in this episode: Learn what the science says about how awe boosts wellbeing, generosity, and emotional regulationHear real life moments, from the Grand Canyon to everyday kindness, where awe shifted perspectiveTry practical ways to cultivate awe on purpose, including reflection prompts and mindset resets for hard days

Chris and Mel discuss why achieving a long-chased goal, like a promotion or dream job, can feel surprisingly empty, and how this “that’s it?” moment is common even among elite athletes. They explain that dopamine surges more in anticipation and pursuit than in the reward itself, so it often drops after accomplishment.    Also in this episode: What Simone Biles, Abby Wambach and Michael Phelps say about success falling flatFive Practices to navigate the post-achievement lull

In this episode, Mel turns the spotlight on Grow Further host Chris Munoz, exploring her journey from her North Carolina roots to a purpose-driven career in healthcare leadership and resilience training. Chris shares how relationships shaped each major career move, the setback that transformed her leadership approach, and the origins of the Grow Further podcast. She also dives into the importance of authenticity, trust, and developing others while staying grounded through family, movement, and joy. Also, in this episode: How her upbringing, athletic background, and teaching legacy shaped her purpose and leadership philosophy.Three relationship-driven career pivots—from military resilience work to CVS Health and eventually chief of staff.Her defining setback, lessons in resilience, and advice for leaders on growth, development, and using AI without losing their voice.

In this episode of Grow Further, Chris and Mel sit down with Lucille Accetta, Chief Pharmacy Officer and Senior Vice President at CVS Health, to discuss her inspiring career journey and the future of pharmacy. Lucille shares valuable insights into leadership, professional growth and the importance of trust and flexibility in the workplace.  Also in this episode:  Discover the pivotal moves in Lucille's career that led her to a top executive role Learn how technology is reshaping the pharmacy landscape

In this episode of the 'Grow Further' podcast, hosts Chris and Mel discuss the common pitfalls of New Year's resolutions and how to make them more effective in 2026. They emphasize shifting from outcome-based goals to identity-based goals, which connect accomplishments to who you are rather than just what you do.    Also in this episode: The importance of process goals and habits Why the only one you need to focus on is youProving your identity to yourself through small, consistent wins.

Where does confidence really come from? In this end-of-year episode of Grow Further, Chris and Mel unpack this question while exploring the “December Paradox”- that tension between looking back at what you’ve achieved and planning for what’s next.  They explore the critical role confidence plays in achieving these goals, sharing personal experiences and practical tips for building and sustaining confidence.    Also in this episode: Dr. Albert Bandura’s four dimensions of confidence that shape success.The importance of self-awareness, positive self-talk, and learning from setbacks as key strategies for boosting confidence.

Feeling grateful today? Join Chris and Mel as they dive into the power of gratitude. This episode is packed with insights on how an attitude of gratitude can strengthen your relationships, boost your well-being, and even enhance your performance.   Also in this episode: Practical tips for making gratitude a daily habitWhat is negativity bias and how to counteract itWhy you don’t just have to be thankful for the big things.

In this episode of the Grow Further podcast, Mel and Chris dive into the whirlwind of change that we all face, both at work and at home. They challenge you to shift your mindset and become the CEO of Change, transforming discomfort into opportunity. Tune in for insights on how to lead yourself and others through the ever-evolving landscape of life!   Also in this episode: Discover the importance of empathy and communication during times of change.Learn how to help your team to “think, feel, and do” positively amidst uncertainty.Find out how embracing change can mean real gains for your team and your company.

Feeling drained as the year ramps up for holidays and other end-of-year activities? In this episode, Chris and Mel flip the script on resilience, revealing why intentional recovery—not just grit—separates the burnt out from the best. Join us for practical tips, relatable stories, and a fresh metaphor that’ll have you recharging smarter, not harder.   Also in this episode: Discover why elite athletes (and you) need to recover during the “game,” not just afterLearn the science behind micro-breaks and how a 60-second pause can boost your energyGet actionable strategies for better sleep, more joy, and focused workdays

Time to take the fear out of feedback! Join Chris and her new co-host Melissa as they dive into the transformative power of continuous feedback! Discover how regular check-ins can boost performance, build trust, and keep everyone engaged—especially during times of change. Get ready to rethink feedback and learn a simple framework to make it a habit!   Also in this episode: Explore the SBII framework for effective feedback.Learn why frequent feedback leads to higher employee engagement.Hear examples of feedback in action!Additional Resources: Center for Creative Leadership: https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/sbi-feedback-model-a-quick-win-to-improve-talent-conversations-development/Project Aristotle: https://rework.withgoogle.com/en/guides/understanding-team-effectiveness#introductionAmy Edmondson: https://amycedmondson.com/psychological-safety/

In this episode, Mel Schreibstein returns to help Chris explore how meaningful appreciation can transform workplace culture. From a simple "thank you" to public recognition, they break down the science behind why showing gratitude matters and how you can make it a daily habit. Whether you're a leader or teammate, this episode will help you boost engagement, morale, and collaboration—one shout-out at a time. Also in this episode: Why appreciation is one of the most effective (and underused) engagement toolsThe 3 levels of colleague appreciation—and how to do each one wellA 30-second challenge to make someone’s day at work today