Episode Details

In this inspiring episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with David Landman, a former senior HR executive at Goldman Sachs, to explore his transformative journey from corporate success to living a life centered on joy, gratitude, and purpose.

David, who is passionate about making work more sustainable, fulfilling, and inclusive for everyone, shares how his career transition was sparked by a desire to escape stagnation and create a more meaningful life. After 20 years at Goldman Sachs, David now dedicates his time to supporting visionary founders, investors, and innovators who are redefining what it means to thrive in the workplace.

Through his work, David:

1. Advises some of the world’s most innovative HR tech startups and venture capitalists.
2. Builds communities of CHROs and HR executives passionate about giving back.
3. Shares his knowledge with the next generation of HR leaders.

In the episode, David introduces “The Long Exhale,” a framework for rediscovering joy and purpose. He shares actionable steps for leaders to break free from burnout, foster gratitude, and create lasting impact—both in their personal and professional lives.

This conversation is filled with practical insights, including how to:

• Take small actions to get unstuck.
• Shift from an inward to an outward mindset.
• Adopt an abundance mindset and embrace joy over achievement.

David’s guiding principle is clear: When we lift others up, we can all succeed. This episode is a call to action for leaders and changemakers to co-create a better future of work together, fueled by empathy, gratitude, and human connection.

Key Discussion Points:

• David’s Journey from Corporate Executive to Joyful Living
• Signs of Feeling Stuck
• The Long Exhale Framework
• The Role of Gratitude in Leadership and Life
• Redefining Success
• Nature as a Tool for Perspective and Renewal
• Challenges of Transitioning to a New Way of Being
• Practical Actions for Leaders and Individuals
• David’s Vision for the Future of Work
• The Call to Rediscover Joy

Notable Quotes:

• David Landman:
  “I’m working for joy now, and it’s so freaking amazing.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Misery is optional. Let’s rediscover joy and wake up to the beauties of life.”
• David Landman:
  “The Long Exhale is about relaxing into the moment, finding gratitude, and following the things that bring you purpose and joy.”
• David Landman:
  “When we lift others up, we can all succeed. Let’s co-create a better future of work together.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Just because you find your purpose doesn’t mean the journey will be all sunshine, rainbows, and unicorns. But it will be worth it.”
• David Landman:
  “I was stuck, not because I didn’t know what to do next, but because I was afraid to take that first step. Small actions are the key to big transformations.”
• David Landman:
  “I spent 20 years climbing the corporate ladder, and now I’ve discovered the joy of walking the forest trail.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Adopting an outward mindset opens the door to connection, gratitude, and rediscovering joy.”
• David Landman:
  “Life