This Ever Better episode isn’t my typical podcast where I share an in-depth discussion with one amazing guest. It’s a short journal episode where I share two practices common to every guest I've had on the show: Follow your interests and teach what you've learned. In their own voices, Jeff Davidoff, Tasia Valenza, Doug Hensch and Jessie Marshall describe how they apply these practices. 

 

As you might suspect, I relate to these practices because I’m following my interest in podcasting – evident in my weekly episodes. On the teaching side…I’ve been asked to share my knowledge and lessons learned with other podcasters and appreciate and enjoy the opportunity to help - as others helped me.

 

This is the second in a series of journal episodes where I share practices that my guests have in common. The first journal episode is Ten Practices From the First Ten Episodes.

 

Ever Better Guest: Jeff Davidoff 

From his first job out of college, Jeff was drawn to marketing. He earned an MBA and then went on to found Upshot, a marketing and advertising agency, and to be the Chief Marketing Officer of Whirlpool, Orbitz, the ONE Campaign, and now Donuts, Inc.  

 

Jeff teaches what he’s learned through creating marketing departments and even an agency that approach things differently. In doing so, he’s teaching those who work with him and those who are influenced by his work how to represent and position products, but more important, how to make a difference in the world. Jeff says he’s more interested in “writing the book” than “reading the book.”

 

Listen to the full podcast with Jeff Davidoff.

Ever Better Guest: Tasia Valenza

Tasia Valenza had a very successful acting career that started when she was discovered by Louis Malle and cast with Sean Penn and Donald Sutherland in her very first film. She went on to star in All My Children and numerous other television shows - and then she discovered voice overs. She found that work interesting, rewarding, and healthier! By following what interested her, Tasia became one of the most successful voice over artists in the country.

 

 

Tasia donates her talents to help non-profits communicate their mission, donates her voice through Vocal ID, and teaches others through her program, Giving Great Voice.

 

Listen to the full podcast with Tasia Valenza. 

 

Ever Better Guest: Doug Hensch

Doug Hensch was working for Nextel on eCommerce projects when he realized his interest in positive psychology and helping others improve. He followed another practice of discussing his ideas and interests and landed a job that was a critical stepping stone to where he is today – a public speaker, author, and executive coach.

 

When it comes to sharing what he’s learned with others, Doug’s got that covered on several fronts. I asked Doug what aspect of his work he most enjoyed and he described using his knowledge and skills to help others improve their lives.

 

Listen to the full podcast with Doug Hensch. 

 

Ever Better Guest: Jessie Marshall

Jessie was pursuing a career in fitness but she hadn’t planned on becoming a Pilates instructor until one day she discovered a room full of intriguing equipment. She followed that interest and is now a Mind/Body Fitness Director. 

 

Jessie continues to develop her understanding of Pilates, yoga, and recently added barre classes to her repertoire. At this time next year, she’ll probably have added another class to her list.

 

As my instructor, Jessie has helped me to improve my strength and flexibility and has helped hundreds of others as well including one client with Parkinson's who proudly shared that after he was once again able to mow the lawn. 

 

Listen to the full podcast with Jessie Marshall.  

 

I hope as you listen to Jeff, Tasia, Doug and Jessie that you consider what interests you and how to fit more of it into your life. Give it some thought over the next couple of weeks. You just might end up writing a book, teaching a class, coaching, starting a company or creating a podcast!