Enwaken Radio With David Morelli

What if the “difficult” person you’re dealing with isn’t difficult at all, just different from you? In this episode of OwlCast, hosts David Morelli and Alexandria Ravencroft explore how misunderstood behaviors, mismatched communication styles, and unspoken expectations can create tension and lead to mislabeling people as difficult to work with.Together, they explore how our personal norms, values, and lived experiences influence our judgments of others,and how empathy, curiosity, and adaptability can transform even the most strained relationships. Alexandria shares powerful real-world stories from construction sites to corporate offices, offering insights on what makes people seem difficult and what we can do about it.Whether you're a leader trying to get the best from your team or someone navigating tough dynamics with colleagues or clients, this episode offers practical tools, mindset shifts, and a refreshing perspective. Everyone has a reason for how they show up, and a gift worth uncovering. 

Why do even the most capable professionals sometimes lose their cool in conflict? In this episode of OwlCast, David Morelli and Alexandria Ravencroft sit down with Dr. Lola Gershfeld and Polina Marian of EMC Leaders to explore the hidden dynamics that drive miscommunication, tension, and emotional fallout at work.You’ll hear surprising insights about the emotional patterns that shape how we show up under stress, and why “bad behavior” is often a signal of something deeper. Together, we unpack what’s really happening beneath the surface—and what leaders and teams can do to reconnect and move forward. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why people act the way they do in conflict, or how to handle emotionally charged moments with more skill and compassion, this conversation is for you.

Giving feedback can feel risky, and getting it can feel worse. In this episode, David Morelli and Alexandria Ravencroft unpack why most feedback misses the mark and how to change that. They introduce the SCRIPT model (Situation, Conduct, Result, Impact, Plan, Thanks) as a powerful framework for delivering feedback that’s clear, actionable, and relationship-strengthening. You’ll learn the difference between personality-based and behavior-based feedback, when to use questions instead of statements, and how to tailor your approach to different situations. Plus, they explore what to do when receiving feedback, especially when it’s poorly delivered, and how to turn even the worst feedback into fuel for growth. Whether you’re a leader, coach, or just someone who wants to get better at communicating clearly and compassionately, this episode will leave you with tools you can use right away.

What happens when emotional maturity is missing at work? Promotions stall, team dynamics break down, and self-doubt takes over. In this candid episode, David Morelli and Alexandria Ravencroft explore the often invisible—but absolutely essential—skill of emotional maturity. They walk through the four levels of development, from identifying your own emotional state, to holding space for others, to leading people through emotional shifts with grace. Along the way, they share stories, tools (like the feelings wheel), and mindset shifts to help you increase self-awareness, manage emotions without suppression, and become a more grounded, connected leader. Whether you’ve been labeled “too emotional,” feel overwhelmed by others’ feelings, or want to grow your leadership presence, this episode offers a practical and compassionate path forward.

What does it truly mean to lead with authenticity? In this episode, David and Alexandria are joined by Tanya Spencer, former Chief Diversity Officer at GE and now a powerful executive coach helping leaders bring their full selves to work. With over 30 years of experience, Tanya shares her personal leadership journey—from a five-year-old mischief-maker to a C-suite trailblazer—and the lessons she’s learned about showing up as your whole self. Together, they explore:Why authentic connection fuels trust, performance, and psychological safetyHow knowing yourself and growing yourself builds the courage to show yourselfNavigating identity, emotion, and responsibility in leadershipWhat to do when fear of “doing it wrong” keeps you stuckHow empathy, feedback, and curiosity help bridge differenceThis episode is packed with wisdom, heart, and real talk about what it takes to lead with both power and vulnerability. Whether you’re early in your career or deep in executive leadership, Tanya’s insights will help you connec

What does it take to spark deep, lasting transformation in someone’s life or leadership? In this final episode of the RESPECT Coaching Styles™ series, Alexandria and David dive into the Transformer Coaching Style, which focuses on helping others shift from limitation to possibility—and step fully into who they’re capable of becoming.This episode explores:

What happens when people feel seen, safe, and supported? They open up—and that’s where real transformation begins. In this sixth episode of the RESPECT Coaching Styles™ series, Alexandria and David explore the Confidant Coaching Style, which centers on empathy, deep listening, and emotional presence. This style isn’t about fixing—it’s about being with someone in a meaningful way that builds trust and allows growth to unfold naturally.In this episode, you'll learn:

What if the answer isn’t “try harder,” but “look differently”? In this fifth episode of the RESPECT Coaching Styles™ series, David and Alexandria unpack the Explorer Coaching Style—a powerful approach for unlocking fresh perspectives, surfacing hidden options, and sparking creative breakthroughs. Whether your client, direct report, or even a teammate feels stuck, boxed in, or unsure of their next move, Explorer coaching helps widen the lens and reignite possibility.In this episode, you’ll learn:

Some truths are hard to say—and even harder to hear. But real growth often begins with the uncomfortable. In this fourth episode of the RESPECT Coaching Styles™ series, Alexandria and David dive into the Provocateur Coaching Style, where the goal isn't to shock, but to challenge assumptions, disrupt stuck thinking, and create space for breakthroughs.Inside the episode:

When someone’s stuck, it can be tempting to jump in with solutions—but what if the real power lies in helping them find their own? In this third episode of the RESPECT Coaching Styles™ series, Alexandria and David explore the Strategist Coaching Style—the art of helping others untangle challenges, clarify options, and think through solutions.Inside the episode:

Have you ever worked with someone who says, "I just don’t know what to do,"—and stays stuck there? In this episode, Alexandria and David explore the Educator Coaching Style, the key to unlocking growth, adaptability, and learning in your team. They dive into:✅ Why knowledge and skills gaps hold people back—and how to identify them✅ The #1 mistake leaders make when trying to teach (hint: info-dumping doesn't work)✅ How to spark curiosity and motivation in those who resist learning✅ Simple coaching strategies to turn knowledge into action The best leaders aren’t just tellers—they’re facilitators of learning. Tune in to discover how to create an environment where learning thrives!

Ever feel like you’re constantly pushing for results but not getting the buy-in or motivation you need from your team? In this episode, David and Alexandria break down the Rallier Coaching Style, the key to driving action and engagement without burning people out.They explore:✅ Why getting people into action matters for productivity and morale✅ The difference between inflicting an action plan vs. co-creating one✅ How to tailor motivation—because what drives you might not drive them✅ The hidden power of celebrating wins to build long-term momentumIf you want to boost accountability, effectiveness, and motivation in your leadership approach, this is a must-listen! Plus, stay tuned for the next episode in the 7-part RESPECT Coaching Styles™ series, where they’ll dive into the Educator Coaching Style.

Most people want to grow, but few take the time to pause and reflect in a way that leads to meaningful change. This episode explores the power of self-coaching—how to develop the skills to guide yourself through challenges, identify patterns, and hear the messages in your emotions before they turn into self-sabotage. Many struggle with self-reflection because they either don’t know which questions to ask or stop when they reach discomfort. Learning to think like a coach helps break through those barriers, allowing for deeper awareness and lasting growth. We dive into how self-talk influences decisions, the role of the inner critic, and how to shift from self-judgment to curiosity. Whether it’s handling setbacks, recognizing your own potential, or breaking out of cycles of doubt, self-coaching is a tool for continuous transformation. Tune in to learn practical ways to develop this skill and start getting the support you need—from yourself.

Ever feel like you're constantly juggling too much and barely keeping up? In this episode, Alexandria and David dive into the exhaustion, overwhelm, and isolation so many people are experiencing. They explore why we’re stuck in cycles of burnout, why saying “no” feels impossible, and how small mindset shifts can help break the cycle. They offer practical ways to reclaim energy, set boundaries, and move from defeat to action. Listen in for insights, real talk, and strategies to help you take back control of your time, energy, and well-being.

Change is inevitable, but managing the human side of it is the real challenge. This episode explores why resistance to change is often rooted in fear—whether it's fear of the unknown, failure, or losing control—and how leaders can guide teams through uncertainty with clarity and confidence. We break down the cognitive pruning process, helping individuals and teams identify what to start, stop, and continue to align their thinking and actions with new realities. Leaders can navigate transitions more effectively by understanding the three core elements of change—thought, emotion, and behavior. Change doesn’t happen in isolation; it impacts entire systems. That’s why clear, actionable messaging is key to ensuring organizational shifts are successful. Tune in for insights on coaching through change in a way that fosters adaptability, engagement, and growth.

What if potential isn’t something people either have or don’t—but something that’s recognized, nurtured, and developed? This episode challenges the traditional notion of "high-potential" employees and explores how talent emerges not in isolation, but through investment and opportunity. Many people don’t inherently know their own potential, yet workplaces often expect employees to self-identify and articulate it. What happens when someone’s potential is overlooked simply because no one has helped them see it? And even when potential exists, does the current system allow it to thrive? This conversation rethinks how we identify and cultivate talent, why traditional methods fall short, and what leaders can do to create environments where more people—beyond just a few—can reach their full potential.

When uncertainty shakes the foundation, how do leaders stay steady? In this episode, David Morelli and Alexandria Ravencroft break down what it takes to lead through turbulence with confidence and adaptability. From navigating fear responses—like fight, flight, freeze, and fawn—to embracing self-trust, they explore the real work of staying grounded when everything around you is shifting. They tackle the common pitfalls leaders face, like clinging to rigid strategies, trying to manage others' emotions before their own, and mistaking control for stability. Plus, they highlight why real leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up with presence, choice, and a willingness to adapt. If you’ve ever questioned your ability to lead through the unknown, this episode will help you reframe uncertainty, find your footing, and take action with clarity. Tune in to learn how to lead with poise, even in the midst of chaos.

Is middle management fading away, or is it evolving into something new? This episode explores how automation, AI, and shifting workplace dynamics are reshaping the traditional role of middle managers. With layoffs disproportionately affecting these positions and companies relying more on technology for task management, what’s being lost in the process? Beyond efficiency, management has always played a crucial role in mentorship, decision-making, and human connection. Can AI truly replace those elements? And if middle management continues to shrink, what skills will be most valuable in the future of work? This conversation unpacks the data, the challenges, and the opportunities for leaders looking to adapt. Tune in to explore what’s next for management, the rise of coaching as a critical skill, and how to stay indispensable in a rapidly changing workplace.

Comparison is often called the thief of joy, but for leaders, it can also be the silent saboteur that erodes confidence, authenticity, and decision-making. In this episode, we unpack how the habit of measuring ourselves against others—whether in the boardroom or in life—can create self-doubt, defensiveness, and even power struggles.We explore the hidden impact of comparison, why it fuels imposter syndrome, and how shifting from competition to inspiration can unlock your true leadership potential. Plus, we share actionable strategies to break free from the comparison trap and start leveraging your unique strengths.If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of "not enough," this conversation is for you. Tune in and reclaim your confidence!

Have you ever found yourself in a heated conversation that spirals out of control? This episode explores the art of de-escalating emotionally charged discussions—whether at work, home, or anywhere in between. Learn how to stay calm, create space for meaningful dialogue, and shift conversations from confrontation to collaboration. We’ll share practical techniques to help you regulate your emotions, defuse tension, and invite others into a more productive exchange. Tune in and take back control of your most challenging conversations!