In this episode, Michael Mushong shares his experiences in the military and his journey towards helping others with their mental health. He discusses the importance of connection, trust, and being present for those in need, especially in high-stress environments like the military. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and the role of first sergeants in supporting their troops. Michael's personal stories highlight the impact of being there for someone in crisis and the importance of leading with love and humility.

takeaways

• Mental health awareness is crucial year-round.
• Connection and trust are vital in helping others.
• Being present can save lives.
• Building rapport is essential for effective communication.
• Humility is key for leaders in the military.
• Loneliness is a common issue among service members.
• It's important to listen without judgment.
• Life is a journey with ups and downs.
• Support systems within the military are important.
• Everyone has their struggles; compassion is necessary.

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

In this episode Cher discusses the challenges many of us face in communicating with their children. She emphasizes the importance of understanding that kids often do not share the full story of their day, focusing instead on conflicts or negative experiences. Cher provides strategies for parents to encourage open communication, problem-solving, and a balanced perspective in their children's storytelling. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, parents can help their kids feel comfortable sharing their experiences, leading to stronger connections and healthier relationships.

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

Chapters

00:00

Understanding Communication Gaps with Kids

06:29

The Importance of Full Storytelling

12:27

Encouraging Problem-Solving Skills

19:34

Navigating Emotional Responses

28:29

Effective Questioning Techniques

37:04

Celebrating the Good with the Bad

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher Kretz explores the relationship between mindset, hope, and the power of listening. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating hope in our lives and the lives of those we serve. Cher discusses practical strategies for training our minds to see hope, the significance of daily hope work, and how to notice hope in everyday conversations. The episode highlights the science of hope, its impact on personal growth, and the necessity of caring for our thoughts to foster a positive mindset.

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

Takeaways

• The relationship between mindset and hope is crucial for personal growth.

• Practicing hope talk can renew our minds and change our perspectives.

• Listening with a solution-focused lens helps cultivate hope in others.

• We can train our minds to see hope in everyday situations.

• Hope is a powerful predictor of success and resilience.

• Daily practices can help us notice and document moments of hope.

• Our mindset influences how we respond to life's challenges.

• Finding hope in conversations can uplift both ourselves and others.

• Setting personal goals is essential for fostering hope.

• Caring for our thoughts is vital for maintaining a hopeful mindset.

Chapters

00:00 The Science of Hope and Mindset

04:50 Interview with Michael Mushong on Mental Health

05:07 The Importance of Mindset in Difficult Times

08:54 Finding Hope in Everyday Life

19:45 Practical Steps for Daily Hope Work

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day conversation training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher discusses the importance of maintaining curiosity in educational and counseling settings. She explores the barriers that prevent individuals from engaging fully in the solution-focused approach and emphasizes the need for patience and genuine curiosity when interacting with students and clients. Cher also shares her personal journey with the RAMP program, highlighting the challenges and insights gained along the way.

You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Curiosity and Barriers
02:29 The Journey of Becoming a Recognized School Counselor
08:14 The Importance of Staying Curious
15:26 Empowering Through Curiosity
20:28 Updates on the RAMP Journey

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher talks about the unuque lessons she walked away with from the 2025 ASCA conference and about the transformative power of intentionality. She shares personal stories from her daughter's volleyball tournament, highlighting how setting clear intentions can shape our experiences and memories. Cher also discusses the importance of affirmations and how they can work hand-in-hand with intentionality to bring about desired outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

The significance of setting intentions before entering any event or situation. Personal anecdotes illustrating the impact of intentionality on experiences. The role of affirmations in reinforcing intentions and guiding actions. Insights into balancing professional commitments with personal growth.

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Join Cher as she shares her experiences and insights on creating impactful mentorship programs in schools. Discover how solution-focused strategies can transform students into leaders and foster a supportive community. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of implementing mentorship at various educational levels, and how it can make a lasting difference in students' lives.

This is a replay including all the slides from Cher's workshop at the ASCA 2025 conference.

Key Points:

Personalizing mentorship programs to fit different educational settings. The importance of solution-focused approaches in counseling and mentorship. Real-life stories of mentorship success and the positive impact on school culture. Strategies for training and supporting student mentors effectively.

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

You want to have meaningful conversations, but relationships are complicated, and opportunities are missed. This is why I created the three-day conversation navigation challenge, and you can now join for free with this link. ALSO, you will get a 50% discount code for my Conversation Navigation Bundle that will give you both audio and video training and two courses and my book 30 Days to Higher Hopes sent to you.

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher Kretz discusses the GPS conversation navigation model, which includes gathering thoughts, planning for a preferred future, and taking action. She goes over a handout that she gave to the in one of her workshops.

She emphasizes the importance of effective communication, mentorship, and encouraging others to share their thoughts and feelings. Cher also provides practical questions to facilitate meaningful conversations and highlights the role of educators in training students to communicate effectively.

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher

Start your free Solution-Focused 3-day training here: https://www.thefocusedmindset.com/leadwithhopechallenge

In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher discusses the importance of expecting the unexpected and adopting a solution-focused mindset. She emphasizes the need to shift from a problem-focused approach to one that seeks solutions and celebrates small wins. Cher shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies for educators and individuals to foster a positive mindset, set intentional goals, and engage in empowering conversations that promote growth and change.

TEDx: How to Lead with Hope: Solution Focused Conversation Navigation https://youtu.be/Am3ZoF53BS0?si=ZaflEtnhsdjgJ2oN

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
11:06 Solution-Focused Mindset
20:30 Transformative Conversations
29:42 Setting Intentional Goals
38:37 Embracing Change and Growth

Instagram: Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset Podcast https://www.instagram.com/cherkretz_thefocusedmindset/

TikTok: @Cher Kretz The Focused Mindset

https://www.tiktok.com/@cherkretz?lang=en

Tip Jar: Your generous support helps me create more free resources and keep this podcast going strong. Thank you. https://thefocusedmindset.ck.page/products/tips-4-cher