brAVe [skills]

Podcasts|Aug 15, 2024

When Things Seem Inside Out | brAVe [skills] - Ep01

In this debut episode of brAVe [skills], hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather delve into the nuances of joy, happiness, and toxic positivity. They explore how to cultivate a culture of joy within organizations and discuss why joy can be a significant competitive advantage. The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining focus on long-term goals while also recognizing and celebrating small wins along the way. Additionally, they address a listener's question about managing negativity during AV strategic planning, offering practical advice on how to stay positive and keep the team aligned with the overall vision. As always, be sure to listen to the end to hear our action items!

Podcasts|Sep 26, 2024

Credit Where It's Due | brAVe [skills] - Ep02

In this episode, Britt and Leon discuss the balancing act required when dealing with giving and taking credit in business, for both successes and failures. They chat about when to take credit, how much to take, and also how to give it effectively as a leader. A listener question is also addressed related to negotiating expectations on salary and benefits when applying for a new job and accepting an offer. If you are a leader in your field and could use some advisement on a challenge or topic you are concerned about, submit it directly and anonymously to the brAVe [skills] podcast using the form above.

Podcasts|Oct 24, 2024

Listen Up! Effective Listening | brAVe [Skills] Ep03

We often hear the advice: “Listen, don’t just wait for your turn to talk.” But how do we put this into practice? Host Britt Yenser and Leon Prather discuss the topic of effective listening. In this episode, we attempt to answer: - How would we define effective listening? - Why is effective listening important? - What does effective listening look like? - What does effective listening sound like? - What might effective listening feel like? - How can you prepare yourself to listen effectively? We even get a bit of practical advice from the world of... amateur theater??? Be sure to send in anonymous topics and questions for future episodes using the form below!

Podcasts|Nov 21, 2024

The Great Work-Life Balancing Act | brAVe [skills] Ep04

We all chase the concept of achieving work-life balance, but what are some practical ways to do that, especially when in a position of leadership? What do we mean when we say “work life balance?” How do we know if work life balance is off? How can we rectify if it’s off? Should we be seeking work/life balance or work/life integration? Or should there be a clear, clean line between the two? All of these questions and more are addressed in this episode as Britt and Leon explore practical implications for work-life balance as leaders.

Podcasts|Dec 19, 2024

Burnout: Empty Tank, Full Stop | brAVe [skills] Ep05

In this episode of brAVe [skills], Britt and Leon dive into the heavy topic of burnout—what it is, why it happens, and how to navigate it. They explore three causes of burnout: 1. Weight of the World Syndrome - Taking on everything, often for others, with a fear of failure and a need to prove yourself. 2. Fear of Falling - Striving for perfection and tying success to self-worth. 3. Dead Battery/Totaled Engine - Running on empty and relying on temporary jumpstarts to keep going. Britt and Leon share personal insights, including a pivotal moment that changed how Leon approached burnout for the sake of his health. They also discuss the differences between stress and burnout, and the importance of recognizing the unique symptoms of each, as well as how burnout can overlap with depression. Whether you're feeling the weight of chronic stress or teetering on the edge of burnout, this episode offers practical advice and powerful encouragement to take back control and find balance. Connect with Leon Prather LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-prather-cts/ Connect with Britt Yenser LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/ X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt Submit question to brAVe [skills]: https://forms.gle/QJtmt9q9pzuuTdVd7

Podcasts|Jan 30, 2025

Clear Is Kind | brAVe [skills] Ep06

In this episode of brAVe [skills], co-hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the power of setting clear communication boundaries. They explore why clarity is an act of kindness, how to be purposeful in your messaging, and the importance of using the right language to express what you truly mean. Britt and Leon share their own experiences with boundary-setting, discuss effective methods for establishing and maintaining them, and offer insight on how to recognize when it’s time to adjust. Throughout the conversation, they provide practical, doable strategies to help you create healthier communication habits in both personal and professional settings. The episode wraps up with key takeaways and actionable steps, so you can start setting and honoring your own boundaries with confidence. Tune in and take the first step toward clearer, kinder communication!

Podcasts|Feb 27, 2025

It's About Time | brAVe [skills] Ep07

Time is one of our most valuable resources—but are you using it intentionally? In this episode of brAVe [skills], cohosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather explore what it means to set boundaries with your time and take control of your schedule. From recognizing the choices you’re making to creating space for what truly matters, they share insights on prioritization, scheduling, and communication. They also dive into the power of saying no, being honest about your needs, and staying flexible without losing sight of your goals. If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin or struggled to balance it all, this conversation will help you rethink your approach and set boundaries that work for you.

Podcasts|Jul 31, 2025

Walking Away From Comfort - Rethinking Risk and Fear | brAVe [skills] Ep08

In this candid comeback episode of brAVe [skills], Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the uncomfortable but essential topic of risk aversion. From job changes to leadership decisions, they unpack the real and perceived fears that keep us stuck—and the personal and professional growth that happens when we push past them. Britt shares how mentorship and therapy helped her reframe her fear of failure, while Leon reflects on how experience (and maybe a little stand-up comedy wisdom) shaped his ability to take calculated risks. Together, they explore: Why comfort isn’t always the safe choice The difference between real and perceived risk The value of support systems like mentorship and a “personal cabinet” Whether you’re leading a team or leading yourself through change, this episode offers thoughtful insights—and a few laughs—about how to move forward when fear says stay put. Connect with Leon Prather LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-prather-cts/ Website: https://www.leonprather.com/ Connect with Britt Yenser LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/ X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Podcasts|Aug 28, 2025

Believing You're Enough | brAVe [skills] Ep09

In this episode of brAVe [skills], Britt Yenser and Leon Prather explore the powerful theme of believing you’re enough—both in leadership and in life. They frame leadership not just as a title but as a daily practice that begins with self-belief and resilience. Britt approaches the topic through the lens of grit and growth mindset—developing the confidence to step up when called, even without a formal title. Leon shares from a mental health angle, highlighting the common struggles of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the importance of confronting the inner voice that says, “I’m not enough.” They discuss how feelings of being “othered” in professional spaces can deepen this struggle, and Leon offers personal stories about choosing to step forward, speak up, and trust that his voice matters. Both hosts emphasize that confidence is not innate but a skill built over time through action, grace, and persistence. The conversation also touches on personal journeys—parenthood, changing roles, and moments of vulnerability—illustrating how believing you’re enough applies beyond the workplace. Practical takeaways include: Just start—don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to act. Confront self-doubt by naming and challenging the thoughts that fuel it. Extend grace to yourself and others, recognizing everyone wrestles with these feelings. Seek support when needed—therapy can be a valuable tool. Ultimately, they remind listeners that showing up fully as yourself is always enough—and often the most powerful leadership act you can offer. Connect with Leon Prather LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-prather-cts/ Website: https://www.leonprather.com/ Connect with Britt Yenser LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/ X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Podcasts|Sep 25, 2025

Asking for Help | brAVe [skills] Ep10

In this episode of brAVe [skills], hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the essential leadership skill of asking for help. Building on their previous conversation about believing you’re enough, they explore why so many professionals hesitate to reach out, even when collaboration can lead to better outcomes. The hosts share practical strategies for asking colleagues, managers, and teams for support and they discuss how cultural norms, organizational structures, and leadership styles impact whether people feel comfortable requesting assistance.

Podcasts|Oct 23, 2025

Hurkle-Durkle Your Way to Better Leadership | brAVe [skills] Ep11

In this episode of brAVe [skills], hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather take on the often-ignored but absolutely essential leadership skill: rest. Forget the toxic “grind harder” advice—this is about choosing proactive rest before burnout takes over. From Leon’s hot takes on hustle culture to Britt’s very pregnant wisdom about listening to your body (and refusing to pick up anything that falls on the floor), the conversation proves that slowing down can actually speed up creativity and productivity. Listeners will discover the Scottish concept of “hurkle-durkle”—the art of intentionally lingering in rest before the day kicks off—and how leaders can build their own daily recharge rituals. The duo also tackle myths about constant performance, highlight the connection between rest and sustainable leadership, and remind us that refusing to work for a moment can be a superpower. If you’re ready to swap the grindset for a healthier mindset, this episode is your permission slip to hurkle-durkle your way to better leadership.

Podcasts|Dec 18, 2025

Joy: Reloaded | brAVe [skills] Ep12

In this episode of brAVe [skills], hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather revisit the very first episode of the show, hearkening back to a unique connection and an even more unique show premise. Finding inspiration in the most unlikely of places, Britt and Leon uncover why being joyful in leadership and dispelling negativity are actually competitive advantages.

Podcasts|Jan 29, 2026

Leading and Living On | brAVe [skills] Ep13

Returning to work after life events like parenthood or loss raises hard questions about identity, value, and leadership. In this episode of brAVe [skills], Leon Prather reflects on how life’s biggest changes reshape empathy, priorities, and the way we show up at work.

Podcasts|Feb 26, 2026

The LAW of Listening | brAVe [skills] Ep14

If 90 percent of any production is audio, doesn't that imply that listening is a crucial skill for professionals in the audiovisual industry? In this episode, revisit just why it is that effective listening is a superpower for leaders looking to make real impact in their sphere of influence.

Podcasts|Mar 26, 2026

Balancing the System | brAVe [skills] Ep15

How do we keep the system stable? What signals matter? Tech leaders know all too well that system maintenance cannot be overlooked. In this revisitation of our episode called The Great Balancing Act, we explore practical concepts to ensure that we maximize uptime for the most important part of any system: the person operating it. We will attempt to answer questions surrounding concepts of work-life integration, delegation, and prioritization to help us avoid the road that so often leads to burnout.