The VUCA FIT Show

The Art and Science of Feedback

Episode Summary

In this episode, Jose and I dive deep into the world of feedback—how to give it, how to receive it, and why it’s so crucial for our growth, both personally and professionally. We start by breaking down the Johari window, a powerful tool that helps us understand ourselves better. It’s made up of four key areas: - The arena (what everyone sees) - The facade (what we keep to ourselves) - The blind spot (what others see in us that we don’t) - And the unknown (those hidden aspects we’re not even aware of). Our chat highlights why expanding the public arena—what’s known and shared—is so important. It’s about being open, embracing feedback, and using it to enhance not just our performance but also our relationships. We also touch on the book Difficult Conversations, which is a game-changer when it comes to navigating those tough talks and giving meaningful feedback. Throughout our conversation, we explore different types of feedback, like biofeedback, 360 feedback, and even the tricky unsolicited kind. We share personal stories about how feedback has shaped us, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of embracing it. Takeaways: - Feedback is essential for personal and professional growth. - The Johari window framework helps individuals understand their public, private, and hidden aspects. - Expanding the public arena and being open to feedback can lead to improved performance and relationships. - Giving and receiving feedback requires assertiveness, evidence, and respect. - Feedback should be based on behaviors and not personal attacks. - The book 'Difficult Conversations' is a valuable resource for handling feedback and difficult conversations. Feedback is essential for personal and professional growth. - Biofeedback is a technique that helps individuals control automatic body functions to improve their medical condition. - 360 feedback involves receiving feedback from multiple sources, including superiors, peers, and subordinates. - Unsolicited feedback can be valuable but should be given with caution and sensitivity. - As leaders, it is important to ask for feedback and create a culture of open communication. - Feedback can be challenging to receive, but it is a gift that can lead to self-improvement. - Feedback should be approached with curiosity and a willingness to consider its truth. - Managing emotions and staying grounded is crucial when receiving feedback. - Providing feedback requires empathy, understanding, and consideration of the recipient's readiness to receive it. - Feedback can be a catalyst for positive change and better relationships. More about Kevin: Kevin Oldham is an entrepreneur from Kansas City with businesses in management consulting and wellness. He founded Diffactory, a consultancy that helps small to mid-sized businesses grow and retain customers. Kevin also co-owns The Smoothie Shop & Supplements, offering quality nutrition products and supporting entrepreneurs. His latest venture, VUCA Fit™, helps business leaders find fulfillment in their work and life. Kevin is dedicated to growth and well-being in all his endeavors. More about Jose: Jose Eduardo Bolaños, a pioneer in coaching in Nicaragua, has over 10 years of experience as a change agent in more than 13 countries, helping leaders and entrepreneurs enhance their effectiveness and driving cultural transformations in organizations. As the first and only professional certified by the International Coaching Federation in Nicaragua, he has worked with hundreds of executives and business owners, influencing thousands through talks, courses, and seminars. Certified in Presence-Based Coaching, Jose focuses on full awareness for leadership growth and performance. He spent 5 years at El Laurel Leadership Center as a facilitator and trainer and has taught at universities including UNI/BID, the American University, and Thomas More University. Additionally, he has advised NGOs like Vital Voices Global, World Vision, and TechnoServe. Jose enjoys surfing and adventure sports, embodying his philosophy of integral development and exemplary leadership. More from Kevin: Instagram: thekevinoldham Facebook: koldhamKevinkc TikTok:koinkc LinkedIn: kevin oldham More from Jose: LinkedIn: joseeduardobolanos Instagram: jose_bolanos_unbreakable Facebook: Bolaños Jose More from Vuca Fit: Website: https://vucafit.com/ Facebook: vucafitlife Instagram: vuca_fit

Episode Notes

In this episode, Jose and I dive deep into the world of feedback—how to give it, how to receive it, and why it’s so crucial for our growth, both personally and professionally. We start by breaking down the Johari window, a powerful tool that helps us understand ourselves better. It’s made up of four key areas: 

Our chat highlights why expanding the public arena—what’s known and shared—is so important. It’s about being open, embracing feedback, and using it to enhance not just our performance but also our relationships. We also touch on the book Difficult Conversations, which is a game-changer when it comes to navigating those tough talks and giving meaningful feedback.

Throughout our conversation, we explore different types of feedback, like biofeedback, 360 feedback, and even the tricky unsolicited kind. We share personal stories about how feedback has shaped us, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of embracing it.

Takeaways:

More about Kevin: 

Kevin Oldham is an entrepreneur from Kansas City with businesses in management consulting and wellness. He founded Diffactory, a consultancy that helps small to mid-sized businesses grow and retain customers. Kevin also co-owns The Smoothie Shop & Supplements, offering quality nutrition products and supporting entrepreneurs. His latest venture, VUCA Fit™, helps business leaders find fulfillment in their work and life. Kevin is dedicated to growth and well-being in all his endeavors.

More about Jose: 

Jose Eduardo Bolaños, a pioneer in coaching in Nicaragua, has over 10 years of experience as a change agent in more than 13 countries, helping leaders and entrepreneurs enhance their effectiveness and driving cultural transformations in organizations. As the first and only professional certified by the International Coaching Federation in Nicaragua, he has worked with hundreds of executives and business owners, influencing thousands through talks, courses, and seminars. Certified in Presence-Based Coaching, Jose focuses on full awareness for leadership growth and performance. He spent 5 years at El Laurel Leadership Center as a facilitator and trainer and has taught at universities including UNI/BID, the American University, and Thomas More University. Additionally, he has advised NGOs like Vital Voices Global, World Vision, and TechnoServe. Jose enjoys surfing and adventure sports, embodying his philosophy of integral development and exemplary leadership.

More from Kevin: 

Instagram: thekevinoldham  

Facebook: koldhamKevinkc 

TikTok: koinkc   

LinkedIn: kevin oldham

More from Jose: 

LinkedIn: joseeduardobolanos

Instagram: jose_bolanos_unbreakable

Facebook: Bolaños Jose

More from Vuca Fit: 

Website: https://vucafit.com/

Facebook: vucafitlife  

Instagram: vuca_fit