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!

READ THE BLOG!

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/

https://www.chapmancommunities.org/

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

"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/

After a pause to retool and reimagine our purpose, we're thrilled to return and welcome you back to our newly renamed audiocast, "Beyond The Class: From Knowledge To Action." The overwhelming support during our hiatus—with listenership continuing to grow, has deeply humbled us and reinforced that our message resonates with leaders seeking meaningful change.

Bob Chapman, chairman and founder of the Chapman Foundation, believes business can be the most powerful force for good when leaders develop the skills and courage to care. We're creating a space where Chapman Foundation alumni and partners can take the knowledge gained in our classrooms and convert it into intentional, meaningful action in their organizations and communities. Our purpose remains steadfast: helping you sustain growth, deepen connections, and drive development that truly matters in today's leadership landscape.

What awaits you in upcoming episodes? Expect immediately applicable tools to sharpen your listening skills, build trust, and empower your leadership capabilities. You'll hear from fellow alumni who've successfully walked this path and gain insights from the facilitators who've guided classroom experiences for the past 15 years.

Whether you're tuning in for the first time or have been with us from the beginning, we invite you to join this journey from knowledge to action. Get ready for episodes filled with challenges, practical steps, and yes—even fun.

This is about growth. This is about results. This is about you. We're grateful to have you with us as we move Beyond the Class together.

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https://www.chapmancommunities.org/

How do you build a Caring Community?Today, we have the privilege of being joined by Misty Janks, CEO of Chapman Foundation for Caring Communities, and Micki Gibbs, Senior Director of Caring Communities.Together, we embark on a journey of exploration, innovation, and transformation as we discuss our organization's exciting initiatives and goals.Join us as we uncover the key to creating Caring Workplaces and Caring Communities, paving the way for impactful change within our regions.Tune in, listen closely, and let's learn, grow, and lead together.https://connect.chapmancommunities.org/f/cfcc-caring-workplace-caring-community-interest-form