b Cause Work Doesn't Have to Suck

You’ve heard the whispers, seen the teasers and have been holding your breath in anticipation.

And yes, the rumors are true: Erin and Nicole are back with a new podcast name, but the same (always slightly inappropriate) shenanigans.

In this episode, they’ll give you the scoop on the name switch, fun fan swag, and some inspiration to bring you imperfectly into 2022 (Hint, it’s not another variant…hopefully.)

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•   Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “There's going to be so many gifts, which come out of my budget. So naturally Nicole's like, let's give them all the gifts.”

• “There's the thing I think you asked me to do, then there's what I heard, then there's what I interpreted.”

• “Maybe that's the whole point of 2022. Maybe there simply aren't any rules or resolutions, maybe it's claiming back some of what was or rebuilding something totally different. It’s remembering the essence of what gives us joy and what we want to celebrate.”

• “Perfectionism is a form of punishment and self hatred.”

• “Imperfection is selfless and it’s a gift to others.”

• “Give the gift of imperfection.”

• “Build your strengths, dive into your weaknesses and share them vulnerably.”

• “Repurpose things in your life. I'm repurposing my treadmill into a bar and a laundry holder.”  

Erin and Nicole couldn’t let this holiday season pass without a nod to their original, and highly relatable, "The Twelve Days of Work-mas" episode.

So, to start your holiday off right, we’ve decided to revisit this fan-favorite and send you off with a few laughs. Plus, Nicole surprises Erin with her work rendition of Santa Baby. I mean, can it get any better?

The Twelve Days of Work-mas

12 hour workday

11th hour deadline

10 interns sleeping

9 hours of meetings

8 corporate trainings

A 7 year-old Intern

6 feet of distance

5 gooooldeeen handcuffs...

4 minute break

3 PowerPoints

A 2-percent raise

And a promo-o-tion to a trainee

Happy Holidays from both Erin & Nicole!

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•   Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• "I totally prepared, I got cash, wine, pizza bagels, and snow melt."

• "Cash and cleavage is going to get you through."

Hands up if hearing “serve people first” never really clicked with you when it came to sales. You understood the concept but putting it into action was spotty at best. Well friend, you’re not alone.

In this episode, Erin and Nicole walk through the LESS Method - a gamified framework that takes the sliminess out of sales and is also completely grounded in authenticity. So, if sales aren’t your thing, this method just may be your new secret weapon to making connections, gaining trust, and selling through service. Bonus? It’s also pretty damn fun.

https://www.bauthenticinc.com/podcast/episode/1f40ff9e/123-game-changing-advice-to-make-you-fearless-at-work-with-molly-fletcher  

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•   Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “Private accolades are great, but how do you translate that into currency and create value from that?”

• “If you slow things down and really try to make sure that you give them the best thing, nothing but good things will happen.”

• “Think about the person on the other side; what are they struggling with and how can you help them?”

• It doesn't have to be a big thing that you're doing for them. It can simply be sending them information, connecting them to people or recommending a book that you just read that can apply to what they do. Doing these little things will set you apart.”

• “This framework is transformative. Taking little steps, making it a game, doing the research, and really creating those connections is a way that's different and better than anybody else.”

• “When you work in part of a hierarchy or a corporation, there's a balance between what serves you and what serves other people.”

Performance Reviews. Depending on the person, reactions may vary. Some are ready to rock it, some are apprehensive, and some may just be ready to throw up in the nearest trash can.

Whatever camp you fall in, I think we can all agree that performance reviews are always in the back of our minds as we work through the year.

In today’s episode, Erin and Nicole are going to help you prepare for those possible performance review pitfalls so you can go into it feeling confident and leave your review (ahem, audit) feeling inspired and clear on what moves you should make next.

Links mentioned in the episode:

https://www.bauthenticinc.com/podcast/episode/254fbde9/119-3-hacks-for-asking-powerful-questions-that-put-you-in-the-pole-position  

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•   Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “Let’s get away from going through the motions and doing stuff that just makes us exhausted and miserable or feels inauthentic just because it's the way.”

• “Perfectionism is only in my head. It’s an illusion. And it's a distraction from forward movement.”

• “If I'm wanting to have the performance evaluation for myself for the year, it's probably not going on a Christmas card.”

• "As you get higher up in an organization, people assume leadership doesn't matter as much. It actually matters more.”

• “If anyone needs a little man porn in their life, please watch the YouTube video Sebastian Bach Skid Row in a darkened room live. You will love me forever.”  

“I’ve got a coach!”

You may have heard colleagues or friends mention how they’ve invested in a coach to level up their career. Instead of feeling pumped though, it left you puzzled, a little skeptical, and often wondering what they really got out of it.

In today’s episode, we’re taking the nebulous concept of coaching and what it can offer, by chatting with one of Erin’s coaching clients, Jen Shoop, founder and “Woman in Charge” of Shoop Consulting.

You’ll hear Jen spill how coaching helped her transition from ‘corporate weenie’ (her words) to full-time entrepreneur and powerhouse CEO of her successful consulting company.

If you’re interested in BS-free career coaching, Erin offers several programs that will help you reach your goals in a way that feels most authentic to you. Visit https://www.bauthenticinc.com/authentic-programs to get started.

Email Jen at shoopconsulting@gmail.com

 Connect with Jen on Linkedin  

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•   Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “What I do matters. I'm worth what I think I'm worth. And maybe even worth more than I think I'm worth.”

• “A coach is a partner with you in every sense of the word. It’s that relationship that has truly enabled me. When I said, ‘I can't,’ you’ve been the voice in the back saying, ‘but you can.’”

• “Coaching is what brought me to where I am today, and it's helping me set up for my success long-term.”

• “I don't want to be a corporate weenie anymore.”

• “Let's go take over the world.”

• “You're worth more than just the hour that you work.”

• “Whatever decision you make is the right decision for you.”

Covid shook the corporate world upside down. Instead of heading into work, you went to your makeshift desk, grimaced through virtual meetings as your kids yelled “mom!”, and had no human contact outside of your home whatsoever.

Cut to a year and a half(ish) later and we are starting to see hints of normalcy. Heading back to work is one of them.

In this episode, Erin and Nicole share their top six reasons why you should be pumped to ditch the work from home signature sweatpants and messy bun look and be excited to go back into the workplace and rock it. Hint: Sun Chips are high on the list.

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•   Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “It's a Petri dish; it can be really great but can also be really complicated.”

• “There is something wrong with American society. It is very hard to print documents.”

• “I'm also slightly afraid about what I'm going to find in my office. I’m pretty sure I left some kind of sandwich in my drawer 18 months ago. I’m a little worried about that situation.”

• “If shit really goes down and the entire world shuts down, who's the brave soul that has to be the last one that cleans out the fridge?”

• “How will I know when I’ve made it? When I can afford to buy Sun Chips at the grocery store.”  

• “If somebody created an AI version of me so I don't have to do my job, that’d be great. I'd buy that.”

• “We're all about authenticity, but not for your looks on camera. Do whatever it takes there.”

Have you been told you need more “Executive Presence” and are left wondering, “What does ‘Executive Presence” even mean?!” Or do you ever wonder what do recruiters and hiring managers look for in the talent they seek out?

This week Erin talks with Britt Bloch, Vice President of Talent Acquisition Strategy and Recruiting at Navy Federal in April 2021. This interview will give you all the 3D information and inspiration you need to answer those questions, and more.

Britt not only has a unique, inside-view into the world that is a black box for so many, her own story of success and bucking the norm will inspire you to do things your own way. Britt’s unique take on authentic leadership as well as finding talent with grit, resilience, and gravitas is without a doubt, Britt’s secret sauce.

In this episode, you’ll hear how Britt believes you should top shrinking to make someone else comfortable and instead be yourself, find a company culture that’s ready to embrace you, and never worry about Executive Presence again.

 Follow Britt on Linkedin 

Check out Britt's Website 

Busting the Myth of Executive Presence 

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•  Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “We want to have leaders that are inspiring and empowering and inclusive and emotionally connect with their teams. That's being a leader. That's presence.”

• “I love seeing somebody that's just been through hell and back and they've thrived because that translates into their work and how they engage with others.” 

• “If you come into a culture that readily embraces you, you're going to have joy and the work won't be depleting.”

• “When you showcase your expertise, you have the buffer to be different.”

• “You have to find your tribe…the people out in the field that are your champions. And there's plenty of people like that.”

• “You have to be you. You have to do you.”

• “You need to constantly seek out learning opportunities, proactively network, and absolutely don't shrink to make other people feel comfortable.”

Ever had a meeting with an executive and it didn’t quite go as planned? Instead of a clear and focused conversation you felt like you were word-vomiting your brilliant ideas, leaving the executive overwhelmed and completely burnt out?

In this episode, Erin and Nicole share corporate career advice with three tips on how to communicate with executives authentically that will help you not only feel more confident, but also stand out.

(Nicole also gives herself grades on each, and spoiler alert, they’re not great.)

If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie  

To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com 

Links mentioned in the episode

 @Grandma_Droniak  

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•   Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “I literally spent a week, flat on my back, and there wasn’t even a hot guy involved.”

• “Some neighbors bring chicken soup. Your neighbors come with a bounty for $10.”

• “She didn't pull any punches at all up until the last minute when she was accusing nurses of stealing her donuts.”

• “The older, independent woman- we are not irrelevant. We have lots to say and do, and we're living our best lives.”

• “The government knows how much you owe them, but they don't tell you and they make you figure it out. And then if you get it wrong, you get in trouble.” ~Erin’s son, Mick

• “You’re going to be seen better. You're going to have a better impression. You're going to make a better connection or have better outcomes if you understand that less is more.”

• “The best thing you can do is go into every conversation looking for a connection.”

•   “Whatever, you've got to do. Whatever trickery you have to do to get over the fact that they're not some human.”  

In this episode, Erin hosts an intriguing interview with Elisa van Dam, Vice President of Allyship & Inclusivity at Simmons University, as well as the co-author of the survey, “The Importance of Authenticity in the Workplace”.

Erin and Elisa dive into the results of research conducted and a survey derived from participants at their annual Simmons’ Leadership Conference entitled “Authenticity and Resilience”. Authenticity has always been at the heart of b Cause, but does the research tell us something different? Listeners get a view into their findings and Elisa’s perspective on the importance of authenticity, specifically for women in the workplace.

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•  Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “90% of respondents of the survey feel authenticity is important in the workplace.”

• “You have to plug into other people’s authenticity.” 

• “Women surveyed felt that being authentic makes them confident and being confident makes them authentic.”

• “People that can be their authentic selves in the workplace are more productive, more engaged.”.

• “When you are authentic at work the impacts for the organization are that you can build better relationships, be more productive, and have more confidence.”  

Ever wonder why you’re not getting that promotion or that special project? In this week’s episode, Erin and Nicole talk mentors, sponsors, and introduce listeners to the never-talked-about....anti-sponsors! Yep, the people that can trump all the goodness that comes with a sponsor.

Well, the good news is that there are ways to get anti-sponsors on your team. Erin and Nicole discuss a fresh (and more authentic)way to tackle your anti-sponsor situation. Hint: the key is in being excellent, authentic, and aware of the conversations around you while nurturing relationships with those against you.

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•  Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

• Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “Did I get drunk and eat everything in your refrigerator?”

• “Anti-sponsors can trump everything.”  

• “You have to be on the hunt for sponsors and ask yourself, ‘Is there anybody who would advocate for me?’”

• “Be aware of the conversation around you.”

• “Your boss might be your anti-sponsor.”  

• “You have to be aware of the curve balls that don’t reward those that buck the system but reward the chosen ones.”

• “The thing about being authentic, taking risks, and doing bold things with your career is...not everybody likes it.”

• “The through-line on all of this is: just be exceptional!”.  

• “3 Hallmarks: be transparent, be excellent and be consistent.”

Many company websites are nothing but facades with empty mission statements and value wheels. The concept looks good on the outside, but hollow on the inside. As Nicole put it: “To be your best authentic self, you have to be really mindful of everybody else in the experience with you.”

The good news is that with just a simple mindset shift you too can turn authenticity from a permission to a power. Hint: treated this way, authenticity will be a reflection on you, and it will all come back to you in amazing ways!

If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration!

•  Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole)  

• Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram 

•  Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group 

•  Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz

•  Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" 

• Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice

• Work with Us

• Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here




DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.




Tweetable Comments


• “Give me a chicken leg and a D.J. and I am f*cking cool.” 

• “Think of authenticity as the concept of exposing yourself when people least expect it.” 

• “50 Italians at a wedding and no food; it was a wedding planned for Instagram and TikTok.” 

• “Use authenticity not as a permission but as a power.” 

• “Give me a corndog and a Magnum Bud! I would rather do that then go back to that wedding.” 

• “To be your best authentic self you have to be really mindful of everybody else in the experience with you.” 

• “It reminds me of a company website-the facade of value wheels and mission statements on websites-looks great on the outside but...!”.

BE MORE BANANA!! Erin interviews the incomparable and totally authentic Emma Stroud - Creator, Podcaster, Author, Speaker, MC, Coach, Businesswoman AND Clown. Emma is on a life voyage to persuade the world to adopt the life attitude to laugh, love and play more. Her stories will help you see there’s a greater connection between your disparate passions and a way to make money while having fun too. Authenticity is truly part of Emma’s character and without a doubt contributes to Emma’s success. As Emma says, “Have more fun enjoying your life!”, an attitude much needed.   In this interview, you’ll hear Emma share unforgettable stories and the secret to her success as well as best practices in her many roles. While listening to Emma’s real-life anecdotes. it’s hard not to smile. I mean, who couldn’t use a little Orange in their life? Connect with Emma Stroud:  Instagram: ​​ Linkedin: Podcast: Keep an eye out for Emma's book, Lessons From A Clown, which will be released on October 24th!   Tweetable Comments “Be more Banana’ became a thing. Have more fun enjoying your life!” “If you see me, I’m 5 foot two and a half. So I’m not a threatening banana.” “Society dictates what we do in life is important.” “Adulting does not have to be serious.” “In all the status and job titles, people forget they are human.” “Masks and facades drop when people connect and remember they are human.” “The Realistic is not far from the Dreamer.” “As long as you are aware of your critic you are already in a place of change.” “Invest in yourself when you are happy and not just in times of crisis.” “Surround yourself with good people.” “Never use money as why you can’t; it’s just about being brave.” “If you want to change, you have to give yourself the space to slow down-from there anything is possible.”   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.

Erin and Nicole are back and bring you a completely authentic, inside look at how they are planning to do a slight remod on the pod. In this episode you’ll get a peek behind the scenes of a brainstorming session between Erin and Nicole. You’ll hear how they are revamping (sort of) the b Cause podcast with fresh, focused work life topics and exciting, ambitious, authentic interviews with successful people. Tangible tips? You got ‘em. Practical advice? Check. Random and sometimes inappropriate stories? Yep, still in there. Authentic to the core? Of course. In the b Cause remod, Erin and Nicole plan to keep the best of the old while bringing in the best of the new. All of course to help you navigate the corporate BS and instead use authenticity as your secret weapon to success! If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments “It’s become pretty clear that the themes may start out with Nicple talking about how she’s the Antichrist of everything we’re going to talk about.” “There might be some clues here to why I sometimes feel a bit of career stagnation.” “My number one interview tip? Don’t fcking interview me.” “She said, ‘When you meet with an interviewer you should let them lead.’ and I was like, ‘Oh that’s not what we’re doing here?’” “Sadly, my phone is a centimeter behind my kids in terms of saving it.” “I feel like I walked into the La boheme of Sucky Songs.” “Erin has used the word ‘context’ like 400 times tonight.” “I have? That’s super weenie.” “We want to better serve everyone.” “Capture your youthful energy by working smarter and more authentically.” “You are not special at work.” “We are back – badass and focused!”

“Show me the money!” Is that what it takes to succeed in this world? A bold, brazen approach? Although this week’s podcast guest, Molly Fletcher, has been called the “Female Jerry McGuire”, you’ll quickly learn that it was her authenticity, not her audacity, that drove her success. Now a highly successful speaker, 5x author, and consultant, Molly shares the secrets to her success plus the best practices of the high-profile athletes, coaches, and broadcasters she worked with. Molly shares stories you’ll never forget that prove she and others changed the game and how insights in their approaches can help you change the game in your career as well.   Join Molly's monthly coaching huddles Enter b cause for $10.00 off   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments "If you’re authentic, kind, and real, people aren’t going to slam the door on you and walk away.” “When you ask for advice, you often get a job and when you ask for a job, you often get advice” “When you help people, when you add value to their lives, it gets harder for them to say ‘no.’” “Act like you have the business, before you have the business.” “They didn’t sit back and rest on their talent. Talent isn’t enough.” “How do you identify the gaps in the lives of people we serve and anticipate those gaps and close them?” “Get into the heads and hearts of people that you want to serve.” “How can I lean into who I authentically am, recognize the gifts in that and own that and see the superpower in it?” “Shift the story to ‘I’m worth it!’” “A negotiation is a conversation, and conversations are better when you have a strong relationship.” “Leaders forget what you do - kindly and authentically remind them.”

Space is the ultimate soil for creativity. I mean, we all know that our best ideas come when we’re in the shower, car driving, or DMV. Then why don’t we give space to ourselves more often? It’s so easy to get caught up in the “doing” that we forget that our best “doing” happens after we get space to breath and think. And that’s just what we want to give you this week on b Cause. Back from a brief hiatus, Erin Hatzikostas and Nicole Licata Grant chat about what they've been up to since they've been away. You'll hear about 50th anniversaries, Nicole's namesake and hilarious escapades they've encountered while they've been gone. The two dive deep into the newly created National Authenticity Day - what it is, why it was created and how it plays a significant role for b Authentic inc. Erin and Nicole also share an announcement and what it means for the future of the b Cause podcast. If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments "I'll trade in all the Rayguns and sex toys in the world for a good hair dryer." "And then, the coup d'état, the clencher, the bitch of all bitches-my hair dryer breaks the next day. " "You got NADS, we got NADS, one set of NADS to rule them all." "If you want to do it, you can freakin' do it. Create your own destiny." "Where is one place that you can take control?"

We spend so much time checking the boxes, doing what we think we're supposed to do, and following the rules. But is that what people actually want from us? This week, Erin sits down with her authenticity "Ground Zero" - her father - where he shares stories and inspiration of it's almost always those times when you stray from the norm that drive real, sustainable success (and make it a lot easier to love your job too!). This week we are given a glimpse into Erin's origin story. We hear where her passion for authenticity comes from, who inspired her in her life, and quite clearly where her storytelling ability comes from. Introducing: Erin's Dad. They start off discussing her parents' recent 50th anniversary, and Erin asks what her dad's tips are for making it to 50 years. He talks about always showing respect, knowing how to communicate...and knowing when to back off. Moving on, Erin talks about authenticity and how much of her inspiration came from her Dad, both in his career and personal life. Her Dad talks about his time as a teacher and how he thinks authenticity can be a key element to true success. they then share some work-related stories, and you can imagine a lifelong teacher has quite a few. Erin asks her Dad about the 'alter-ego' he would sometimes use while teaching. To try and help explain the metric system, he created an alter-ego character - Mr. Billy Boombah. With a popped-collar, upside-down glasses, and a rather questionable accent, he managed to reinvigorate the class. Erin asks how easily her Dad made the switch from teaching into real estate, which skills carried over and what was more difficult. Her Dad discusses one of the most important aspects to his work in real estate (and which definitely carried over from teaching), building a connection.  If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "Respect. We have a lot of respect for each other. We know how to communicate...and when to back off." "I don't know how you can be successful if you don't enjoy what you're doing." "The true hack is to reverse it and ask, 'What would I want in that situation?'" "You have to find a way to build a connection with people." "Part of the reason you had this new energy was that you had this new challenge, something to figure out." "If you meet an asshole in the morning, you met an asshole. If you meet assholes all day, you're the asshole." (Quote from Raylan Givens in Justified) "Beer is like blue eyeshadow, you can never have enough."

We all know what it is. That thing that we say, "If I ever win the lotto, I'll do (it) for a living." But what if your dream career, or even your hobby, can not only be the thing you do for your "real" career, but something you could use to make people laugh, impact lives, and leave a legacy? That's exactly what Heather Tolley-Bauer did. After relocating for her husband's career, she decided to try some new things. Her first new thing she turned into her career. Now she's a Momedian, helping women and couples laugh more, stress less, and so much more. Erin kicks off asking about "First Half Heather" - what was Heather's story for the first part of her life? She gives us the crash course: married, un-married, worked in corporate, got re-married, built a career in public relations and communications at a large bank, then she moved south with her husband, became a stay-at-home mom (or as she jokes, a stay-at-home alcoholic). But she wasn't happy about her new stay-at-home status, so took the next logical step: comedy. Heather tells of her first step into the world of comedy, and how she went from there to running her own comedy production company, Hyphen Up. She talks about te difficulties of getting started in comedy, how it's a young person's game, and mostly a young MANS game. But, as a savvy businesswoman, Heather created a show to hook her audience, and now it's a sell-out show.  A year into her newfound comedy glory, Heather was diagnosed with cancer. So, after the diagnosis, she really considered what she wanted her legacy to be, and she decided it involved comedy. Erin then asks Heather to discuss what it's like to raise awareness for cancer, what messages she wants to bring through her comedy, and her experience interacting and building relationships with audiences. They talk about empowering women through comedy; helping mothers realize they are better moms than they think, helping women to feel validated, and how it's fine for women to say no. Next, we find out why Heather has a vendetta against Influencers. They discuss the power of social media, and therefore the dangers, but also the possibilities, especially when you navigate it in an authentic way.  Website: hyphenup.com IG: @hyphen_up LinkedIn: HeatherTollyBauer If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "You sound so serious...that won't last long." "For the first time in my life I was a stay-at-home mom, and I was really pissed off about it." "I want people to embrace the part of their lives that makes up their story." "I can't play the young person game, I'm not a young person. But what I am is a really savvy businesswoman." "I was diagnosed with stage one colon cancer and that changed the trajectory of my entire life." "I was a total MILF. You know, a mommy interested in living past fifty." "I can love out of the spotlight and be fine; it's not my oxygen." "I understand what my purpose is, and it's not a Netflix special. It's making as many moms and women and couples laugh as I possibly can." "I am the first to admit I am not for everyone...and I don't lose any sleep over that."

It can feel so damn good to have the right answer or best idea in a meeting, eh? Bu t what if we told you, knowing stuff doesn't give you the most power? The most powerful person in the room is actually the person that asks the most powerful questions. In this episode, we talk about what impact asking a powerful question can have. Plus we give you three simple hacks to turn a poopy question into a powerful one.  Erin's birthday was last week, so along with some other friends, her and Nicole had a last-minute rendezvous, which just so happened to align with national Pina Cola day.  Nicole has a birthday quiz for Erin, and it's NOT about guys she dated in her 20's...or Patrick Swayze...though he manages to steal the show for a little while. They recap and discuss Nicole's solo episode from last week, with some reflection and insights into interviewing and recording yourself.  On the subject of solo Nicole, she tells the story of her recent trip to a Lorean Spa and being "Scrubbed down by a really strong Korean Lady." "Is that an activity you do with friends?", they ask. Moving on to the topic of the week, Erin has three ways to turn a regular question into a power question. 1. Turn a "why" or "how" question into a "what" question. 2. Add in numbers: don't ask open ended questions, put actual numbers in. 3. Ask a "fill in the ___ (blank)" question. They discuss the power in these questions, what separates them from standard ways of questioning and the reasons why they are so impactful.  Nicole also brings up, what environments do we need to create where people will feel comfortable enough to ask these types of questions. Erin points out that asking these questions in an interview can be a great way to flush that out, right from the start. They end with Erin asking Nicole potentially one of the most powerful questions she may ever have to answer. "What's the one Italian pastry that if you eat it, it will change your life forever?" Listen to find out her answer! If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "I ate my face off with the snacks. I ate all the snacks." "I look like I ate everyone's children." "I promise you now, a Patrick Swayze appreciation episode." "Sociopaths get shit done." "This is why I wear black all the time, and I haven't changed my hair in 20 years." "It was like a nail salon with industrial prison showers out back." "The primary purpose isn't to get the answer, it's to get the connection." "Almost any questions you ask, if you add in some sort of limiter, scale, or numbers, it will exponentially increase the value of that conversation." "A great question inspires a discussion all on it's own." "You don't get good questions without a good environment in which to ask them."

Have you ever wondered what it's like to talk to yourself for an hour out loud? Was that the last year in COVID? Nicole takes a skill she built up over a year of mostly solitude and goes "so-loca" (solo + a little bit crazy) and takes to the pod for an episode by herself. Despite lack of epic orchestration and live audience she envisioned for such a debut, Nicole answers questions that listeners want to know, like what set her on her current life path? This happens to be - without too many spoilers... Bagels!?!? And how does something doughy, delicious and yet 'not-a-doughnut' inspire a life? And how does the Ivy League and her vision of 'crime boss economics' play into this? Better listen and find out. This week Nicole goes solo, responding to her growing mailbag and audience queries while Erin is working on BIG THINGS (ahem...National Authenticity Day is coming August 16th!) Listeners have stuff they need to know from Nicole. Why does she do this podcast and share her "business" so openly? How does it serve her? What the heck is her academic background and how did she get here? Nicole gives insight into her relationship with Erin, how and why she is so willing to have her life examined and explored the way it is on the podcast. Erin may be pushy and have some compromising photos, but that only explains part of it! One question on listeners minds is about her education, and specifically her thoughts on prestigious colleges especially when it comes to her "blue-collar background". What is the value? What is the cost? And how does one get into such a school without the right pedigree (and what does that actually mean?!) Nicole dishes a bit on on that colorful and more importantly, outside of it. And how did she get there - Did she set a world record in something? Did she cure a rare disease? Was she an amazing athelete? Oh hell no, really. It was...Bagels. (Anyone surprised food is involved here?) When a world-famous bagel empire, which grew out of her hometown in New Haven, started a program to fight racial intolerance back in the 1990's, Nicole found herself headed to Poland, Czechoslovakia (at the time) and Israel to learn about the Holocaust and its aftermath. This truly developmental experience has stuck with Nicole ever since and was the bedrock upon which she built a mindset and path that continues to inform and lead her to where she is today. Even if visiting Auschwitz sounds really tough, as she puts it, "everything is better on a bagel." Coming back to modern day, and what's ahead, listeners want to know what book she would write, if she were to write one. Obviously, her dad, throwing a few punches in Middle School, organized crime and economics is involved. That's Nicole, always finding inspiration in her roots. If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "It's a little bit of a skill to interview yourself, so you'll have to give me some grace on this one." "If you don't like the sound of my voice, this episode is not for you." "I'm a risk taker, I try not to live small." "There's a certain level of confidence that allows me to show how the sausage gets made. What do I have to hide?" "I didn't necessarily have the skills and tools to live the lifestyle or to have the experiences my peers were having. In the end I'm deeply grateful for that because it made me more resilient." "The best thing you can do is to make sure your child has the tools that they need to think for themselves." "I know visiting Auschwitz doesn't sound like anyone's version of summer camp...but it had a profound impact." "Those bagels, they changed my life." "I am a shadow of what the excellence of my dad is." "Treat everyone life they're your next boss." "Sometimes you have to know the value of letting the kid with no skill play on the team, because now they're part of a team." "Learn how to be alone. Do you know how to make decisions, can you take action, can you entertain yourself, can you think through problems and challenges..." "Are you able and willing to learn and to do?" "Take no for an answer, but then fucking leave. Keep moving."

"You should make an audiobook." Something Erin's heard over and over. And while she completely agrees, she's been a bit paralyzed, not knowing if she should read it or she should hire a trained professional. So, instead of waiting for perfection, Erin and Nicole decide it'd be a good idea to simply start here. To have Erin read a few chapters of the book. For those of you who haven't read it yet, it'll give you a great opportunity to try it on for size. And for everyone, we'd love your feedback. Should Erin record it herself, or should she hire someone else to read it? (only authentic feedback welcome though!) We truly hope you'll find a connection for you while listening to the first two chapters. everyone involved here at b Autetic Inc honestly believes this book can help so many people in so many different ways.  Here are just a few of the reader reviews: "I hate self-help books. The fact that I cracked open your book and am already on Part 2, and only stopped to pee, shows that this is THE book for people that hate self-help books." "Hook, line and sinker...I am loving it so far. Laughing a lot. Feeling all the feels...This is brilliant!!!!" "I'm not bullshitting you. I loved every page. I probably should've told you ahead of time that I've hated almost every book I've picked up in the last few years because it's the same shit. Executive presence (barf) nonsense that makes everyone think they have to fit a mold. I can't wait to use the book in some of my mentoring. I know you'll have incredible success with this. I needed You Do You(ish) more than I knew.  "I honestly felt like you were in my living room coaching as I read it the whole time!" "Wow! I started reading it right away on Monday night until I couldn't keep my eyelids open anymore. I gobbled up the rest of the book and scribbled notes along the way! Chapter 26 had me in tears." Buckle up, get ready to throw out tradition and do things your own way too! To order You Do You(ish), simply go to Amazon and type it in.  To give feedback on this episode or on anything else, please join our b Cause podcast Facebook group or send an email to If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "Being and doing authenticity in the workplace isn't about you, it's about the connection with others." "Don't hate, recreate." "Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring." - Marilyn Monroe "I consider myself an Instant Gratification Whore." "Yeah, no shit there's a problem, how do I actually fix it?" "I hate books. And if there's one thing I hate more than books, it's a hypocrite. And yet, here I am." "Do it your own way." "A person can re-write the rules." "You are a badass." "Chasing rewards left you feeling like you were running on a treadmill." "Getting over that wall in order to go for the big jobs would mean having to compromise something even bigger, your soul." You can have a better overall life while simultaneously crushing your career." "I don't believe in changing people. I believe in changing people's addictions." "Get ready to get addicted to authenticity."