Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different‪™‬ Christopher Lochhead

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, I would like to share with you a very special tribute to a man who's not only a legend in the world of basketball but also a cherished friend of mine—Bill Walton.



Join me as we take a walk down memory lane, revisiting the first time Bill graced my podcast with his presence and the indelible mark he's left on my life.

A Meeting of Minds in San Diego

It was August 24th, 2017—a day etched in my memory, thanks to the friends who captured the moment and shared a photo of our first encounter. Meeting Bill Walton was like stepping into a storybook where the characters leap off the page. Here was one of the greatest NBA players of all time, a man whose stature was matched only by his extraordinary personality, ready to become a part of my world.



Our initial meeting took place at an executive event in sunny San Diego, where we were both slated to speak. I remember watching Bill, completely unscripted, captivating the audience with his life's slideshow in the background. His ability to weave tales and engage listeners with nothing but his memories and a carousel of personal photos was nothing short of mesmerizing.







The Teacher in My Life

Bill's journey is one of resilience. From battling a stutter to enduring chronic injuries, his path was never easy. Yet, he emerged stronger, channeling his love for music and life into everything he did. His passion was infectious, and his dedication to being unapologetically unique was something that deeply resonated with me.



Bill played a crucial role in my transition to becoming a teacher. His influence was a guiding light, helping me navigate through new territories with confidence. His life lessons extended beyond the court, and I was fortunate to be one of the many who benefited from his wisdom.





Radical Generosity and Unwavering Support

One of the most touching aspects of my friendship with Bill was experiencing his radical generosity firsthand. I'll never forget the care package of memorabilia he sent my way—a testament to his thoughtful nature and the value he placed on our bond.



In the aftermath of a personal tragedy, it was Bill's kindness that shone through the darkness. His heartfelt messages provided comfort and support when I needed it most, further solidifying the profound impact of our friendship.



As I reflect on the time spent with Bill Walton, I'm filled with immense gratitude. His legacy extends far beyond his basketball accolades; it's etched in the hearts of those he's touched with his generosity, spirit, and unwavering friendship.



I hope that this episode gives you a glimpse into the remarkable man that is Bill Walton and the special place he holds in my life. His story is one of triumph, tenacity, and the power of genuine connections. Thank you for joining me in this celebration of friendship and legacy.





Bio

Bill Walton, an NBA legend, is renowned for his exceptional skills, dynamic personality, and influential career. Born on November 5, 1952, Walton's basketball journey began at UCLA, where he led the Bruins to two national championships.



In the NBA, he played for the Portland Trailblazers, San Diego/Los Angeles Clippers, and Boston Celtics, earning two NBA championships and an MVP award in 1978. In 1997, Bill Walton was selected as one of the NBA’s Fifty Greatest Players of all Time.



Post-retirement, he became a beloved broadcaster, known for his colorful commentary. Walton's legacy continues to inspire basketball enthusiasts worldwide.

Links

BillWalton.com | NBA Profile | a href="https://www.espn.com/classic/biography/s/Walton_Bill.

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, the conversation takes a deep dive into the complex and sensitive situation in Gaza, Palestine, Israel, and the broader Middle East, and how our perception here in America is being warped by misinformation from different sides.



You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

A Feeling of Déjà Vu for America

On the evening of Feb. 20, 1939, the marquee of Madison Square Garden was lit up for the big event: "Pro American Rally." But it was the farthest thing from being American as can be. Uniformed members of pro-Hitler group The German American Bund carried American and nazi flags.



That being said, In the last week of December 1942, fifty leading German-Americans (including baseball legend Babe Ruth) signed a declaration condemning nazis which appeared in ten major American daily newspapers. Ultimately, American patriots stopped the American nazis.



Looking at the events this week at Columbia, MIT, NYU, and other elite US schools, they mirror much of the hate, horror and scale of The German American Bund. While some were there to genuinely support the civilians trapped in the ongoing conflict, there were others that openly supported Hamas’ extremist actions. It was very ironic to see banners about women and LGBT+ groups support, when they are the most oppressed in the world that these people envision.



What’s even worse is that there were reasons to suspect that these protests were sponsored by people who don’t want to get their own hands dirty.

(Mis)Information is Rampant

One of the downsides of our technological boom is the ease of access to information. Unfortunately, ease of access does not always mean a smart populace.



As information is shared from peer to peer, information gets distorted, if not outright manipulated to suit their agendas, that sometimes the victim comes out on the other end as the one being ganged on, instead of the oppressor.



This particularly true with social media sites, who has become the de-facto source of information for the younger generation. There was even a brief period where young people were lauding a speech that Bin Laden made to justify 9/11. Never mind the atrocities he and his jihadist group committed in the US and international stage, he made a great speech! Totally justified.

Call to Arms

Nazis have attacked America from within before. American patriots stopped them. The only question now is, will you and I empower radical jihadists nazis?



Or will we stop them, like our ancestors did 78 years ago?



To hear more of Christopher Lochhead’s points on the matter, download and listen to this episode.

Bio

Christopher Lochhead

Links

WSJ Article on the Anti-Israel Protesters



The World’s Record Holder for Executing Women Has Executed Three Women in Three Days



This Is Ahmad. He Was Queer In Palestine.



We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him,

Here at Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we’ve had the privilege of engaging in conversations that transcend the ordinary, delving into the depths of what truly makes us tick. On this episode, we sat down with Bruce Feiler, an acclaimed New York Times best-selling author, to explore his work, "Life Is in the Transitions."



Bruce Feiler is a renowned American author, television personality, and speaker known for his insightful and thought-provoking work on family dynamics, religion, and contemporary culture. He is the author of several New York Times bestsellers, including "Walking the Bible," "The Council of Dads," and "Life Is in the Transitions." Feiler's work often blends personal narrative with broader cultural analysis, and he has been a popular columnist for publications like The New York Times.



This wasn't your typical interview; it was a real, raw conversation about the seismic shifts we all face and how we can navigate them with grace and resilience. We believe that people are now more than ever being rocked by their life quakes, and hope that Bruce’s words could help us once again.



You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Bruce Feiler on the Non-Linear Journey of Life

Bruce's personal journey is a testament to the power of embracing life's unpredictability. From battling cancer to supporting his father through Parkinson's disease, he's no stranger to what he calls "life quakes." These are the massive, often unexpected events that shake us to our core and challenge the linear narrative we've been sold about how life is "supposed" to go.



During our talk, Bruce recounted a moment at his 30th college reunion that sparked a revelation. As he moderated a panel of distinguished classmates, he saw firsthand the universal struggle to maintain the facade of a perfect, linear life trajectory. This experience, coupled with his own, led him to question the societal pressures that bind us to outdated life narratives.

Bruce Feiler on the Myth of the Midlife Crisis

One of the most enlightening parts of our discussion centered on the concept of the midlife crisis. Bruce debunked this myth, pointing out the flawed research and biases behind it. He argued that we need to update our understanding of life transitions to reflect the modern, non-linear world we live in—a world where change is the only constant.



We also emphasized the importance of proactive life design. We must acknowledge and navigate through life's disruptions, which often come at us like a "car pileup," multiple and simultaneous. It's about learning to dance in the rain, rather than waiting for the storm to pass.

Life Quakes: Voluntary and Involuntary

Bruce explained that life quakes are frequent disruptors, with most being manageable. However, about 53% of these quakes are involuntary—like a spouse cheating or losing a job—while 47% are voluntary, such as changing religion or leaving a job. Millennials, he noted, are more inclined to seek change, while older generations may feel more stuck.



The pandemic, a collective involuntary life quake, has heightened our sensitivity to change. Bruce stressed that while the quake may be involuntary, the life transition that follows must be voluntary. It's about taking back control and making the decision to navigate through the transition effectively.



“If we look at life transitions as periods that we have to suffer our way through, we are wasting half of our life. If we look at them as periods, they’re going to be difficult and painful, but there’s also opportunities for growth and renewal. That’s the story of your life.”

– Bruce Feiler



Bruce's book doesn't just lay out the problem; it offers a toolkit for navigating life t...

Welcome to a special episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, where we dive deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and business growth. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with a visionary in the realm of AI and revenue generation, Andy Byrne.



Andy Byrne is the visionary CEO of Clari, a leading revenue operations platform. With a wealth of experience in the tech industry, Byrne has been instrumental in shaping Clari's innovative approach to sales execution and forecasting.



You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

From Garage to Global: Clari's Ascension

Andy takes us on a journey through Clari's evolution, from its modest inception in a garage to becoming a powerhouse with over 700 employees and R&D centers across the globe. He shares the pivotal role of generative AI in accelerating business processes, enabling companies to swiftly create, convert, and close their sales pipelines.



Despite initial skepticism, Predictive AI has proven to be a game-changer for revenue leaders. Andy highlights how early predictions empower proactive decision-making and optimize capital deployment, crucial for managing expectations around revenue and earnings per share.

Andy Byrne on Uncovering Revenue Leaks with AI

We then discuss AI's ability to identify and rectify revenue leaks. Andy provides tangible examples, such as neglected leads and overlooked targets, which can significantly impact a company's bottom line. By harnessing AI, organizations can foster revenue collaboration and enhance productivity at all organizational levels.



"The process of running revenue is more of a technology game now than a sales game."

– Andy Byrne



Predictive AI: Fostering Collaborative Conversations

Drawing parallels to the early days of SEO and network performance management, we delved into the concept of "signal" within AI. Clari's AI is adept at analyzing signals from a myriad of sources, offering real-time insights that are instrumental in detecting revenue leaks and informing strategic decisions.



Andy recognizes how Predictive AI can spark these useful conversations. He stresses how these talks, where people compare their gut feelings with the predictions made by machines, can boost teamwork and help businesses thrive.



To hear more from Andy Byrne and how AI can help boost your company’s revenue, download and listen to this episode.

Bio

Andy Byrne, CEO of Clari, is a seasoned leader in the tech industry.



Andy Byrne is dedicated to revolutionizing revenue operations, championing innovation, and fostering collaboration within sales teams globally. His strategic vision has propelled Clari to the forefront of the industry, where it stands as a trailblazer in harnessing the power of Predictive AI for sales execution and forecasting.



Under his guidance, Clari continues to empower businesses to achieve unparalleled growth and success, setting new standards for excellence in revenue optimization and operational efficiency.

Links

Connect with Andy Byrne!



Clari.com | LinkedIn | Twitter/X



We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook,

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have the pleasure of sitting down with two remarkable entrepreneurs, Shante Frazier and Lauren Mitchell, the co-founders of WellCapped.



In our conversation, we delved into the origins of their groundbreaking service, the hurdles they've overcome, and their ambitious vision for the future of the beauty industry.



Their journey is one of innovation, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of redefining beauty standards. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

WellCapped: The Genesis of a Game-Changer

Shante and Lauren's venture, WellCapped, is akin to Rent the Runway, but for wigs and hair extensions. This novel concept was born from a simple suggestion by Shante's aunt and has since blossomed into a business that caters to a diverse clientele seeking quality and affordability.



Their personal experiences and corporate backgrounds have fueled their mission to democratize high-end wigs and hair extensions, making them accessible to all.



The beauty industry has seen a surge in the use of wigs and hair extensions, with technological advancements blurring the lines between natural and styled hair. Celebrities and influencers are challenging traditional beauty norms, and WellCapped is at the forefront of this shift, empowering customers to experiment with their looks without the hefty price tag.

The Entrepreneurial Leap

Shante recounts the poignant moment that transformed her hesitation into conviction. The idea of a rental service for wigs and hair extensions wasn't just a business opportunity; it was a chance to support individuals undergoing chemotherapy by offering free memberships and support—a testament to the personal significance of WellCapped.



Transitioning from corporate America to entrepreneurship is no small feat. Shante and Lauren share their motivations and the challenges they faced along the way.



"When you see your customers telling you how our company has changed their lives, it gives you the fuel that you need to keep going on the bad days.”

– Lauren Mitchell of WellCapped



Eventually, Lauren's layoff became a catalyst for her commitment to WellCapped, while Shante reflected on the naivety and learning curve of starting a new venture.

The Journey of Fundraising and Resilience

Raising funds for a startup is a daunting task, but Shante and Lauren's determination was unwavering. They focused on aligning with investors who shared their vision, rather than convincing skeptics. Their commitment to excellence and continuous improvement has been a driving force behind their success.



Their participation in the Techstars program marked a pivotal chapter for WellCapped. The intensive accelerator experience honed their brand and helped shift customer perceptions about renting wigs—a concept that is now gaining traction and acceptance.



Shante emphasized the growing trend of viewing hair as a fashion accessory. WellCapped taps into this trend by offering a cost-effective way for consumers to express themselves through their hair, fostering a culture of experimentation and self-expression.



To hear more from Shante & Lauren and how they raised WellCapped from the ground up, download and listen to this episode.

Bio

Shante Frazier

Shante is a recent MBA graduate from NYU Stern, where she specialized in Marketing and Strategy. She graduated from Spelman College in 2012 with a BA in Economics.



Prior to coming to Stern, Shante worked at Progressive Insurance for 3 years in the Pricing and Competitive Intelligence departments while also serving as an officer in the Ohio Army National Guard.

Here at Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we've had the privilege of engaging in conversations that are not just thought-provoking, but also deeply impactful. On this episode, we sit down with Scott Wilson, the passionate co-founder of American Wild Horse Conservation, to discuss a topic close to both our hearts: the plight of America's wild horses and the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect these magnificent creatures.



Scott Wilson is a renowned Colorado Nature Photographer and Communications Leader, whose journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered the plight of America's wild horses. Scott became captivated by the freedom and majesty of the wild horses roaming the western United States. His realization that these iconic animals were facing threats to their survival inspired him to take action and co-found American Wild Horse Conservation. This non-profit organization is dedicated to preserving and protecting wild horses, which have played a pivotal role in the nation's history and ecology.



This captivating conversation illuminates the plight of these majestic creatures, and the tireless efforts to secure their freedom and ensure their survival.



You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.

Scott Wilson on the Historical Tapestry of America's Wild Horses

The history of wild horses in the United States is as rich and complex as the country itself. Scott Wilson shares that there are approximately 65,000 wild horses roaming free across ten states in the western United States.



It's also a little-known fact that all the world's horses have their origins in North America, and they were reintroduced in the 1500s. These animals are not just a part of the natural ecology but are woven into the very tapestry of our nation's history.



In 1971, the Wild Horse and Burro Protection Act was a promise made to these animals—a promise that we are duty-bound to uphold. As we delved into the significance of wild horses, it became clear that they are not just symbols of the wild but are key players in the ecological balance of our public lands.



Wild Blue Roan by Scott Wilson of the American Wild Horse Conservation

Scott Wilson on the Struggle for Space and Survival

Given these facts, it was unsettling to learn that wild horses are allocated a mere 2% of public lands. Contrary to popular belief, these horses are not in competition for building or economic development. In fact, only 1% of the nation's beef is produced on these lands, debunking the myth that wild horses pose a significant threat to our economy.



However, the challenges they face are real and pressing. Competition with livestock, encroachment by oil and gas businesses, and government policies that often do more harm than good are just a few of the hurdles wild horses must overcome to survive.



Wild Pinto Stallion Picasso by Scott Wilson of the American Wild Horse Conservation

Nevada: The Heartland of Wild Horses

It's a surprising fact that roughly half of the wild horse population in the US is concentrated in Nevada. This distribution has significant implications for conservation efforts and the management of these animals.



That being said, Scott Wilson's initiative to buy back land and expand the habitat for wild horses is a beacon of hope. The acquisition of 3500 acres in Nevada and the establishment of a land trust are steps toward ensuring that wild horses and other wildlife can coexist peacefully.



To hear more from Scott Wilson and how American Wild Horse Conservation help protect these majestic creatures, download and listen to the episode.



Freedom by Scott Wilson of the American Wild Horse Conservation

Bio