This Lifelong Learning Program Can Change Your Entire Career Trajectory

The episode opens with an introduction to guests Thomas Karastamatis and Jason Tanaka.

Thomas, based in Orlando, has spent his career in sales and sales leadership – roles that demand strong communication and ongoing adaptation. His journey reflects the heart of learning becoming a continuous, immersive process.

Jason, the Chief Technology Officer at Rock Top in Dallas, brings a unique blend of technical expertise and philosophical curiosity. His approach emphasizes reflection, awareness, and personal growth as essential components of effective leadership.

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Lifelong Learning Beyond Formal Education

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One of the central themes in this episode is learning beyond traditional classroom settings. Jason shares how college wasn’t just about grades – it was about expanding his worldview. Ron echoes this, noting that real growth began after academia, when he embraced curiosity as a tool for navigating both work and life.

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Thomas adds a vivid analogy: being told how to golf without ever picking up a club is no substitute for experiential learning. This mirrors the gap many leaders face in rigid company culture environments – knowledge without application rarely leads to meaningful change.

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The Importance of a Learning Network

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The conversation shifts to how we learn through communities and learning networks. Thomas emphasizes that learning is most powerful when shared, especially through open dialogue that strengthens trust and reduces communication problems within teams.

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This idea mirrors the foundation of strong leadership development – great leaders don’t learn in isolation. They grow through relationships, collaboration, and exposure to perspectives that challenge and expand their thinking.

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Individual Learning Approaches and Philosophies

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Each guest shares a personal philosophy of learning shaped by their lived experiences. Jason emphasizes approachability and openness. Thomas highlights curiosity inspired by observing his children and embracing a sense of play.

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Deb speaks to transformational change that happens when people learn together, a theme at the heart of many leadership training courses. Ron frames learning as a series of experiments rooted in honesty and vulnerability – key elements that help dismantle unproductive stories in our heads.

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Dealing with Mistakes: Embracing Failures as Learning Opportunities

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A powerful moment in the episode centers on handling mistakes and the discomfort of discovering that long-held beliefs may be wrong. The group acknowledges how vulnerability in these moments can strengthen relationships and improve team dynamics – especially in workplaces dealing with entrenched communication problems.

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Community Engaged Learning and The Power of Collective Growth

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The conversation culminates with a look at the Praxis Lab – Macklin Connection’s lifelong learning program. Thomas and Jason reflect on what makes the Praxis Lab unique: genuine connection, dynamic facilitation, and an environment where everyone, regardless of experience or title, contributes to mutual growth.

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Jason’s evolution from participant to content creator highlights the core values found in leadership development: curiosity, humility, and the commitment to help others learn.

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Your Invitation to Join the Praxis Lab

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If you're seeking a space to expand your curiosity, strengthen your leadership skills, and improve the way you relate to yourself and others, the Praxis Lab offers a powerful opportunity. It’s an environment where the principles discussed – connection, curiosity, and honest communication – are practiced daily.

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Reach out to Ron at ron@macklinconnection.com or Deb at deb@macklinconnection.com to learn more about joining a community designed to support your personal and professional growth.

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