First: Follow this link to get your free 35 Solution Focused Questions worksheet! https://thefocusedmindset.kit.com/620a7a8b4e

In this episode of The Focused Mindset Podcast, Cher dives into one of the most important skills in communication: how to build rapport from the very beginning of a conversation.

Using the solution-focused approach, Cher shares how small shifts in the way we ask questions can dramatically improve connection, trust, and impact. She also reflects on a powerful insight: sometimes even well-intended positive questions can feel invalidating if we are not fully meeting people where they are.

This episode will help you balance hope and authenticity, so your conversations feel real, not forced.

• Why the way a conversation starts often determines how it ends
• How certain "positive" questions can accidentally feel invalidating
• The difference between solution-focused vs. overly positive communication
• How to stay curious and present instead of anxious or self-focused
• Simple, powerful questions that instantly build connection 🔗 Resources Mentioned in This Episode
  • Free 35 Solution Focused Questions resourse worksheet https://thefocusedmindset.kit.com/620a7a8b4e
  • Solution Focused Possibilities Podcast
    https://sfpossibilities.org/
  • Vin Giang – Communication & Conversation Skills
    https://www.youtube.com/@askvinh

Use these in conversations to create connection and trust:

1. "Tell me more."
2. "That's an interesting way to look at it."
3. "What do you love most about that?"
4. "I see where you're coming from."
5. "That must have been a big moment for you."
6. "What else?"

Instead of jumping straight to:

• "What's been better?"

Try:

• "What have you been thinking about lately?"
• "Have you had any new thoughts?"
• "What's going in the right direction?"

These open the door without dismissing real struggles.

Even solution-focused questions can feel too positive or invalidating if we skip over someone's real experience.

The goal is not to avoid problems.
The goal is to walk through them with someone so they can see possibilities.

• Solution Focused Possibilities Podcast
  https://sfpossibilities.org/
• Vin Giang – Communication & Conversation Skills
  https://www.youtube.com/@askvinh

In a world moving quickly toward digital connection, this episode is a reminder to slow down and prioritize real human connection.

When we lead with curiosity instead of control, conversations become meaningful, hopeful, and transformational.

In a world where influence shapes our communities, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Dr.Manal Fakhoury. From migrating from Palestine as a young girl, to her roots in Southern California, to the life she shaped with her family in Ocala, Florida, Manal embodies the essence of a true woman of influence. Join us as we explore her inspiring journey, her commitment to community, and the lessons she has learned along the way.

Dr. Manal Fakhouy is the Organizer and Curator of TEDx Ocala, President of ollinwomen.org, and founder of Fakhoury Leadership International. These are only a few of the accomplishments she has had and in this episode you will get to hear her stories and benefit from her wisdom.

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.

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

In this engaging conversation, Lori Woodley-Langendorff discusses her book 'SEL Muscle Mastery' and the importance of practical skills in education. The dialogue explores the journey of writing and publishing a book, the significance of social-emotional learning (SEL), and the application of practical skills in everyday life. Lori emphasizes the need for curiosity, effective communication, and self-reflection in educational settings, while also highlighting the importance of empathy and compassion. The conversation concludes with reflections on personal growth, recognition in the counseling field, and the joy of pursuing one's passions.

https://www.allittakes.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to SEL Muscle Mastery
02:54 The Journey of Writing and Publishing a Book
06:07 Understanding SEL Muscles and Their Importance
09:07 Practical Skills for Everyday Life
11:52 The Q-Tip Principle: Quit Taking It Personally
15:06 Curiosity and Its Role in Education
17:48 Creating a Supportive Learning Environment
20:47 Understanding Different Communication Styles
27:48 The Cycle of Self-Criticism
29:58 Empathy and Compassion in Education
32:56 Finding Joy Amidst Challenges
36:04 Authenticity and Self-Reflection
40:57 Celebrating Achievements and Milestones
46:10 Pursuing Passion and Overcoming Doubts

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

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

In this conversation, Dr. Loretta Whitson discusses the vital role of advocacy in school counseling, emphasizing the importance of finding meaning and purpose in the profession. She highlights the significance of curiosity and personal connection in counseling, and offers advice for future educators and counselors. Dr. Whitson also reflects on the moral compass that guides leadership in education, underscoring the need for a supportive and collaborative environment for students.

Takeaways

• Advocacy is essential in school counseling.

• Finding meaning in work enhances professional fulfillment.

• Curiosity drives effective counseling practices.

• Personal connections with students lead to better outcomes.

• Choosing a career aligned with personal beliefs fosters motivation.

• Collaboration among educators, counselors, and administrators is crucial.

• A balanced support system is necessary for student success.

• Counseling should address personal and social domains for effectiveness.

• Leaders should have a strong moral compass to guide their actions.

• Opportunities for students should be prioritized in counseling.

  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

V= Values

I = Investigate and show Interest

B = Boldness

E = Enjoy each moment

S = Start and Start again

Get your free good vibes checklist and pin up HERE https://thefocusedmindset.kit.com/1fb7a7eb6d

In this episode of the Focused Mindset podcast, Cher discusses the importance of reframing our mindset to foster hope, growth, and effective communication. She emphasizes the role of mindset in shaping our experiences and interactions, drawing on personal anecdotes and research in neuroplasticity. Cher encourages listeners to embrace uncertainty and curiosity as they navigate life's challenges, ultimately redefining hope and 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

Your frame of mind matters and in this episode Cher talks about why that is true. Find out more about the significance of mindset in shaping our communication and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of adopting a growth mindset, the power of neuroplasticity, and the need to adjust our mental settings to foster better communication and relationships. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Cher illustrates how our beliefs and experiences frame our mindset and how we can choose to shift our perspectives to embrace uncertainty and redefine hope.

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

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Focused Mindset

01:32 The Power of Mindset in Communication

05:53 Neuroplasticity and the Flexibility of Our Mind

08:38 Understanding the Frame of Mind

16:04 Shifting Mindsets Through Experience

26:34 Choosing a Mindset That Serves Us

31:37 Embracing Uncertainty and Hope

Related podcast episodes to learn more:

Solution Focused Possibilites: Uncertainty and hope with Fred Ehresmann

TEDx Change your mindset, change the game Alia Crum

Mel Robins Podcast simple mindset shifts that transfer your body with Alia Crum

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

Takeaways

• Mindset is crucial for effective communication.

• A growth mindset allows for new perspectives.

• Neuroplasticity enables us to change our thought patterns.

• Curiosity leads to better understanding and communication.

• Our frame of mind shapes our beliefs and experiences.

• We can choose to shift our mindset intentionally.

• Transformative experiences can change our outlook on life.

• It's important to adapt to change rather than resist it.

• What we focus on influences our motivation and actions.

• Redefining hope involves embracing uncertainty.

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 discusses the importance of taking deliberate and disciplined action in our lives. She shares personal stories about family, travel, and the influence of her grandmother, emphasizing the significance of intentionality in our actions. Cher encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and take action on their convictions, highlighting the ripple effect of communication and the value of mentorship. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to embrace their journey with purpose and with a solution-focused mindset.

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

Chapters

00:00 The Challenge of Taking Action

02:04 Reflections on Family and Conviction

09:13 Lessons from Travel and Attitude

10:36 Influence of Grandparents on Life Choices

14:46 The Importance of Deliberate Action

20:33 The Role of Interns in Personal Growth

23:48 Teaching with Intention and Discipline

30:20 The Ripple Effect of Communication

36:32 Taking Action with Purpose

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 conversation, Cher discusses how to adjust our mindset for the holiday season, focusing on proactive strategies to enhance family gatherings. She emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, taking intentional pauses, and choosing a positive vibe to create a more enjoyable experience. Cher encourages listeners to reflect on positive memories and the qualities they appreciate in their family members, ultimately promoting a mindset of gratitude and intentionality during the holidays.

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

Gift 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 Embracing the Holiday Spirit
03:10 Mindfulness and Intentionality in Family Gatherings
05:40 Planning Ahead: Writing Your Own Narrative
08:12 Taking a Beat: The Power of Pausing
10:49 Choosing Your Vibe: Setting the Mood
14:04 Reflecting on Positive Memories
16:54 The Importance of Attitude
19:20 Transforming Interactions: Being Intentional
22:25 Preparing for the Unexpected
24:33 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey Ahead