In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes Claude Silver, the Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX and author of the inspiring book, Be Yourself at Work. Together, they explore the importance of authenticity in the workplace and how embracing your true self can lead to greater creativity, connection, and success.

Claude shares her journey, highlighting her mission to foster an environment where empathy and vulnerability are celebrated. The conversation delves into the psychological barriers that often prevent individuals from being their authentic selves and the strategies that can help overcome these challenges. Listeners will learn how to rewrite the negative narratives that hold them back and the value of cultivating a culture that prioritizes emotional safety and connection.

As you tune in, reflect on how you can begin to change the narrative in your own life and workplace, creating a space where everyone feels empowered to show up as their true selves. This episode is a must-listen for leaders and individuals alike, eager to transform their work environments and enhance their personal fulfillment.

In this episode:

• Discover the role of a Chief Heart Officer and the significance of empathy in the workplace.
• Learn practical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and negative self-talk.
• Explore the importance of psychological safety and how it fosters creativity and collaboration.
• Understand how to create a culture that encourages authenticity and emotional connection.
• Gain insights into the benefits of being yourself at work for both individuals and organizations.

Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/558.

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In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer shares her reflections on the most important books she read in 2025. With a focus on behavioral economics and psychology, Melina categorizes her top picks into seven key themes, showcasing the insights and lessons that shaped her understanding throughout the year.

Listeners will discover a diverse range of books, from foundational texts like Lucky by Design by Judd Kessler, which explores choice architecture, to Ask This Book by Vicky Tan, an interactive guide to better questioning. Each category highlights a top book and an honorable mention, offering a comprehensive overview of impactful reads that can enhance both personal and professional growth.

As you tune in, consider how these books might inspire your own journey in understanding the psychology of decision-making and improving your business strategies. Melina also provides resources for further exploration, including a supporting article that lists all the featured books and links to additional materials on her website.

In this episode:

• Explore the top books in the categories of Foundations, Asking Better Questions, Productivity and Goals, Self Leadership, Leadership of Others, Experience, and Pricing and Sales.
• Learn about the importance of choice architecture and how it influences decision-making.
• Discover the value of asking better questions in both personal and professional contexts.
• Gain insights into leadership dynamics and the impact of power on decision-making.
• Understand how to create engaging customer experiences and effective sales strategies.

Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/557.

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In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer speaks with Muriel Wilkins, author of Leadership Unblocked: The Beliefs That Limit Your Potential. Together, they delve into the often-hidden beliefs that can hinder effective leadership and personal growth. Muriel, an executive coach with over 20 years of experience, shares insights from her extensive work with C-suite leaders, revealing seven common beliefs that can create barriers to success.

The conversation explores how these beliefs—such as "I need to be involved" and "I can't make a mistake"—shape our behaviors and decision-making processes. Muriel emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and shifting mindset to overcome these challenges, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own assumptions and the narratives they tell themselves. As you tune in, think about which beliefs may be holding you back and how you can reclaim your agency as a leader.

In this episode:

• Discover the seven hidden beliefs that can limit leadership potential.
• Learn how to recognize the narratives that shape your experiences.
• Explore practical strategies for shifting mindset and overcoming barriers.
• Gain insights into the importance of external feedback and self-reflection.
• Understand how to take actionable steps toward personal and professional growth.

Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/556.

Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?

• Learn With Us on our website.
• Subscribe to Melina's Newsletter, Brainy Bites.

Let's connect:

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• Follow Melina on LinkedIn
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