Podcast
Mentoring IRL
Hosted by Mentoring IRL · EN
Discover how transformative mentoring relationships are built from both sides of the table. Whether you're looking to guide others or accelerate your own growth, this podcast reveals the art and science behind meaningful mentorship. Each episode combines actionable strategies with compelling real-world stories, showing you how to navigate difficult conversations, set clear expectations, and create lasting professional relationships that benefit everyone involved. From first-time mentors learning to give effective feedback to ambitious mentees maximizing every interaction, we explore what separates good mentoring from great mentoring—and how both parties can thrive in the process.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ep #32 - GUEST: Compassionate Communication in High-Stakes Conversations with DeeDee Fisher
5d ago00:33:31Tap to summarizeContact us: mentoringirl@gmail.comEpisode SummaryIn this episode of Mentoring in Real Life, Angela Falcini and Bill Bonwit sit down with keynote speaker and communication expert DeeDee Fisher, creator of the CPL Framework — Compassion, Process, and Learning.Drawing from her upbringing in rural Idaho and decades as an entrepreneur and consultant, DeeDee shares how she developed a unique ability to recognize communication breakdowns and help people move beyond reactionary conversations. Together, they explore the role of curiosity, compassion, mentorship, and intentional dialogue in building stronger relationships and more effective teams.The conversation dives into how mentors can shape our paths, why asking better questions matters more than having all the answers, and how slowing down creates space for creativity, trust, and meaningful growth.Key TakeawaysCommunication often fails because people state positions instead of exchanging understanding.Curiosity is one of the most powerful tools for diffusing tension and improving dialogue.Great mentors help people see strengths and opportunities they may not recognize in themselves.Effective communication is a process, not a one-time interaction.Prioritizing meaningful conversations over constant busyness leads to better outcomes.Learning to say “I don’t know” is essential for personal and professional growth.Slowing down creates room for creativity, reflection, and deeper understanding.Topics DiscussedDeeDee Fisher’s CPL FrameworkCommunication during conflict and uncertaintyMentorship and intergenerational learningCuriosity as a leadership skillBuilding authentic relationshipsEgo, humility, and growthThe importance of slowing downLearning through feedbackCreating space for creativity and reflectionChapter Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to DeeDee Fisher01:15 – Growing up in rural Idaho03:00 – Early lessons in communication06:00 – Recognizing communication breakdowns08:00 – The power of asking questions11:00 – Mentors and learning from feedback15:00 – Why mentorship matters18:00 – Curiosity, humility, and growth21:00 – The CPL Framework explained24:00 – Prioritizing meaningful conversations26:00 – Creativity, reflection, and slowing down28:00 – Mentorship as a shared responsibility31:00 – Final reflections and key takeawaysAbout the GuestDeeDee Fisher is a keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and creator of the CPL Framework (Compassion, Process, and Learning). For more than three decades, she has helped leaders and organizations improve communication during moments of tension, uncertainty, and high stakes. Her work focuses on building trust, clarity, and meaningful dialogue that leads to better outcomes.https://www.linkedin.com/in/deedee-fisher/Websitediscoverresponse.com
Transcribe →Ep #31: GUEST: Andrew Hall, Dept Head of Financial Mgt, LA County Sanitation District
2w ago00:36:02Tap to summarizeContact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.comConnect with Andrew on LinkedInThe conversation delves into Andrew's career trajectory, education, transition to financial management, and his experience with formal and informal mentoring. It explores the evolution of formal mentoring programs, the importance of finding mentors, and the broader scope of mentoring beyond career development. Mentoring is seen as a holistic approach to personal and professional growth, adaptable to individual needs and available in various forms.TakeawaysMentoring is not limited to career development and can encompass personal growth and learning from various sources.Formal mentoring programs can be adapted to fit the needs of the mentor and mentee, creating a more personalized and effective experience.Mentoring can be found in various forms, including books, podcasts, and informal conversations, and can extend beyond the workplace.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction06:35 Interest in Financial Side of the House and IT Involvement12:17 Determining Mentorship within the Organization and Shift in Mentoring Approach
Transcribe →Ep #30: GUEST - The Jungle Gym of Careers: Mentoring Lessons from Kate Crane
4w ago00:30:07Tap to summarizeContact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.comContact Kate Crane: https://www.directionoverperfection.com/SummaryIn this insightful interview, Kate Crane shares her journey from art history to tech leadership, emphasizing the importance of mentorship at all career stages. Discover practical advice on building meaningful mentoring relationships, the evolving nature of mentorship, and the impact of face-to-face versus virtual interactions.Keywordsmentorship, career development, leadership, coaching, professional growth, networking, tech industry, career pivot, relationship buildingKey topicsThe importance of mentorship at different career stagesHow to start and maintain effective mentoring relationshipsThe impact of face-to-face versus virtual mentoringEvolving mentorship relationships over timeTakeawaysMentorship is a lifelong journey that adapts to life's seasons.Effective mentoring starts with listening more than giving advice.Face-to-face interactions are more powerful for building trust.Mentors and mentees should evolve their relationship as careers progress.Key ActionsStart mentorship conversations with active listening.Maintain regular, organic contact with mentees.Be adaptable as mentorship needs evolve over time.Prioritize face-to-face interactions when possible. Sound bites"Mentors can change over time based on your needs.""Being positive keeps mentors wanting to help.""In-person interactions are more engaging and powerful."Chapters00:00 The Journey of Kate Crane: From Art to Tech03:24 The Value of Mentorship in Career Development06:13 Navigating Career Pivots and Mentorship Dynamics08:48 The Evolution of Mentorship Relationships11:34 Mentoring Across Different Career Stages14:20 The Importance of Positive Mentorship17:12 The Role of Technology in Mentorship19:52 Maintaining Mentorship Relationships22:26 The Personal Touch in Mentorship25:04 Final Thoughts on Mentorship and Career Growth resources
Transcribe →Ep #29: Mastering Feedback as a Mentor (Yes, Especially Mentors)
Apr 2700:26:25Tap to summarizeContact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.comSummaryThis episode explores effective mentoring through the art of giving constructive feedback. Learn practical strategies to foster trust, reduce defensiveness, and help mentees grow by mastering feedback techniques that are specific, intentional, and recurring.Keywordsmentoring, feedback, leadership, professional development, coaching, communication, growth, trust, psychological safetyKey topicsThe importance of feedback in mentoringStrategies for giving effective feedbackCreating psychological safety in conversationsPattern recognition and behavioral insightsBuilding a feedback ritual for ongoing growthTakeawaysAlways ask permission before giving feedback to reduce defensiveness. Align feedback with the mentee's goals to make it relevant. Use the situation-behavior-impact framework for clarity. Focus on behaviors, not personalities, to keep feedback objective. Make feedback a recurring, predictable part of mentoring. Handwritten notes foster better engagement than typing.Sound Bites"If your mentor won't give feedback, who will?" "Keep feedback objective, not personal." "Provide specific, actionable guidance."Chapters00:00 The Importance of Feedback 02:49 Creating a Safe Feedback Environment 06:05 Delivering Constructive Feedback 09:06 Encouraging Self-Reflection 10:44 Common Mistakes in Feedback 12:41 Making Feedback a Ritual 14:58 The Power of Handwritten NotesResourcesManager Tools - https://www.managertools.com 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - https://www.franklincovey.com/courses/the-7-habits/Guest LinksLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelafalcini LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbonwit
Transcribe →Ep #28: The Superpower of Adaptability and Flexibility
Apr 1300:28:28Tap to summarizeContact us: mentoringirl@gmail.comSummaryThis episode explores the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the workplace and life. Angela Falcini and Bill Bonwit discuss how to develop these skills, overcome resistance to change, and leverage them for career growth and resilience.Keywordsadaptability, flexibility, change management, resilience, career growth, leadership, problem-solving, communication, emotional intelligence, workplace skillsKey topicsWhy flexibility is crucial in a changing workplace and life Practical strategies to increase adaptability and flexibility The importance of separating change from threat and reframing challenges Building resilience and managing emotional responses to changeTakeawaysFlexibility and adaptability are essential for handling constant change in work and life. Reframe change as an opportunity rather than a threat to stay proactive. Develop resilience by protecting recovery time and managing burnout. Ask questions early during change to gain clarity and reduce ambiguity. Attach your identity to skills, not roles, to remain adaptable during transitions.Chapters02:56 The Importance of Flexibility in Life and Work 10:23 Practical Strategies for Enhancing Adaptability 18:48 Emotional Resilience and Adaptability 24:07 Learning from Patterns in ChangeResourcesThe Fires of Heaven by Robert Jordan - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A7X7U4Q Conscious Leadership Group - Locating Yourself video - https://consciousleadershipgroup.com/locating-yourself How Big Things Get Done by Bent Flyvbjerg - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V4V7V4XMentoring IRL Episode 18 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-FPVvVZC9kguest linksLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelafalcini LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbonwit
Transcribe →Ep #27: Be Someone Everyone Wants to Work With
Apr 600:32:34Tap to summarizeContact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.comSummaryExplore the key values that make a great team and how to embody them to become someone everyone wants on their team. Based on Coach K's seven principles, this episode offers practical insights for fostering trust, respect, loyalty, and selfless service in any organization.Keywordsteam building, leadership, coaching, trust, respect, loyalty, selfless service, organizational cultureKey TopicsCoach K's seven team valuesDoing the right thing in a team contextRespect and dignity for all team membersCourage to speak up and actSelfless service and contributionLoyalty to team and missionAligning with team duties and goalsBuilding trust and reliabilitySound bites"Treat everyone with dignity and respect" "Listening empathetically builds trust" "Selfless service is its own reward"Chapters00:00 The Importance of Being a Good Teammate 02:48 Values of a Great Team 05:50 Doing the Right Thing 08:38 Respect and Dignity in Teamwork 11:33 Handling Conflict and Composure 14:23 Courage and Accountability 17:31 Selfless Service and Team Success 20:22 Demonstrating Loyalty 23:30 Duty and Dignity of Work 26:19 Building Trust in TeamsResourcesCoach K's 7 Values for a Great Team - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90by1ya1W9c
Transcribe →Ep #26 : GUEST - Dr. Keith Dorsey, Author of The Boardroom Journey
Mar 3000:39:52Tap to summarizeContact us: mentoringirl@gmail.comsummaryIn this insightful interview, Keith Dorsey shares his extensive experience on leadership, mentorship, sponsorship, and navigating career transitions. Discover practical strategies for finding mentors, understanding the roles of mentors, sponsors, and allies, and how to leverage these relationships for board service and career growth.keywordsmentorship, sponsorship, leadership, board service, career development, diversity, executive coaching, networking, personal growthkey topicsThe impact of mentorship on career growthThe difference between mentors, sponsors, and alliesHow to find and approach top-tier mentorsThe importance of values alignment in mentorshipLessons from a career in leadership and board serviceChapters00:00 Introduction to Mentorship and Leadership02:12 The Impact of Mentorship on Career Growth07:28 Lessons Learned from Mentoring Relationships14:16 Understanding High-Potential Employees15:38 Defining Mentors, Sponsors, and Allies18:33 The Importance of Multiple Mentors24:56 Approaching Potential Mentors28:54 Navigating Board Service and Mentorship33:29 The Boardroom Journey: Insights and ThemesresourcesThe Boardroom Journey - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXYZ1234
Transcribe →Ep #25 - Letting Go and Transitioning the Work (Growing Your Successors)
Mar 2300:26:20Tap to summarizeContact us: mentoringirl@gmail.comSummaryThis episode explores how professionals can effectively transition into leadership roles by developing succession plans, delegating responsibilities, and building trust with stakeholders. Learn practical strategies to prepare for career growth and ensure smooth transitions that benefit both individuals and organizations. keywordsleadership development, succession planning, delegation, career growth, organizational trust key topicsThe importance of mindset shift from doer to builderIdentifying critical knowledge, decision authority, and key relationshipsDocumenting decision frameworks and trust relationshipsStrategies for developing successors and gradual delegationEngaging leadership and external stakeholders in transition planningChapters00:00 The Importance of Delegation in Leadership11:04 Identifying and Preparing Successors19:13 Engaging Leadership in Transition Planning resourcesAngela Falcini - Leadership Coach - https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelafalciniBill Bonwit - Leadership Expert - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbonwit
Transcribe →Ep #24: GUEST - Nicole Malachowski, US Air Force Fighter Pilot, First Female Thunderbird
Mar 1600:35:07Tap to summarizeContact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.comKeywordsmentorship, female pilots, self-doubt, leadership, career development, feedback, advocacy, imposter syndrome, personal growth, militarySummaryIn this episode, Colonel Nicole Malachowski shares her inspiring journey as a trailblazer in the U.S. Air Force, discussing the challenges she faced as a female fighter pilot in a male-dominated field. She emphasizes the importance of finding mentors, overcoming self-doubt, and the role of feedback in personal and professional growth. Nicole also highlights the significance of building authentic relationships and believing in oneself, while providing valuable insights on mentorship and leadership.TakeawaysWhere to find mentors when you are a pioneer in your field. Self-doubt is common; it's important to overcome it. Feedback is a form of love and essential for growth. Mentorship can come from unexpected places. Building authentic relationships is key to effective mentorship. It's important to define success on your own terms. Mentorship doesn't have to be formal; it can be informal and flexible. Believing in those who believe in you is vital. A mentor should challenge and support their mentee.Sound bites "Failure is part of the process." "Help me help you." "Feedback is love." "You can usually sense that in the conversation." "Believe those who believe in you." "It doesn't have to be formal."Chapters00:00 Introduction to a Trailblazer 01:48 Navigating a Male-Dominated Field 05:01 Finding Mentors and Advocates 09:21 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome 12:31 The Role of Mentorship in Career Development 15:50 The Importance of Feedback 20:26 Transitioning from Peer to Leader 24:47 Building Authentic Relationships 30:09 The Power of Believing in Others
Transcribe →Ep #23: Supervisors as Mentors - Good Idea or No?
Mar 900:27:12Tap to summarizeContact Us: mentoringirl@gmail.comKeywordsmentorship, supervisors, career growth, workplace dynamics, professional developmentSummaryIn this conversation, Angela Falcini and Bill Bonwit discuss the complexities of having a supervisor as a mentor. They explore the benefits and limitations of this relationship, emphasizing the importance of having multiple mentors to navigate career growth effectively. The discussion covers when it is appropriate for supervisors to act as mentors, the types of feedback they can provide, and the risks associated with sharing personal aspirations with them. The conversation concludes with advice on what topics to avoid discussing with supervisors to maintain a healthy professional relationship.TakeawaysSupervisors can have mentoring skills but may limit the scope of mentorship.It's crucial to have multiple mentors for comprehensive guidance.Supervisors control evaluations, pay, and promotions, influencing their mentoring role.Discussing doubts or career aspirations with supervisors can be risky.Feedback from supervisors can be both performance-related and developmental.Navigating organizational politics is a key area where supervisors can mentor.External mentors can provide guidance on long-term career goals and identity.Avoid discussing half-formed career pivots with supervisors.It's important to frame conversations with supervisors as curious, not uncertain.Supervisors should not be the only source of mentorship.Sound bites"You might hold back on sharing any doubts you have.""It's important to have multiple mentors.""Don't bring up any comparison to your peers."Chapters00:00 The Role of Supervisors as Mentors08:55 Navigating Mentorship Beyond Supervisors17:21 What Not to Discuss with Supervisors
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