Productive Passions

The Narcissist's Playbook: Recognizing Patterns, Setting Boundaries, and Finding Freedom

Today’s Takeaways:
Understanding NPD goes beyond casual labels. It's a complex personality disorder characterized by grandiose behavior, an insatiable need for admiration, and a profound lack of empathy. Recognizing these patterns is your first step toward protection and healing.
Remember the five stages of narcissistic relationships: love bombing, devaluation, discarding, hoovering, and recovery. Each stage has its unique challenges, but awareness is your shield. When you can name what's happening, you reclaim your power.
If you're dealing with a narcissist, embrace the "grey rock" method. As Calvin Coolidge wisely noted, "Silence can never be misquoted." Sometimes, being boring is your best defense.
In professional settings, protect yourself by establishing clear boundaries and maintaining detailed documentation of your interactions. Trust your instincts, but verify with evidence.
Most importantly, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Consider working with a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in narcissistic abuse recovery. They can provide the tools and support you need to heal and thrive.
Remember, recognizing these patterns isn't just about understanding them – it's about breaking free and reclaiming your story. Until next time, keep turning your pain into purpose.
Find Eamonn
Mail: erjmckaylmft@gmail.com, on Substack E.R.J. McKay, phone (743) 235-8421, Instagram:  erjmckay Facebook: eamonn.mckay.3
Website for the progress of the memoirWebsite: thevaticanofthehollies.com
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy@productivepassions.com
 

DeVonne Hart of PlanitPonics

Today’s Takeaways:
Success in entrepreneurship starts from within. Make "showing up for yourself" a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether it's through journaling, meditation, or quiet reflection, these moments of stillness aren't just breaks – they're where your best strategic thinking and creative breakthroughs happen.
Your inner compass is more reliable than you think. That gut feeling telling you there's a better way to serve your market? Listen to it. The most successful entrepreneurs combine intuition with research to spot opportunities others miss.
Knowledge truly is power, but not in the way most think. The secret isn't knowing everything – it's being humble enough to learn from those who've walked the path before you. Speaking of which, DeVonne specifically recommends diving into "Ego is the Enemy" by Ryan Holiday as a powerful reminder to stay grounded while pursuing ambitious goals.
When evaluating business opportunities, look for gaps in accessibility. The most successful ventures often start by asking "Who's being left out?" rather than "What's the next big thing?" Your unique perspective might spot an underserved market that others have overlooked.
Build your support system intentionally. Seek out mentors who've navigated similar challenges in your industry. Their experience can help you avoid common pitfalls and provide crucial perspective when you're too close to see the forest for the trees.
Remember, consistency trumps intensity. There will be days when motivation runs low and doubts run high. That's precisely when your practice of showing up for yourself – through reflection, learning, and connecting with mentors – becomes your anchor for moving forward.
For more insights from DeVonne and other successful entrepreneurs, subscribe to Productive Passions wherever you get your podcasts.
 
Find DeVonne: 
Website : PlanitPonics planitponics.com
DeVonne mentions Court Smith.  Learn more at www.courtsmith.com
DeVonne's book recommendation: Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy@productivepassions.com
 

Beyond Walls: Reimagining Spaces That Nurture Human and Environmental Potential

Today’s Takeaways
Reimagine Your Spaces Start bringing nature indoors. Look at your home, office, or workspace and ask: How can I incorporate natural elements? Add plants, maximize natural light, use natural materials, and create visual connections to the outdoors. Even small changes can dramatically improve your mood and productivity.
Think Long-Term in Sustainability When making business or personal investments, look beyond immediate returns. Research companies and practices that prioritize sustainability. Consider how green strategies can create value over time, even if the benefits aren't instantly visible. Sustainability is an investment in our collective future.
Shift from Problem-Spotting to Solution-Creating Stop dwelling on challenges. Every time you identify a problem, challenge yourself to propose at least one practical solution. Practice being a solution-oriented thinker. Instead of complaining about environmental issues, ask: "What can I do right now to make a positive difference?"
Understand the Role of Systemic Change Educate yourself about how regulations can drive meaningful environmental progress. Support policies that encourage sustainable practices. Engage with local and national policy discussions, and vote for leaders who prioritize environmental innovation.
Become a Knowledge Sharer Turn learning into action. When you discover something valuable about sustainability, share it. Start conversations, create content, teach others. Knowledge becomes powerful when it's distributed and applied collectively.
Adopt a Holistic Design Mindset Look at challenges through a comprehensive lens. Whether you're redesigning a room, developing a product, or solving a work problem, consider environmental impact, human experience, and innovative technologies simultaneously.
Create Urgency in Your Approach Don't wait for "someday." Make sustainable choices now. Whether it's reducing waste, choosing eco-friendly products, or supporting green businesses, your immediate actions matter. Procrastination is the enemy of progress.
Embrace Collaborative Consumption Explore sharing economy models. Consider shared workspaces, tool libraries, car-sharing services, and collaborative consumption platforms. These approaches reduce individual resource consumption and create more efficient, connected communities.
Bonus Tip: Lead by Example Remember, meaningful change starts with individual action. You don't need to be perfect, but you do need to be intentional. Each small step creates ripples of positive transformation.
 
Find Yasmine: LinkedIn , website Mahmoudieh https://www.mahmoudieh.com/  and Impact Design - https://impactdesignnow.com/
Mentions Ecovative Designhttps://ecovative.com/  It Must Be Now Earth https://www.itmustbenow.com/ Earth Check https://earthcheck.org/
 
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com

Giving Thnks with Brendan Kamm

As we kick off Productive Passions, I can’t think of a better way than talking about Gratitude. In this special edition episode of Productive Passions, we’re talking with Brendan Kamm, CEO of Thnks. Brendan shares his passion for infusing gratitude into business practice. He was was passionate about making gratitude a permanent part of business that he co-created a business to say Thanks!
 
In today’s episodes, we discuss:
1) Expect the unexpected.2) Have confidence that your passion will be successful, especially if you know there is a better way than what’s being done now.3) Conduct an annual review of self. Take this as seriously as your professional annual review.4) The importance of having an “outside” confidant/advisor5) Why not now?6) Constant evolution7) For a company, success comes down to people and culture and starts at the top. You can’t underestimate the power of the right team! Surround yourself with good people, not necessarily the best talent (shocker!)!8) Besides having a good idea and team, if you’ve started a business, ultimately there has to be a return on that investment to be sustainable.9) There is no substitute for being present as a leader.
10) Move forward. There is no ”right time”.
 
Find Brendan Kamm  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendankamm/
Find Thnks on social media platforms @alwayssaythnks
Website:  Thnks
 
Find Christy Tagye
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions 
email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com

Behind the scenes of VINNIE-ISMS the Documentary

Today’s Takeaways:
 
Speak Your Goals into Existence
Sharing your goals and plans out loud with others isn’t just empowering; it brings your intentions to life. Voicing your ambitions creates accountability and adds a layer of commitment that makes it harder to quit. Let others in on your journey—it’s a powerful motivator.
 
Leave Regrets Behind
Don’t hold back or let fear stop you from trying. Replace those “coulda, shoulda, woulda’s” with actions that align with who you want to become. Life’s too short for regret; take each step forward with courage and purpose.
 
Embrace Growth Over Perfection
Success rarely comes without setbacks. Each failure teaches us what to work on and helps us become better. Take a chance on becoming something more, and don’t be afraid of falling short. Growth and improvement come through the lessons we learn along the way.
 
See Challenges as Stepping Stones
Each challenge is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and improve. By welcoming the bumps along the journey, we find the path to becoming our best selves. Embrace these moments as part of the path to success and self-mastery.
 
Find Vinnie:
Linked In: linkedin.com/in/vinniemontez
Website:  http://www.vinniemontez.com/
Find Jason: www.LightningDigitalEntertainment.com
 
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com

Innovative Solutions: Tackling the Housing Crisis with Atticus LeBlanc of PadSplit

Today’s Takeaways:
Those closest to a problem often have the best insights and tools to solve it.
Sometimes the only way forward is through—keep moving, putting one foot in front of the other.
There are no guarantees. You can do everything right and still face setbacks; persistence is key. Keep pushing forward.
Neither the highs nor the lows will last forever; everything is part of a larger journey.
Visionaries, take note: If you're aiming for something big, like catching a whale, first master the catching of minnows.
Success requires passion, preparation, expertise, and a willingness to take risks.
Recognize your unique strengths—your superpower—in relation to others.
Continuously ask yourself, "Am I adding value?"
You can make a lasting impact by offering a hand up, not just a handout.
Find Atticus:
LinkedIn: atticus-leblanc-3960466
Find the company at www.padsplit.com
Newsletter on LinkedIn: One Room At a Time
 
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com

Evolving Friendships: Navigating Change, Boundaries, and Emotional Growth

Today’s Takeaways - Evolving Friendships:
It’s okay to grieve friendship changes: It’s natural to feel sadness when a friendship changes or ends unexpectedly. Allow yourself to process these feelings without judgment.
Avoid self-blame: When a friendship shifts without clear reason, don’t automatically think it’s because you’re not good enough. Challenge these thoughts and consider alternative perspectives.
Mindfully manage emotions: Managing emotions in a healthy way requires practice, intentionality, and mindfulness. Through “radical acceptance,” you can learn to stop fighting reality and let go of bitterness.
Evaluate the relationship’s purpose: Reflect on whether a friendship is still serving a positive role in your life. Doing a pros and cons list may help you assess the value of continuing the relationship.
Supportive friendships are a two-way street: Strong friendships encourage, uplift, and allow you to be your authentic self. While effort doesn’t have to be equal, it should be mutual.
Social media and friendships: Social media can sometimes distort our views of friendships, leading to feelings of FOMO or the illusion that everyone is a “best friend.”
Hard conversations can deepen connections: Open, honest conversations are crucial in healthy friendships, but recognize that not everyone may be ready or willing to engage in them.
Respect boundaries: Be willing to listen to each other's needs, respect boundaries, and negotiate what feels right for both sides in the relationship.
Take an introspective look. Consider who you are, your values, and how you’ve evolved. Accepting how we have evolved first then letting this define the kinds of friendships we want.
 
Find Diane: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianne-mani-psy-d-94a44a49/ 
 
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com
 

Navigating the Front Line: The Impact on First Responders

Today's Takeaways:
The Importance of Seeking Help: If you're a first responder or a former first responder, prioritizing your mental health is essential. Support can come from various sources, including peers who understand your experiences. Speaking up may be difficult, but it can be life-saving. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out, and if you're a family member or friend concerned about a loved one in this field, encourage them to seek help or reach out to the organizations our guests are involved with. Early intervention can make a significant difference.
Making People Feel Seen: First responders often face unique challenges that can leave them feeling isolated or misunderstood. It's vital to create an environment where they feel seen and heard, both in their professional and personal lives. Acknowledging their experiences and sacrifices can go a long way in supporting their mental well-being.
Kindness Towards First Responders: Simple acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the mental health of first responders. Whether it's a thank you, a supportive conversation, or just being there to listen, these gestures can provide much-needed emotional support and validation.
Vetting Mental Health Clinicians: When seeking mental health support, it's essential to vet clinicians and service providers to ensure they have the knowledge and experience needed to work effectively with first responders. Quality and competence are key in delivering the specialized care this population requires.
Trusted Organizations for Support: Our guests work with vetted organizations that specialize in supporting first responders and their families. These organizations can be a good place to start when seeking help, offering reliable resources and guidance tailored to the unique needs of this community.
By understanding and acting on these key points, we can better support the mental health and well-being of first responders and their families.
 
Find Chris Smetana 
Email: connect@mindthefrontline.org  
Website:  https://mindthefrontline.org/ 
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MindTheFrontlineOrg
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindthefrontline
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mindthefrontline/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@mindthefrontline
 
Find Donna Brown
Email: donna.brown@famu.edu
Website: http://behindandbeyondthebadge.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BehindAndBeyondTheBadge 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behindandbeyondthebadge/ 
2nd Alarm Project: https://2ndalarmproject.org 
 
Find Kelly Lynch
Email: kelly@turningpointwellnessllc.com, kelly@thegriitproject.com 
Turning Point Wellness (clinical practice), The GRIIT Project (coaching practice) 
 
Find Karen Monda
Email: karen@survivefirst.us
Website: www.survivefirst.us, www.traumabehindthebadge.us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/survivefirst.us/
Instagram: https://www.instagram..com/survive_first
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/survive-first
 
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com
 

Anchored in Opportunity: Exploring the Hidden Careers of the Maritime World

Today’s Takeaways:
Diverse Career Paths: The maritime industry offers a wide range of career opportunities for everyone, from top achievers to those who may have faced academic challenges. There’s a place for all kinds of talents.
The Power of Showing Up: If you want to advance in any organization, start by showing up—consistently. Dedication and reliability are key to moving up the ranks.
Dedication Over Intelligence: Being dedicated and following through on your commitments can take you further than simply being smart. Persistence often outshines raw intelligence.
Second Chances Matter: Don’t lose hope if you’ve made mistakes. The maritime industry is open to those seeking a fresh start, even if they have a criminal background. It’s a field where second chances can turn into lasting careers.
Opportunities Beyond the Water: Maritime careers aren’t limited to the open sea. There are many roles on land that are vital to the industry’s success.
Early Exposure to Maritime Careers: High schools near you might offer programs like HELM (Helping Educate Leaders in Maritime), which aims to inspire and educate the next generation of maritime leaders, both locally and globally.
State Maritime Academies: The U.S. is home to six state maritime academies, including California, Maine, Great Lakes, Massachusetts, New York (SUNY), and Texas Maritime Academies, all offering specialized training for maritime careers.
Training at the USMMA: The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY, provides rigorous training for careers in the U.S. Merchant Marines, U.S. Armed Forces, and the broader transportation industry.
Scholarships and Grants: Numerous scholarships and grants are available for those interested in maritime academies, including opportunities for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students.
Find Rich: rgrimison@canaveralpilots.com
 
Find Rocky: rjohnson@iveycon.org
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/propellerclub-canaveral-88008454/
Websites: https://canaveral.propellerclub.us/ https://propellerclub.us/
 
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com
 

Space Farming: The Future of Agriculture and Human Exploration

Today’s Takeaways:
Controlled environment agriculture is revolutionizing how we feed astronauts on the International Space Station and improving crop productivity on earth.
Moon vs Mars - a discussion of practical considerations for which to colonize first.
Advancing technology is enabling human existence beyond Earth, creating unprecedented job opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship.
Expanding space exploration is creating unprecedented and unique job opportunities.
The first human to walk on Mars is likely already alive today!
Space agriculture is transforming farming practices on Earth.
Recycling on steroids! Space exploration is driving a redefinition of recycling processes.
Great exploration towards the starts has been happening for over 5000 years.
Two of our biggest challenges and opportunities lie in addressing the growing earthly population and becoming an extraterrestrial species.
Find Gary
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/garystutte
Website: www.synrge.com
Email: gstutte@synrge.com
 
Find Christy: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christytagye/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/productivepassions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCZUwdFyHRsbJVC3pkz-Ay5gInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/productivepassions/ 
Email: christy.tagye@tagyeconsulting.com