Mental health. We shouldn't be afraid to talk about this important subject. But, the reality is sometimes we are. Today's guest, Christa Vanzant, and host, Greg Harrod, want to change that. They want to normalize mental health in the workplace. So in this episode, Christa will share how to do just that. She shares her wisdom and recommendations based on her extensive experience as an executive coach, a corporate veteran, a business owner, a wife, and a mother. Christa has a wealth of knowledge she shares in today's show. If you believe mental health is important not only to our careers but to every area of our lives, you don't want to miss what Christa has to say. Today's Guest Christa Vanzant Christa Vanzant is an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach (ACC) and serves in 2022 on the ICF-Oklahoma/Arkansas Board. Christa is also a highly experienced Leadership Development Champion and a passionate mental health advocate. In addition to serving in various roles in her corporate career, Christa is a small business owner. She and her husband, Koree, an ISA certified arborist, own a successful tree care business in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area. You'll Learn The signs to watch for that may indicate your mental health, or your coworkers', needs attentionThe importance of having a life team to support you as a leader (and as a person)The power of a support network to help you be objective when your grief, pain, guilt, or shame clouds your judgementAn easy first step to get started improving your mental health and helping someone else who might be struggling tooHow being professionally vulnerable builds organization health and trustThe key to avoiding a common trap of high performers: neglecting yourself3 Fundamental Career Skills from Today's Guest 1. Active listening Turn off your phone. Lean in. Set aside distractions. And, listen. Really listening to what your coworkers (and customers) have to say can boost your career. 2. Empathy Seek to understand other people. Ask questions that serve the purpose of the other person and not just your own curiosity. 3. Manage self Do a health and heart checkup on yourself. Make you sure you are taking care of your own mental health so you can help others with theirs. Take a mental break and a deep breath and a pause when you get emotionally charged. Sometimes this simple step can dramatically change the dynamic of a situation for the better. Links and Resources from this Episode Contact Christa Vanzant on her website (VanzantCoaching.com) Connect with Christa Vanzant on LinkedIn Learn more about The Kansas Leadership Center on their website Read about Relational Nutrients and the book, People Fuel: Fill Up Your Tank for Life, Love and Leadership by Dr. John Townsend See the show notes at GregHarrod.com.