Update from Stacey

I’ve mentioned before that I enjoy a variety of podcasts, many of which are not work related. Freakonomics often has surprising connections to work. If you are looking for some broad context on the state of higher education, concerned about the expense of college, or just like to learn stuff, I highly recommend the Freakonomics back to school collection, which is a selection of re-broadcasted episodes all about higher ed. Listening to a good podcast helps me sit through the construction all around campus while transitioning from work to home. If you have any podcast recommendations, share them with me at tidball@umn.edu.

Update from Stacey

I listen to podcasts regularly as a way to make my commute more pleasant and a recent one used the phrase “productive discomfort” as a way of talking about work conflict. The phrase in the episode crystallized the difference between conflict for the sake of arguing versus approaching difficult conversations with the goal of productive resolution. I’ve been thinking about productive discomfort ever since.

My job often involves stepping into difficult situations. Sometimes I am overwhelmed by the uncomfortable nature of that work, but it’s been helpful to think about it in terms of a necessary step on the way to a productive resolution. I also have been thinking about the phrase in terms of learning new skills and putting us outside of our comfort zone. I appreciate how often this work has provided opportunities for that growth and change.

Are you a podcast listener? What are your favorites? Send me recommendations! My current favorites are No Stupid Questions and Anderson Cooper’s All There Is.

The next issue of News & Notes will be in January after a short break for University Holidays. Be well and I hope you have some enjoyable days off!