R.O.G. Return on Generosity

“Action over words.” “Where you can show up, show up.” “It doesn’t cost anything to be nice.” “The physical embodiment of love is being present.”   Episode summary | In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Jabari Whitehead engages with guests Tay Person and Mike Wernert in a heartfelt discussion about the importance of generosity, support, and emotional presence in parenting. They explore the challenges of being sports parents, the lessons of character and generosity they hope to impart to their children, and the value of being present in their kids' lives. The conversation also touches on the complexities of travel sports and the cherished moments that make it all worthwhile.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | * Your circle reflects who you aspire to be. * Creating a loving environment is crucial for growth. * Mistakes are part of the learning process. * Being present is essential for emotional support. * Generosity can make the world a better place. * Travel sports can provide valuable life lessons. * It's important to support your child's passions. * Emotional openness is key in parenting. * Intentionality in parenting leads to better outcomes. * Cherished moments with family are invaluable.   Chapters |  00:00 Better Us, Better Them 01:59 Lessons from Sports Parenting 08:43 Navigating Academic Pressure and Emotional Support 10:47 The Importance of Preparation and Goal Setting 12:32 The Invisible Work of Being Present 20:05 Emotional Vulnerability in Competitive Environments 26:57 Lessons of Generosity and Character 30:30 The Value of Travel Sports and Family Moments 35:36 Daily Moments of Joy and Connection   Guest Bio | Mike Wernert: Michael J. Wernert is a respected pharmaceutical leader and U.S. Army veteran known for his authentic, fatherly approach to leadership, with a career spanning 20 years at AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly. Michael’s experience as a teacher, coach, and military officer has shaped his belief that leadership is about investing in people and celebrating their successes. Armed with an MBA from the University of Delaware, a Master’s in Education from West Chester University, and a distinguished military background, he combines strategic expertise with genuine care and support for those around him.   Tay Person: With over 20 years of experience in K-12 education, Tay has spent his professional career dedicated to improving outcomes in public education. As a teacher, board member, consultant, and leader, Tay has taken a consultative approach to drive results and build lasting partnerships that ultimately benefit children. When he’s not working he’s spending time with his four daughters and wife of twenty-two years.   Guest Resources:  * The Power of Vulnerability - Brene Brown: https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability?language=en   Bridge Between Resources: * 5 Degree Change Course [https://bridgebetween.thinkific.com/] * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/] * Free Generosity Quiz [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]    Credits: Mike Wernert and Tay Person, Host Jabari Whitehead, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us next week for From the Vault #1: Harry Potter.

“Look past people’s faults and find their needs.” “I knew I couldn’t teach a kid until that kid knew I cared about them or until I made a connection with them.” “The grind is worth it.”   Episode summary | In this episode of the Return on Generosity podcast, host Jabari Whitehead engages in a heartfelt conversation with guests Tay Person and Mike Wernert about the themes of fatherhood, personal growth, and the importance of generosity. The discussion explores how their experiences as fathers shape their values, the lessons learned from their own fathers, and the sacrifices they make for their families. They reflect on the challenges of parenting, the need for self-improvement, and the ways they find balance in their lives. The conversation emphasizes the significance of being role models for their children and the impact of generosity in their relationships. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | * Personal growth is a continuous journey for fathers. * Fatherhood involves giving love and discipline. * Unlearning old parenting patterns is essential. * The first moments of parenthood are transformative. * Sacrifices are a part of being a father. * Finding time for self-care is crucial for parents. * Leadership skills are enhanced through fatherhood. * Generosity is reflected in how children treat others. * Children observe and learn from their parents' actions. * Being a good father requires selflessness and high standards.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Personal Growth 03:03 Fatherhood Models and Core Values 03:52 Lessons from Fatherhood: Unlearning and Learning 06:03 Navigating Parenthood: Challenges and Sacrifices 08:13 Refilling the Cup: Self-Care for Fathers 21:16 Reflections on Parenting and Leadership 23:36 Growth in Patience and Understanding 26:51 Authenticity in Leadership 29:22 The Importance of Connection 32:24 Generosity Reflected in Children 39:34 Better Us, Better Them   Guest Bio | Mike Wernert: Michael J. Wernert is a respected pharmaceutical leader and U.S. Army veteran known for his authentic, fatherly approach to leadership, with a career spanning 20 years at AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly. Michael’s experience as a teacher, coach, and military officer has shaped his belief that leadership is about investing in people and celebrating their successes. Armed with an MBA from the University of Delaware, a Master’s in Education from West Chester University, and a distinguished military background, he combines strategic expertise with genuine care and support for those around him.   Tay Person: With over 20 years of experience in K-12 education, Tay has spent his professional career dedicated to improving outcomes in public education. As a teacher, board member, consultant, and leader, Tay has taken a consultative approach to drive results and build lasting partnerships that ultimately benefit children. When he’s not working he’s spending time with his four daughters and wife of twenty-two years.   Guest Resources:  * The Power of Vulnerability - Brene Brown: https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability?language=en   Bridge Between Resources: * 5 Degree Change Course [https://bridgebetween.thinkific.com/] * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/] * Free Generosity Quiz [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]    Credits: Mike Wernert and Tay Person, Host Jabari Whitehead, Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us next week for Episode 240, Part 2.

“Happiness is often around an external event or external situation where joy is internal.” “You can’t pour from an empty soul.” “You can choose how to show up.”   Episode summary | In this episode of ROG, Shannon Cassidy speaks with Linda Shively, a neuroscience and mindset coach, about the importance of joy, resilience, and generosity. Linda shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity, including escaping an abusive marriage and dealing with her daughter's health challenges. She introduces the concept of 'joy-stealing dragons' that hinder personal happiness and offers strategies to tame them. The conversation also explores the significance of laughter yoga, the difference between joy and happiness, and the importance of self-generosity. Linda emphasizes the power of gratitude and small joys in cultivating a fulfilling life.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | * Joy-stealing dragons can hinder personal happiness. * Laughter yoga promotes intentional joy and connection. * Joy is an internal state, while happiness is often external. * Generosity can manifest in many forms beyond money. * Self-care is essential for personal well-being. * Traveling provides perspective and joy. * Unexpected connections can lead to profound mentorship. * Being present is crucial for mental well-being. * Gratitude can spark joy even in difficult times.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Joy and Resilience 02:17 Linda's Journey: Overcoming Adversity 05:30 The Joy Stealing Dragons 08:30 Taming Your Inner Dragons 12:13 The Power of Storytelling 14:18 Understanding Joy vs. Happiness 15:32 The Essence of Generosity 16:36 Self-Generosity and Personal Care 17:06 Filling the Soul: Nourishment and Joy 17:40 Travel as a Soul-Filling Experience 18:36 Unexpected Connections: Mentorship and Friendship 20:22 The Power of Presence in Communication 24:04 Rapid Fire Insights on Joy and Mindfulness   Guest Bio | Linda Shively has been featured in the Wall Street Journal and is a best-selling author, international award-winning speaker, and neuroscience and mindset expert. She has presented at Nasdaq, the Mexican Stock Exchange, the New York Academy of Medicine, the Mexican National Academy of Medicine, the Harvard Club of Boston, the New York City Bar Association, Walmart, and Carnegie Hall. Linda has been a multiple-time guest on ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC television, featured in a feature film with Winona Ryder and Jeff Daniels, and even performed at the Rose Bowl for over 90,000 people. After healing from an abusive marriage, and navigating the diagnosis and eventual death of her 3-year-old daughter, Linda found her way to bounce back and reclaim her joy in life. Today she helps successful women defeat the dragons in their life and elevate their joy to new levels. Linda has studied brain and mind function for over 30 years, earning a psychobiology degree from UCLA, is a certified Master Life and Executive Coach, a Master Practitioner of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), a Master Hypnotherapist, and a Certified Laughter Yoga Leader.    Guest Resources:  * Quiz to identify one of your biggest Joy-Stealing Dragons and what to do about it: https://JoyStealingDragons.com * Meditation to get you grounded, present, and focused: https://MyPeacefulMeditation.com * My book Getting to Joy to get practical tips to find your way back to joy:  https://GettingToJoy.com/gift * https://LindaShively.com   Bridge Between Resources: * 5 Degree Change Course [https://bridgebetween.thinkific.com/] * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/] * Free Generosity Quiz [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]    Credits: Linda Shively, Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 239, Special Guests, Mike Wernert and Tay Person.

“[Rare Diseases Research] deserves to be celebrated the same way that we celebrate athletes and sports in this country.” “Giving is the greatest form of getting.” “You always have a chance to positively impact other people, it's just a matter of what you do with the moments you have.”   Episode summary | In this episode of ROG, Shannon Cassidy interviews Brett Brackett, the executive director of Uplifting Athletes, who shares his journey from being a college and NFL athlete to leading a nonprofit focused on supporting the rare disease community. Brett discusses the importance of generosity, the impact of rare diseases, and how Uplifting Athletes engages college athletes in philanthropy. He emphasizes the power of community, the significance of research in rare diseases, and the misconceptions surrounding athletes. The conversation highlights the importance of using one's platform for good and the profound impact of giving back.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | * Generosity can take many forms, including time, talent, and treasure. * The average path to diagnosis for rare diseases is 3-5 years. * One in ten Americans is affected by a rare disease. * Uplifting Athletes hosts events to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases. * The Young Investigator Draft celebrates researchers in rare disease research. * Athletes often use their platforms to give back to the community. * Misconceptions about athletes often overlook their generosity and impact. * Success is defined individually, not by external standards.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Generosity and Leadership 02:27 Brett Brackett's Journey from Athlete to Advocate 05:32 The Importance of Family and Support Systems 07:27 Uplifting Athletes: Mission and Impact 12:26 Understanding Rare Diseases 16:14 Events and Community Engagement 20:28 Stories of Generosity and Giving Back 25:14 The Power of Generosity 30:20 Misconceptions About Athletes 31:49 The Penn State Experience 33:49 Impacting Lives Through Generosity 35:18 Lessons from Football and Life 39:19 Leadership and Personal Growth   Guest Bio | Brett Brackett is a New Jersey native whose passion for helping others has guided him to make a lasting impact on the rare disease community. Through his athletic career and now with Uplifting Athletes, Brett has used the platform of sport to inspire hope, raise awareness, and drive change for those impacted by rare diseases.   An exceptional athlete, Brett transitioned from being a top-rated quarterback in high school to a standout wide receiver and co-captain at Penn State, where he earned degrees in Marketing and Economics. His professional football career saw him thrive as an undrafted tight end with teams such as the Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, and Seattle Seahawks.   In 2017, Brett joined Uplifting Athletes full-time as Chapter Success Manager, where his leadership and experience in sports helped expand the organization’s reach. His deep commitment and strategic vision led him to step into an organizational leadership role in 2018. Since then the organization has funded over $1.2 million in rare disease research grants, hosted over 2,000 individuals impacted by rare disease for one-of-kind Uplifting Experiences and developed 450 student-athletes who have been trained to serve people impacted by rare diseases through Uplifting Athletes’ programming.  Brett lives in Pennsylvania with his wife Jamie and their four children.   Guest Resources:  www.upliftingathletes.org Instagram: @UpliftingAthletes LinkedIn: /Uplifting-Athletes X: @UpliftingAth Facebook: UpliftingAthletes   Bridge Between Resources: * 5 Degree Change Course [https://bridgebetween.thinkific.com/] * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/] * Free Generosity Quiz [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]    Credits: Brett Brackett, Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc.   Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 238, Special Guest, Linda Shively.

"Everybody has value to give." “It’s not a game breaker, it’s a game changer.” “How are you doing that differently? How are you going to stand out from the crowd?”   Episode summary | In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy interviews Yvette Thornton, a registered patent agent and advocate for innovation and women in leadership. Yvette shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Virginia to her career in intellectual property, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, empowerment, and generosity. She discusses her advocacy for the National Down Syndrome Society, her experiences in patent law, and the lessons learned from her upbringing that shape her leadership style. The conversation also touches on navigating career transitions, the power of community, and the significance of recognizing one's own value and strengths.   R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | * Leadership is about recognizing and valuing everyone's contributions. * Empowering women in leadership roles is crucial for industry transformation. * Advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome is about recognizing their abilities. * Intellectual property protects innovations and encourages creativity. * Listening and asking the right questions are key skills in patent law. * Transitioning careers involves self-discovery and recognizing one's strengths. * Generosity can come from unexpected places and has a ripple effect. * It's important to grieve the loss of a job and give oneself time to heal. * You are enough; own your strengths and contributions.   Chapters |  00:00 Introduction to Yvette Thornton and Her Journey 03:20 Growing Up on the Farm: Roots and Values 06:16 Influence of Family and Community on Leadership 08:59 Empowering Women in Leadership through WICT 11:57 Advocacy for Down Syndrome Awareness 14:48 Understanding Intellectual Property and Patents 15:43 The Journey to Becoming a Patent Agent 18:23 Innovations and Patents: The Impact of Ideas 21:21 Listening and Questioning: Keys to Innovation 23:10 Navigating Project Management and Innovation 24:34 Advice for Innovators: Protecting Your Ideas 26:34 Understanding Patents and Intellectual Property 27:48 The Power of Generosity in Professional Transitions 31:14 Embracing Career Transitions and Self-Discovery 35:27 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Your Value 39:00 The Importance of Asking for Help 42:15 Empowerment and Believing in Your Worth 43:21 Recharge and Leadership Style   Guest Bio | Yvette Thornton, a registered patent agent, is the driving force behind Clarke Innovations LLC, where she advises organizations on innovation strategies, operational improvements and intellectual property (IP).  Her work focuses on the intersection of engineering and IP, expanding access to patenting, and fostering innovation-driven cultures.  In her previous role as Director of Patent Development at Comcast NBCUniversal, Yvette collaborated with engineers and senior leaders to identify and capture innovation across the company. Yvette's impact extended beyond idea generation; she developed internal patent process, launched an Employee Recognition Program and created “Girl Storm” a program supporting women in patenting. Yvette began her IP career as a Primary Patent Examiner at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. She holds a M.S.  in Chemistry from the University of Virginia and a B.S. from Norfolk State University, where she was a Dozoretz National Institute for Mathematics and Applied Sciences (DNIMAS) Scholar. Based in the Philadelphia area, Yvette is active in The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia, an advocate for the National Down Syndrome Society and enjoys reading, drawing, and spending time with her family.   Guest Resources:  * https://clarkeinnovations.com/   Bridge Between Resources: * 5 Degree Change Course [https://bridgebetween.thinkific.com/] * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index  [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/] * Free Generosity Quiz [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]    Credits: Yvette Thornton, Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 237, Special Guest, Brett Brackett.