Contagious Culture

#128 | The Culture of AI: Building Organizations That Think, Not Just Implement | Podcastathon 2025

This Contagious Culture Podcast session explores how organizations can leverage artificial intelligence not just as a tool, but as a catalyst for cultural transformation. Coretta Dixon and Myreesha Franklin discuss how AI can enhance human thinking, spark innovation, and support equitable practices when implemented thoughtfully.
They dive into strategies for creating organizational cultures where humans and AI collaborate seamlessly, driving creativity, inclusion, and performance without compromising the human touch.
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#127 | Identity and 12 Lessons for Unapologetically Owning Your Uniqueness W/ Dr. Stephanie Kirkland

What does it truly mean to show up as your authentic self, without apology or compromise? In this episode of The Contagious Culture Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Kirkland shares 12 powerful lessons to help you embrace your identity, amplify your strengths, and confidently own what makes you unique. Kyle and Dr. Kirkland dive into practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt, navigating societal expectations, and stepping into spaces where your individuality is your greatest asset.
Listen in to discover how embracing your uniqueness can transform your leadership, your work, and your life.
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#126 | Developing Teams Through Emotional Intelligence | Podcastathon 2025

This Contagious Culture Podcast session explores the powerful intersection of emotional intelligence and organizational performance. Marisa Ciesluk and Tracy Solarek share how leaders can cultivate self-awareness, strengthen team connections, and make more effective decisions under pressure.
They highlight what emotionally intelligent leadership looks like in action and reveal how it directly shapes culture, builds trust, and drives tangible results. Listeners will gain practical insights for leading with clarity, empathy, and impact in every aspect of their organization.
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#125 | Turning Prospects into Partners Who Believe in Your Cause | Podcastathon 2025

This Contagious Culture Podcast session takes a deep dive into relationship-based fundraising and the art of transforming early interest into long-term, values-aligned partnership. Somer Saunders and Aneesah Bray unpack how to recognize partners who truly align with your mission, nurture authentic and reciprocal relationships, and design engagement strategies that build trust, resonance, and staying power.
Together, they explore how shifting from transactional giving to genuine investment creates sustainable support, shared purpose, and a culture of impact that lasts.
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#124 | The Art of the Ask: Turning Relationships into Major Gifts | Podcastathon 2025

This Contagious Culture Podcast session dives into the art of confidently and authentically making major gift requests. Kari McCormick and Lakisha Rios break down how to prepare for a high-stakes ask, assess donor readiness, and personalize conversations in ways that honor both the relationship and the mission.
They unpack the emotional barriers, fear, hesitation, self-doubt, that often hold fundraisers back, and offer practical strategies for moving through them with clarity and courage. Together, they reveal how intentional preparation and authentic connection can turn strong relationships into truly transformative contributions.
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#123 | Sustaining Meaningful Donor Relationships After the Gift | Podcastathon 2025

This Contagious Culture Podcast session centers on one of the most overlooked yet powerful stages of fundraising: stewardship. Ana Marte and Brooklyn Stanfill unpack what happens after the gift is made, how to personalize stewardship at scale, communicate impact in meaningful ways, and create follow-up systems that deepen trust rather than drain capacity.
They explore how thoughtful, consistent stewardship builds long-term donor loyalty, strengthens organizational culture, and turns supporters into true partners in the mission.
Order Your Copy of Contagious Culture: Creating an Ecosystem of Academic Excellence
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#122 | How Perseverance is Your Superpower W/ Myreesha Frankllin

In Episode 122 of the Contagious Culture Podcast, Myreesha Franklin joins Kyle to unpack the mindset, grit, and inner strength required to rise above life’s toughest moments. From personal setbacks to professional reinvention, Myreesha reveals how perseverance became her superpower and how anyone can cultivate the same resilience.
This conversation is raw, uplifting, and filled with practical wisdom for anyone determined to grow, heal, and keep moving forward.
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#121 | The Art and Power of Positive Thinking: Transform, Grow and Achieve W/ Dr. Dexter Shorter

In this inspiring episode of The Contagious Culture Podcast, Dr. Dexter Shorter breaks down the true art and power of positive thinking, far beyond clichés or motivational quotes. He explores how mindset shapes identity, influences behavior, and determines the opportunities we allow ourselves to see. Drawing from his personal journey and years of leadership experience, Dr. Shorter shares how intentional thinking can transform the way we show up in our families, our careers, and our communities. He explains why positivity is not pretending, but a disciplined practice of choosing growth over comfort, perspective over pressure, and purpose over fear.
Dr. Shorter unpacks the internal battles we all face, the stories we tell ourselves, and the barriers that keep so many people from achieving their next level. With warmth, clarity, and conviction, he offers a blueprint for shifting your mindset, elevating your actions, and aligning your life with the person you were created to become. If you’re ready to break old patterns, embrace growth, and step boldly into your potential, this episode will give you the tools and the push to get there.
Order Your Copy of Contagious Culture: Creating an Ecosystem of Academic Excellence
Subscribe & Leave a Review to The Contagious Culture Podcast
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📞 Schedule Your Call Here
🖥️  Visit The Website
👉🏽 Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn