The Strengths Experiment with Heidi Convery

# Navigating Partnerships and Strengths in Everyday Life > Exploring the balance between advice and personal practice. On a day when the balloon races in Reno were canceled, Bill Dippel and his co-hosts Mary Hamm and Heidi Convery-Liscum dive into the importance of communication and partnership, reflecting on the advice they often give yet struggle to follow themselves. ## The Cancelled Balloon Races Bill kicks off the conversation with a light-hearted mention of the canceled balloon races, setting a casual tone for the episode.  > "Absolutely canceled. Cars are gone. Everyone has left." Mary expresses her disappointment, wondering if she should come out to Reno for the event, which adds a relatable touch to their conversation. Bill reassures her that there are plenty of activities planned, including shooting multiple podcasts and visiting Lake Tahoe. ## Furry Companions and Their Debuts The hosts also share moments of levity, introducing their pets into the mix. Mary talks about her dog, Roxy, who is known for snoring during recordings. > "She is a snorer, but she's quieter. I keep hitting her with my strengths journal thing." This banter about their pets adds a personal touch, creating an intimate atmosphere for listeners. ## The Challenge of Following Our Own Advice As the conversation shifts to personal growth, the hosts discuss a poignant question: what advice do they give others that they find difficult to follow themselves? Mary, a mental health therapist, reflects on the importance of building powerful partnerships, acknowledging her tendency to try and do things alone. > "I can do it all myself and I don't necessarily need other people...if we were to partner more...it could be even better." Bill and Heidi follow suit, sharing their own struggles with communication and the value of partnering with others to enhance their strengths. ## Strengths-Based Coaching Heidi, who transitioned from a university administrator to strengths-based coaching, shares her journey and the impact of CliftonStrengths on her professional life. She recounts her early experiences with the assessment during her time at Texas Tech, emphasizing the value it brought to her management style. > "I found a ridiculous amount of value in it." This reflection not only sheds light on the effectiveness of strengths coaching but also encourages listeners to consider their own approaches to partnership and collaboration in their personal and professional lives. --- In this episode, Bill, Mary, and Heidi candidly explore their own challenges in following the advice they give, opening up a dialogue about the importance of vulnerability and growth. As they navigate their roles as coaches and friends, listeners are invited to reflect on their own journeys and the power of partnership. Curious about how to build better relationships and leverage your strengths? Tune in to the full episode for more insights!