305: Love—Commitment and Resilience in Caregiving, Loss, and Grief

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Guest

Jarie Bolander is an engineer by training, an entrepreneur by nature, and a leader by endurance. He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering and an MBA in Technology Management. Jarie has been managing engineers and scientists for over 20 years and is an inventor or co-inventor on over ten patents. He blogs about innovation, leadership, management, and entrepreneurship at http://www.thedailymba.com.

Powered by a steady dose of locally crafted espresso, Jarie loves nothing more than to figure out how to explain complex things in clear and compelling ways. My goal is to help build a more ethical, inclusive, and resilient world by educating and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs—be they 18 or 80.

Summary

This episode explores the importance of storytelling in business communication and life. Inspired by his late wife Jane's spirit, Jarie delves into the importance of narratives that inspire action. The discussion weaves in Jarie’s experience supporting organizations in crafting impactful stories, highlighting a common challenge faced by businesses and non-profits alike.

The episode takes a poignant turn as Jarie recounts his marriage to Jane, their life together, and the profound impact of her leukemia diagnosis. Their relationship transformed from spouse to caregiver and patient, demanding immense resilience and commitment. Jarie reflects on the significance of their vows in the face of such hardship while acknowledging the initial struggle to ask for help and prioritize self-care amidst overwhelming circumstances.

Through Jane's illness and eventual passing, Jarie grapples with grief and the preciousness of life. He shares his own challenges in seeking support. The conversation explores the healing power of therapy alongside the enduring comfort of unconditional love and support from loved ones.

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Referenced

Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder

Stuart: A Life Backwards

Diane Wyzga - the origin story


About Jeff

Jeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co). He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing. Prior to his career in educational publishing, Jeff taught high school U.S. history and government.

Jeff has hosted the “Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity” podcast for 5 years. The guests and topics he explores are designed to help listeners think differently about the familiar and welcome the new as something to consider. He is also the co-host of the Cultivating Resilience – A Whole Community Approach to Alleviating Trauma in Schools, which promotes mental health and overall wellness.

Jeff co-authored Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change. Shifting integrates leadership development and change mechanics in a three-part change framework to help guide school leaders and their teams toward productive change.


Show Credits

"Getting Unstuck" is commercial-free. It’s brought to you by Jeff Ikler, his amazing guests, and Neil Hughes, the best engineer a podcaster could ask for.

"Getting Unstuck" theme music: Original composition of "Allegro ben ritmato e deciso" by George Gershwin. Arrangement and recording courtesy of Bruno Lecoeur.

Jeff Ikler