Ever snapped at someone and instantly thought, “Wait… what just happened?” That split-second of self-awareness might hold the key to transforming how we lead, connect, and communicate.

In this episode of Beyond the Class, we’re joined by Misty Janks—CEO of the Chapman Foundation for Caring Communities and a leading voice in organizational psychology. Misty unpacks a deceptively simple idea: every behavior is a clue to an unmet need.

What if that “difficult” colleague isn’t defiant, but just needs to feel secure? What if that unmotivated team member is actually craving purpose? Misty demonstrates how shifting from judgment to curiosity can unlock empathy, enhance relationships, and even transform workplace culture.

You’ll walk away with practical tools—including two powerful questions that can change how you respond to challenging behavior—and a deeper understanding of how self-awareness and DISC assessments can guide personal growth.

Plus, Misty and host Adam Salgat share candid stories that bring these insights to life.

Subscribe to Beyond the Class for more insights rooted in Chapman Foundation principles. Visit chapmancommunities.org to learn more. Remember—you are the message!

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Key Points Discussed in the Episode
• Every action, reaction, and decision stems from an underlying need
• Psychology confirms behavior is purposeful, not random or purely oppositional
• Instead of labeling behavior as good/bad, ask what need it expresses
• Two key questions to ask: What might this person need? How can I support constructively?
• Leaders create stronger teams by understanding people, not just managing tasks
• DISC assessments help teams understand behavioral tendencies and style preferences
• Self-awareness allows us to recognize our own needs driving our behaviors
• Three action steps: shift to curiosity, lead with empathy, reflect on your own needs

"Direct your energy toward what’s within your control. This opens space for gratitude, joy, and connection." -Katie Trotter, Chief Program Officer at the Chapman Foundation for Caring Communities

We've all been there—pretending we're okay with someone's behavior while secretly stewing inside. That moment when you tell yourself, "It’s fine, I don’t care," even though frustration and resentment are bubbling under the surface. This pattern of false acceptance can quietly erode your wellbeing and relationships, keeping you stuck in cycles of irritation.

In this enlightening episode, Katie Trotter, Chief Program Officer at the Chapman Foundation for Caring Communities, shares her powerful six-step framework for breaking free from false acceptance and fostering true, meaningful acceptance. Through personal stories and actionable strategies, Katie reveals how to recognize when we’re merely tolerating behaviors, identify the deeper roots of our irritation, and approach others with curiosity instead of judgment.

True acceptance isn’t about agreeing with someone’s behavior or ignoring your feelings. It’s about reclaiming your peace by choosing thoughtful, healthier responses. These simple yet powerful steps can help you separate the person from their actions, strengthen connections, and create space for genuine understanding without sacrificing your mental wellbeing.

Tune in to discover how this approach can help you move from frustration to inner calm. Freedom and clarity might be closer than you think!

Key Points Discussed in the Episode

• Recognize the signs of false acceptance, like physical tension or internal irritation.
• Identify the root of frustration by questioning values, past experiences, and if behaviors are harmful or just annoying.
• Shift from judgment to curiosity by exploring what might motivate others' actions.
• Reframe expectations by accepting that your standards aren’t universal.
• Set clear and consistent boundaries using “I” statements without assigning blame.
• Direct energy toward what you can control and choose peace over frustration.
• To maintain a connection without condoning behaviors, learn to separate a person’s actions from who they are.

Six Steps to Free Yourself from Frustration:

• Step 1: Identify the Root of Irritation
• Step 2: Practice Curiosity Instead of Judgment
• Step 3: Decide What’s Worth Addressing
• Step 4: Reframe Your Expectations
• Step 5: Set Healthy Boundaries
• Step 6: Choose Peace and Redirect Energy

THE BLOG: https://www.chapmancommunities.org/from-tolerance-to-true-acceptance/

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"Growth is contagious. When you choose to learn and adapt, you give others permission to do the same." Misty Janks, CEO of the Chapman Foundation for Caring Communities, captures the transformative potential of adopting a learner mindset—both for ourselves and the environments we create.

The world isn't standing still. At work, at home, and within ourselves, those who grow, adapt, and learn are typically the ones who thrive. But what does it really mean to have a "learner mindset"? As Misty explains, it's approaching challenges with curiosity and resilience, seeing failures not as setbacks but as stepping stones for progress. When paired with a culture that encourages and rewards growth, we create spaces where innovation flourishes.

Discover how to unlock growth at every level—from personal development to organizational transformation. This conversation dives into five actionable tips for individuals to cultivate a growth mindset and five powerful strategies for leaders to create learning-rich environments. Tune in to explore how intentional growth fuels innovation, performance, and retention. As Misty puts it, "Organizations don't grow. The people inside of it do."

Whether you're looking to transform your personal approach to challenges or create a workplace where growth thrives, remember that change starts with one intentional step. What action will you take today to model a learner mindset? Visit our website to explore how the Caring Workplace program can guide your organization in integrating a culture of learning into what you're already doing.

Read the full blog: https://www.chapmancommunities.org/the-power-of-a-learner-mindset-and-a-culture-of-learning/

https://www.chapmancommunities.org/

https://www.chapmancommunities.org/partner/