Podcast
Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond
Hosted by Lou Diamond · EN
Lou Diamond connects with those that are thriving in the their lives, their businesses and their passions.
28episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
1165: Jason Lauritsen - "Making Connection Work"
1w ago00:40:21Tap to summarizeWhat if everything you thought about workplace connection was wrong—and remote workers are actually the most connected employees of all? In this eye-opening episode, Lou Diamond welcomes back human connection expert Jason Lauritsen to reveal the surprising and actionable findings from a groundbreaking study on connection at work. Discover why connection isn't just a nice-to-have, but the upstream force driving motivation, inclusion, and real organizational performance.Key highlights include the two forms of workplace connection (and the critical prerequisite that makes them work), why clarity from leadership matters more than ever, and how being able to "be yourself" at work is the secret ingredient for engagement and results. Plus, Jason Lauritsen offers simple, high-impact ways leaders and managers can immediately start building a more connected—and higher-performing—organization.Tune in to learn the science behind true connection and how to power up your team's performance with proven, practical steps.To Download the Connection Diagnostic - app.connectedperformancegroup.com/connection-diagnosticTo connect directly with Jason Lauritsen - https://schedule.jasonlauritsen.com/preview/xOZpJLTiVsO9IZ0Wv2NL?notrack=trueTimestamped Overview00:00 Episode intro and welcome00:55 Why study human connection at work?03:37 Study design, participants, and methodology06:38 Demographics, tenure, and industries represented10:16 How connection was measured13:14 What surprised—and didn’t—in the findings15:37 Remote vs. on-site: The real story of connection18:01 Two types of connection and the “identity congruence” prerequisite23:24 How leaders can drive better connection26:00 The manager’s crucial role in fostering connection29:47 The connected performance system: practical applications34:12 Sports analogies, team connection, and energy37:12 What’s next for Jason Lauritsen and how to learn more39:51 Episode outro
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1164: Why Sports Connect Us
2w ago00:09:24Tap to summarizeWhat if the real magic of sports isn’t the game, but the way it weaves generations, cultures, and total strangers together?In this special solo episode of "Thrive LouD," experience the electric atmosphere as the New York Knicks chase their first championship in 53 years while the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off across North America.Dive into a powerful exploration of how sports go beyond wins and losses, teaching lessons in loyalty, igniting shared memories, and connecting people in ways few things can. Discover why these moments become lifelong legacies and how, right now, New York stands at the heart of it all.Timestamped Overview00:00 Kickoff: Setting the scene—historic sports moments collide00:25 Knicks in the Finals & World Cup arrives in North America01:49 Generational connection and Knicks fandom02:25 Three generations of hope: the family legacy03:00 Sports as a global connector03:26 The three powerful types of connection explained04:40 Loyalty, hardship, and celebration: Life lessons from teams05:00 The gravity and culture of major events06:22 Joy as a universal connector—sports as a shared language07:25 The multiplying power of shared joy07:38 Why this summer is truly rare08:29 Connection is everything—passing the torch08:54 Closing and call to embrace the moment09:14 Episode outro
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1163: Kimmy Seltzer - "Charisma, Confidence, Connection"
3w ago00:36:19Tap to summarizeWhat if the secret to finding love—at any age—has nothing to do with apps, luck, or even your own timeline, but starts with how you see (and show) yourself to the world? On this episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with internationally renowned confidence therapist, dating strategist, and image expert Kimmy Seltzer for a refreshingly candid conversation that will challenge everything you think you know about dating—especially after 40.From her transformational "outside-in" approach and the viral story behind her life-changing red dress, to advice for men and women re-entering the dating scene and fresh insights drawn from coaching "Golden Bachelor" contestants, Kimmy Seltzer unpacks how style, vulnerability, and mindset shape romantic success in today's world. Whether you're ready for love, afraid to start, or just want to boost your confidence, this episode is filled with actionable strategies, personal stories, and a ton of positive encouragement. Plus: Behind-the-scenes makeovers, the truth about "fishing in the dating pool," and how Kimmy Seltzer helps people fall in love with themselves first.Episode Overview:00:00 Episode introduction and Kimmy Seltzer’s background02:05 How dating has changed and Kimmy Seltzer’s current focus04:13 When people typically seek out dating help06:03 The “fisherman” metaphor and dating later in life07:29 The Charisma Quotient explained10:00 Three pillars of the Charisma Quotient13:00 How Kimmy Seltzer approaches style/image for men and women17:08 Makeover stories and building confidence18:26 Dating strategy, chemistry, and timing20:26 Working with The Golden Bachelor contestants22:06 The rise of later-life dating and resources23:10 The biggest gift from creating her podcasts25:08 Upcoming events, workshops, and where to find Kimmy Seltzer26:28 Speed round: favorites, activities, and fun facts32:29 The “fish in a barrel” dating myth and mindset shift35:18 Outro and ways to connect
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1162: Claire Wang - "The Price of Influence"
3w ago00:35:35Tap to summarizeWhat if your best ideas are getting ignored—not because they aren't brilliant, but because you’re answering the wrong question?In this eye-opening episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with pricing strategist and author Claire Wang, who reveals why so many game-changing concepts fail to make an impact and how to finally win that elusive “yes.” Claire Wang shares her unique journey through 20 years in pricing across insurance, telecom, and banking, uncovering what “value” really means and how both organizations and solopreneurs can land on the right price—every time.Tune in to discover why some customers aren’t worth keeping, the secret link between pricing and influence, and what every professional should know about making their ideas actually matter. Plus, enjoy fun insights into Claire Wang's favorite movies, music jams, and the one activity she wishes she did less of!Episode Overview:00:00 The art of connecting and introducing Claire Wang01:22 Claire Wang's unexpected path into pricing02:10 Defining value: The real work of a pricing expert03:34 Pricing challenges for entrepreneurs and solopreneurs04:10 Decoding who your real buyer is05:59 Supply, demand, and why World Cup tickets skyrocket07:48 The psychology of value and matching the right buyer09:04 Short, medium, and long-term pricing strategies11:39 The cost of acquiring vs. keeping customers14:09 When not all customers are worth it: tough truths in pricing17:24 Strategic loss of customers and the role of sales20:35 Why great ideas get ignored: the inspiration for "The Price of Influence"23:19 The hidden cost of influence and decision making25:02 Why pricing deserves a seat at the C-suite table26:32 Where to find Claire Wang and her book27:07 Fun Street: Movies, music, food, and bouldering32:38 Wine tasting, value, and knowing your audience34:02 Dream destinations and episode wrap-up
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1161: Robert Christmas - "Building a BioTech Community"
4w ago00:24:14Tap to summarizeWhat if a single unplugged power cord nearly derailed a top biotech leader’s story—and ended up launching an episode packed with innovation, real connection, and a peek inside Philadelphia’s hidden biotech gems? In this lively, uplifting conversation, Lou Diamond welcomes Robert Christmas, the connector behind the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center and the Union League’s Life Science Affinity Club. They dive into the unexpected journeys that lead scientists to solve some of humanity’s biggest problems, the secrets behind Philly’s “pharma belt,” and the power of community-driven innovation. Along the way, you’ll find out why some of the most world-changing discoveries come from people with no personal stake—and how AI, chocolate, and mountain biking fit into the life of a master connector.Get the inside edge on biotech breakthroughs, community building, and some great behind-the-scenes laughs in this episode of Thrive Loud!00:02 - Show introduction and welcome00:25 - Hilarious technical misadventure: the unplugged cord 02:09 - Robert Christmas’s entry into life sciences 03:33 - Overview of the Philadelphia region’s biotech significance 04:19 - How the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center started and grew 05:51 - Types of medical breakthroughs at the center 07:59 - Spotlight: scientists who brought drugs to market 08:34 - Robert Christmas on the Union League, Philly’s historic Life Science Affinity Club 10:00 - Launching a new Life Science podcast 11:28 - The power and reach of Philly’s innovation ecosystem 12:37 - How the work personally impacts Robert Christmas 14:32 - Where to find, support, and connect with these organizations 17:02 - Fun speed round: movies, food, activities, and more 19:52 - AI, workflow automation, and the next generation of collaboration 22:15 - Collaborating with Jeff Gibbert and future innovation 22:51 - Closing thoughts and gratitude from Lou Diamond
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1160: Lou Diamond - "1,160 Words for 1,160 Episodes"
May 1900:09:40Tap to summarizeWhat if the real reason for starting—and still running—a hit podcast after 1,160 episodes is something the host has never admitted out loud?In this special solo milestone episode, Lou Diamond pulls back the curtain on Thrive LouD, revealing the surprising truth about why the show began, how it’s unexpectedly transformed him, and why connection is both oxygen and necessity in today’s world. With humor, honesty, and wisdom, Lou Diamond shares lessons learned from countless remarkable guests, the secret impact on his own life, and why listeners like you are the heartbeat of the show. Whether you’ve tuned in since episode one or just arrived, this candid reflection about thriving, failing, adapting, and connecting will leave you inspired to keep reaching for more.Episode Overview:00:00 - Inspiring introduction and premise of Thrive Loud00:26 - Lou Diamond breaks the fourth wall: Why is he solo today?00:52 - The real, unpolished reason the show exists01:34 - How the show started and evolved from Lou Diamond’s own network02:31 - Running out of contacts and what happened next03:04 - How every guest leaves an imprint and changes the host03:53 - Key lessons learned about resilience, curiosity, joy, and failure04:37 - Listeners, guests, and the powerful impact of honest conversation05:37 - How the show restores faith in people’s drive to connect and thrive06:39 - Why connection is not a luxury, but oxygen—and the show’s transformative journey07:14 - The experiment in human connection that shaped a decade08:03 - Why Thrive Loud will keep going: the next guest, the next story08:41 - Thanking the community—the real reason the podcast endures09:10 - Outro and how to stay connected with Thrive Loud
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1159: Dr. Jill Schiefelbein - "AI on Trial"
May 1400:42:36Tap to summarizeAI on Trial: Exploring Legal, Ethical, and Human Impacts with Dr. Jill SchiefelbeinWhat if your next AI chat could be held responsible for murder? In this eye-opening episode of Thrive Loud, Lou Diamond welcomes AI strategist and communication expert Dr. Jill Schiefelbein to unpack one of the most controversial lawsuits in recent memory: a claim that ChatGPT was a co-conspirator in a deadly real-world crime. But as shocking as that sounds, Dr. Jill Schiefelbein brings logic, insight, and a positive outlook to the table, revealing how these high-profile cases could make our digital future both safer and more empowering for us all.Listen in as they discuss:The reality behind lawsuit headlines, AI responsibility, and common sense in the courtroomThe dangers of overregulation and why limiting access to AI could widen the digital divideWhy most anxiety about AI isn’t actually about technology, but about timeless human fears—and how to overcome themThe power and pitfalls of trusting AI (hello, hallucinated research papers and lemon juice bank robbers!)How AI can save time, enhance experiences, and drive real human connection—if you know how to use itThis episode is a must-hear for anyone who wants the facts (not just the headlines) on AI, legal liability, and how to thrive in a rapidly-changing world.Timestamped Overview00:00 Intro & welcome00:25 Introducing Dr. Jill Schiefelbein01:38 Why this episode is urgent02:12 The ChatGPT co-conspirator lawsuit explained03:09 Setting a human lens on AI05:00 The 3 key issues everyone should know about AI and liability07:40 Terms, conditions & user responsibility09:40 Guardrails, monitoring, and privacy versus protection12:43 Is AI an active or passive intermediary?15:15 Anthropomorphism and the law16:09 Potential implications & product development parallels18:06 Transparency, monitoring, and privacy concerns21:54 Getting real about AI’s positive uses22:09 Legal research (and AI hallucinations)23:07 Why we over-trust tech: Dunning-Kruger, lemon juice, and being human29:16 Why blaming AI misses the real anxieties32:08 Overregulation and the risk to democratizing AI34:55 Practical ways to lessen AI anxiety38:21 How to connect with Dr. Jill Schiefelbein40:51 Fun street speed round41:54 Close
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1158: Josh Rosen - "Impressing the Masses"
May 1200:22:18Tap to summarizeWhat if your favorite sports broadcaster, late-night host, and even a former president all showed up for a speed round—on the same podcast? In this episode of Thrive LouD, master impressionist and comedian Josh Rosen joins Lou Diamond for an energetic and hilarious conversation that blurs the line between sports, pop culture, and satire. Josh Rosen reveals how his observational skills sparked his passion for impressions, talks about his social media creative process, and even drops spot-on renditions of Marv Albert, Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith, Woody Allen, Larry David, and Donald Trump—sometimes back-to-back! Plus, hear about his favorite influences, meeting the personalities he impersonates, the behind-the-scenes of social media content, and what’s next for his comedic career.Whether you're a sports fanatic, comedy lover, or just need a good laugh, this episode is sure to entertain and surprise.Timestamped Overview00:00 Episode intro & Josh Rosen joins the show01:16 Josh Rosen on discovering comedy and impressions02:17 Influences from childhood: sports broadcasters and routines03:27 Becoming self-aware as an impressionist04:18 The intersection of sports, pop culture, and virality06:13 Impressionist idols and SNL influences08:05 Comedy material: building funny AND accurate impressions09:37 Social media and content creation behind-the-scenes11:05 Live impressions: Marv Albert, Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith, Woody Allen, Larry David, Donald Trump14:47 The Speakeasy Pub Crawl speed round18:17 Favorite impressions & meeting Nick Wright19:42 New voices and impressions in progress20:26 Where to find Josh Rosen & closing thoughts
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1157: Glenn Schorr - "Flow of Funds"
May 700:30:59Tap to summarizeWhat if Wall Street’s real secret isn’t a trading algorithm, but a giant network of relationships powered by genuine human connection?In this episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with Glenn Schorr , Evercore’s Senior Managing Director and host of "Evercore’s Flow of Funds," to unpack the rapid-fire world of financial research analysis and how trust and humanity win in a high-stakes, data-driven industry.Discover how Glenn Schorr pivoted into the financial services arena, why relationships are the bedrock of serious market insight, and how AI and technology are reshaping the work of top analysts without replacing their essential human touch. Plus, hear behind-the-scenes stories from his podcast, strategies for staying ahead in an industry where information moves faster than ever, and the happy accident that makes creating content so rewarding.Whether you're intrigued by the human side of finance or curious about how top analysts navigate today’s hyper-connected landscape, this episode delivers both insight and inspiration.Timestamped Overview00:00 Introduction to Glenn Schorr and episode kickoff01:05 Glenn Schorr shares his unique start in financial research02:45 Evolution of his career and choosing financial services03:53 The day-to-day reality and complexity of being a research analyst05:45 How tech, data, and AI are transforming the industry09:42 The irreplaceable power of relationships in financial services12:47 Inside "Flow of Funds"—Glenn Schorr 's approach to content and audio15:08 Asking the right questions and extracting deep industry insights17:34 Surprising moments and memorable guests from his show20:29 The fulfilling (and unexpected) rewards of creating content23:27 Where to connect with Glenn Schorr and find his work24:12 Fun Street—movies, food, music, and card counting confessions29:51 Lou Diamond's wrap-up and final thoughtsApplicable current disclosures regarding the companies discussed in this video are available at the offices of Evercore ISI: 55 East 52nd Street, New York, NY 10055, and at the following site: [evercoreisi.mediasterling.com/disclosure](http://evercoreisi.mediasterling.com/disclosure)
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1156: Carrie Hunter - "It's Not That Serious"
Apr 2800:35:13Tap to summarizeWhat if the secret to thriving as a woman in business is realizing—surprisingly—it’s actually not that serious? This episode of Thrive LouD shatters the myth that empowerment must be stiff and somber, and instead takes you inside the vibrant universe of "It's Not That Serious," the women’s empowerment platform founded by former tech executive, model, jazz singer, and community builder Carrie Hunter.Join Lou Diamond as he dives deep with Carrie Hunter on how audacity, emotional intelligence, and a dash of jazz improvisation can revolutionize women’s leadership and entrepreneurial journeys. Discover how Carrie Hunter pivoted from a male-dominated tech world into creating an uplifting global community; why being bold can be your superpower; and how embracing vulnerability can forge powerful connections. Timestamped Overview00:00 - Introduction and Carrie Hunter’s journey03:46 - What women can learn from men: the power of audacity04:57 - Women’s innate advantage: emotional intelligence05:52 - Taking “It’s Not That Serious” from idea to thriving business08:00 - All about the platform: merch, partners, community, travel & WIP highlights12:15 - The jazz/entrepreneur connection15:27 - Launching the "Carrie, It’s Not That Serious" podcast18:26 - The unexpected gifts of building this community19:48 - Rapid-fire Fun Street: movies, food, travel, music, and more34:05 - Closing thoughts and inspiration
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