🎙️ Join us as we explore how Bryan reset his own creative path, why he’s challenging decades of assumptions about how music works, and what it takes to make both sound and self truly alive again.

Despite all the achievement, including doubling her pay in just three years, she still felt empty. The answer was in the question she asked herself: "What does it really mean to be a winner?"

Now leading with "super love" (as her kids called it), she focuses to create spaces where people bring their whole selves to work. Remember: you don't need all the answers upfront. Your purpose emerges not despite challenges, but because of them.

The conversation takes us through J's journey from delivering groceries after her injury to founding Prototype Thinking Labs, where she's developed an approach to innovation that embraces uncertainty and experimentation. Her process breaks down the "hidden phase" of innovation—that crucial space between having an initial idea (10% confidence) and knowing exactly what to build (60% confidence). By accepting that you can only gain about 15-20% more confidence in one step, J shows how small, iterative experiments lead to breakthroughs that endless planning sessions never could

Perhaps most fascinating is how J applies her framework to personal reinvention. Whether you're navigating career transitions, exploring new business ideas, or adapting to technological disruption, her approach offers practical steps to move forward amid uncertainty. "You just have to design the way to exist that works for you, but be willing to be flexible about everything else and all of your other assumptions," she explains. This mindset — based on her own experience overcoming limitation — offers a powerful template for anyone facing change.

As the landscape of work continues to evolve, J's story reminds us that humans connecting with humans will never change—and that our adaptability may be our greatest strength. Her journey from brain injury to business innovation is more than inspiring; it's a masterclass in turning constraints into advantages and finding purpose through possibility.

Wondering how to navigate your own RESET moment? Listen now to discover how our biggest challenges lead to our greatest contributions.

Belinda Ephraim's journey embodies a masterclass in resilience, strategic reinvention, and challenging conventional wisdom. Growing up in Nigeria as the eldest of six children, Belinda's childhood was defined by both privilege and profound challenge. Sent to boarding school at age 10, she learned self-sufficiency by farming her own plot of land and carrying ten-gallon water containers when supplies ran short.

These early experiences forged a resilience that would become her superpower through life's unexpected twists. When political turmoil forced her family to flee Nigeria and seek asylum in America, Belinda's world changed overnight. From attending private school on her family's dime, she suddenly had to drop out of university and work three jobs at a Marriott hotel to support herself and help her parents. Rather than surrendering to circumstances, she strategically consolidated three positions within the same company and eventually pivoted to wealth management where CNBC sparked her fascination with investment banking.

The most compelling segment of our conversation challenges popular startup mythology. Drawing from her experience structuring over $37 billion in M&A deals and now raising $50 million for her deep tech venture fund TENSEUR Capital, Belinda boldly asserts that "venture capital is wrong for 90% of startups." She brilliantly illuminates why through the Atlassian case study – explaining how the company operated for eight years, reaching $58 million in revenue before taking venture money, allowing the founding team to maintain 75% ownership at IPO.

Whether you're building a business, navigating a career transition, or simply searching for inspiration, Belinda's story reminds us that our greatest strength often emerges from our deepest challenges. Subscribe, share, and join us next week for another transformative conversation on Reset with Tonya.

Named a 2025 Woman of Influence, Keshia shares how studying conflict, religion, and globalization — plus a chance meeting with her future husband — led her through roles in international development, AmeriCorps service, educational entrepreneurship, and eventually to her current position as Vice President at BDev Ventures. "The through line is probably a combination of service and learning," she explains, illuminating how these core values drive her work investing in B2B software companies at the late Series B to Series C stages.

The conversation explores how Keshia's founder experience provides her with deeper empathy for entrepreneurs, allowing her to ask different questions than colleagues with traditional finance backgrounds. "I've cried those tears," she admits, describing her approach to giving honest, constructive feedback to founders, even when the answer is no. Her insights on navigating different company cultures reveal how her global experiences trained her to quickly adapt to varied systems and organizational dynamics.

Beyond professional insights, Keshia and host Tonya Long discover delightful personal connections through their shared love of Airstreams, CrossFit, and comfortable yet uniquely stylish shoes. Their candid discussion about women's evolving roles in tech and venture capital highlights how Silicon Valley's culture has matured over the past decade, creating more opportunities for diverse leadership styles.

Connect with Keshia on LinkedIn to learn more about her investment approach and how BDEV Ventures provides systematic value to portfolio companies through their unique lead generation tools and operational expertise.

Explore how the future of leadership is being shaped by AI and the transition to distributed workforces. Morgan and I discuss why openness, transparency, and vulnerability are now crucial in building trust within organizations. AI is more than just a tool; it’s a collaborative partner that requires thoughtful management akin to human teams. Learn how adapting leadership styles and clear communication can help navigate the unknowns of integrating AI, embracing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in today’s dynamic work environment.

We also discuss deeply personal stories of resilience and adaptability, reflecting on how life's unexpected challenges shape us. From navigating significant medical crises within her family to blending spirituality with professional authenticity, we explore how personal and professional lives intertwine and inform each other. Finally, we ponder AI's potential to serve as a societal equalizer, promoting equity and bridging the tech divide. Tune in for an episode that offers a thoughtful exploration of leading through change and the ongoing transformation technology presents.

From Russia to America at 14, to climbing the AWS ladder, to finding deeper meaning after an unexpected career pivot— @anna.krasnykh.mba's journey proves that transitions aren't just disruptions, but gateways to growth.

Despite all the achievement, including doubling her pay in just three years, she still felt empty. The answer was in the question she asked herself: "What does it really mean to be a winner?"

Now leading with "super love" (as her kids called it), she focuses to create spaces where people bring their whole selves to work. Remember: you don't need all the answers upfront. Your purpose emerges not despite challenges, but because of them.

"In any loss, there's so much to be gained," Justin explains, offering a refreshing perspective on life's difficult transitions. Whether discussing job loss, relationship endings, or even the death of loved ones, he illuminates how these painful experiences create space for profound growth and new possibilities. His engineering background brings a unique analytical approach to emotional intelligence, making complex psychological concepts accessible even to the most logical minds.

The conversation takes fascinating turns as Justin and host Tonya explore the liberation that comes from releasing rigid identities, finding your authentic tribe, and the surprising power of curiosity as a pathway to joy. For listeners feeling trapped by success or struggling with transitions, Justin offers a simple yet transformative three-part breathing practice that can create immediate shifts in emotional state.

Perhaps most compelling is Justin's vision for technology as our servant rather than our master. "The role of technology should be to serve us however we desire, period," he states with refreshing clarity, challenging listeners to reclaim their agency in an increasingly digital world.

Whether you're navigating loss, seeking greater emotional balance, or simply curious about different paths to fulfillment, this episode offers practical wisdom and heartfelt inspiration. Connect with Justin on social media as Justin Wink, PhD or visit justinwenck.com for free resources including guided meditations and information about his book "Engineered to Love."

On this week’s RESET, I sit down with Enoch Allotey — a strategist, attorney, and healthcare innovation leader whose life story spans Ghana and the United States, ancient traditions and emerging technologies, deep cultural roots and forward-looking AI strategy.

Enoch’s journey is remarkable: • Raised in Ghana as the only Christian family in a Muslim neighborhood • Trained in biology, reverse-engineering medicines in a lab • Inspired into IP law after overhearing one conversation • Advancing global health access through policy, data, and AI • Continuing to anchor his purpose in community, family, and faith

We talk about how communal societies naturally absorb AI as a connector — while more individualistic cultures risk using it as a divider. We explore Ghana’s rise as the world’s leader in mobile-money adoption, and how that same spirit could shape the future of AI-driven healthcare, education, and access.

Enoch reminds us that technology amplifies what already exists: If a society values connection, AI enhances it. If a society prizes individualism, AI accelerates that too.

His message is clear, powerful, and deeply grounding:

AI won’t determine the future. Culture will. And each of us has a role in choosing which cultural values we embed in the systems we build.

This conversation filled me up. I think it will do the same for you. RESET with Tonya J. Long — Where Purpose Meets Possibility.

Throughout the podcast episode, Matt demonstrates how profound connections are formed when we simply see each other. It's through understanding and honoring each other's journeys and legacies that respect, the highest form of love, is born. Matt's latest project, "Somewhere in Montana," enriches this narrative by portraying characters who must bridge their differences. It’s a story reflecting life’s intricate balance of embracing our legacy while honoring others.

This connection to others, this sense of community and mentorship, is key to Matt's story. Whether selling homes or sharing screens with actors like Graham McTavish, Matt is driven by more than just career success; he is fueled by the vision of leaving behind impactful stories that resonate across time. This is what sets him apart — a man on a dual career path, unyielding in his dream yet rooted in reality, constantly seeking ways to blend the two.

Matt's path is illuminated by his passion and dedication, peppered with the wisdom from the legacy of his grandma. His compelling story is a reminder for all of us: to be open to life’s resets, to embrace our dreams with pragmatic vigour, and above all, to see the person in front of us. After all, there is immense power and transformation in the pure act of truly connecting, of telling stories that matter.

Matt Drago’s life exemplifies that transformation isn’t a destination but an ongoing, beautiful adventure. So, much like Matt, let’s keep exploring what's possible.

Our paths crossed through a Pomeranian named Sushi, but our connection deepened through shared values about leadership, wisdom, and purpose. Piyush opens up about his 15-year mindfulness journey that began with watching his grandmother meditate in lotus position as a child. This foundation shaped his approach to technology leadership at IBM Watson and beyond, where he learned to see the goodness in people's souls instead of only their professional capabilities.

The conversation takes fascinating turns through the evolution of AI – from Watson defeating humans at Jeopardy to today's transformative applications. As someone who witnessed AI's commercial birth, Piyush dismisses fears that it will end humanity. Instead, he envisions technology eliminating mundane tasks to elevate our uniquely human qualities: "The future of work will be more human-centric than people expect."His work transforming the American Society of Engineers of Indian Origin from virtually no gender diversity to chapters with over 50% women leaders demonstrates his commitment to inclusion. This same dedication drives his mentorship of young people, which has grown from annual talks to weekly engagements with students who lack adequate guidance.

It's very interesting to understand Piyush's holistic perspective on success. While technically brilliant, he thinks about being creative again (painting) and recently joined a drum circle to nurture his artistic side. "Embrace your wholeness, bring your whole self to work," he advises, revealing that authenticity trumps perfection in both leadership and life.

For anyone navigating today's rapidly changing technological landscape while seeking deeper meaning, Piyush's wisdom offers a refreshing north star. Follow his journey on LinkedIn and discover how treating failures as "stepping stones to the next big success" might be the reset you've been looking for in your own path.

Matt Drago's story is a testament to living with passion. His career pivot from Virginia's local theaters to New York's vibrant stages and eventually to Los Angeles's film sets is driven by his unyielding love for storytelling. Every step of his journey reinforces the notion that passion isn't just an internal drive; it's a life's mission, reflecting Matt's dedication to crafting stories that deeply resonate with audiences.

The Resets We Embrace: Finding Courage in Change

One of the most moving aspects of Matt's journey is his willingness to embrace life's resets, however challenging they may be. Leaving his comfort zone in Virginia, being mentored by influential figures, and boldly transitioning to Los Angeles are decisions marked by courage and hope for a brighter future. These resets highlight the broader message that change, though daunting, can lead us to unimagined possibilities.

🎙️ Join us this Thursday at 11:00 AM PT on KPCR 92.9FM (or kpcr.org). We’ll explore how Bryan reset his own creative path, why he’s challenging decades of assumptions about how music works, and what it takes to make both sound and self truly alive again.

On this week’s episode of RESET with Tonya J. Long, I’m joined by Joyce Li — CEO and Chief AI Strategist at Averanda Partners, former multi-billion-dollar portfolio manager, and co-author of the AI Governance Playbook.

Joyce brings extraordinary insight into how finance leaders are adapting to an AI-driven world — and how governance, ethics, and continuous learning can turn experience into innovation.

We talk about courage in career transitions, translating expertise across disciplines, and why wisdom is the ultimate differentiator in leadership.

Tune in for a grounded, forward-looking conversation about purpose, transformation, and the human side of AI.

Igor shares the fascinating story of arriving in California at 17 and experiencing culture shock—not from language barriers alone, but from the overwhelming abundance of consumer choices that Americans take for granted. This experience taught him patience and deep listening skills that later became invaluable in his business pursuits. His early introduction to computers, sparked by his nuclear scientist father, ignited a passion for technology that evolved from playing rudimentary games to building websites through sheer determination and experimentation.

The conversation takes a profound turn when Igor discusses his entrepreneurial philosophy. Having learned from multiple "failed" startups, he advocates for testing ideas in the market before investing significant resources. "Don't build it and hope they'll come," he advises. "Have conversations first, secure pre-commitments, even if small, to validate demand." This practical wisdom applies universally, whether launching a product or service.

As our discussion explores networking, Igor challenges conventional thinking about connections. Quality trumps quantity, he argues, and effective introductions require understanding mutual value exchange between parties. His guiding principle — "be a giver, not a taker" — resonates throughout his approach to business relationships and content creation.

Looking toward the future, Igor offers a bold prediction: AI will fundamentally change how businesses scale, allowing entrepreneurs to reach seven to nine figures with fewer employees than ever before. This isn't just theoretical—he's seeing it happen already. No matter what your situation is, Igor's journey offers valuable insights on resilience, strategic thinking, and embracing possibility.

CONNECT WITH IGOR 🎤

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/igorkrasnykh/
• Website: http://technweb.com

This episode reveals how Mike began programming an Atari 2600 at age 10 and recognized something profound that would shape his career: "I could teach one person to do a job, or I could write a program that does the work of a thousand people." This insight led him through decades of innovation, from automating restaurant systems to developing cryptography for the armed forces.

Mike focuses on what he calls "the end of the digital dark ages" - building AI agents that genuinely represent human interests instead of corporate goals. He explains how in the near future, each of us will have dozens or hundreds of digital agents working on our behalf, negotiating with other agents, filtering information, and arranging meaningful human connections. But this future depends on something critical that few are discussing: trust protocols that allow agents to securely identify and authenticate each other.

Mike is also building "The Decelerator" at an 1838 ranch where technologists reconnect with analog skills like milling lumber, cooking over open fires, and engaging in deep fireside conversations. This beautiful counterbalance to our digital lives reminds us that true innovation will serve human connection, not replace it. Mike's philosophy is captured in his guiding principle: "Live long and prosper." He believes technology should extend our lives and enhance our well-being while giving us more time for authentic human experiences and nature. As he puts it, "If we embrace technology in the correct way, with it being benevolent to us, it'll give us more time to be human and to talk to each other in real life."

CONNECT WITH MIKE 👨🏼‍🌾

• "Agentic Profile" Blog: https://www.agenticprofile.ai/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-prince-7713/

CONNECT WITH RESET 🎙️

• Podcast: https://www.reset-podcast.com
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyajlong-RESET
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reset-with-tonya
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resetwithTonya
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570923056203

CONNECT WITH TONYA 🚊

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyajlong/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyajlong
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonya.j.long/

#thejourneyisthejob

We’ll explore:

🔹 Why productive dialogue—not just algorithms—will shape AI’s next chapter

🔹 How “perspective economics” could redefine value in society

🔹 The role of storytelling in preparing leaders and communities for the future

Tune in Thursday on KPCR 92.9FM (streaming online at kpcr.org) for a conversation about technology, culture, and the choices we make as we design tomorrow.

During our conversation, Shaun reveals the genesis of his "TeamFlow Architecture" methodology and forthcoming book "Teamware." Born from frustration watching executives perpetually stuck in crisis management, Shaun developed a system that helps leaders and teams simultaneously grow while doing their actual work. "There was no regular structure in place to develop leaders and teams simultaneously on the work they're actually working on," he explains, highlighting how organizations meticulously maintain their hardware and software while neglecting the human systems connecting them.

What makes Shaun's approach unique is how he draws wisdom from seemingly unrelated domains. His jiu-jitsu practice taught him humility and camaraderie through physical challenge, especially meaningful after years battling chronic pain. "It pushes every single button about your own insecurities," he says of the martial art. "Anybody who's got a fragile ego doesn't last." This physical practice becomes a metaphor for leadership development — showing up consistently, embracing vulnerability, and growing through challenge.

Perhaps most striking is Shaun's photography work in Calcutta. His story about a woman who initially refused to be photographed until she could dress properly reveals a profound leadership lesson: "I wanted to see her, but she wanted to be seen how she wanted to be seen." This insight directly applies to organizational dynamics, where assumptions and misunderstandings often stem from failing to truly see people as they wish to be seen.

Today’s guest, Ofelia Ferere, is a true force of resilience and reinvention. From starting as a salon receptionist to becoming a trailblazing plus-size model, and now founder of Beauté Bar in Los Gatos, Ofelia’s journey is all about bold pivots, second chances, and redefining beauty from the inside out.

We talked about wellness as self-love, the power of biohacking longevity, and what it means to overcome setbacks with courage and purpose. Her story is a powerful reminder that beauty, bravery, and resilience are deeply connected.

🎙️ Tune in on KPCR 92.9 FM and stream the episode to hear how Ofelia built her path—and how she’s inspiring others to love themselves better every single day.

Reena’s story begins with a forced pause: a health crisis in 2018 that introduced her to the realities of burnout. That reset — compounded by becoming an empty nester during COVID — sparked a bold question: What if I built a place that felt like paradise, not just for vacations, but for every day?

Today, Amara is that vision realized: a 7,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor space designed to let your shoulders drop the moment you walk in. With custom scents, curated textures, and garden views, Reena has fused design, hospitality, and wellness into something rare: a dining experience that feels like a reset for your nervous system.

Along the way, you’ll hear candid stories — from guests who requested Amara’s food as their last meal, to local jazz bands being invited to play brunch sets, to the membership club that gives regulars a sense of home and belonging.

As Reena puts it, hospitality today isn’t about Instagram perfection, it’s about authentic storytelling and human connection. Her journey is a reminder that resets aren’t endings, they’re remixes that blend old strengths with new purpose.

· Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more!

#thejourneyisthejob

From his early days in Silicon Valley when "the gods still walked the earth" (as he describes Hewlett and Packard) to his role as CIO for the City of Santa Rosa, Eric has always sought meaningful work that makes a tangible difference. This search for purpose eventually led him to assume leadership of the 18,000-member Airstream Club International, where he faced the delicate challenge of modernizing a beloved institution while preserving its cherished traditions.

In this wide-ranging conversation on RESET with Tonya, from the beautiful coastline of Half Moon Bay, Eric reveals the leadership principles that guided his success. He shares how he deliberately expanded the club's inclusivity by establishing new groups for single women travelers and LGBTQ+ members. He discusses the art of change management — knowing when to push forward and when to step back, always keeping focused on the "quiet majority" rather than the vocal few.

What emerges is a masterclass in community building. Eric describes the sense of family that develops among Airstreamers, creating what the company calls "brand stickiness" — a connection so strong that people remain loyal to Airstream because leaving would mean losing their community. As he transitions to focus on local impact through environmental protection and STEM education initiatives, Eric reflects on finding balance in an increasingly AI-driven world and the enduring importance of genuine human connection.

For anyone navigating career transitions, building inclusive communities, or simply seeking more meaningful connections, Eric's journey offers valuable wisdom about leading with authenticity, embracing change, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed.

We talked about improv (yes, improv!) and how those who can think outside the tech box bring nuance, curiosity, and wisdom to the conversations about the change AI is driving. Joyce’s path proves the point — moving from engineering to managing billions in high-end finance, and now into thought leadership around AI’s impact on business, governance, and society.

One of my favorite moments? Hearing how her father, an engineer, taught himself computer programming in his 40s — and taught Joyce the value of troubleshooting from a young age. That mindset — “everything in life is a problem waiting to be solved with your current tools, and those tools can change” — has been her compass through every pivot.

Another favorite moment was when our discussion detoured to a quick "admiration moment" regarding East Coast-based colleague Andrea Bonime-Blanc, a powerhouse of a human. It's wonderful when detours find their way to recognizing people who hold such deep respect with such broad communities, and it's a great reflection to experience how, once again, AI has closed the gap previously supported by distance and industry vertical. (Andrea - your little cameo occurs at 46:55 in the full video.)

Joyce's approach to AI board governance is as sharp as her troubleshooting skills, tackling the mismatch between rapid tech advances and slow oversight cycles with a framework that keeps leaders focused on alignment, talent, and risk guardrails. And in the financial world, she’s watching traditionally cautious CFO organizations slash month-end closes from 10 days to just three by putting trust, process, and risk management in place.

It's no wonder Joyce has become a bridge-builder between technology, strategy, and human potential. Yes, and 🎭... her blend of analytical rigor and improv-inspired openness is exactly what leadership needs right now.

In this mind-expanding conversation, Jesse shares his remarkable journey from starting his first construction business at 17 to becoming a pioneer in AI systems that augment human capabilities. With refreshing clarity and zero hype, he explains how he discovered the power of AI when an employee secretly used ChatGPT to complete a six-week process in just four days.

Jesse introduces his vision for Ruh.ai – an operating system for digital labor that allows anyone to build sophisticated AI workflows through natural conversation. Want your email organized into urgency quadrants with draft responses prepared twice daily? Simply ask, and your new digital employee gets to work.

The most powerful insight comes through Jesse's construction metaphor: "Inside your company right now, probably 80% of what you do is a waste of time... it is moving dirt." This dirt-moving – necessary but intrinsically valueless work – is precisely what AI should handle, freeing humans to focus on vision, curation, and meaningful connection.

Unlike many technologists, Jesse balances technological enthusiasm with deep respect for human relationships. He warns about the dangers of synthetic relationships and celebrates how younger generations are returning to authentic human connections after seeing the damage of social media.

Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just beginning to explore AI, Jesse's practical wisdom and clear examples will transform how you think about the future of work. The question isn't if digital labor will transform your industry – it's whether you'll be part of shaping that transformation.

CONNECT WITH JESSE 🦾

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesseanglen/
• Website: https://www.rapidinnovation.io/
• Website: https://ruh.ai/

Check out my bestselling book, "AI and the New Oz: Leadership’s Journey to the Future of Work" available on Amazon [https://a.co/d/aTBJmEr]. Go to the "AI and the New Oz" website at https://www.ai-and-the-new-oz.com/ to learn more!

#thejourneyisthejob