The Work Wound Institute™ (WWInstitute) is pleased to announce the launch of its initial research effort aimed at understanding the impact of work wounds and chronic, unrelenting stress on individuals in the workplace and its physical manifestations. As part of this research, the WWInstitute is calling for the submission of personal stories from those who have experienced work wounds related to stress.

Life can feel overwhelming. Every headline seems designed to stress us out, and some days it feels like the hits just keep coming. That’s where Stoicism comes in. Bree explores how its core principles, focusing on what we can control and letting go of the rest, can help us find calm in the middle of the chaos. It’s about grounding ourselves, clearing out the noise, and putting our energy where it actually matters.

In a refreshing new series titled Dear Untamed Work Wife, Bree opens the floor to a range of workplace dilemmas, offering a thoughtful and holistic approach to solving them. This concept embraces the idea of a "work wife," someone you confide in at work for advice, but with an "untamed" twist. It's about freeing yourself from the constraints of conventional workplace dynamics and exploring authentic, heart-led solutions. Bree encourages her listeners to bring their unspeakable workplace questions out of the shadows, aiming to address them with vulnerability and honesty. This episode kicks off with a letter from "Angry in Alabama," who grapples with the best way to express their true feelings to a difficult boss without risking job security.

Bree candidly shares the overwhelming feelings that have surfaced as she embarks on her podcasting journey. Receiving an outpouring of love and support is both thrilling and intimidating—a sentiment many of us face in various life aspects. Identifying as women, professionals, or parents, we often struggle to ask for help or accept praise, conditioned by societal expectations and internalized beliefs.

Bree reflects on the often-celebrated notion of "pulling yourself up by your bootstraps." Through her journey, she's learned to embrace vulnerability and seek help, challenging her instincts to do everything alone. The magic of her community lies in their ability to uplift each other, highlighting the strength in unity rather than solitary struggles.

As leaders and teams across organizations yearn to return to a pre-pandemic normal, Bree delves into why this "normal" may no longer serve us. The pandemic not only changed where we work but heightened our need for a reassessment of what work means. Bree explores the "pandemic hangover," a term she uses to describe the residual impacts on our work setups and the societal mishandling of major historical learnings.

Laura Berman Fortgang shares her journey from aspiring Broadway actress to renowned life coach. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose—a testament to the power of embracing the unknown and stepping into new possibilities. Laura defines the "untamed mind" as the part of us that often veers towards negativity. Taming these thoughts involves cultivating self-discipline and not believing everything our inner critic tells us. It’s about moving from self-doubt and comparison to self-awareness and empowerment.

On the Untamed Mind podcast, we explore the pivotal role storytelling plays in clarifying our personal missions and organizational goals. Together we unpack the conversation between our host, Bree Johnson, and guest expert, Alex Street—an aficionado in storytelling and brand communication.

This holiday season, we also want to shine a light on the incredible local service providers who enrich our lives and communities. From personal care to real estate, photography, and home services, these professionals deliver the expertise and care that make life more beautiful, convenient, and memorable.

This holiday season, consider giving a gift that doesn’t just fill a moment but creates a lasting impact. Courses, coaching, and communities are gifts of growth—empowering individuals to unlock their potential, achieve their goals, and connect with like-minded people. Whether you’re shopping for an entrepreneur, a creative, or someone seeking personal transformation, these offerings deliver unmatched value.

Books are a timeless gift—offering wisdom, escape, and inspiration all in one. Whether you’re shopping for someone’s personal growth journey, fueling their entrepreneurial spirit, or simply giving the gift of a good story, the right book can make an unforgettable impact. Here’s a thoughtfully curated list of books to enhance wellbeing, spark creativity, and provide joy this holiday season.

The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on the importance of wellbeing—for yourself and your loved ones. In a world that's constantly on the go, giving gifts that create moments of connection, self-care, and healing can be a profound way to show your love. This year, consider wellbeing-focused gifts and services from small businesses that provide the tools and experiences to support a healthier, more balanced life.