The RIGHT Kind of Uncomfortable
Hosted by Dr. James Pogue The RIGHT Kind of Uncomfortable asks the hard questions about today's most interesting, awkward and necessary topics. We host business leaders from across industries, people with unique skill sets and experiences, that have given them an intriguing perspective on our world. We also dig into the everyday challenges that are too common for too many. This podcast gives you a way to see you are not alone, that others are navigating the waters you are in, and that there is a path through it all. This path although sometimes hard to find is there and we can find it as long as we are willing to be The RIGHT Kind of Uncomfortable.
Episodes
Psychological safety isn’t about eliminating discomfort. It’s about creating the conditions where challenge and growth can thrive without fear of retaliation or exclusion. Dr. Ryan C. Warner joins James to explore how leaders at every level can balance safety with accountability, and why emotional intelligence is a critical skill for high-performing, inclusive teams. From feedback dynamics to work-life integration, this conversatio...
In this episode, we dig into leading through disruption and why culture sets the ceiling for results. We talk about finding common ground in uncertain times, creating safe spaces for honest conversation, and how people first decisions show up when it matters most. We also look at mergers and acquisitions, keeping brand identities intact, and what it takes to unite teams without flattening what makes them unique.
You will hear real e...
What does it take to lead through discomfort, own your mistakes, and keep showing up? In this episode, John Bratsakis, President of the MD|DC Credit Union Association, joins James in the studio for an unfiltered conversation on leadership, accountability, and the quiet strength of consistency.
They explore the professional lessons learned through failure, how presence outweighs perception, and why the ability to self-assess—honestly...
What happens when early childhood experiences shape your leadership presence as an adult? In this episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable, Emma Hayes, Chief Learning and Engagement Officer at State Employees’ Credit Union of North Carolina, shares how a painful moment in first grade set her on a path of self-protection, purpose, and ultimately, transformation.
Emma opens up about the unseen weight many leaders carry, from cultura...
What do you do when your next big conference lands in a city that clashes with your values? In this episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable, Dr. James Pogue sits down with Dr. Elena Gersman, co-founder of Social Offset, to unpack a practical alternative to staying home.
They explore why in-person connection matters for business, how boycotts can unintentionally hurt local communities, and how Social Offset lets leaders and atten...
In part 2 of this episode, Dr. James Pogue and Paul Carolan dive deeper into the principles of active, intentional leadership. Paul shares powerful stories about fostering inclusivity, balancing core values, and the importance of recognizing individuality in the workplace. From addressing gender and cultural differences to navigating faith in business settings, Paul provides actionable insights and heartfelt anecdotes that challeng...
In part one of this two-part episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable, Dr. James Pogue sits down with Paul Carolan, a former C-suite executive and current consultant and adjunct professor at Virginia Tech. From humble beginnings sweeping floors to leading companies like Bruegger's Bagels and Genghis Grill, Paul shares his journey through the highs and lows of leadership.
Paul opens up about navigating cultural divid...
In this episode of The Right Kind of Uncomfortable, Dr. James Pogue sits down with Eric Goldfeld, Senior Vice President of Sales and Distribution at DIRECTV. They explore the profound elements of leadership and connection, diving deep into the pivotal moments of Eric's career. From his beginnings at AT&T in customer service to his current executive role, Eric shares the evolution of his leadership style. The conversation h...
In Episode 4 of "The Right Kind of Uncomfortable," host James speaks with Tarji Carter, founder of "That Franchise Player," an organization dedicated to bridging the gap in franchise ownership education for underrepresented communities. Tarji shares her mission to empower people, especially within the Black community, by providing insights into the franchise industry—a sector where communities of color are ofte...
In this episode, Dr. James Pogue, CEO of JP Enterprises, and CeCe Cox, CEO of Resource Center, discuss LGBTQIA+ awareness, terminology, and inclusion. Cox elaborates on the meanings of LGBTQIA+ terms, emphasizing the importance of education and respectful communication to foster deeper connections.
In this thought-provoking second episode of The Right Kind Of Uncomfortable, host James Pogue sits down with Kent Lugrand, CEO of InTouch Federal Credit Union. With decades of experience in the financial industry, Lugrand shares candid insights on leadership, diversity, and the challenges of connecting in today's business world.
The conversation spans topics from trust and transparency in leadership to generational differences ...
In this engaging episode of The Right Kind Of Uncomfortable, Dr. James Pogue sits down with Valentina Tudose, a relationship coach and clinical hypnotherapist, to discuss their recent Intimacy and Connection Master Class. The conversation spans various topics related to intimacy, connection, and the dynamics of masculine and feminine energy in relationships.
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