Written by Cedric Drake, Educational Psychologist and Technologist Cedric Drake is an expert in educational psychology. He dissects learning and brings innovative ideas. He contributes to educational think tanks and writes articles for academic institutions in the US and Asia. Currently, he is building a publishing company to connect students to companies in different fields and expand education. We live in an age where everyone is speaking, yet fewer and fewer people feel genuinely heard. Our world is saturated with opinions, outrage, notifications, and constant digital noise. Conversations are interrupted by screens, reduced to headlines, or turned into arguments before understanding ever has a chance to form. The cost of poor listening is visible everywhere, in broken relationships, polarized communities, classrooms filled with disengaged students, and workplaces struggling with trust. Listening is no longer just a soft skill; it is an urgent human responsibility. If we fail to listen better, we risk deepening division and disconnection. The following five factors outline how we can reclaim listening and why each one matters now more than ever. 1. Intentional presence, why it matters Intentional presence means choosing to be fully available to another human being. It means putting the phone down, resisting distraction, and offering undivided attention. In a society addicted to multitasking, attention has become one of the rarest forms of respect. When people feel ignored or half-heard, they shut down or lash out. Intentional presence matters because it affirms dignity. It tells the other person, “You matter enough for me to stop everything else.” Without presence, listening becomes empty, and relationships begin to erode. 2. Listening to understand, not to respond, why it matters Too often, listening is treated as a waiting room for our subsequent opinion. We hear just long enough to interrupt, correct, or defend ourselves. This habit fuels misunderstanding and hostility. Listening to understand requires slowing down and silencing the internal urge to win. It demands humility and patience. This matters deeply in a time when public discourse is driven by reaction rather than reflection. Without understanding, conversations turn into verbal battles, and dialogue collapses into noise. 3. Engaging with diverse perspectives, why it matters We are living through a moment of profound social tension, shaped by differences in race, culture, politics, identity, and lived experience. Refusing to listen across these differences has devastating consequences. Engaging with diverse perspectives does not mean abandoning one’s beliefs; it means recognizing humanity behind them. This kind of listening matters because it challenges prejudice, disrupts echo chambers, and opens the possibility for collective healing. When voices are dismissed or silenced, injustice grows louder. 4. Reading emotional and digital cues, why it matters Much of today’s communication happens through screens, where tone is fragile, and emotion is easily lost. A delayed reply, a short message, or an unread email can carry unspoken weight. At the same time, in face-to-face interactions, emotional signals are often ignored. When emotional cues are missed, people feel unseen, and trust begins to fracture. 5. Responding with empathy and accountability, why it matters Listening without empathy is incomplete. Authentic listening demands a response that acknowledges feelings and accepts responsibility when harm is revealed. Too often, people hear pain and respond with defensiveness or dismissal. Empathy requires courage, the courage to sit with discomfort and to grow from it. This matters because accountability transforms listening into action. It reassures others that their voices can lead to change, not just acknowledgment. The crisis of listening is a crisis of connection. In a world overwhelmed by noise, choosing to listen deeply is an act of resistance, compassion, and hope. If we want healthier relationships, stronger communities, and a more just society, we must listen, not casually, not selectively, but urgently and wholeheartedly. The future depends not only on what we say, but on how well we listen. Follow me on Instagram and visit my website for more info! Read more from Cedric Drake Cedric Drake, Educational Psychologist and Technologist Cedric Drake is an educational psychologist and technologist in the learning field. His ten years as an educator left him with the psychological understanding to innovate classrooms and learning centers for all ages. He has since gone on to be an educator at Los Angeles Opera, do doctoral studies in educational psychology, publish scholarly literature reviews and papers, and work at the American Psychological Association as an APA Proposal Reviewer for the APA Conference.

Written by Sebastian Liew, Medical Herbalist Dr Sebastian Liew * is the first medical herbalist to have significantly pioneered Western herbal medicine in Singapore and Asia. He is a distinguished fellow member of the Complementary Medical Association (UK). Liew has run a thriving clinical practice for over twenty years, specialising in chronic diseases, all with a whole-person approach. I personally have a soft touch for those who are suffering from skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis. This is probably because I suffered from chronic palmar dermatitis for over 10 years, starting in primary school. Secondly, I inherited a constitutional weakness from my mum, who used to suffer badly from eczema for years without a permanent cure, and I was often devastated by sensitive skin and periodic eczema flare-ups. Thirdly, and for some reason, I have been given the opportunity to treat many clients who suffer from serious and chronic skin diseases. Here is one story of healing to ponder: Chronic face eczema shared by an occupational therapist My skin troubles started when I was 18, triggered by metal in costume jewelry. For two years, people often asked, “Are you having chicken pox?” illustrating the severity of my skin issues. Though I recovered from the initial outbreak, my skin remained sensitive, experiencing periodic flare-ups on various parts of my body. Each time, I depended on either topical or oral steroids, sometimes both, to control the symptoms. Over the years, I used steroids for as much as 23 years of my life. In March 2016, the worst flare-up struck. My face developed swollen, painful, angry red patches. Oddly, only my face was affected. Although I suspected a food trigger, such as oyster or soya sauce, foods I was never allergic to before, the cause remained uncertain. Following my usual approach, I consulted a doctor and received a week-long course of oral steroids. The symptoms improved but were not resolved completely. The doctor increased the steroid dosage for a second cycle but warned about the risks of sustained high doses. Though the high-dose steroids cleared my symptoms noticeably, the issues returned as soon as I stopped the medication. Faced with the prospect of more steroids, a different solution was needed, one that offered true resolution beyond symptomatic relief. So here starts my journey with Dr Sebastien Liew. Through him, I learnt a lot about my own body as I went through my healing. I found out that I have a new “fast poison,” meaning food that causes an immediate reaction. I also got to know my “slow poison,” something that I had never suspected. I have been shown that non-pharmaceutical alternatives can work just as well, and in fact better. It has been nine months now, and my worst is over. Every now and then, I still get minor allergic reactions, but I am proud to say that I have been able to resolve them in nature’s way. I will be forever grateful to Dr Liew for giving me a new lease of life. After six months of phytotherapy As you can see, in every one of my case histories, there is a transformation in lifestyle and outlook when the patient adopts a holistic approach, such as naturopathy or holistic herbalism. My focus is on healing the whole person, not just treating symptoms. Skin disease signals the need to improve gut health, diet, emotions, sleep, relationships, self-understanding, unresolved emotional wounds, and spiritual connection in order to achieve lasting wellness. According to traditional European medicine (TEM), the single most important symptom associated with “bad blood” is skin disease. Any form of eruption, even of the slightest type, such as acne, pimples, or boils, is taken as a manifestation of toxins poisoning the blood. Over the years, through my clinical practice, research, and understanding of traditional herbal medicine, I have found that there are three main “wrongs” in skin diseases: Deficiency in the excretion of toxins from the body, principally through the liver and the gut system. This results in food intolerance, inflammation, and increased intestinal permeability. Poor absorption of nutrients, which is discussed in detail in my book From Leaf to Life. Very often, repressed stress and emotions. The above metabolic condition is compounded by low thyroid activity, which may not show on a standard blood test and requires differential diagnosis, aging skin, which tends toward dryness after 40 years of age, hormonal imbalance, stress, and environmental and constitutional weakness. The food intolerance test is a common test I use in my clinic and is very helpful if you have a history of allergies and poor digestion. In general, avoid all dairy, including yogurt, wheat gluten such as pasta, bread, biscuits, and cakes, peanuts, vinegar, pork, soy milk, and all forms of sugar. Certain fruits may also trigger an allergy, such as pineapple, strawberry, plum, peach, kiwi, and banana. Nutrient absorption can be enhanced by herbs such as dandelion and fennel. I usually put these into a tincture and take one teaspoon in water 15 minutes before each meal. Many people think that all cases of eczema are caused by heat. This is not necessarily true, as low thyroid activity or low metabolism can be a strong contributor to poor skin condition. Low metabolism may be indicated by a deeply coated tongue, sensitivity to cold, difficulty perspiring, fatigue, poor response to stress, high cholesterol, low blood pressure, and poor digestion. Such conditions may respond well to warming herbs such as turmeric and echinacea. Using plant-based essential fatty acids, not fish oil, can enhance cellular oxygen uptake. This is one of the chief reasons you should seek professional help with natural medicine if you have a chronic condition. Self-healing or medication can be helpful, but certain skin diseases are very complex, and it takes two hands to help. Have you ever wondered why your skin itches more easily after 50? This may be caused by the aging process and hormonal imbalance. Herbs such as violet and sage can help maintain the skin’s resilience. In Singapore and many parts of Southeast Asia, the weather is usually hot and humid, which increases susceptibility to fungal infections. I usually add the herb thuja or black walnut to my creams and oils. I have also found that bath and shower filters are helpful for removing chlorine. Have you ever wondered why your skin itches or feels dry after a shower? It could be the water. I have seen, including in myself, many cases of improvement in skin condition after using a shower filter to remove chlorine. It is also worth considering a filtering system for your drinking water. Relaxing and trusting the process is essential, as chronic stress worsens eczema and acne. Work with a healing-centred natural medicine practitioner and reflect on what your body is signaling about your lifestyle or emotions. True healing comes not just from treating symptoms, but from understanding the message behind them. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website  for more info! Read more from  Sebastian Liew Sebastian Liew, Medical Herbalist Sebastian Liew is the first medical herbalist (since 2004) who has significantly pioneered phytotherapy in Singapore and possibly across Asia. With credentials from the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia, the TGA, and the University of New England, he is a distinguished fellow member of the Complementary Medical Association in the UK. As a Doctor of Naturopathy*, he embodies the role of a natural medicine coach and teacher, dedicating his life to guiding clients to recover from chronic illnesses with a whole-person approach, and discover their inner healing potential, their innate ability to heal and shine. His lifelong vision is to: Cure the Sick, Heal the Wounded, and Inspire the Weak.

Written by Abisola Fagbiye, Customer Experience Strategist Abisola Fagbiye is a Customer Experience Strategist and Microsoft 365 Productivity Consultant with a Professional Diploma in CX from The CX Academy, Ireland. A WiCX member, she transforms how businesses connect with customers, turning interactions into drivers of loyalty and growth. Being available across all channels might seem customer-focused, but it can lead to delivering average service to many rather than outstanding service to a few. More options do not necessarily mean better experiences. They can stretch your team too thin, making it harder to excel where it truly counts. It is understandable to want to be accessible through every possible way your customers might try to contact you. Providing options like phone, email, chat, social media, text, and whatever new methods come along shows that you care about meeting them where they are. Of course, many companies find it challenging to do this well, often stretching their resources thin across numerous channels and ending up offering average service everywhere instead of outstanding service somewhere. Focusing on a few key channels can help ensure you are truly connecting and providing excellent support. While phone support and email are still common, many customers now look for ways to connect via chat, social media, messaging apps, video, and even new platforms as they emerge. Each of these channels comes with its own set of expectations, response times, and skills needed. Email is great for responses sent when convenient. Chat is best for quick replies. Phone calls are perfect for real-time conversations, and social media adds a layer of public accountability. Because of these differences, the same human agent might not excel equally across all channels. Expectations vary dramatically by customer service channel Research consistently shows that consumers truly appreciate quick responses on social media, often expecting faster replies there than on other channels. According to Conversocial, companies that overlook social inquiries tend to lose more customers compared to those that respond promptly. Customers generally prefer quicker responses via chat over email, but they are comfortable with a slightly longer wait for email, as it allows for a more thoughtful reply. On the other hand, phone calls need immediate attention. American Express research highlights that many customers find waiting on hold enough of a reason to give up on a company altogether. Learn how response time expectations vary across channels and how they impact satisfaction. Recognising these differences helps you set realistic goals and improve the overall customer experience. Mobile is baseline, not optional Did you know that mobile devices make up most web traffic, as reported by Statista? Yet many users encounter frustrating experiences on their phones, which can influence their decision to buy. On a brighter note, Google research highlights that faster-loading websites enjoy significantly higher conversion rates. Mobile performance is not just about picking a channel. It is a vital part of every digital interaction. Think of mobile as the main design challenge. When you create mobile-first experiences, they generally work well on desktops too. However, designing only for desktop often misses the mark on mobile. Emerging channels offer differentiation According to LogMeIn, most consumers prefer support options such as video and screen sharing, yet fewer than half of organisations offer these features. Forrester Research shows that companies using co-browsing software see stronger revenue growth. Since visual information is processed much faster than text, letting customers show their problems rather than describe them can lead to quicker solutions. This support channel, which many competitors have not yet adopted, could be an excellent opportunity for you to stand out. Choose strategically, not comprehensively Please take a moment to genuinely connect with your customers by exploring both their channel preferences and observing their actual behaviours. Remember, actions often say more than words. It is worthwhile to review how your existing channels are performing, as you might discover where you excel in providing fantastic service and identify areas where a little extra attention could make a big difference. Keep in mind that different customer segments often favour different ways to reach out, so understanding these preferences can really enhance their experience. Be honest with yourself about what resources are needed. Real-time options like phone and chat thrive with steady staffing, while email and other asynchronous channels can be managed effectively through batching, aligning well with your capacity. These insights, shared with warmth and care, work together to create a friendlier, more welcoming environment for everyone. Focus creates excellence Choose a couple of your strongest channels where you can truly shine by giving your best. Set clear goals for how quickly you respond and resolve issues. Make sure your team is well-trained to meet these standards consistently. Be open about how well you are doing by sharing performance results, which helps build trust. Clearly explain which channels are available to customers and which are not. People appreciate knowing what to expect, and it can be frustrating if they only learn about limitations when they need help. Lead your customers toward the channels that work best for your team. When adding new channels, think carefully and introduce them only if you are confident you can deliver excellent service from the start. Trying to handle more channels than you are ready for can leave customers feeling disappointed, sometimes even worse than if you had not offered those options at all. Integration matters more than quantity Having all customer information in one profile makes these transitions seamless, which can help your team feel more in control and competent. Providing a consistent and friendly experience everywhere helps build trust and makes customers feel valued, reinforcing confidence in your integrated approach. Understanding omnichannel strategy is essential for effective channel integration. Measure what matters for allocation Keep track of the cost per resolution for each channel, as some may resolve issues more efficiently in your specific situation. It is also helpful to measure customer satisfaction by channel and see which channels attract the happiest customers. Do not forget to consider lifetime value by channel preferences, ensuring your mix best serves your most valuable customers. Remember, the most affordable channel is not always the most effective one. Once you have identified your main priorities, it is helpful to develop tailored training for each communication channel. Keep in mind that phone conversations are different from written messages, and both are distinct from video interactions. Establish clear quality standards for each channel and build specialised expertise within your team for each area. Rather than expecting every agent to be perfect across all channels, nurturing specific skills can create a more confident and capable team. Understanding how to build customer loyalty requires consistency across your chosen channels. Stop spreading resources too thin across channels. “CX is Everyone’s Job” helps leadership teams make strategic decisions about where to invest for maximum impact. You will learn a framework for evaluating channel ROI, when to add versus eliminate channels, and how to communicate channel strategy without disappointing customers. Excellence in three channels beats mediocrity in eight. Book for your conference or leadership event , or email abisola@abisolafagbiye.com . Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn for more info! Read more from Abisola Fagbiye Abisola Fagbiye, Customer Experience Strategist Abisola Fagbiye is a Customer Experience Strategist and Microsoft 365 Productivity Consultant who helps organisations rethink engagement, build CX-driven cultures, and drive retention and growth. With global experience spanning SMBs to enterprises, she delivers workshops and training that blend strategy, energy, and actionable insight. She is a mentor and rising voice in CX leadership. Further reading: How to Turn Satisfied Customers Into Loyal Advocates How to Train Customer Service Teams That Actually Perform Why Customers Hate Repeating Themselves (And How to Fix It Finally) How Fast Is Fast Enough? Meeting Customer Response Time Expectations

Written by Yolan Bedasse, Writer | Coach –  Helping high-achieving women to exhale in the messy middle Yolan is known for helping high-achieving women craving more than titles. Her coaching and writing are rooted in over a decade of corporate experience and a deep understanding of identity shifts, career transitions, and what comes after ambition. The start of the new year always arrives with pressure. Pressure to transform ourselves into an upgraded version that is more attractive, healthier, smarter, and more productive. This article explores why you do not need to reinvent yourself every January and how giving yourself permission to be flexible is the best gift you can give yourself at the start of a new year. If there is one thing the world can be united on at the start of every new year, it is the messaging of “new year, new me” vibes. It is in the messaging we see on social media, in planning goals and objectives in corporate spaces, and in the never-ending emails from your favorite workout spot, bribing you with amazing deals and January challenges to kick off your health journey for the year. And while there is a place for goals and motivation to grow, just know growth does not have to be loud. Sometimes it is built on whispers, subtlety, and flexibility. 1. Your goals are not final As human beings, we evolve just by breathing. We are ruled by the environment we are in. This includes the people in our orbit, where we spend most of our time, and what we choose to do with our days. As we move through the world, sift through enormous amounts of information daily, and navigate unforeseen circumstances, we adapt, our perspectives adjust, and we change. Give yourself permission to change your mind. On a recent podcast episode, Dream In Draft, with fellow Brainz executive contributor Amy Kelly, we discuss our goals at the start of 2025 in comparison to where we are a year later, and why we are at peace with things not working out how we originally planned. Set your goals, work toward them, but be flexible enough to adapt. 2. Being flexible equals self-trust We live in a hustle culture that praises working 24/7 and being relentless in pursuing success. We rarely stop to ask what success means to us. Somewhere along the way, we grab on to a definition that seems to fit. “Fit” means something you think you are good at, and what society tells you will make you a boss. Then we develop tunnel vision and do not give ourselves the space to pause, reflect, and adjust our definition based on the people we have grown into over time. Being flexible is not about being noncommittal, but rather trusting yourself enough to know that you will always make the best decision with the information you have at the given moment. And if that means adjusting your goals to be in alignment, then so be it. 3. Rest is a strategy, not a delay We often frame rest as a hindrance to progress. But rest is actually a necessary tool to achieve success, by whatever definition you use. In order to be productive and strategic, your body needs to be in alignment. If you are exhausted, you are less likely to function at 100 percent. In other words, the likelihood of you screwing something up decreases significantly when you prioritize sitting your butt down from time to time. 4. Honesty, not aesthetics A lot of New Year’s resolutions I have had revolved around what I thought I should strive for, versus what was right for me at that moment in time. The perfect body The best morning routine An active social calendar When in reality, what I probably needed to focus on was my health, waking up in a way that aligned with my lifestyle, and embracing being a homebody. Be honest with yourself when you are setting intentions, regardless of the time of year. Tune out exterior voices and influences, and focus on what feels like the most aligned next step to take. 5. January does not equal a mandate Please remember that the month of January is simply that, a month. Give it as much or as little meaning as you wish. There is no set timeline for growth, except yours. You are allowed to make a plan in January, modify it in March, and scrap the whole thing in August. Or do not make a plan at all. This does not make you a failure or inconsistent. It makes you human. And there is no right way to have a human experience, just yours. So be kind to yourself at this time of year, and remember that a month does not determine how your year will unfold. You do. You are allowed to begin the year slowly, softly, or not at all. You are allowed to plan and change your mind halfway through. You are allowed to move through the year in a way that feels like you. Growth does not need a deadline or a perfectly curated plan. It needs honesty, rest, and your willingness to evolve. When you allow yourself to dream in draft, you create something that is not shaped by pressure or performance. If you enjoyed this article, check out the Dream In Draft episode of the Brainz Podcast, where Amy Kelly and I go even deeper into our own experiences with New Year’s resolutions and what it means to begin the year with flexibility, self-trust, and a permission slip to pivot. Follow me on  Instagram ,  LinkedIn , and visit my website  for more info! Read more from Yolan Bedasse Yolan Bedasse, Writer | Coach – Helping high-achieving women to exhale in the messy middle Yolan is a writer and coach for high-achieving women who are ready for more than titles. After a decade in corporate, she now guides women through career transitions, identity shifts, and emotional sustainability with clarity and care. Through coaching containers and writing spaces, she invites readers into a life that invites an exhale you didn’t know you were holding. One shaped by resonance and honest reflection.

Written by Andrea Byers, Holistic Wellness Practitioner Andrea Byers is an award-winning holistic wellness expert, Air Force veteran, and chronic illness warrior dedicated to redefining well-being through personalized care. As the founder of Chronic & Iconic Coaching, she empowers individuals to reclaim balance, purpose, and health through mindset, movement, and transformative coaching. Behind the trophies, rankings, and packed sidelines, a growing number of young athletes are struggling in silence. This article explores the rising mental health challenges in youth sports, how pressure and performance culture impact developing nervous systems, and why redefining strength is essential for the well-being of the next generation. A quiet truth we can no longer ignore Youth sports were designed to be a place of growth. At their best, they build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. They teach young people how to work toward a goal, navigate challenges, and believe in themselves, lessons that extend far beyond the field or court. And yet, something has shifted. Behind the packed bleachers, championship banners, and highlight reels, many young athletes are struggling quietly. Anxiety is becoming more common. Burnout is happening earlier. Kids who once loved their sport are stepping away, not because they lack talent, work ethic, or potential, but because the pressure has become too heavy to carry alone. Most adults involved in youth sports are deeply invested and genuinely want what is best for the athletes in their care. But even with the best intentions, systems can evolve in ways that unintentionally place too much weight on young shoulders. There is a growing mental health gap in youth sports. Acknowledging it is the first step toward closing it. When pressure becomes a constant companion Today’s young athletes are navigating far more than practices, games, and competition schedules. In addition to the physical demands of their sport, they are carrying a steady and often invisible load of pressure that follows them long after practice ends. Many are managing: Heightened expectations to perform and specialize early Constant evaluation from coaches, peers, and social media Fear of disappointing parents or letting the team down Pressure tied to scholarships, rankings, or future opportunities Comparison culture that never turns off For many athletes, this pressure is not situational or occasional. It is constant. It becomes the background noise of their daily lives, shaping how they think, train, and relate to themselves. What may begin as motivation can slowly shift into something far heavier. Over time, that pressure can move from being energizing to overwhelming. When a young person has not yet developed the emotional tools or nervous system capacity to manage sustained stress, it does not simply disappear. Instead, it quietly accumulates in the body and mind, often showing up in ways that are misunderstood. What we frequently label as “lack of confidence,” “attitude,” or “motivation issues” is often something much deeper. It is a nervous system that has been under strain for too long, doing its best to cope, protect, and survive. The hidden impact of “tough it out” messaging Sports have long celebrated toughness, and there is real value in perseverance, grit, and discipline. Learning how to work through discomfort, stay committed, and show up consistently can build confidence and resilience when it is balanced with care. The challenge arises when toughness is defined narrowly, as ignoring pain, suppressing emotion, or pushing past personal limits without adequate support or recovery. Many athletes grow up hearing messages like: “Don’t be soft.” “Everyone is tired.” “Push through it.” “Pain is part of the game.” While these statements are often shared with the intention of motivating athletes, they can unintentionally send a deeper message that emotions should be ignored, discomfort should be dismissed, and personal limits are weaknesses rather than signals. Over time, young athletes may begin to disconnect from their bodies and emotions, learning to override early signs of stress, fear, or exhaustion in order to meet expectations. As this pattern continues, feelings can start to feel inconvenient, or worse, like a liability. Athletes may stop checking in with themselves altogether, focusing solely on performance while internal strain quietly builds. The result is often kids who look strong, capable, and composed on the outside, yet feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally disconnected on the inside. What appears to be toughness may actually be a learned form of self-silencing. When performance becomes personal identity One of the most significant and often overlooked mental health challenges in youth sports is identity over attachment. While passion and commitment are healthy, problems arise when an athlete’s sense of self becomes too tightly bound to how they perform. This shift usually happens gradually, reinforced by praise, expectations, and outcomes that place disproportionate emphasis on results. When a child is consistently recognized primarily for athletic success, they may begin to believe that their value is conditional. They don’t just play a sport. They are the sport. Wins feel affirming, mistakes feel threatening, and performance becomes the primary lens through which they evaluate themselves. This can show up in many ways: Extreme self-criticism after mistakes Fear of failure or trying new roles Emotional shutdown after losses Identity confusion during injury or time away Intense anxiety around playing time or evaluation When performance becomes synonymous with worth, even normal setbacks can feel destabilizing. The nervous system piece we rarely talk about Many youth athletes spend long periods in a heightened state of stress. Their nervous systems are consistently activated as they move from practice to competition, from evaluation to comparison, from one expectation to the next. Even outside of sport, their bodies may remain on high alert, anticipating feedback, performance demands, or perceived threats to belonging and approval. When the body stays in this constant “on” state without sufficient recovery, it begins to take a toll. Over time, this can lead to: Anxiety and restlessness Trouble focusing or sleeping Irritability or emotional withdrawal Loss of motivation or joy Increased risk of burnout and injury Teaching athletes how to regulate their nervous systems makes their performance sustainable and allows them to show up fully without sacrificing themselves in the process. Why many athletes don’t speak up One of the most heartbreaking realities in youth sports is how many young athletes struggle in silence. That silence is rarely a reflection of distrust or defiance. More often, it is rooted in a deep desire not to be a problem, not to draw attention, and not to disrupt the expectations placed upon them. Many athletes worry: “I don’t want to lose my spot.” “I don’t want to seem weak.” “Others have it worse.” “I should be able to handle this.” These thoughts quietly shape behavior. Athletes learn to minimize their own experiences, compare their struggles to others, and convince themselves that what they are feeling is not significant enough to speak about. They push through discomfort, telling themselves that the stress will pass, that they just need to be tougher, or that asking for help might change how they are perceived. Sometimes those feelings do pass. But often, they don’t. Instead, they accumulate beneath the surface, turning into emotional fatigue, anxiety, or a growing sense of disconnection from the sport. By the time struggles become visible to parents, coaches, or teammates, the athlete may already be emotionally exhausted, having spent significant energy trying to manage everything alone. Emotional injuries deserve the same care as physical ones When an athlete tears a ligament or suffers a visible injury, the response is immediate and clear. Training stops. Rest is prioritized. Rehabilitation plans are put in place. Support surrounds the athlete until healing occurs. No one questions whether recovery is necessary. It is understood as part of responsible care. Emotional injuries, however, rarely receive the same level of attention. They are quieter, harder to measure, and easier to overlook. Yet they often develop in the same environments and can be just as impactful. Emotional injuries could include: Loss of confidence after repeated criticism Fear following an injury or major mistake Chronic stress that erodes joy Identity loss during time away from sport These wounds may not appear on scans or require braces, but they are no less real. In many cases, they last longer than physical injuries because they go untreated. When emotional recovery is ignored, athletes may return to play physically ready but mentally guarded, disconnected, or afraid. Supporting young athletes fully means recognizing that healing must include both body and mind, and that emotional care is not optional, but essential. Parents and coaches are doing their best, and need support too It’s important to say that this issue is not caused by bad parents or uncaring coaches. Many adults are operating under immense pressure themselves. Change doesn’t come from blame. It comes from education, awareness, and support. When parents and coaches are equipped with better tools, athletes benefit. What supporting mental health in youth sports can look like Mental health support does not mean removing challenge, lowering standards, or eliminating accountability. It means adding balance and safety. Here are practical, meaningful shifts that make a difference: Teaching regulation alongside motivation: Helping athletes learn how to calm their bodies, reset after mistakes, and recover from stress improves both well being and performance. Normalizing emotional language: Allowing athletes to name emotions without fear builds self-awareness and trust. Separating worth from results: Praise effort, growth, leadership, and resilience, not only wins or stats. Valuing recovery as much as training: Rest, sleep, and mental breaks are performance tools, not rewards. Creating emotionally safe team cultures: Athletes thrive when they feel respected, supported, and challenged with care. Why this matters beyond the game Youth sports do far more than develop athletic skill. They shape identity, self-worth, and the way young people learn to move through the world. The experiences athletes have in these formative years often become the blueprint for how they navigate adulthood, long after the final whistle has blown. The lessons learned in sport influence how young people will later: Handle stress at work Respond to failure Set boundaries Advocate for themselves Define success When athletes are taught, directly or indirectly, to override their needs, suppress their emotions, and equate worth with performance, those patterns often follow them into adulthood. The result is capable, driven individuals who struggle with burnout, self-doubt, and disconnection. When, instead, we teach regulation, self-trust, and balance, we raise not only stronger athletes but healthier humans. The mission behind Chronic & Iconic Coaching At Chronic & Iconic Coaching, the mission is not to remove challenge or soften standards. Challenge is an essential part of growth. The goal is to ensure that athletes are supported in navigating that challenge in ways that are sustainable, healthy, and developmentally appropriate, both on and off the field. This work is rooted in the belief that high performance and well being are not opposing forces. Athletes do not have to sacrifice their mental health to be successful, and they do not have to disconnect from themselves to be competitive. When athletes are given the tools to understand their bodies, emotions, and nervous systems, they are better equipped to handle pressure, recover from setbacks, and perform with consistency and confidence. We believe athletes can be: Competitive and emotionally supported Driven and self-aware Strong and compassionate with themselves Mental health is not separate from performance. It is the foundation of it. When athletes feel safe, supported, and grounded, they are more likely to stay engaged, recover effectively, and sustain their love for the sport. A message to young athletes If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected, please know that nothing is wrong with you. What you are experiencing is a response to pressure, not a reflection of weakness or failure. Many athletes carry far more than what is visible to others, and it is okay to acknowledge that some days feel heavier than others. Needing support does not mean you lack toughness or commitment. It means you are human. You were never meant to carry every expectation on your own or figure everything out without guidance. You deserve tools that help you understand your emotions, your body, and your stress responses. You deserve understanding when things feel hard, and care that extends beyond performance. You are more than your stats, your playing time, or your results. Your value does not disappear on difficult days. You matter as a whole person, and support is something you are worthy of, not something you have to earn. A message to the adults who care about them To the parents, coaches, mentors, and supporters who invest their time, energy, and hearts into young athletes, you do not have to choose between excellence and well being. These two things are not in competition with each other. They coexist. The strongest athletes are not the ones who suffer quietly or hide their struggles out of fear. They are the ones who are given space to speak honestly, recover fully, and grow with guidance. Your presence, patience, and willingness to learn alongside them matter more than you may realize. Redefining strength for the next generation Strength does not mean silence. It does not mean swallowing emotions, hiding struggles, or pretending everything is fine when it isn’t. Silence may look composed on the outside, but it often comes at a cost on the inside. Resilience does not mean suppression. True resilience is not built by ignoring feelings or pushing them down until they resurface in unhealthy ways. It is built by learning how to experience emotions, process them, and recover with support. Toughness does not mean ignoring pain. Pain, whether physical or emotional, is information. True strength is knowing when to push and when to pause. True resilience includes emotional awareness. True success leaves you whole. If we want youth sports to remain a place of growth rather than harm, the culture must evolve, and that evolution begins with all of us. The real win is not the trophy, the title, or the scholarship. It is the young person who leaves the game with confidence, self trust, and a sense of worth that lasts far beyond the final whistle. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Andrea Byers Andrea Byers, Holistic Wellness Practitioner Andrea Byers is an award-winning holistic wellness expert, transformation coach, and decorated Air Force veteran with over two decades of experience in healthcare and integrative wellness. As the founder of Chronic & Iconic Coaching, she empowers individuals, especially those navigating chronic illness or burnout, to reclaim their health, purpose, and personal power through mindset, movement, and radical self-leadership. Known for her bold voice and compassionate approach, Andrea is a fierce advocate for sustainable healing, unapologetic self-worth, and whole-person wellness.

Written by Charles W. Gragg, Healthcare Innovator, Strategist, and Speaker Charles Gragg is a professional speaker and strategist who helps C-suite executives and benefits advisors navigate corporate health insurance solutions into sustainable, cost-effective health plans that attract and retain top talent. With deep industry experience, Charles turns insurance challenges into clear, actionable opportunities for growth. For decades, American employers have been told a dangerous lie, that more healthcare automatically means better health. More tests. More procedures. More specialists. More spending. Yet, despite pouring more money into healthcare than any nation on earth, the United States consistently ranks near the bottom in outcomes, access, and patient experience. The truth is simple and deeply uncomfortable. Our system is engineered to reward volume, not value. It pays for activity, not outcomes. And unless employers, their HR teams, and their employees learn how to navigate this system with intention, they will continue to buy more healthcare without buying better health. A growing movement of forward-thinking employers is challenging this status quo. They are discovering that the path to healthier employees and lower costs is not paved with more consumption. It is paved with smarter navigation, higher quality providers, and evidence-based decision making. It is about being proactive in improving your healthcare supply chain in order to improve outcomes. And they are proving that when people understand how to move through the system, outcomes do improve dramatically. This is the new frontier of employer leadership. The system isn’t broken, it’s working exactly as designed To understand why navigation matters, employers must first confront the uncomfortable architecture of U.S. healthcare. Hospitals are paid more when complications occur. Specialists earn more when they perform more procedures. Pharmacy benefit managers profit when drug prices rise. Insurance carriers benefit when premiums increase. None of these incentives is aligned with helping employees get well. And because price rarely correlates with quality, employees often assume the most expensive hospital or the closest specialist is the safest choice. In reality, the data shows the opposite. High-quality care is predictable, measurable, and often significantly less expensive. Without guidance, employees are left to navigate a maze built for profit, not clarity. What high-quality care really looks like Most employees, and many employers, have never been taught how to identify high-quality care. They rely on brand names, proximity, or referral patterns that may have nothing to do with outcomes. Quality, however, is not a mystery. It can be measured through: Infection and complication rates Readmission rates Surgical volumes Evidence-based treatment pathways Independent quality ratings Outcomes from Centers of Excellence When employees are guided toward providers who excel in these metrics, the results are profound. Fewer complications, faster recovery, and dramatically lower costs. This is where navigation becomes transformative. The hidden cost of low-value care Unnecessary MRIs. Avoidable surgeries. Overprescribed medications. Redundant tests. These are not rare exceptions. They are everyday occurrences in a system that rewards doing more, not doing better. Low-value care is one of the largest drivers of waste in the U.S. healthcare system, costing employers billions annually. But the real cost is human, misdiagnoses, delayed recovery, and avoidable harm. Teaching employees how to ask the right questions, Do I really need this test? What are the alternatives? What does the evidence say? empowers them to avoid care that adds cost without adding value. Navigation: The missing link in employee health Most employees do not need more benefits. They need help understanding the ones they already have. Navigation bridges that gap by giving employees: Guidance on where to go for high-quality care Support in challenging questionable referrals Access to second opinions Tools to compare prices and outcomes Advocacy during complex medical events Clarity on when telehealth or virtual primary care is appropriate When employees know how to move through the system, they make better decisions, and better decisions lead to better outcomes. Employers hold the power to change the game Employers are not passive purchasers of healthcare. They are the largest buyers of healthcare in the country, and they have the leverage to reshape the experience for their workforce. Forward-thinking employers are: Designing benefits that reward quality over quantity Steering employees to Centers of Excellence Using bundled payments and direct contracting Integrating navigation into onboarding and open enrollment Training HR teams to become health literacy champions Measuring success through outcomes, not just claims These employers are not just reducing costs. They are improving lives. A culture of health literacy is a competitive advantage When employees understand how to navigate healthcare, everything changes. Fear decreases. Confidence rises. Preventive care increases. Chronic conditions are managed more effectively. And the organization becomes healthier, physically, financially, and culturally. Health literacy is no longer a “nice to have.” It is a strategic imperative. The future belongs to employers who lead The U.S. healthcare system will not fix itself. But employers can fix how their people experience it. By teaching employees how to navigate the system, how to find high-quality care, avoid low-value care, and make informed decisions, employers can deliver what the system has failed to provide, better outcomes at a lower cost. This is not just a benefits strategy. It is a leadership strategy. A culture strategy. A human strategy. And it is the future of employer-sponsored healthcare. If the message resonates with your current health plan issues, let’s connect and discuss how to fix the problem by customizing your plan moving forward. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , and visit my LinkedIn for more info! Read more from Charles W. Gragg Charles W. Gragg, Healthcare Innovator, Strategist, and Speaker Charles Gragg is a recognized healthcare strategist with a mission to help organizations break free from the "healthcare hamster wheel". Drawing on years of experience navigating the inefficiencies of today's healthcare economy, Charles reveals why the current model is failing and how companies can achieve better outcomes at lower cost. Known for delivering provocative, eye-opening keynotes, Charles equips executive, HR leaders, and benefits advisors with the tools to reposition healthcare as a sustainable corporate asset. His message challenges conventional thinking and empowers leaders to make bold, outcomes-driven changes.

Written by Dee Mani, Natural Health Consultant Dee Mani is a holistic healing advocate and founder of My Way CBD, who transformed her life after overcoming an aggressive breast cancer diagnosis using natural remedies. She is an author, entrepreneur, and speaker dedicated to empowering others through the healing potential of cannabis and holistic wellness practices. Most people remember the moment clearly. You sit in the chair, heart slightly racing, hands clammy, waiting for the results. You know something isn’t right. You’re exhausted. Your sleep is broken. Your digestion feels off. Your mood isn’t what it used to be. Your body feels heavier, slower, less resilient than before. Then the doctor looks at the screen and says the words many people dread more than bad news, “Everything looks normal.” You nod. You thank them. You leave. And somewhere between the clinic door and the journey home, doubt creeps in. Because if everything is “normal,” why don’t you feel well? But beneath that doubt, something else often surfaces, a quieter, harder feeling to name. A sense of deflation. Because without a diagnosis, there’s nothing concrete to blame. No label to point to. No condition to explain why your energy has gone, your weight has shifted, your mood feels off, or your body no longer recovers the way it once did. Sometimes we don’t just want reassurance, we want an answer. A name. Something external we can hold responsible. Not because we’re weak, but because a diagnosis can feel like permission. Permission to stop questioning our habits. Permission to excuse the long-term stress, the unresolved trauma, the poor sleep, the food that no longer nourishes us, and the boundaries we never learned to set. And when the doctor doesn’t have that answer, when the tests come back “normal,” it can feel deeply unsettling. Not because nothing is wrong, but because the focus quietly shifts back to us. With it comes the uncomfortable awareness that health ultimately requires personal accountability. This disconnect isn’t rare. It’s becoming the norm. And the reason lies not in your imagination, but in how modern medicine defines “normal,” and what it allows us to outsource. What “normal” really means, and why it’s misleading In everyday language, normal suggests healthy, balanced, or functioning well. In medicine, it means none of those things. A “normal range” is a statistical construct. It’s created by testing large populations, discarding the extreme highs and lows, and averaging what remains. That average becomes the reference range used to judge everyone else. Here’s the problem with this outdated and increasingly unjustified method, If the population is chronically stressed, inflamed, nutrient-deficient, sleep-deprived, overmedicated, and emotionally overwhelmed, then dysfunction becomes the benchmark. Normal simply means common. It does not mean optimal. It does not mean resilient. And it certainly doesn’t mean preventative. As society becomes sicker, the definition of “normal” quietly shifts with it. Who actually sets these ranges? Most people assume blood test ranges are based on timeless biological truths. They are not. Reference ranges are determined by: Laboratories Medical institutions Clinical guideline committees Advisory panels These panels are often composed of academics, clinicians, and researchers, many of whom also consult for, research for, or receive funding from pharmaceutical companies. This does not require bad intentions to create bad outcomes. It is a structural issue. When thresholds shift, drug eligibility expands. When eligibility expands, prescriptions rise. And when prescriptions rise, entire populations become lifelong patients, sometimes without ever feeling better. Whilst many people understandably do not want to believe medicine is malicious, it is hard to deny that it is incentivised, and incentives shape outcomes. Who benefits from redefining “normal”? This is the part that is rarely said out loud. “Normal” is not used to keep people well. It is used as a dividing line. Stay inside it, and you are dismissed. Fall outside it, and you become a patient, most often for life. As reference ranges shift and thresholds are adjusted, more people are pushed into the category of “abnormal.” Once that happens, imbalance is quickly reframed as pathology, and what may be a temporary, adaptive response by the body is given a permanent medical label. That label then opens the door to treatment plans focused on correcting numbers rather than understanding root causes. Symptoms are medicated. Markers are suppressed. Attention moves away from factors that are harder to quantify but far more influential, including lifestyle, chronic stress, unresolved trauma, poor sleep, nutrient depletion, and environmental load. This is not because individual doctors are deliberately trying to create dependency. Most are doing the best they can within a system designed for speed, volume, and standardisation. But it is a system incentivised to diagnose, prescribe, and maintain long-term management, not to ask why the body adapted in the first place. When health is reduced to thresholds, lifelong management becomes the default outcome. Not because it restores resilience, but because it is scalable, protocol-driven, and profitable. So the real question is not whether medicine is malicious. It is whether a system built on diagnosis and dependency can ever truly prioritise prevention, autonomy, and human health. Treating numbers instead of bodies Modern healthcare is exceptional at crisis management. It saves lives in emergencies. It stabilises acute conditions. It excels when something has already gone wrong. Where it struggles is in early dysfunction. Blood tests are often used to confirm disease, not to detect imbalance. If your results do not cross a clearly defined line, you are told everything is fine, even when your body is quietly struggling to compensate. Symptoms are brushed aside because the data does not support them. But the body does not wait for permission from a reference range before signalling distress, which ultimately leads to illness or disease. Cholesterol: A marker that lost its meaning Few blood markers illustrate this problem better than cholesterol. Cholesterol is not a toxin. It is a vital biological substance. Your body uses it to: Produce hormones such as cortisol, oestrogen, and testosterone Maintain cell membrane integrity Protect nerve tissue and brain cells Support repair processes throughout the body When cholesterol rises, it is often responding to something, including inflammation, infection, stress, injury, or hormonal change. Over time, however, cholesterol became isolated from context. Rather than asking why it was elevated, the focus shifted to how quickly it could be lowered. Reference ranges tightened. Targets dropped. Statins became one of the most prescribed drugs in the world. What is discussed far less openly is that: Low cholesterol has been associated with depression and cognitive decline In older adults, very low cholesterol correlates with higher overall mortality Cholesterol often rises during immune activation as part of tissue repair Cholesterol did not suddenly become dangerous. It became oversimplified. Blood sugar: When stress is labelled as disease Blood glucose is another marker that is frequently misunderstood. We are taught that elevated blood sugar equals poor diet or metabolic failure. In reality, glucose is deeply responsive to the nervous system. Blood sugar rises in response to: Sleep deprivation Psychological stress Surges in cortisol and adrenaline Acute illness or infection This is not dysfunction. It is survival. A single elevated reading can place someone into the category of “pre diabetic,” even when their body is responding appropriately to short term stress. Without context, numbers create fear. With context, they create understanding. Thyroid testing: “Normal” on paper, unwell in reality Thyroid testing is one of the most common areas where people feel dismissed. Countless individuals, particularly women, experience: Persistent fatigue Hair thinning or loss Weight gain Brain fog Cold sensitivity Yet they are told their thyroid is “within range.” TSH reference ranges are broad, far broader than what many bodies actually thrive at. A value that is statistically normal may be biologically suboptimal for that individual. Add chronic stress, unresolved trauma, inflammation, or nutrient depletion, and the thyroid can struggle long before it officially fails. The body compensates quietly until it cannot. Inflammation: The background noise we ignore Chronic inflammation rarely announces itself loudly in blood work. Markers such as CRP often need to be significantly elevated before concern is raised. But inflammation begins long before that, subtly disrupting hormones, digestion, mood, energy, and immunity. Low-grade inflammation is now so common that it barely registers as abnormal. Yet it sits at the root of most chronic diseases. When infection skews blood results This is one of the most overlooked aspects of blood testing, and one of the most important. If your blood is taken while your body is fighting: A viral infection A bacterial infection Hidden inflammation Acute stress or injury Your immune system shifts priorities. White blood cells may rise or fall depending on the stage of infection. Iron levels drop to starve pathogens. Cholesterol rises to support tissue repair. Blood sugar elevates to fuel immune activity. In these moments, blood results reflect a body in defence mode, not a baseline state of health. A blood test taken during immune activation is a snapshot of a battlefield, not a resting body. Yet results are often interpreted as a fixed diagnosis rather than temporary responses. The nervous system: The missing piece One of the greatest blind spots in modern diagnostics is the nervous system. Chronic stress, unresolved trauma, and prolonged fight or flight activation alter blood markers long before disease appears. Hormones shift. Immunity changes. Inflammation rises. But none of this fits neatly into standard panels. You can have “normal” blood work and a profoundly dysregulated nervous system. And no blood test can measure that directly. Why people are told it is “just stress” When results fall within reference ranges, symptoms are often attributed to: Anxiety Age Hormones Lifestyle As if these factors exist separately from the body. Stress is not a mindset issue. It is a physiological state. And it leaves fingerprints everywhere, even when blood tests do not flag it as pathological. The illusion of precision Blood tests feel precise. Numbers look objective. But biology is fluid. A single reading does not capture: Trends over time Individual baselines Environmental influences Emotional load Sleep quality Nutritional status Medicine values what can be measured easily. Health often lives in what cannot. A more compassionate model of health A truly supportive approach to health asks better questions: How have your markers changed over time? How do you feel in your body day to day? What stressors are present in your life? How well does your nervous system recover? Numbers still matter. But they are guides, not verdicts. Why this matters When people are told they are “fine” despite feeling unwell, they begin to doubt themselves. They stop trusting their bodies. They disengage from their own intuition. That loss of trust is one of the most damaging outcomes of all. Healthcare should build confidence, not erode it. Blood tests can offer information, but they cannot define health. When they are used without context, they often create fear, dependency, and lifelong labels where none were needed. If you have ever felt unheard or dismissed, that experience matters. The body is not a machine waiting to break. It is a self-regulating system constantly adapting to stress, environment, and emotion. Real healing does not come from chasing numbers. It comes from restoring balance through food, sleep, nervous system regulation, emotional safety, and reducing toxic load. Sometimes the problem is not your body at all. It is a culture that stopped trusting it. A personal note In February 2017, several weeks before I was officially diagnosed with grade 3 triple-negative breast cancer, my body began shouting long before anyone was listening. I broke out in hives, not a small rash, but full-body urticaria covering me from the neck down. My face was the only area spared. I was repeatedly prescribed oral steroids and steroid creams. They did not resolve the issue. If anything, the tablets left me swollen, inflamed, and further disconnected from my body. Eventually, I was sent for blood tests. My white blood cell count was borderline. My cholesterol was high. Rather than asking why my immune system was activated or why my body might be in a state of distress, I was told my bloods were “normal” and advised to speak to my GP about starting statins for the cholesterol. I refused. What those blood results were actually reflecting was a body under extreme load. Cancer had already developed, not in isolation, but alongside prolonged stress, an abusive marriage, unresolved childhood trauma, and a nervous system locked in constant fight or flight. My body was no longer regulating. It was surviving. None of that appeared in my results as a red flag. On paper, I was fine. A week later, I found a lump in my breast. That experience changed how I understand health forever. My body had been communicating clearly through inflammation, immune activation, and systemic stress. But because my results had not crossed a predefined threshold, those signals were dismissed. This is why “normal” blood tests can be so dangerously reassuring. They do not tell the whole story, and they rarely tell it early enough. They capture numbers, not the lived reality of the body, or the mind and soul that shape it. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Dee Mani Dee Mani, Natural Health Consultant Dee Mani is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and holistic healing advocate who defied the odds by overcoming aggressive breast cancer through natural remedies, including cannabis. As the founder of My Way CBD, she is passionate about empowering others to explore alternative healing methods. Dee's journey from illness to wellness inspires her writing, where she shares insights on natural health, wellness, and the transformative power of nature. Follow her work to discover how to harness holistic practices for a healthier, more balanced life. See here for more info!

Jason Sheasby has built a career around taking complex ideas and making them work in the real world. In his case, that world is the courtroom. Over more than two decades, he has become one of the most respected trial lawyers in intellectual property law. His path shows how curiosity, discipline, and long-term thinking can shape a career with real impact. Early life and curiosity Sheasby grew up in San Bernardino County, California. He has said that his early years taught him that people see problems differently. “I learned early on that perspective matters,” he has shared. “Where you stand often shapes how you think.” That interest in how people think led him to study philosophy at Pomona College. He earned his BA there and graduated summa cum laude, with Phi Beta Kappa honors. Philosophy may seem far from patent trials, but Sheasby sees a direct link. “Philosophy trains you to break down ideas,” he has said. “Law is about doing that under pressure.” Education that shaped a trial lawyer After Pomona, Sheasby went to Harvard Law School. He earned his JD cum laude in 1999. At Harvard, he sharpened the skills that would later define his career. He learned how to argue clearly, write precisely, and think several steps ahead. Looking back, he often points to law school as a place where theory met practice. “You learn that big ideas only matter if you can apply them,” he has said. That belief would guide his work as a trial attorney. Building a career at the trial table Sheasby is now a partner at Irell & Manella LLP, a firm known for high-stakes litigation. His role is clear. He is a trial lawyer. He focuses on cases involving deep technology, significant business risk, and intense scrutiny. In a short span of time, his trial record has stood out. In less than two years, he took more than 10 complex cases to trial and won each. These were not simple disputes. They involved patents, contracts, and billions of dollars in potential exposure. One of the most notable matters involved memory technology company Netlist and Samsung. In multiple trials between 2023 and 2025, juries found infringement, willful conduct, and major damages. In March 2025, as co-lead counsel, Sheasby secured a key victory confirming that Netlist had properly terminated a license Samsung relied on as a defense. “What matters most is clarity,” Sheasby has said about trial work. “You have to help a jury understand why the facts and the law fit together.” Turning complex technology into clear stories Sheasby’s work often sits at the intersection of law and technology. He has handled cases involving computer memory, data storage, USB chargers, and medical devices. In each case, the challenge is the same. Translate complex systems into simple stories. In 2024, he co-led a trial against Anker Innovations for Fundamental Innovation Systems. The jury found willful infringement and awarded damages higher than requested. That same year, he helped secure major verdicts for G+ Communications and StreamScale. Sheasby credits preparation and teamwork. “Trials are never about one person,” he has said. “They are about teams that respect the details.” Recognition without distraction The legal industry has taken notice. Sheasby has been named Litigator of the Year by The American Lawyer. He has been recognized by Chambers USA, Law360, Managing IP, and the Daily Journal. He has also been selected for lists like the Lawdragon 500 Leading Global IP Lawyers. Still, he avoids focusing on awards. “Recognition is nice,” he has said. “But it’s not why you show up every day.” Beyond the courtroom Outside of litigation, Jason Sheasby brings his ideas to life in other ways. He is a founder of TORL Biotherapeutics, reflecting his interest in science and innovation. He also serves on the board of Pomona College, giving back to the institution that shaped his early thinking. Service matters to him. “Institutions last when people invest in them,” he has said. His board work reflects a long-term view of impact beyond any single case. A career built on big ideas and discipline From philosophy student to leading trial lawyer, Jason Sheasby’s career follows a clear line. He takes big, complex ideas and works patiently to make them understandable and effective. Whether in a courtroom, a boardroom, or a startup, his approach stays the same. “You don’t need to be flashy,” he has said. “You need to be prepared and honest about the work.” That mindset has helped him shape outcomes, influence an industry, and build a career defined by substance over spectacle.

Akram Alhamidi did not wait for the perfect moment to start his career. He acted early. He stayed focused. And he turned simple ideas into real outcomes. Based in Petal, Mississippi, Akram is an entrepreneur who chose ownership and responsibility at a young age. His path shows how steady effort and clear thinking can bring big ideas to life without noise or exaggeration. His story is not about hype. It is about execution. This spotlight follows Akram’s journey from high school to business ownership and the ideas that shaped his career along the way. Growing up in Petal, Mississippi Akram Alhamidi grew up in Petal, Mississippi. It is a small town where people value consistency and routine. During high school, Akram played football. The sport had a strong influence on how he approaches work and responsibility today. “Football taught me how to show up every day,” Akram says. “Even when you’re tired, you still do your job.” Those lessons stayed with him long after the season ended. They shaped how he thought about discipline, teamwork, and effort. When he graduated high school in 2020, he felt ready to take the next step. Choosing an uncommon path after high school After graduation, Akram made a clear decision. He chose to start building something of his own. “I didn’t want to wait around,” he says. “I wanted to build something real.” Instead of following a long or traditional path, he focused on ownership and accountability from the start. He believed learning would come from action, not planning alone. That decision set the foundation for his career. Turning simple ideas into real work Akram’s approach to business has always been practical. He focuses on everyday needs and dependable execution. “It’s not complicated,” he explains. “People rely on certain services every day. You just have to run things the right way.” Starting young came with pressure. He had to learn fast. He had to manage time, solve problems, and make decisions without much margin for error. “When it’s your responsibility, you notice everything,” Akram says. “You can’t ignore small issues.” Over time, those small decisions added up. His work grew through consistency, not shortcuts. “Doing the small things right every day adds up,” he says. Leadership built on presence Akram believes leadership is not about distance or titles. It is about being involved. “When people know what to expect from you, things run better,” he says. In a business that operates daily, presence matters. He stays close to operations and believes leadership starts by understanding the work itself. “You can’t lead from far away,” Akram explains. “You have to be present.” That mindset has shaped how he manages people, time, and expectations. It also keeps him grounded as responsibilities grow. Learning through experience Akram’s career has been shaped by learning on the job. He did not wait to feel fully prepared. “You don’t learn everything before you start,” he says. “You learn by starting.” Mistakes became lessons. Challenges became structure. Each experience helped him improve how he works and how he leads. “If something doesn’t work, you fix it and move on,” Akram says. This approach allowed him to turn early responsibility into long-term progress. Finding balance outside of work Outside of work, Akram keeps things simple. He enjoys watching movies and spending time with friends. That balance matters to him. “Business can take over if you let it,” he says. “You still need time to reset.” He believes mental clarity leads to better decisions and steadier leadership. “When you’re clear, you make better decisions,” Akram explains. Building a career through action Akram Alhamidi’s story is not about overnight success. It is about taking practical ideas and following through. From starting his career right after high school to growing through experience, his path shows how consistency can turn ideas into results. “I care about building something that lasts,” he says. “That’s the goal.” Through steady effort and hands-on leadership, Akram has built a career defined by action, responsibility, and showing up every day.

Dr. David Tabaroki did not follow a straight or easy path. His career was shaped by movement, discipline, and long-term thinking. Over time, those traits helped him build multiple successful oral surgery practices in New York. Today, he is known not just as a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon, but as a business owner who turned big ideas into real, lasting institutions. From Tehran to New York: Early life and motivation Dr. Tabaroki was born in Tehran, Iran. When he was 12, his family immigrated to New York. The move was a major turning point. He entered a new country, a new school system, and a new culture at a young age. “I learned early that nothing is guaranteed,” he says. “You have to earn your place every day.” Education quickly became his focus. He attended Yeshiva University on a full scholarship. From there, he went on to NYU, again on a full scholarship. He graduated in the top five percent of his class, earning honors and placement on the Dean’s List. Looking back, he credits this period with shaping his work ethic. “I treated school like a full-time job,” he says. “Consistency mattered more than talent.” Choosing a demanding medical path After NYU, Dr. Tabaroki entered the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery program at Montefiore University Hospital. The program spans four intense years and is considered one of the strongest in the country. “It was demanding in every sense,” he recalls. “Long hours. High standards. No shortcuts.” The training gave him more than technical skills. It taught him decision-making under pressure and accountability to patients and peers. These lessons would later carry into his leadership style as a practice owner. “You learn quickly that people depend on you,” he says. “That stays with you.” Opening Queens Blvd Oral Surgery After completing his training, Dr. Tabaroki made a bold move. He opened Queens Blvd Oral Surgery. At the time, he was early in his career and building from the ground up. “I didn’t wait for the perfect moment,” he says. “I focused on doing the work well and letting the rest grow from that.” The practice slowly gained traction. Patients came for care. Referrals increased. Systems were refined. Over time, the practice became a stable and respected operation. This first practice set the foundation for everything that followed. Growing into a multi-practice owner Today, Dr. Tabaroki owns and operates three practices: Queens Blvd Oral Surgery, Jamaica Estates Oral Surgery, and Gramercy Dental Group. Each serves a different community, but all follow the same principles. “The goal was never to just open more locations,” he explains. “It was to build places that run well and treat people right.” His approach blends medicine and operations. He focuses on strong teams, clear processes, and long-term planning. Growth, for him, is a result of discipline rather than speed. “I think in decades, not quarters,” he says. Leadership, technology, and adaptation Dr. Tabaroki is open to new ideas, especially in technology and medicine. He believes modern practices must evolve without losing their core values. “Tools change,” he says. “Standards shouldn’t.” He encourages ongoing learning within his teams. He also believes leaders must stay involved. “You can’t build something meaningful from a distance,” he adds. This mindset has helped his practices adapt while staying consistent in patient care. Life beyond the office Outside of work, Dr. David Tabaroki lives in Long Island with his wife and five children. Family plays a central role in how he defines success. “My career matters,” he says. “But it’s not separate from my life.” He is also a dedicated sports fan, following the New York Giants, Knicks, and Yankees. Sports, he says, offer lessons that translate into work. “You see teamwork, preparation, and resilience,” he notes. “Those ideas apply everywhere.” Defining success on his own terms Dr. Tabaroki’s story is not about shortcuts or overnight wins. It is about steady progress, clear priorities, and the courage to build before everything feels certain. “I didn’t chase titles,” he says. “I focused on building something solid.” Over two decades, that approach has led to lasting practices, a respected career, and a balanced life. His journey shows how big ideas, when paired with discipline and patience, can turn into real-world impact one decision at a time.

Jessie Andrews  did not follow a set plan. She followed her instincts. Raised in Miami, she left home as a teenager and moved to Los Angeles just months before finishing high school. At the time, she did not have a safety net or a roadmap. What she did have was drive. “Being told you can’t do something is always the biggest driver to make whatever you want to happen, happen,” she says. That early decision shaped everything that followed. Andrews entered film and television first, learning quickly how visibility, pressure, and discipline work in creative industries. Within a year, she crossed into mainstream culture, earning attention from media and brands. But even as opportunities grew, she knew she did not want to rely on one lane. She wanted control over her work and her future. Early visibility and a shift behind the scenes Modeling and acting gave Andrews access to rooms where creative decisions were made. She watched how brands were built, how images were shaped, and how stories were told. She also saw what was missing. “Always being curious and investing in myself and my ideas has always brought me success,” she says. Before turning 21, Andrews began designing jewelry quietly. It started as a personal outlet, not a business plan. She focused on simple forms and pieces she wanted to wear herself. That project became Bagatiba. The brand grew fast, worn by high-profile figures and featured in major fashion publications. Her online store became one of the top-performing on Shopify. What stood out was not just growth, but consistency. Andrews stayed deeply involved in design, branding, and creative direction. “I’m not a procrastinator,” she explains. “I’m organized with calendars and notes. That keeps me in check.” That structure helped her scale without losing focus. Expanding brands with intention After Bagatiba, Jessie Andrews  launched more companies, including Basic Swim, and Tase Gallery. Each followed the same idea. Design should come from inspiration, not rigid seasons. Products should feel wearable and useful. Sustainability should be part of the process, not an afterthought. She did not rush expansion. Each brand reflected a clear gap she saw in the market. Andrews applied the same discipline across all of them. “Passion, determination, open-mindedness, and resilience” are what she credits most. Those traits helped her move from founder to operator, overseeing multiple teams while staying hands-on creatively. By 2019, her work drew attention for more than fashion. Media outlets highlighted her approach to e-commerce and brand building. Andrews also began consulting for larger companies, offering insight on creative direction and long-term brand vision. Leadership, mentorship, and staying grounded As her responsibilities grew, Andrews leaned on trusted guidance. She often points to her former agent, Mark Spiegler, as a steady influence. “He’s my guiding light and source of truth,” she says. “I trust and respect him.” She also learned how to manage pressure. When things feel overwhelming, her response is simple. “Taking a deep breath and reminding myself that things are only as hard as you make them.” That mindset helped her navigate growth without burnout. Success, for Andrews, is personal. “I measure success by my own standard,” she says. “Comparison is when you start to feel anxious or let down.” Instead, she focuses on progress, balance, and relationships. Redefining retail with Tase Gallery In 2021, Andrews launched Tase Gallery in Los Angeles. The space was not a traditional store. It was a retail gallery designed to connect people with products through experience. Her brands were displayed alongside work from artists like Hugo Comte and Bryant Giles. The gallery also hosted collaborations with companies such as Flos, Bulgari, Zara, and Vogue . Later, Tase Home expanded the concept into furniture and functional art. The project reflected Andrews’ belief that retail can be thoughtful, immersive, and human. Returning to film while building forward While her business portfolio grew, Andrews did not step away from acting. She appeared in A24’s Hot Summer Nights  and later in HBO’s Euphoria , which brought renewed attention. Her first lead role in the thriller Love Bomb  released in 2025. A career defined by big ideas and follow-through Jessie Andrews’ career is not defined by one role. It is defined by execution. She brings ideas to life by pairing creativity with discipline and belief. “Believing in myself is the truest form of success,” she says. “Once you establish that mindset, you’re unstoppable.”

Written by Sierra Melcher, Author, International Speaker & Educator Sierra Melcher is the founder of Red Thread Publishing LLC. She leads an all-female publishing company, with a mission to support 10,000 women to become successful published authors & thought-leaders. Most people see their inner critic as something to silence or overcome. But what if that voice of doubt isn’t trying to sabotage you at all? This article explores the inner critic as a protective force shaped by safety, belonging, and growth, and how learning to work with her can unlock deeper self-trust, creativity, and leadership. Most of us are taught to see the inner critic as the villain. She’s the voice that says: “You’ll embarrass yourself.” “You’re not ready.” “Other people are doing it better.” “Don’t make a fool of yourself.” And the standard advice is clear: silence her. Override her. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Hustle past the discomfort. And heaven forbid you do the thing that scares you and brought her to your doorstep in the first place. But what if we’ve misunderstood her role? What if the inner critic isn’t a saboteur at all… What if she’s a protector? A psychological bodyguard stationed at the threshold of your next level of visibility, success, or expansion, deeply convinced that her vigilance is the only thing keeping you safe. The inner critic as a safety mechanism, not a character flaw From a trauma-informed and psychological perspective, self-criticism doesn’t arise because we’re broken. It develops because, at some earlier point in life, belonging and safety felt conditional. You may have internalized beliefs like: Approval keeps me safe. Achievement earns love. Visibility invites judgement. Perfection prevents rejection. So your inner critic evolves into a risk-management system. She tries to control the narrative before anyone else can. “If I judge myself first, I’ll soften the pain if others do it.” Self-criticism becomes a type of emotional armor. This is especially common among women leaders, high achievers, and creatives, where the stakes of visibility feel higher. Social conditioning has long reinforced the idea that women should be composed, agreeable, flawless, and self-sacrificing, and when leadership, authorship, or entrepreneurship challenge those expectations, the nervous system detects danger. Any time we step out into a new role, attempt to grow, or try something new, it is interpreted as danger. New is scary. And so, the critic steps in: “Shrink it.” “Tone it down.” “Make it safer.” Not because she hates you, but because she remembers when safety depended on fitting in. Staying in the comfortable, familiar little world you currently inhabit. Why the critic gets louder as you expand Most people expect their inner critic to get quieter as they grow. Nope. It doesn’t work like that. Paradoxically… the opposite often happens. The critic tends to get the loudest: right before you publish right before you raise your prices right before you take the stage right before you speak an uncomfortable truth right before you choose yourself Because from her perspective… Expansion = exposure Exposure = risk Risk = danger She isn’t measuring opportunity. She is measuring survivability based on outdated data. That’s why self-criticism often peaks right at the edge of becoming, when the next version of you is beginning to emerge. She doesn’t block the small stuff. She only steps in when something meaningful is on the line. The problem isn’t the voice, it’s the relationship Traditional mindset culture tends to frame the inner critic as an adversary. But when we demonize her, we reinforce internal conflict. We try to dominate or silence a part of ourselves that is, truly, trying to help us. She is just trying to keep you safe. But we see her as the enemy. Which means the nervous system never relaxes. And our creativity becomes a battlefield. A trauma-informed approach invites something far more compassionate: Instead of “How do I get rid of my critic?” We ask: “What is this part of me trying to protect?” This shift, from resistance to curiosity, is powerful. Often, the critic is guarding: Fear of humiliation. Fear of abandonment. Fear of success backlash. Fear of not belonging. Fear of failing publicly. And when we meet that fear with understanding instead of hostility, the system softens. The body exhales. Creativity begins to flow again. Fear isn’t a bad thing. What if it is an indication, an invitation to grow? The inner critic and leadership This conversation matters deeply in leadership. Because visibility is inherently vulnerable. Every leader, founder, executive, author, or speaker must navigate exposure to judgement, projection, and expectation. The inner critic acts as a gatekeeper of identity safety, scanning for threat. Compassionate self-leadership means recognizing you cannot eliminate fear. You can only develop the capacity to accompany yourself through it. When leaders treat their inner world with respect rather than dismissal, they become: less reactive more grounded more emotionally intelligent and more trustworthy to others Because they are not fighting themselves. And teams sense that. Readers and the audience can all sense that. From enemy to ally: A new model for self-trust Here’s the reframe: Your inner critic is not the enemy of your dreams. She is the bodyguard of your becoming. She stands at the threshold asking: “Are you ready for what lies beyond this door?” “Will you be safe there?” “Do you have the support you need?” Her presence isn’t a barrier, it’s an invitation to prepare. 1. Practical ways to work with your inner critic Acknowledge her early. When you hear the voice of doubt, greet it: “I hear you. You’re worried about my safety. Thank you.” This short-circuits the stress loop. 2. Identify what she fears Ask: “What feels risky right now?” “What could go wrong?” “What memory might be getting activated?” You’ll often uncover old stories, not present-day realities. 3. Bring the nervous system back to safety Breathwork. Movement. Connection. Grounding rituals. Nature. Creative play. Safety enables expansion. 4. Separate drafting from judgement In creative work, critique too early suffocates expression. Write first. Evaluate later. (We call this “Bunnies before wolves,” creation before editing.) 5. Build external support Community. Coaching. Mentorship. Psychological safety. Your critic quiets when she knows you’re not alone. Creativity, identity, and becoming For many people, especially women, writing, entrepreneurship, and leadership are not simply professional acts. They are identity activations. They awaken the part of you that refuses to self-abandon any longer. That awakening can feel terrifying. So the critic rises. But she isn’t there to stop the journey. (Don’t misunderstand her.) She is there to ensure that when you cross into the next chapter of your life, you do it with awareness, support, and self-trust rather than force. Integration, not suppression, is the work. A final thought Growth does not come from silencing the inner critic. (I know you wish you could, but you can’t. Stop wasting your effort.) Growth comes from sitting beside her, hand on heart, and saying: “I know you’re trying to protect me. And I’m choosing to grow now. We can do this together.” And slowly… she stops yelling. Because she finally believes you. (You may still feel nauseous, that is fine too. Remember, you are growing, it is as scary as it is natural.) At Red Thread Publishing, we support leaders, founders, and change-makers, especially women, to write, publish, and expand their thought leadership in deeply supportive and emotionally intelligent ways. Writing isn’t just about a book. It’s about identity, impact, and becoming the person your work calls you to be. If you’re ready to bring your message into the world with care for your nervous system, creativity, and vision, we’d love to connect. Follow me on  Facebook , Instagram , and visit my website  for more info! Read more from Sierra Melcher Sierra Melcher, Author, International Speaker & Educator Best-selling author, international speaker & educator, Sierra Melcher is the founder of Red Thread Publishing LLC. She leads an all-female publishing company, with a mission to support 10,000 women to become successful published authors & thought-leaders. Offering world-class coaching & courses that focus on community, collaboration, and a uniquely feminine approach at every stage of the author process. Sierra has a Master’s degree in education and has spoken & taught around the world. Originally from the United States, Sierra lives in Medellín, Colombia, with her young daughter.