R.O.G. Return on Generosity

"Generous leaders treat email as more than a task." "Thoughtful replies over quick responses." "Clarity and simplicity are key." In this episode of R.O.G. Return on Generosity, Shannon Cassidy discusses the often-overlooked aspect of leadership generosity in email communication. She emphasizes that emails should not just be transactional but should foster connection, empathy, and respect. Cassidy shares three key tips for generous email practices: prioritizing thoughtful replies, ensuring clarity and simplicity, and using email as a platform for kindness. These practices not only enhance communication but also build trust and a positive workplace culture. Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. [https://bridgebetween.com/] a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity [https://bridgebetween.com/podcast/] focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude.  Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity.  Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle [https://www.amazon.com/Degree-Principle-Small-Changes-Results/dp/0988612208/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+five+degree+principle&qid=1663932113&sr=8-1]: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. [https://www.amazon.com/V-I-B-Cassidy-Shannon/dp/0988612240/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=v.i.b.e.+shannon+cassidy&qid=1663935525&sr=8-2]A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude [https://www.etsy.com/listing/270129408/grounded-in-gratitude-a-five-year] a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work [https://bridgebetween.com/]. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: * Generous leaders prioritize thoughtful replies over quick responses. * Emails should reflect the value of people's contributions. * Clarity and simplicity in emails respect others' time. * Formatting emails with headings and bullet points aids understanding. * Use email to recognize achievements and express gratitude. * Positive language fosters a supportive communication environment. * Assume positive intent to avoid misinterpretation in emails. * Set up calls for complex issues after three email exchanges. * Generosity in communication builds trust and connection. * Generosity is a mindset and a leadership strategy. Resources: * YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb [https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb]  * Bridge Between, Inc. https://bridgebetween.com [https://bridgebetween.com/] * The Five Degree Principle [https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-5-degree-principle-shannon-cassidy/504965?ean=9780988612211] by Shannon Cassidy * V.I.B.E. [https://bridgebetween.com/books/v-i-b-e/] by Shannon Cassidy  * R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492] https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492]  * R.O.G. on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3] https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3 [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3]  * Video of this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI [https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI]  * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/ [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/]  * Free Generosity Quiz https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/ [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]  Credits: Sheep Jam Productions [https://sheepjam.com/], Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 205, Special Guest, Joe Davis.

“Title IX says no person shall be discriminated against on the basis of sex…as measured three different ways, one is equal opportunities to participate, two is equal scholarship dollars between men and women, and third is, they've got to get treated the same way.” Guest Bio: Life-long advocate for access and equality in athletics, internationally recognized legal expert on sports issues, scholar and author Nancy Hogshead has a commitment to equality, using sport as a vehicle for social change.  As one of the foremost exponents for gender equity, she advocates for access and equality in sports participation. Legal issues include sexual harassment, sexual abuse and assault, employment, pregnancy, and legal enforcement under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Her book, co-authored with Andrew Zimbalist, Equal Play, Title IX and Social Change [http://www.amazon.com/Equal-Play-Title-Social-Change/dp/1592133800], has received acclaim since its release by Temple University Press. She was the lead author of Pregnant and Parenting Student-Athletes; Resources and Model Policies, published by the NCAA, and her book chapter, The Ethics of Title IX and Gender Equity for Coaches, appears in The Ethics of Coaching Sports; Moral, Social and Legal Issues, edited by Robert L. Simon. Hogshead has testified in Congress numerous times on the topic of gender equity in athletics, written numerous scholarly and lay articles, and has been a frequent guest on national news programs on the topic, including 60 Minutes, Fox News, CNN, ESPN, NPR, MSNBC and network morning news programming. She serves as an expert witness in Title IX cases and has written amicus briefs representing athletic organizations in precedent-setting litigation. From 2003 – 2012 she was the Co-Chair of the American Bar Association Committee on the Rights of Women. She was elected to the editorial board of the Journal of Intercollegiate Sport.  Sports Illustrated magazine listed her as one of the most influential people in the history of Title IX. Hogshead practiced law at the law firm of Holland & Knight, in both their litigation and public law departments. She was a tenured Professor of Law at the Florida Coastal School of Law, where she taught Torts, Sports Law and Gender Equity in Athletics courses for twelve years. Hogshead had a 30 year history with the Women’s Sports Foundation, starting as a college intern, becoming the third President from 1992-94, it’s the legal advisor from 2003-10, and serving as a consultant as the Senior Director of Advocacy until 2014.  She earned her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center and is an honors graduate of Duke University. Hogshead has received significant awards recognizing her commitment to athletics, including: an honorary doctorate from Springfield College, induction into the Academic All-America Hall of Fame and the International Scholar-Athlete Hall of Fame, the Hall of Fame for the National Association for Sports and Physical Education, and receipt of the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletic Administrators’ “Honor Award”. In 2011 she was presented with the National Organization for Women’s “Courage Award,” and was inducted into the National Consortium for Academics and Sports Hall of Fame. In 2012 she was awarded the “Title IX Advocate Award” from the Alliance of Women Coaches. In 2014 she was awarded the “Babe Didrikson Zaharias” Award. Hogshead capped eight years as a world class swimmer at the 1984 Olympics, where she won three Gold medals and one Silver medal. Through high school and college dual meets she was undefeated. Other major awards include the Nathan Mallison Award, given to Florida’s outstanding athlete, and the prestigious Kiphuth Award, given to the best all-around swimmer nationally. Nancy has been inducted into eleven halls of fame, including the International Swimming Hall of Fame and the International Women’s Sports Hall of Fame. Resources: * Nancy Hogshead  [https://www.championwomen.org/meet-nancy] * Donation page [https://www.championwomen.org/donations] * Nancy Hogshead Introduction [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aH2QaMN2kqE] * Olympic Gold Medalist Fighting to Stop Sexual Abuse in Sport ½The Players’ Tribune [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgDtQbP0jrE] * Nancy Hogshead ½ CEO Champion Women [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCbpE3FOgwY] Where to find R.O.G. Podcast: R.O.G on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb] R.O.G on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492] R.O.G on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3?si=l5vX45meTLSv86ucHowRGw&nd=1] How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/] What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/] Credits: Nancy Hogshead, Sheep Jam Productions [https://sheepjam.com/], Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 204, Host, Shannon Cassidy.

"We hear the message through our own insecurity." In this episode of the ROG podcast, Shannon Cassidy discusses the concept of defensive listening, a barrier to effective communication. She explains how defensive listening occurs when individuals filter messages through their insecurities or fears, leading to combative or withdrawn responses. Shannon provides clues to identify defensive listening in oneself and offers three strategies to overcome it: pausing before responding, seeking clarification, and embracing empathy. By practicing these strategies, individuals can foster genuine connections and enhance their relationships. Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. [https://bridgebetween.com/] a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective  communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity [https://bridgebetween.com/podcast/] focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude.  Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity.  Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle [https://www.amazon.com/Degree-Principle-Small-Changes-Results/dp/0988612208/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+five+degree+principle&qid=1663932113&sr=8-1]: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. [https://www.amazon.com/V-I-B-Cassidy-Shannon/dp/0988612240/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=v.i.b.e.+shannon+cassidy&qid=1663935525&sr=8-2]A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude [https://www.etsy.com/listing/270129408/grounded-in-gratitude-a-five-year] a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work [https://bridgebetween.com/]. Chapters: * 00:00 Understanding Defensive Listening * 03:11 Strategies to Overcome Defensive Listening R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: * Defensive listening occurs when we filter messages through insecurity. * Recognizing defensive listening in ourselves is challenging but essential. * Making assumptions can indicate defensive listening. * Personalizing comments often leads to defensive reactions. * Resisting the speaker shuts down opportunities for growth. * Pausing before responding allows for intentional communication. * Seeking clarification encourages understanding and dialogue. * Empathy is crucial for effective communication and connection. * Practicing these strategies fosters a culture of generosity. * Avoiding defensive listening can significantly enhance relationships. Resources: * YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb [https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb]  * Bridge Between, Inc. https://bridgebetween.com [https://bridgebetween.com/] * The Five Degree Principle [https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-5-degree-principle-shannon-cassidy/504965?ean=9780988612211] by Shannon Cassidy * V.I.B.E. [https://bridgebetween.com/books/v-i-b-e/] by Shannon Cassidy  * R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492] https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492]  * R.O.G. on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3] https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3 [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3]  * Video of this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI [https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI]  * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/ [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/]  * Free Generosity Quiz https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/ [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]  Credits: Sheep Jam Productions [https://sheepjam.com/], Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 203, Special Guest, Nancy Hogshead.

“Reach isn't a measure or a strategy for how we get bigger. Reach is a measure of what we're willing to care about.” “We have to wage war against regret.” “We break the patterns of the past by choosing to be faithful in the moment.” Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction and Background * 07:27 Reaching People and Caring for Their Needs * 09:07 Walking with People and Being Helpful * 17:19 The Importance of Surrender * 23:17 Choosing a Word of the Year * 27:58 Living a Life of Beauty and Generosity * 30:37 The Power of a Single Word * 32:27 Being Intentional and Generative * 36:39 Disrupting Old Patterns and Finding Peace * 39:43 The Process of Encounter, Formation, and Expression * 50:02 Being Cool and Embracing Authenticity Episode Summary: Mike Ashcraft, senior pastor at Port City Community Church, shares his journey and insights on generous leadership. He emphasizes the importance of reaching people and caring about their needs, rather than focusing on building something big. Mike also discusses the value of walking with people and not standing on issues, as well as the significance of surrender and choosing a word of the year. He encourages individuals to focus on who they want to be and to live a life of beauty and generosity. In this conversation, Mike Ashcraft discusses the power of choosing a single word to guide and shape our lives. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional and generative in our actions and thoughts. Mike also shares insights on disrupting old patterns, finding peace in the present moment, and the process of encounter, formation, and expression. He encourages us to be cool and not let our emotions dictate our responses. Ultimately, Mike wants to be remembered as someone who was authentic and actively worked towards becoming the person he aspired to be. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: * Reaching people is about caring for their needs and extending ourselves towards them. * Walking with people involves being helpful and asking how we can support them. * Surrendering involves trusting God with different aspects of our lives and offering ourselves as a living sacrifice. * Choosing a word of the year helps deepen our awareness and focus on who we want to be. * Living a life of beauty and generosity involves offering something that isn't necessarily productive or efficient. Choose a single word to guide and shape your life. * Be intentional and generative in your actions and thoughts. * Disrupt old patterns and find peace in the present moment. * Embrace the process of encounter, formation, and expression. * Be cool and don't let emotions dictate your responses. * Strive to be authentic and actively work towards becoming the person you aspire to be. Guest Bio: Mike Ashcraft serves as the senior pastor at Port City Community Church which he helped start in 1999. He is the author of To Be Concluded and My One Word, as well as a children’s picture book, The Bright Idea. He married Julie, his high school sweetheart, in 1992. They grew up in Atlanta and relocated near the beach in southeastern North Carolina. They enjoy family time with their two daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. The beach is Mike’s happy place and surfing is the only hobby he needs. Resources: * Mike Ashcraft on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/mikeashcraft/?hl=en] (@mikeashcraft) * Port City Community Church [https://www.portcity.church/] * My One Word [https://www.portcity.church/word] * My One Word Website [https://myoneword.org/about/] * Mike's books: * To Be Concluded [https://amzn.to/4a955Ou] * My One Word [https://amzn.to/3VsU0mS] * Sermon with Encounter, Formation, Expression [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQDDACy5mRw&list=PLNsNJZXXY9IgIvFEYg_Q350-AHEU5Dlzp&index=6&t=378s] * Buzz LightYear Spanish mode clip [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykDTef2VFio] Where to find R.O.G. Podcast: R.O.G on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb] R.O.G on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492] R.O.G on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3?si=l5vX45meTLSv86ucHowRGw&nd=1] How diverse is your network?  N.D.I. Network Diversity Index [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/] What is your Generosity Style?  Generosity Quiz [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/] Credits: Mike Ashcraft, Sheep Jam Productions [https://sheepjam.com/], Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 202, Host, Shannon Cassidy.

"Generosity is the most essential capability of leadership." In this milestone 200th episode of R.O.G. Return on Generosity , host Shannon Cassidy reflects on the journey of the podcast over the past four years, emphasizing the critical role of generosity in effective leadership. She discusses the importance of oxytocin and serotonin in fostering positive relationships and leadership qualities, and shares insights from various guests who have contributed to the podcast's success. Cassidy expresses gratitude for the support received and outlines future goals for the podcast, including guest hosts and increased presence on YouTube. Shannon Cassidy is Founder and CEO of Bridge Between, Inc. [https://bridgebetween.com/] a boutique leadership development firm specializing in generous leadership, behavioral change, executive presence, effective  communication, collaborative teamwork, and conflict resolution. She provides Executive Coaching, Facilitation (team sessions, mentoring programs, leadership retreats, executive workshops, mediation services) and Keynote Speaking (conferences, annual events, ceremonies) all custom designed. This is her podcast, R.O.G. Return on Generosity [https://bridgebetween.com/podcast/] focusing on how to be a corporate generous leader by sharing time, talent and gratitude.  Shannon combines her keen ability to get to the heart of every matter with a proven track record as a corporate leader. Before founding Bridge Between, Inc. she spent years building profitable businesses and driving innovation and leadership initiatives. This real-world experience formed the bedrock of her success. She equips her clients with the strategies, tools, and inspiration to thrive during organizational change and to lead with vision, purpose, and generosity.  Shannon has authored several articles and books including Discover Your Inner Strength (2009), The Five Degree Principle [https://www.amazon.com/Degree-Principle-Small-Changes-Results/dp/0988612208/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+five+degree+principle&qid=1663932113&sr=8-1]: How Small Changes Lead to Big Results (2013), V.I.B.E. [https://www.amazon.com/V-I-B-Cassidy-Shannon/dp/0988612240/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=v.i.b.e.+shannon+cassidy&qid=1663935525&sr=8-2]A Self-Discovery Journey to Authentic Leadership (2014) and Grounded in Gratitude [https://www.etsy.com/listing/270129408/grounded-in-gratitude-a-five-year] a one-line-a –day, five-year gratitude journal (2015-2023). Her current efforts focus on the benefits of Generosity at Work [https://bridgebetween.com/]. Chapters: * 00:00 Celebrating 200 Episodes of Generosity * 02:04 The Importance of Generosity in Leadership * 07:07 The Role of Hormones in Leadership * 10:13 Reflections on Four Years of R.O.G. * 11:11 Future Goals and Innovations for R.O.G. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips: * Generosity is a key trait of effective leadership. * Listening and communication are vital for collaborative leadership. * Oxytocin and serotonin are essential for happiness and well-being. * Acts of kindness boost oxytocin for both giver and receiver. * Celebrating achievements fosters serotonin and confidence. * Generosity can transform individuals and organizations. * The podcast has featured diverse leaders and topics. * Community and connection are central to the podcast's mission. * Future episodes will include guest hosts and more video content. * Practicing generosity is a daily opportunity for leaders. Resources: * YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb [https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCassidybb]  * Bridge Between, Inc. https://bridgebetween.com [https://bridgebetween.com/] * The Five Degree Principle [https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-5-degree-principle-shannon-cassidy/504965?ean=9780988612211] by Shannon Cassidy * V.I.B.E. [https://bridgebetween.com/books/v-i-b-e/] by Shannon Cassidy  * R.O.G. on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492] https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/r-o-g-return-on-generosity/id1508207492]  * R.O.G. on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3] https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3 [https://open.spotify.com/show/1L9UnWdoiAX8MtRKXjdPY3]  * Video of this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI [https://youtu.be/PNfiBD-2PLI]  * Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/ [https://bridgebetween.com/network-diversity-index/]  * Free Generosity Quiz https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/ [https://bridgebetween.com/generosity-quiz/]  Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 201, special guest, Mike Ashcraft. Credits: Sheep Jam Productions [https://sheepjam.com/], Host Shannon Cassidy, [https://bridgebetween.com/coaches/shannon-cassidy] Bridge Between, Inc.