Lisa Fain: Building Developmental Networks & The Courage to Ask for Help

#78: In this conversation, Lisa Fain discusses the concept of developmental networks and the role of courage in creating intentional learning relationships. She emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and reciprocity in mentoring relationships, and how these elements contribute to personal and professional growth. Lisa also shares insights on navigating career transitions, the significance of identity, and the power of intentional connections in fostering a supportive environment for learning and development.

 

Key Topics:

• Developmental networks - intentional learning relationships for growth
• The courage to ask - being the first mover and requesting what you need
• Effective mentoring elements - learning, reciprocity, and co-creation
• Common failures - "pair and pray" programs without structure
• Career transitions - leveraging networks during job searches
• Identity's role - how our lens shapes mentoring experiences

 

Standout Quotes:

"Impact isn't built alone."

"Everything is figureoutable, but everything is not figureoutable on your own."

"If you're gonna share your wisdom, make sure it ends with a question mark and not with a period."

 

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring Developmental Networks and Courage

10:06 The Importance of Community and Connection

19:59 Understanding Mentoring Relationships

30:12 Navigating Career Transitions and Identity

39:52 The Power of Intentional Connections

 

Key Takeaways:

1. Structure matters - Successful mentoring requires intentional frameworks
2. Mentees drive learning - Come prepared with specific goals
3. Reciprocity is real - Everyone has something valuable to offer
4. Think beyond hierarchy - Peer and reverse mentoring work too
5. Avoid "brain picking" - Be specific about what you want to learn

 

Get in touch with Lisa Fain:

• Website: http://www.centerformentoring.com
• TEDx Talk: "The Power of Intentional Connections in Your Career": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ4JEvEsO2c
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisazfain

 

Connect with The Courage Effect:

• Host: Suzanne Weller / Weller Collaboration
• Website: https://wellercollaboration.com/thecourageeffect
• Social Media: https://linktr.ee/suzanneweller
• Substack: Sign up for Suzanne’s Reimagine Growth newsletter at https://suzanneweller.substack.com/about