• E12 Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) Mental Health Initiatives: Insights from Tara Puckey & Christen DeBard
    Jan 15 2025

    Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon talks with Radio Television Digital News Association's (RTDNA) Tara Puckey and Christen DeBard about the importance of mental health support in newsrooms, emphasizing the need for a supportive and empathetic culture. They explore innovative self-care practices at conferences, the significance of building relationships within teams, and the implementation of mental health strategies. The discussion also touches on future initiatives for mental health awareness.

    Takeaways

    Mental health support is crucial in journalism.
    Self-care practices can enhance workplace wellbeing.
    Empathy and collaboration are key to a supportive culture.
    Building relationships fosters team success.
    Mental health strategies should be integrated into training.
    Compassionate leadership involves understanding team members' needs.
    Self-care activities can be fun and engaging.
    Leaders must prioritize their own mental health.
    Creating a culture of care improves journalism quality.
    Future initiatives will focus on mental health awareness.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Leadership in Journalism
    04:16 Humanizing the Workplace
    06:37 Mental Health Conversations in Newsrooms
    09:03 Creating Supportive Work Environments
    11:44 Innovative Approaches to Self-Care
    14:25 Building Genuine Relationships at Work
    15:09 New Chapter

    Links Mentioned

    Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) Website

    Compassionate Newsroom Website

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    28 mins
  • E11 The Resilient Newsroom: Agile and Appreciative Techniques with Ute Korinth
    Jan 8 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon and Ute Korinth discuss the pressing challenges faced by journalists today, emphasizing the importance of mental health, resilience, and compassionate leadership in the newsroom. They explore agile methods as tools for fostering collaboration and trust among team members, and highlight the need for safe spaces where journalists can express their vulnerabilities. The discussion also touches on the role of leadership in supporting mental health initiatives and the importance of advocacy for journalists' rights and wellbeing.

    Takeaways

    Flexibility, mistakes, and trust are essential in journalism.
    Compassionate leadership can be a competitive advantage.
    Agile methods foster a safe and collaborative environment.
    Mental health discussions are becoming more prevalent in newsrooms.
    Creating safe spaces allows for open conversations about mental health.
    Peer support is crucial for journalists facing challenges.
    Compassionate leadership involves understanding individual team member needs.
    Emerging leaders should listen to their teams' needs.
    Advocacy is necessary for protecting journalists' rights.
    Government action is needed to safeguard press freedom.

    Links Mentioned

    Ute's website: https://digitalcharm.de/

    Ute's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ute-korinth-50008a41/

    Ute's book: https://www.bellingsbooks.com/product-page/der-buddha-liebt-rafting

    Bluesky account: https://bsky.app/profile/utekorinth.bsky.social

    Helpline of Netzwerk Recherche: https://netzwerkrecherche.org/helpline/ - also offers English support

    Liberating Structures: liberatingstructures.com

    Hate Aid: https://hateaid.org/

    DJV (German Federation of Journalists): https://www.djv.de/

    Dedicated episode website: www.thecompassionatenewsroom.com/11

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    24 mins
  • E10: Kristen Hare’s Blueprint for Work-Life Chemistry at the Poynter Institute
    Dec 31 2024

    Summary

    In this conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon and Kristen Hare explore the importance of understanding personal drivers in decision-making, the shift to remote teaching in journalism, and innovative training approaches. They discuss success stories from the Work-Life Chemistry program, emphasizing the need for humanizing leadership in journalism. The conversation concludes with insights into the future directions of the program and the significance of compassionate leadership.

    Takeaways

    Understanding what drives you helps in making informed decisions.
    Flexibility in work arrangements is crucial for personal satisfaction.
    The shift to remote teaching has opened new opportunities for training.
    Innovative training methods can enhance engagement and learning.
    Success stories highlight the positive impact of work-life chemistry.
    Humanizing leadership fosters a supportive work environment.
    Leaders should model healthy work-life practices for their teams.
    Compassionate leadership requires understanding individual team members.
    Asking about people's needs is essential for effective leadership.
    The future of work-life chemistry involves tailored approaches for different career stages.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    06:57 The Concept of Work-Life Chemistry
    11:42 Understanding Work-Life Chemistry
    20:06 Impact and Success Stories
    23:40 Implementing Work-Life Chemistry in Leadership
    31:48 Compassionate Leadership
    33:28 New Chapter

    Links Mentioned

    Work-Life Chemistry Online Course at Poynter

    Local Edition Newsletter with Kristen Hare

    How Finding Work-Life Chemistry Can Stop Burnout

    How Poynter Transformed a Hands-On Workshop into an Email Course

    The Compassionate Newsroom Website

    Dedicated episode page, visit www.CompassionateNewsroom.com/10

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    34 mins
  • E09 Emma Thomasson on Journalism Wellbeing: Addressing Burnout and Exploring Peer Support Solutions
    Dec 25 2024

    Summary

    In this conversation, Emma Thomasson shares her journey through burnout in the high-pressure world of journalism and the importance of peer support networks. She discusses her transition to leadership coaching, emphasizing the need for cultural change within newsrooms to support mental health and well-being. The conversation highlights the significance of role modeling healthy work practices, the value of vulnerability in leadership, and the essence of compassionate leadership in creating supportive environments for journalists.

    Takeaways

    Burnout can stem from both workplace stress and personal frustrations.
    Peer support networks are essential for mental health in journalism.
    Cultural change in newsrooms is necessary for individual well-being.
    Role modeling healthy work practices can influence team dynamics.
    Vulnerability in leadership fosters a supportive environment.
    Compassionate leadership involves listening to team members.
    Admitting mistakes is crucial for psychological safety.
    Training managers can lead to a healthier workplace culture.
    Investing in peer support requires organizational commitment.
    Great journalism thrives in supportive and healthy environments.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Admiration
    06:48 Reuters' Management Training Approach
    13:59 The Importance of Well-Being in the Workplace
    18:35 Transitioning to Training and Coaching
    22:58 Role Modeling Well-Being Practices
    30:28 Resources for Journalistic Leadership and Training
    35:55 New Chapter

    Links Mentioned

    • Emma's Keynote Address - Assume the Best: How a New Theory of Humanity Is Changing How We Report, Respond, and Run Newsrooms
    • Emma's Website
    • Emma's Newsletter
    • Dart Center
    • The Self-Investigation Website
    • The Self-Investigation YouTube Channel
    • The Self-Investigation Mental Health in Journalism Summit
    • Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York (CUNY)

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    36 mins
  • E08 Shaping Resilient Newsrooms: Strategies from the American Press Institute
    Dec 18 2024

    In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Host Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon speaks with the American Press Institute's Sam Ragland, Vice President of Journalism Programs, and Emily Ristow, Director of Local News Transformation, to discuss the importance of cultivating a compassionate culture in journalism. They explore mental health conversations, the significance of reflection and delegation, and successful programs that promote well-being in newsrooms. The conversation also highlights resources available for journalists, the practice of active listening, and the need for sustainable changes in workplace culture. They emphasize the concept of 'leaving loudly' as a leadership practice and share personal self-care strategies, ultimately defining what compassionate leadership means in the context of journalism.

    Takeaways

    Creating a supportive environment is crucial for journalists.
    Mental health conversations are essential in the newsroom.
    Reflection and delegation can alleviate stress.
    Successful programs can foster a healthier work culture.
    Resources for mental health are vital for journalists.
    Equitable teams lead to better outcomes in newsrooms.
    Active listening can transform workplace dynamics.
    Sustaining a healthy work environment requires ongoing effort.
    Leaders should model self-care practices.
    Compassionate leadership involves taking action for others.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Leadership Stories
    06:31 The American Press Institute's Mission and Initiatives
    11:43 Wellbeing and Mental Health in Newsrooms
    16:47 Successful Programs and Resources for News Organizations
    22:32 Transforming Newsroom Culture and Practices
    30:11 Building Sustainable Processes for Change
    35:39 Creating a Supportive Work Culture
    45:03 Defining Compassionate Leadership
    47:43 New Chapter

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    • Better News Website
    • American Press Institute
    • American Press Institute Newsletter
    • American Press Institute Training Portfolio
    • Essential for Creating a Healthier Newsroom Culture Infographic on Burnout

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    48 mins
  • E07: Embracing Vulnerability: The Path to Authentic Leadership
    Dec 11 2024

    In this episode, Dr. Kortni explores the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. Drawing insights from Yaza Jagiellowicz's article, she emphasizes how sharing our true selves can enhance connections, boost morale, and improve overall well-being. Dr. Kortni shares personal experiences and practical steps for leaders to incorporate vulnerability into their daily lives, fostering a culture of trust and compassion in the workplace.

    Takeaways

    Vulnerability and authenticity can transform connections.
    Being open about struggles builds trust and morale.
    Sharing true emotions leads to genuine interactions.
    Self-compassion is crucial for managing stress.
    Transparency encourages open communication.
    Vulnerability can reduce anxiety in leadership roles.
    Authenticity aligns actions with personal values.
    Empathy and compassion are enhanced through vulnerability.
    Leaders should embody principles of authentic behavior.
    Compassion is key to transformation in any environment.

    Chapters

    00:00 Exploring Vulnerability and Authenticity
    07:37 Practical Steps for Authentic Leadership

    Resources Mentioned:

    Read the full article on vulnerability and authenticity on Greater Good Magazine’s website: Five Ways to Be MoreVulnerable and Authentic.

    Young widow's grief is used to find her purpose | Dr. Kortni Alston | TEDxCooperRiverWomen

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    11 mins
  • E06: Leading with Kindness: How Self-Compassion Enhances Leadership
    Dec 8 2024

    In this episode, Dr. Kortni Alston-Lemon discusses the significance of self-compassion in leadership, particularly within the journalism field. She emphasizes how self-compassion enhances emotional intelligence, resilience, and the ability to lead with kindness. Dr. Kortni shares practical strategies for incorporating self-compassion into leadership styles, including meditation, self-reflection, and compassionate communication. The conversation highlights the transformative power of self-compassion in fostering a positive workplace culture and improving team engagement.

    Takeaways

    Self-compassion leads to higher emotional intelligence.
    Leaders who practice self-compassion foster resilience.
    Incorporating self-compassion can transform leadership styles.
    Daily meditation can rewire your brain for kindness.
    Writing letters to yourself can enhance self-compassion.
    It's important to communicate kindly to yourself.
    Compassionate leaders create psychological safety in teams.
    Self-compassion is essential for effective leadership.
    The way you treat yourself reflects in your team.
    Leading with kindness improves workplace culture.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Self-Compassion in Leadership
    08:49 Practical Strategies for Incorporating Self-Compassion
    09:24 New Chapter

    Explore how self-compassion can enhance leadership in this Harvard Business Review article by Rich Fernandez and Steph Stern

    Learn self-compassion techniques with Dr. Kristin Neff's Meditation & Practices.

    Visit The Compassionate Newsroom website for more insights and episodes.

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    10 mins
  • E05: A Season of Thanks: Cultivating Gratitude in the Newsroom
    Nov 27 2024

    In this conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston-Lemon discusses the significance of positive thinking and gratitude in enhancing workplace well-being, particularly in journalism. She emphasizes the transformative power of gratitude practices in leadership and team dynamics, providing structured methods for integrating gratitude into meetings and professional routines. The discussion highlights how fostering a culture of appreciation can improve morale, resilience, and overall mental health in the workplace.

    Takeaways

    Positive thoughts at bedtime promote better sleep quality.
    Gratitude practices can transform workplace culture.
    Starting meetings with gratitude can uplift team morale.
    Structured gratitude activities enhance reflection and connection.
    Voicing gratitude boosts positivity in the workplace.
    Integrating gratitude into retreats fosters team bonding.
    Gratitude can lead to deeper understanding among team members.
    Self-compassion is essential for effective leadership.
    Regular gratitude practices can be a game changer.
    Gratitude should be a daily practice, not just seasonal.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Power of Gratitude in the Workplace
    11:53 Implementing Gratitude Practices in Teams
    13:27 New Chapter

    Blog Companion/Link to Book Mentioned:

    The Lasting Impact of Gratitude at Work

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    14 mins