Life Fulfilled Podcast — Ever wonder? “Is this all there is?”
Ever find yourself wondering, “Is this it?”
Yeah, me too. That ache for real, soul-deep fulfillment is exactly why this show exists. A richer life is closer than you think.
I’m Bernie Borges, Founder of the Fulfilled@Work Academy™ and creator of the Fulfillment Centric Leadership™ framework. Every Monday, I bring you real, practical conversations centered around the five pillars of a fully lived life:
- Health – aligning your mind and body to thrive
- Fitness – moving in ways that energize, not exhaust
- Career – loving Mondays again (or finding the courage to pivot)
- Relationships – showing up for the people who matter most
- Legacy – creating a life story you’re proud to tell
Here’s what you’ll experience:
- Honest stories from real people navigating fulfillment in real time
- Solo episodes with lessons I’m learning (and unlearning)
- Insightful guest conversations packed with takeaways you can use now
Tune in if you’re ready to:
- Replace burnout with fresh purpose
- Feel strong—in your body and in your voice
- Recharge (or reinvent) your career
- Rekindle relationships that matter
- Start building a legacy that outlasts you
No matter your age or stage, a more fulfilled life is possible.
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📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: @LifeFulfilledpod
Life Fulfilled Podcast — Ever wonder? “Is this all there is?”
Ep 244 Your Swag Budget Is a Recognition Strategy Waiting to Happen
This week, Bernie Borges sat down with Bridget Dahlgren and Mike Irvine from Crystal D to explore a topic that’s shaping the future of business: the real impact of employee recognition and engagement.
Whether you’re a people leader, business owner, or just curious about what drives workplace fulfillment, here are three big takeaways from our conversation:
1️⃣ Employee Recognition is NOT Just a Perk
Bridget and Mike shared Crystal D’s own journey from “survival mode” to fostering a culture where recognition is at the core. By thinking of every employee as a “memory maker,” they’ve created an environment where people belong and thrive. The bottom line? Recognition is a key business strategy, not just a nice-to-have.
2️⃣ The Hidden Cost of Disengagement
Mike broke down the numbers: replacing an employee can cost twice their salary. Even a modest turnover rate can rack up millions in costs. Recognition programs not only cut these costs, they also boost morale, retention, and productivity. In one example, a local company reduced turnover by more than half and saw an 18% jump in productivity just by focusing on engagement.
3️⃣ The Future of Employee Recognition: Tech with a Human Touch
While technology (like AI) is making it easier than ever to recognize and engage teams, Bridget and Mike emphasized that meaningful connections matter most. Innovative tools and platforms can help, but true fulfillment comes from authentic human recognition, whether formal or informal.
Main Takeaway:
When businesses embrace employee recognition as a foundational strategy, they nurture a culture of fulfillment, loyalty, and standout performance. As Bernie summed it up: “Fulfillment is a performance strategy.” It’s good for people and it’s great for business.
Connect with Bridget Dahlgren and Mike Irvine
Cyrstal D Website
Bridget Dahlgren LinkedIn
Mike Irvine LinkedIn
Connect with Bernie Borges
Email: bernie@fulfilledatworkacademy.com
Fulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter
Get in touch with Bernie to:
Explore hiring Bernie as a keynote speaker at your next event.
Explore a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.
Watch the Life Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube
Music attribution:
Old Bossa Twin Musicom
Suno
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