Best Tonya Weaver Podcasts (2025)

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Navigating Conflict for Neurodivergent Leaders 26:12

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3d ago26:12

26:12

In this episode, Tonya Weaver-Davis delves into the intersection of neurodivergent leadership and emotional intelligence. She discusses the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent leaders, particularly in navigating conflict and emotional responses. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment, managin…

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Emotional Intelligence: The Key to Effective Leadership 21:05

10d ago21:05

21:05

In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, Tonya Weaver explores the critical role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in the workforce, particularly in leadership and team dynamics. She emphasizes that EQ is not a soft skill but a vital component for effective communication, conflict resolution, and fostering a positive workplace culture. Tonya discusse…

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Why Hiring the Neurodivergent is Imperative: Now What and How to Build Culture (Part 4) 33:43

17d ago33:43

33:43

Hey pickle pals! Tonya here with the finale of our neurodiversity hiring series, and this one's packed with actionable strategies you can implement immediately. Over the past month, we've explored why neurodivergent talent is crucial for innovation, the unconscious biases blocking these brilliant minds, and the psychological safety needed for them …

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Why Hiring the Neurodivergent is Imperative: Impact of Biases (Part 3) 35:37

24d ago35:37

35:37

Hey pickle pals! I'm about to reveal the invisible force field keeping brilliant neurodivergent minds out of your workplace. Have you ever wondered why companies keep hiring the same types of thinkers despite claiming to value "innovation" and "outside-the-box thinking"? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the psychological shortcuts t…

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Why Hiring the Neurodivergent is Imperative and Heuristics Behind the Stigmas (Part 2) 33:20

1M ago33:20

33:20

Hey pickle pals! Tonya here, continuing our deep dive into why neurodivergent talent is essential for workplace innovation. In this second episode of our series, I'm tackling the unconscious biases that prevent neurodivergent professionals (like myself and maybe you!) from getting hired - despite our proven advantages in problem-solving and innovat…

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Why Hiring the Neurodivergent is Imperative (Part 1) 33:45

1M ago33:45

33:45

Hey pickle pals! Tonya here, kicking off an eye-opening four-part series that might just change how you see neurodivergent talent in the workplace. For years we have been overlooked or unwanted but in this series I am unpacking why that is. AND why that shouldn’t be the case. I share both research and real-world examples (including a fascinating hi…

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Neurodignity Dialogues: Panel Discussion on Self Regulation (Part 2) 34:59

1M ago34:59

34:59

In episode 52 of Inside the Pickle Jar, we mark podcast's one-year anniversary! This is part two of a discussion on Neurodignity and self-regulation. Topics include ADHD, emotional regulation, and various self-regulation strategies such as sensory recalibration and daily maintenance. If you’ve enjoyed any of my episodes oer the past year - I would …

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Neurodignity Dialogues: Panel Discussion on Self Regulation (Part 1) 28:45

2M ago28:45

28:45

I did a panel on self-regulation and it was so valuable I decided to share it with my Inside the Pickle Jar peeps! Please enjoy the first part of the panel, all about self-regulation. In the episode we get into how each of us handles self-regulation, including tips on how you can do it as well! Connect with the panelists: Dr. Ludmila Praslova Linke…

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High IQ, Slow Processing: The Hidden Link That Explains Your Neurodivergent Experience 17:27

2M ago17:27

17:27

Hey pickle pals! Tonya here with a revelation that explains SO much about the neurodivergent experience! In this landmark episode, I explore groundbreaking research connecting high IQ with processing differences - solving the mystery of why so many brilliant minds struggle with seemingly "simple" tasks. You'll discover: Why many high-IQ individuals…

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Navigating Financial Meetings at Work as a Neurodivergent Leader 24:44

2M ago24:44

24:44

Hey there, pickle pals! Today we're tackling something that makes many neurodivergent professionals break out in a cold sweat: financial conversations. In today's episode, I'm opening up about my own money-talk struggles as a neurodivergent leader and sharing the game-changing strategies that finally helped me thrive in these conversations. You'll …

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Emotional Intelligence in an AI World with Beth Grimm: EQ Series Pt. 4 28:34

2M ago28:34

28:34

Hey pickle pals! Tonya here with the FINALE of our emotional intelligence series - and it's a juicy one! I got the brilliant Beth Grimm again onto the Pickle Jar universe to tackle the burning question: in a world obsessed with AI, what makes neurodivergent minds irreplaceable? In this conversation, Beth and I explore: Why traditional EQ advice fai…

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Strategies to Improve Your Emotional Intelligence: EQ series Pt. 3 40:58

3M ago40:58

40:58

Hey picklers! Tonya here, and I'm about to get REAL about something that changed my life as a neurodivergent professional, and I bet it'll change yours too. Ever had that moment where everyone else seems to have gotten some secret social handbook you missed? Yeah, me too. That's why I'm OBSESSED with emotional intelligence, and today we're diving D…

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Emotional Intelligence and the Value it Provides: EQ Series Pt 2 26:48

3M ago26:48

26:48

We’re back Inside the Pickle Jar this week, and we’re still swimming around in emotional intelligence (EQ) because it deserves more than just one episode. In this conversation, I’m getting into: 🧠 Where EQ actually comes from (yes, there’s brain science behind it) 😤 Why managing emotional reactions isn’t about “being professional”—it’s about protec…

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EQ 101: Emotional Intelligence Series Kick Off 16:48

3M ago16:48

16:48

"What's your IQ?" might be a bit passé, but EQ (Emotional Intelligence) is your secret weapon for workplace success—especially when you're neurodivergent. In this episode, Tonya breaks down the often-misunderstood world of emotional intelligence for neurodivergent professionals. You'll discover: Why traditional EQ advice fails neurodivergent brains…

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Real Talk for Neurodivergent Leaders: What Happens After the Promotion? Pt. 2 with Cheryl Richoux-Torres 31:52

3M ago31:52

31:52

What happens after the promotion—when you’re neurodivergent, managing people, and trying to keep your executive function afloat? In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, I’m back with part two of my conversation with the incredible Cheryl Richoux-Torres—a neurodivergent tech leader and champion for inclusive workplaces. We go deeper into: - The em…

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Leveraging Neurodivergent Strengths in Leadership with Cheryl Richoux-Torres 33:04

4M ago33:04

33:04

In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, I sit down with Cheryl Richoux-Torres, a neurodivergent leader, innovator, and fierce advocate for inclusive workplaces. Cheryl opens up about her personal and professional journey: from feeling like a workhorse in the tech world to stepping into her full value through storytelling, confidence, and unapolog…

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Why Your Leg Bounce Drives Them Nuts: Stimming vs. Misokinesia 25:47

4M ago25:47

25:47

Ever catch yourself bouncing your leg, tapping a pen, or twisting your hair to self-soothe… only to notice someone next to you looking visibly irritated? 👀 Yeah. That might be misokinesia—when someone has a strong (usually negative) reaction to seeing repetitive movements. In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, I’m breaking down the clash betwee…

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Good Enough is Great: Mindfulness and Movement for ADHD & Autism, Part 2 with Dr. Freitag 26:55

4M ago26:55

26:55

In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, I’m back with the brilliant Dr. Corinna Freitag — an executive coach, scientist, and fellow neurodivergent brain — for part two of our conversation on calming the nervous system. This time, we’re talking about something that often gets overlooked in neurodivergent life: the power of movement and mindfulness…

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Calming Your Nervous System as an Autistic Person with Dr. Corinna Freitag 25:49

4M ago25:49

25:49

If you’re autistic like me, your nervous system probably feels like it’s running Windows 95 on dial-up... during a thunderstorm. In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, I’m joined by Dr. Corinna Freitag — executive coach, fellow autistic adult, and someone who knows a lot about turning down the inner chaos dial. We talk about: Why so many of us l…

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When Sitting Still Hurts: Diagnosed with ADHD at 37 with Sarah Sparkman 42:58

5M ago42:58

42:58

Okay, you know that moment when you realize ohhhhhh this brain isn’t broken—it’s just wired differently? Yeah, Sarah Sparkman had that moment at 37, when she was diagnosed with ADHD. And let me tell you, her story is one a lot of us will relate to. In this episode, I sit down with Sarah—who somehow manages to be a senior category advisor in dish ca…

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Why Corporate Culture Fails Neurodiverse Adults And What Needs to Change, Part 2 with Mark Michaelis 24:14

5M ago24:14

24:14

What happens when you hit burnout hard—and the workplace isn’t built to support you? In this episode, I’m continuing my conversation with the brilliant Mark Michaelis, a senior merchandising exec with 26 years in Fortune 500 companies and lived experience as an autistic professional. Mark shares what it’s like to work under unsupportive leaders, na…

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Embracing Your Neurodivergence in Corporate Spaces with Mark Michaelis 21:30

5M ago21:30

21:30

What happens when a Fortune 500 leader brings his full neurodivergent self to work—and refuses to shrink to fit? In this powerful episode, Tonya sits down with Mark Michaelis, Senior Director of Merchandising and outspoken advocate for autism acceptance in the workplace. Mark shares his journey as a neurodivergent professional, from childhood exper…

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The Neurodivergent Hobby Graveyard (and Why Language Learning Stuck) Part Two with Beth Grimm 27:31

5M ago27:31

27:31

We’re back for part two with Beth Grimm! We’re talking hobbies, hyperfocus, and Harry Potter. Beth is not just a brilliant compliance expert and neurodivergent advocate — she’s also a language-learning enthusiast with some truly creative strategies. In this episode, she shares how reading Harry Potter in different languages (yep, it’s called the Ha…

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Rethinking Language Learning for Neurodivergent People with Beth Grimm 26:10

5M ago26:10

26:10

This week, I’m chatting with Beth Grim, a total rockstar in aerospace and digital safety who also happens to be a passionate voice for neurodivergent leadership. She opens up about being diagnosed with ADHD and autism later in life, how that’s shaped her world, and what it really feels like to navigate work and relationships when your brain works d…

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Having Trouble Staying on Track? Body Doubling Might Be the Answer for Neurodivergent Minds 20:01

6M ago20:01

20:01

Struggling to stay on task? You’re not broken, your tools just need an upgrade. In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, host Tonya Weaver shares how neurodivergent brains can thrive with the right support systems. From gamified task apps like Todoist and Habitica to virtual reality platforms like Florio that help build social confidence, Tonya ex…

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A Spotlight on Neurodivergent Mental Health (Finally) 18:57

6M ago18:57

18:57

Why being “wired differently” isn’t a disadvantage – it's the future. In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, Tonya Weaver returns to the vital conversation around neurodiversity and mental health, first sparked in back in episode 13 titled The Connection Between Mental Health and Neurodiversity. From boardrooms to behavioral health conferences, …

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Let’s Talk About Bullying + Neurodivergent Kids 20:49

6M ago20:49

20:49

In this episode, I’m sharing my personal journey with bullying - both what I experienced growing up and what I’ve seen as a parent of a neurodivergent child. We’re diving into what bullying really looks like, how to spot the signs early, and what you can do if your child is being targeted. I’ll walk you through practical ways to advocate for your c…

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Finances for Neurodivergent Minds: Tips on Working with a Financial Advisor 17:02

6M ago17:02

17:02

Ever felt like talking to a financial advisor is way more overwhelming than it should be? You're not alone. In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, I break down the biggest challenges neurodivergent folks face when dealing with financial professionals - think executive function struggles, sensory overload, and the general chaos of money talk. I’l…

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Navigating a Late Autism Diagnosis with Dr. Corinna Freitag - Part 2 22:02

7M ago22:02

22:02

In the second half of our powerful conversation with Dr. Corinna Freitag, we continue to explore her journey following a late autism diagnosis and the profound impact it's had on her life and work. Corinna—an executive coach with a background in both natural and human sciences—opens up about how her diagnosis has reshaped her relationships, particu…

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Turning a Diagnosis into a Superpower with Dr. Corinna Frietag 24:08

7M ago24:08

24:08

In this episode, Tonya sits down (once again!) with Dr. Corinna Freitag—executive coach, scientist, and now, diagnosed autistic adult. With over 30 years of experience in the natural and human sciences and nearly two decades in the chemical and automotive industries, Corinna opens up about her late-in-life autism diagnosis and the unexpected ways i…

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Managing Through Change and Growth: Strategies for Neurodivergent Minds 27:07

7M ago27:07

27:07

Change can be overwhelming, especially for neurodivergent individuals - but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Tonya explores how to navigate life’s transitions with confidence and resilience. From adopting a growth mindset to setting clear goals and practicing self-care, Tonya shares actionable strategies to make change more manageable. Drawi…

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The Neuroscience of ADHD: What’s Really Happening in the Brain? 13:41

7M ago13:41

13:41

ADHD is often misunderstood as just being easily distracted or having trouble sitting still—but there's so much more to it. In this quick yet value-packed episode, Tonya breaks down the neuroscience behind ADHD, explaining how it affects attention, impulse control, and executive function. Whether you have ADHD, love someone who does, or work with n…

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Understanding Sensory Sensitivities: Coping Strategies That Work 26:57

8M ago26:57

26:57

In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, Tonya Weaver dives into sensory sensitivities, a common experience for neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder. Tonya shares personal stories and practical strategies for managing sensory overload—covering everything from sensory-friendly environments a…

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Protecting Your Peace: Boundaries, Self-Care & Navigating Tough Conversations 24:47

8M ago24:47

24:47

In this episode, Tonya Weaver, a neurodivergent relationship coach, dives into essential strategies for safeguarding your mental and emotional well-being. From setting boundaries and prioritizing rest to managing social media and difficult conversations, this episode provides practical tools for both neurodivergent and neurotypical listeners. 🔹 Lea…

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The Importance of Friendships 22:07

8M ago22:07

22:07

Friendship isn’t just about having people around, it’s about finding those who truly understand and support you. For neurodivergent individuals, forming and maintaining deep, authentic friendships can come with unique challenges, but the right strategies make all the difference. In this episode, I dive into: ✅ Why authentic connections matter ✅ Pra…

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The Power of Metacognition: Thinking About Thinking 23:57

8M ago23:57

23:57

Ever caught yourself overthinking your overthinking? 🤯 Welcome to the world of metacognition—aka thinking about thinking. In this episode, we’re diving deep into how neurodivergent minds can harness this skill to boost learning, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and productivity. Metacognition has two key parts: 🧠 Knowing how you think 🛠️ Regu…

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How Neurodiverse Employees Thrive with the Right Support, Part Two with Andrew Leith 28:29

8M ago28:29

28:29

In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, Tonya Weaver continues her insightful conversation with executive coach Andrew Leith, diving deeper into neurodiversity and workplace inclusivity. Together, they discuss: 🔹 The importance of creating environments that truly support neurodiverse employees 🔹 Strategies like external support networks, buddy sy…

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Building ACTUALLY Inclusive Workplaces for the Neurodiverse with Andrew Leith 27:09

9M ago27:09

27:09

So is asking for accommodation requests or ERGs really the best way to include neurodiverse employees? We’re not so sure. Tonya sits down with Andrew Leith to discuss creating truly inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent employees. This insightful conversation dives into: ✅ The power of open communication in fostering inclusivity. ✅ Why requiring …

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Lost Your Mojo? How to Find It and Keep Moving Forward 21:43

9M ago21:43

21:43

Lost Your Mojo? Here's How to Get It Back Have you hit a motivation slump already this year? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, host Tonya Weaver shares practical strategies to reignite your passion and drive. ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode: How to align your goals with your core values for deeper motivatio…

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Own Your Career Through Purposeful Networking: Part Two with Shari Chernack 24:18

9M ago24:18

24:18

In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, host Tonya Weaver continues her deep dive with executive coach and strategist Shari Chernack. Shari shares valuable insights for the neurodivergent on navigating career challenges, managing workload stress, setting realistic career goals, and the importance of self-reflection in career development. The conv…

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Career Growth Strategies for the Neurodivergent with Shari Chernack 27:36

9M ago27:36

27:36

What questions should you ask when interviewing for a new role or to better understand how to do well in your current role? This week we dig into how you can succeed as a neurodivergent employee. Tonya speaks with Shari Chernack, an executive coach and strategist, they discuss foundational career questions that neurodivergent employees should ask t…

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How to Set Goals and Actually Accomplish Them in 2025 19:45

10M ago19:45

19:45

Ever set a resolution and actually accomplished it? If not, you aren't alone, there are so many reasons why resolutions aren't the right way to accomplish things. This episode Tonya discusses the pitfalls of traditional New Year's resolutions and advocates for goal setting using the SMART criteria. Tonya explains how specific, measurable, achievabl…

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Tools For Embracing Your Neurodivergence: Part Two with Corinna Freitag 22:56

10M ago22:56

22:56

This episode of Inside the Pickle Jar Tonya continues her deep dive into the experiences and expertise of Corinna Freitag, an executive coach with over 30 years in natural and human sciences. Corinna shares her journey of discovering she is autistic and the strategies she uses to help STEM professionals overcome workplace challenges. The conversati…

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Building Mental Muscles for Success with Corinna Freitag 22:13

10M ago22:13

22:13

This episode on Inside the Pickle Jar, we’re talking all about mindset, resilience, and growth with Dr. Corinna Freitag. As an executive coach, advisor, and speaker with over 30 years of experience in human and natural sciences, Dr. Freitag shares her powerful journey of discovering her autism diagnosis and how it’s shaped her approach to thriving …

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Tips on Managing the Holidays for the Neurodivergent 24:08

10M ago24:08

24:08

Does the holiday season make you feel dread and anxiety because they are extra tough for your neurodivergent self? This episode of Inside the Pikcle Jar Tonya discusses the challenges neurodivergent people face during the holiday season. We go over practical tips and strategies to help navigate the holiday stress, especially around Christmas. Topic…

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The Connection Between Mental Health and Neurodiversity 45:19

11M ago45:19

45:19

In this episode of Inside the Pickle Jar, Tonya Weaver explores the intersection of neurodiversity and mental health. The discussion covers various neurodivergent conditions like ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, and their impact on mental health, including common challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The episode offers strategies to help neuro…

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Executive Function Tips for the Neurodivergent 26:19

11M ago26:19

26:19

This episode of Inside the Pickle Jar explores the world of executive function, its challenges, and how neurodivergent individuals can turn these into strengths. Learn about key components like working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and discover practical strategies such as the Pomodoro method, visual aids, batching, and mindful…

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Essentialism and how it can help the neurodivergent 29:37

11M ago29:37

29:37

This episode of Inside the Pickle Jar Tonya speaks about the power of saying no and more of the tenants of essentialism that will help your neurodivergent brain succeed. The discussion covers key principles like setting boundaries, prioritizing quality over quantity, streamlining routines, eliminating distractions, and the critical importance of se…

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How to Advocate for Yourself 26:11

11M ago26:11

26:11

Do you have a hard time asking for what you need? This episode of Inside the Pickle Jar is all about self-advocacy. When you can express clearly what you need, the more likely you will succeed because you have what you need to thrive. Neurodivergent people deserve to advocate for themselves, but it can be especially difficult for us. Tonya shares h…

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Staying Focused During Times of Chaos 26:59

12M ago26:59

26:59

This episode let’s dive into strategies to maintain focus and productivity during turbulent times. Tonya identifies the sources of chaos in your life, prioritizing tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix, and creating a productive work environment. Tonya highlights techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, digital tools like Todoist and Trello, and the tim…