Greg Melia emphasizes that empathy and curiosity are the foundation of effective customer experience (CX). He believes that organizations must design systems proactively—through tools like journey mapping and predictive analytics—rather than relying solely on reactive fixes. Melia highlights the importance of understanding customer motivations and aligning internal operations to consistently deliver value across all touchpoints. He also stresses the need for cross-functional collaboration and leadership that models CX priorities. When hiring, Melia looks for individuals who demonstrate storytelling ability, problem-solving, and ownership—key traits for driving cultural transformation. His approach reinforces the idea that sustainable CX excellence requires intentional system design, emotionally intelligent talent, and unified leadership around customer-centric goals. About Greg Melia At the helm of CXPA, my focus revolves around championing the global customer experience profession through strategic communications and community building, honed over five transformative years in leadership. Our organization thrives on CX certification, publications, and community that empower customer experience professionals to excel. Resources Customer Experience Professional Association: https://www.cxpa.org/home https://www.cxpa.org/home Please, hit the follow button: Apple Podcast: http://cxgoalkeeper.com/apple Spotify: http://cxgoalkeeper.com/spotify We’d love to hear your thoughts — leave a comment and share your feedback! Follow Gregorio Uglioni on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregorio-uglioni/ About Gregorio Uglioni: Transforming Business Into Value Generating Engines - Creating Long-Lasting Impact Leveraging Customer Experience - Host Of The Globally Recognized CX Goalkeeper Podcast “Customer Experience Goals” - Speaker at global events & at podcasts - Judge at International Awards - CX Lecturer for several institutions Listen to more podcasts on The Agile Brand network here: https://agilebrandguide.com/the-agile-brand-podcasts/…
"Frolic and Detour," hosted by Sergio Gregorio, explores the journeys of individuals who, through honest reflection and bold decisions, have embraced their own pivots in pursuit of purpose.
"Frolic and Detour," hosted by Sergio Gregorio, explores the journeys of individuals who, through honest reflection and bold decisions, have embraced their own pivots in pursuit of purpose.
Roxanne Richards, Ph.D. didn’t start her journey in mental health—she found her way there after exploring several different careers, each one bringing her a step closer to her true purpose. In this episode of 𝐹𝘳𝑜𝘭𝑖𝘤 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘋𝑒𝘵𝑜𝘶𝑟, she opens up about that winding path and the powerful lessons she’s learned along the way. We talk about the lasting emotional impact of COVID-19, the rising rates of trauma, and why so many people—especially in communities of color—are now recognizing the need for therapy. Dr. Richards shares her thoughts on when it’s okay to seek therapy privately, and when it might be more helpful to bring loved ones into the process. Dr. Richards also discusses the work she’s doing through her YouTube channel to make mental health conversations more accessible and relatable. Whether you’re feeling stuck, curious about therapy, or just in need of a little inspiration, this conversation is for you.…
Tomika Arnold was once deep in the world of IT, telecom, and accounting — until her true calling started humming beneath the surface. Now a full-time singer based in Washington, D.C., Tomika brings more than a voice to the stage — she brings 𝑝𝘶𝑟𝘱𝑜𝘴𝑒. In this episode of 𝐹𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑐 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐷𝑒𝑡𝑜𝑢𝑟, she shares how she made the bold leap from corporate cubicles to center stage, performing at weddings, funerals, engagement parties, and everything in between. Tomika sees her gift not just as talent, but as ministry — a way to comfort grieving families, celebrate love, and stir the soul. She’s worked with legends like Stevie Wonder, Beyoncé, and even the Kennedy Center Honors. And she doesn’t shy away from tough questions: Can Christians sing secular love songs? Should artists collaborate or create in isolation? What does it mean to move prophetically through music? Whether you’re a creative in transition or simply love a story about stepping into purpose, Tomika’s journey will inspire you to find 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 voice — and use it.…
In this episode of 𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑫𝒆𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒓, I sit down with Jeff Lindor, founder of 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐺𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛'𝑠 𝐹𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦--a transformative space for men of color to connect, grow, and build legacy.Recorded in Brooklyn, New York, this conversation dives into Jeff's journey from Coney Island to creating a thriving professional community in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Jeff opens up about the early challenges of keeping the Gentleman's Factory afloat and staying personally grounded while building something bigger than himself.We talk about the power of community in combatting isolation and bias, and Jeff shares how the Gentleman's Factory has become a hub where men gather to network, get inspired, watch games, and even grab a haircut.Most importantly, Jeff discusses the legacy he hopes to leave behind--and his bold mission to expand this model of intentional brotherhood across the country and around the world.…
Jamie Richards-Linton once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian in Jamaica—but her path shifted when she discovered her love for helping people organize. She began her journey organizing for Black immigrants, leaving a lasting imprint at 𝑈𝑛𝑑𝑜𝑐𝑢𝐵𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑘 𝑁𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑘 and on the landscape of immigration justice. Today, Jamie works behind the scenes helping bold, first-of-their-kind organizations build structure, clarity, and intention. In this episode, we talk about the power of family, being led by God, the quiet resilience it takes to chart a new course, and what it means to support others in starting something that’s never been done before.…
Josh Wilcox grew up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, dreaming in beats and broadcast waves. From early days working with hip-hop artists to a corporate chapter at Comcast, Josh’s path was anything but linear. Now a podcasting expert and proud studio owner in Brooklyn, he’s built a business helping others find their voice—literally. In this episode, Josh shares how he turned his love for sound into a full-fledged career, the lessons he’s learned mentoring new creators, and what it takes to succeed in the ever-evolving podcasting space. We talk entrepreneurship, creative pivots, and why control over your own mic might just be the most powerful move of all.…
Iris Bodre didn’t follow a straight path to the classroom. Before becoming a writing professor at St. John’s University in New York, she worked in crisis counseling, fundraising, and even at a hedge fund. A Brooklyn writing group helped reignite her passion for writing, ultimately leading to a faculty position and the creation of her student-focused e-book, 𝐸𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑒𝑟 𝐸𝑠𝑠𝑎𝑦𝑠. In this episode, Iris shares how she turned lived experience into a teaching tool and why she believes writing is a craft that should be accessible and inclusive. Raised in a family of educators, and once aspiring to be a surgeon, Iris now helps students find their voice through the written word. Her journey is one of rediscovery, purpose, and creative return.…
What happens when the path you planned doesn’t pan out? Kyla Denanyoh—law school grad, podcast host, and creative entrepreneur—faced that question head-on after not passing the bar exam. In this episode, Kyla shares how she transformed a moment of uncertainty into a powerful pivot, launching 𝑌𝑜𝑢 𝐴𝑟𝑒 𝐴 𝐿𝑎𝑤𝑦𝑒𝑟, a podcast that celebrates curiosity and nontraditional legal careers. She discusses how her worker mindset fueled her journey as a business owner, helping others grow their podcasts and scale their brands. With honesty and insight, Kyla breaks down why being an employee feels safe—but building your own thing can unlock your full value. Her story is a bold reminder that there’s more than one way to use a law degree—and more than one way to define success.…
In 2004, Marjorie Vail gave birth to her son, Alexsei, who was stillborn. Devastated and depressed, she questioned her purpose and distanced herself from her pregnant friends—only to help one deliver her baby just two months later. Volunteering with New York Cares became her path to healing. Now a trauma therapist, Ph.D. student, and co-founder of Push for Empowered Pregnancy, Marjorie supports families impacted by stillbirth and pregnancy loss, especially women of color who face higher risks. She’s also a former Mrs. New York International, Mrs. Brooklyn America, and Mrs. New York American. This episode explores grief, service, and how one woman turned personal tragedy into powerful advocacy.…
Laurent Amzallag is living his dream—part fitness guru, part stand-up comic, and all heart. In this episode, the Montreal-born founder of FlexPods shares how a near-death childhood illness, including a collapsed lung and multiple infections, shaped his lifelong devotion to movement and health. Laurent’s story moves from hospital beds to the Dr. Oz Show, from Oprah’s 𝐿𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑌𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝐵𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝐿𝑖𝑓𝑒 Tour to the comedy stage. He believes fitness should feel like a celebration, not a chore—and that laughter belongs in every workout and every life. We talk about overcoming rejection, finding joy in service, and what it takes to stay energized while chasing multiple passions. Whether you’re into reps or punchlines, Laurent’s approach will leave you feeling inspired—and smiling.…
Davon Harris isn't your typical law school graduate. Before entering the legal profession, Davon battled a storm of mental health challenges, identity struggles, and even served time for arson. In this powerful episode, Daven opens up about the years he spent searching for purpose--from dropping out of school and navigating paranoia to ultimately reclaiming his future through law. His story is a bold reminder that redemption is possible, and sometimes, the best advocates are forged in fire.…
In part two of my conversation with artist and Instagram sensation LaNia Roberts, I explore how a simple weather report on Snapchat turned into a movement of joy and self-expression. LaNiya opens up about her journey from being bullied and feeling invisible to becoming a beloved voice on campus--and now a celebrated artist with over 300,000 followers. LaNiya shares how fame initially triggered old wounds, and how she transformed visibility into power, purpose, and paint. This is a story about resilience, creativity, and learning to shine no matter the forecast.…
In part one of this powerful two-part series, artist and Louisville, KY native LaNia Roberts opens up about the early chapters of her journey--before the likes, the followers, and the viral fame. At just 15, LaNiya struggled deeply with self-image and acceptance, often moved to tears by her reflection. Now known for her striking two-panel paintings that bridge duality, LaNiya explains how art helped her find dimension in a world that tried to flatten her. As her Instagram following soared into the tens of thousands, she faced an unexpected backlash that made her question everything. One night, overwhelmed by online hate, LaNiya prayed to be released from it all--and woke up saying she had been "hacked by Jesus." This is the raw, remarkable beginning of a story about healing, visibility, and redefining beauty.…