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The Reader’s Reflex: What Makes the Knee Jerk Method™ Different from Other Frameworks

The Chicago Journal Staff on October 15, 2025

By: Tyler Wagner

Copywriting has no shortage of formulas. From AIDA (Attention, Interest, Desire, Action) to PAS (Problem, Agitate, Solution), generations of writers have relied on structured blueprints to guide persuasion. Yet for Callum Davies, founder of Illuminate Digitl, these frameworks, while useful, often fall short of capturing what truly drives readers to act.

That gap inspired his Knee Jerk Method™—a four-part system designed to trigger instinctive, almost involuntary responses in readers. Unlike traditional formulas, which map the intellectual flow of persuasion, the Knee Jerk Method™ is built around reflex. It recognizes that decisions are not solely the result of careful logic but often the product of emotional inevitability.

The Limits of Classic Frameworks

Formulas like AIDA have stood the test of time because they provide structure. They help writers avoid chaos, ensuring copy has a beginning, middle, and end. But Davies argues they risk becoming mechanical.

AIDA, for example, outlines steps—grab attention, build interest, create desire, call to action. PAS identifies a problem, agitates the pain, and then presents a solution. These models describe what should happen but do not always guarantee it will. They are maps of intention, not engines of action.

The danger, Davies explains, is that writers can mistake following the structure for generating real impact. Copy can tick all the boxes of a formula yet still leave readers unmoved.

Why Reflex Matters

Davies’ innovation lies in reframing persuasion as reflex rather than process. The Knee Jerk Method™ is built on the principle that effective copy should feel unavoidable. The reader does not simply follow along—they react instinctively, often unable to disengage.

This is why each stage is framed in terms of impossibility:

  1. Impossible to Ignore – The headline jolts the reader into attention.
  2. Impossible to Stop Reading – The story immerses them so deeply they cannot look away.
  3. Impossible to Not Buy – The offer is so aligned with their identity that refusal seems irrational.
  4. Impossible to Live the Same – The close and P.S. leave them transformed, driven, or propelled into action.

The difference is subtle but profound. Traditional frameworks outline a pathway. The Knee Jerk Method™ engineers an outcome.

The Power of Language

Even the phrasing—“impossible to ignore,” “impossible to stop,” “impossible to not buy”—reflects Davies’ focus on inevitability. It shifts the writer’s mindset from hoping for engagement to demanding it.

This language forces a higher standard. A headline that merely attracts attention is no longer enough; it must disrupt. A story that entertains is rarely enough; it must consume. An offer that makes sense is often not enough; it must be compelling.

In this way, the Knee Jerk Method™ functions not just as a structure but as a challenge. It asks professionals to measure success not by completion of steps but by the reader’s visceral reaction.

Lessons from Human Behavior

The emphasis on reflex aligns with insights from psychology and neuroscience. Studies show that emotions drive decisions more quickly than conscious reasoning. People rationalize with logic after the fact, but the spark of action typically begins in the subconscious.

By building a copy around inevitability, Davies’ framework mirrors how the brain actually works. It doesn’t fight human nature—it harnesses it.

This is why he describes the method as engineering, not just writing. Each stage is designed to activate instincts that are difficult to resist: curiosity, empathy, identity, and transformation.

The Professional Parallel

The distinction between process and reflex matters beyond copywriting. In leadership, a process may outline goals, but reflex-driven communication inspires action. In teaching, a lesson plan may provide structure, but a compelling story tends to create memory. In entrepreneurship, a pitch may tick boxes, but an emotional hook can secure investment.

Davies’ framework speaks to a broader truth: influence is more likely to be powerful when it feels unavoidable.

Mistakes to Avoid

Writers adopting the Knee Jerk Method™ sometimes fall into predictable traps:

  • Forcing Urgency – Trying to manufacture reflex with false scarcity, which undermines trust.
  • Neglecting Emotion – Treating the framework as mechanical steps rather than an emotional journey.
  • Skipping the Transformation – Ending with a sale instead of leaving the reader changed.

The solution, Davies explains, is to treat the method as philosophy rather than formula. It is not about ticking boxes but about respecting the psychology of the reader.

Why the Method Resonates

What makes the Knee Jerk Method™ resonate is its simplicity. It distills persuasion into four stages anyone can remember, while elevating the standard of execution. Writers no longer ask, “Did I follow the steps?” They ask, “Did I make it impossible for them to look away?”

This higher bar pushes professionals toward mastery. It demands empathy, creativity, and discipline—the same qualities that fuel personal growth.

Beyond Copywriting

Perhaps the notable aspect of the framework is its universality. While born from marketing, its principles apply to any domain where words must move people. Davies notes that speeches, vision statements, even personal conversations follow the same arc: awakening, immersion, decision, transformation.

In this way, the Knee Jerk Method™ is less a copywriting tool than a communication philosophy. It reminds professionals that their goal is not simply to inform but to engineer reflexive, unforgettable shifts.

Closing Thought

Formulas like AIDA and PAS map the terrain of persuasion. They are useful guides. But the Knee Jerk Method™ does something different: it ensures the journey cannot be ignored, abandoned, or forgotten.

For Callum Davies, the measure of copy is not whether it follows a process but whether it sparks a reflex. Because when communication is engineered to feel inevitable, it ceases to be marketing—it becomes transformation.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Results and outcomes may vary, and readers are encouraged to use their judgment when applying the concepts discussed.

The Role of Emotional Support Animals in Employee Productivity

The Chicago Journal Staff 2 on October 15, 2025

Emotional support animals (ESAs) have become more common in workplaces, not just as companions but as important contributors to employee well-being. These animals, typically dogs or cats, are designated to provide emotional comfort and help individuals manage conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress. While their therapeutic value is widely recognized, the impact of ESAs on employee productivity is still an emerging topic. This article delves into how emotional support animals can enhance workplace productivity by improving mental health, reducing stress, and fostering a positive work environment.

The Benefits of Emotional Support Animals for Mental Health

For employees dealing with mental health challenges, having an emotional support animal in the workplace can be a game-changer. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common issues that can severely affect an employee’s ability to concentrate, work efficiently, and engage with their team. Emotional support animals offer a source of comfort that helps alleviate some of these challenges.

For example, an employee struggling with anxiety might find it difficult to engage in meetings or manage tight deadlines. In such situations, the calming presence of an ESA can help reduce feelings of nervousness or overwhelm. Interacting with the animal, whether through petting or simply having it nearby, can provide emotional relief and comfort. Over time, this simple act of having an ESA present can help employees feel more grounded and confident, enabling them to perform their work more effectively.

The positive impact of animals on mental health isn’t just anecdotal. Research has shown that petting animals can stimulate the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress relief. As a result, having an ESA at work can lead to improved mood, lower levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), and an overall sense of calm.

Stress Reduction and Its Effect on Productivity

Role of Emotional Support Animals in Employee Productivity

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Stress is one of the biggest productivity killers in any workplace. The mental and physical toll that stress takes on employees can make it harder for them to concentrate, complete tasks on time, or interact effectively with colleagues. When employees are overwhelmed by stress, they are more likely to experience burnout, absenteeism, and reduced performance.

An emotional support animal can play a critical role in reducing these stress levels. The calming presence of an ESA can lower heart rates, reduce anxiety, and help employees feel more relaxed. For example, an employee working in a high-pressure environment, such as in finance or healthcare, may feel constant tension and anxiety. A break to spend time with an ESA can provide the emotional relief needed to return to work with a clearer mind and renewed focus.

In fact, some studies have shown that workplaces that allow pets or emotional support animals see a reduction in stress levels and greater job satisfaction among employees. Employees who feel less stressed are more likely to be productive, engaged, and loyal to their employer. This creates a win-win scenario where both the employee’s well-being and company performance are improved.

Emotional Support Animals and Enhanced Focus

A quiet and focused workspace is crucial for optimal productivity. However, it can be difficult for employees to maintain focus, especially in fast-paced or noisy environments. This is where emotional support animals can make a difference. The presence of an ESA can create a sense of calm that helps employees concentrate on their tasks.

For example, an employee working on a complex project might struggle with distractions in a busy office setting. Having an ESA to pet or simply keep nearby can help the employee feel at ease and reduce their internal distractions. The animal’s presence provides a comforting, non-judgmental environment where the employee can focus on the task at hand.

Additionally, some employees report that taking breaks with their ESA allows them to return to their work with fresh ideas and perspectives. A quick walk or interaction with an ESA can act as a mental reset, improving creativity and problem-solving. In this way, emotional support animals not only help with focus but also enhance overall cognitive function, leading to better work outcomes.

The Legal Framework for Emotional Support Animals in the Workplace

While emotional support animals have clear benefits, their presence in the workplace is not always straightforward. Unlike service animals, which are allowed in most public places under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), emotional support animals are not guaranteed the same rights. However, they are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which requires housing providers to make accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

In the workplace, employers are not required to allow emotional support animals unless there is a documented need. Employees who wish to bring an ESA to work must provide documentation from a licensed mental health professional that supports the need for the animal. This might involve a letter from a therapist or counselor confirming that the employee has a mental health condition and that the animal is a necessary part of their treatment.

Employers who choose to allow emotional support animals should establish clear policies regarding the care and behavior of the animals. For example, companies might designate specific areas where animals are allowed, such as private offices or pet-friendly spaces. Policies should also address issues like noise levels, cleaning responsibilities, and how to handle potential disruptions caused by the animals. By having clear guidelines in place, employers can ensure that the presence of emotional support animals benefits both the employee and the workplace as a whole.

The Future of Emotional Support Animals in the Workplace

Role of Emotional Support Animals in Employee Productivity

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

As the understanding of mental health in the workplace continues to evolve, emotional support animals are likely to become a more common feature in many office environments. Companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting their employees’ mental health, and emotional support animals can be a vital part of that support system.

For example, some companies have already implemented policies that allow pets in the office, creating a more relaxed and inclusive environment. While emotional support animals are distinct from regular pets, the broader trend of pet-friendly workplaces suggests that attitudes toward ESAs will continue to shift. As more research demonstrates the positive effects of animals on mental health and productivity, more employers may begin to see the value in accommodating emotional support animals.

It’s important to note that not all employees may be comfortable around animals, and workplace policies should take this into account. However, by creating designated areas where emotional support animals are allowed, companies can strike a balance between supporting employees’ mental health and maintaining a comfortable, productive workspace for all.

Breaking the Stigma: Encouraging Men to Seek Mental Health Help

The Chicago Journal Staff 2 on October 15, 2025

Mental health struggles are not limited to any one gender, age, or background. However, society often imposes expectations and norms that create additional barriers for men seeking help. The stigma surrounding men’s mental health is deeply ingrained, leading many to struggle in silence. In order to break the stigma and encourage men to seek mental health support, a shift in societal perceptions, awareness, and understanding is essential.

Why Is There a Stigma Around Men’s Mental Health?

From a young age, many boys are taught to “be tough” and “not show weakness.” Phrases like “man up” or “don’t cry” can become deeply embedded in their sense of self. These phrases, while often well-intended, contribute to a damaging culture that associates vulnerability with inadequacy. As a result, many men feel a sense of shame when confronting mental health issues, believing that seeking help means they are not fulfilling societal expectations of masculinity.

The pressure to appear strong, stoic, and emotionally controlled can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, these stereotypes can be harmful, leading to mental health struggles being ignored or dismissed. Men who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or stress may feel like they are alone in their struggles, and this can prevent them from seeking the help they need.

How Can We Change the Conversation About Men’s Mental Health?

Breaking the Stigma Encouraging Men to Seek Mental Health Help

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Changing the conversation around men’s mental health requires a collective effort from both individuals and society. One key step is recognizing that emotional expression is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. Men must be reminded that feeling overwhelmed or struggling emotionally is a part of being human, not a failure of masculinity.

This change in mindset involves encouraging open conversations about mental health. Rather than avoiding the topic, it’s important to create spaces where men can openly express their feelings without fear of judgment. Support groups, therapy, and casual conversations among friends can all contribute to dismantling the silence surrounding mental health. The more these discussions are normalized, the more likely men will feel comfortable opening up about their own struggles.

What Are the Consequences of Not Seeking Help?

The consequences of not addressing mental health issues are far-reaching and can affect not only the individual but also their families, friends, and communities. Untreated mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, can lead to physical health problems, strained relationships, and difficulty maintaining work or school performance. In extreme cases, the emotional toll can contribute to self-harm or suicide, with men being disproportionately affected by these outcomes.

For many men, the fear of being labeled “weak” or “less than” keeps them from seeking help. Unfortunately, this avoidance can result in an escalation of their symptoms and more severe long-term consequences. It’s crucial to understand that the earlier mental health issues are addressed, the easier they are to manage and overcome. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a proactive step toward better health and well-being.

What Can Be Done to Encourage Men to Seek Help?

Efforts to encourage men to seek help must begin with education. Men need to be informed that mental health struggles are common and that they are not alone. By addressing mental health in educational settings, workplaces, and through public campaigns, society can make a collective shift in how men view mental health support.

Organizations and communities can also create environments that support men in their mental health journeys. This can include offering more male-focused resources, such as male therapists or support groups tailored to men’s unique needs and concerns. Providing these resources can make it easier for men to access the help they need and feel more comfortable doing so.

Moreover, it is important to encourage men to see therapy and counseling as a normal part of self-care, much like visiting a doctor for a physical health issue. Normalizing therapy and other mental health services can remove the stigma and allow men to feel that seeking help is not an extraordinary action, but rather a necessary step toward better mental well-being.

How Can Friends and Family Play a Role in Supporting Men’s Mental Health?

The support of loved ones can make a significant difference when it comes to helping men seek mental health help. Friends and family play a vital role in recognizing the signs of mental health struggles and offering support without judgment. Encouraging open dialogue and reassuring men that seeking help is not a weakness can help them feel more comfortable reaching out for assistance.

For friends and family members, it’s essential to listen without judgment. Instead of offering solutions or advice right away, simply listening to the person’s concerns can go a long way in making them feel heard and validated. Compassionate listening can help break down emotional barriers and make it easier for men to acknowledge their struggles and seek help.

Understanding that seeking help is a process, not a one-time decision, is also key. Men may be hesitant at first, but continuous encouragement from friends, family, and colleagues can help them take the necessary steps toward seeking help when they are ready.

Breaking the Stigma: The Path Forward

Breaking the Stigma Encouraging Men to Seek Mental Health Help

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health will take time, but it is a necessary journey. Encouraging men to seek help begins with changing the narrative around vulnerability and strength. It involves creating a culture where emotional expression is seen as healthy and necessary, not weak or shameful.

As society continues to shift its approach to mental health, men can feel empowered to seek help without fear of being judged or ridiculed. With support from family, friends, and communities, men can begin to break free from the pressures of outdated expectations and embrace a more holistic approach to their well-being.

It’s time for men to stop suffering in silence. By creating a more open, accepting environment, men can feel safe seeking the help they need, leading to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is not just about men, it’s about creating a world where everyone feels comfortable taking care of their mental well-being.

How the Septimius Awards Challenge Conventional Film Industry Standards & Chicago’s Stedman Graham – Partner of Oprah Winfrey – Becoming Ambassador

The Chicago Journal Staff on October 15, 2025

Film and television awards have long mainly operated according to strict patterns of admiration, frequently revolving around a narrow set of production bases and informed by established power relations. With global audiences becoming increasingly diverse and creators hailing from every region of the globe, pressure has mounted on the entertainment industry to break free from traditional molds. Most creatives and business leaders today are seeking platforms that value diversity, fresh voices, and innovative forms. Within this context, events that break from traditional norms have become more than a metaphor—they’re imperative.

One of the projects responding to this challenge is the Septimius Awards, an international annual ceremony that seeks to reimagine what awards programs can be in the 21st century. Designed to celebrate a broader range of storytelling, the ceremony gathers filmmakers, writers, producers, and industry leaders from around the world. It actively fosters cross-continental visibility through its programming, attendees, and award categories.

The Septimius Awards was founded by Jan-Willem Breure, a filmmaker and Dutch media producer. Breure was driven by the sense that global recognition needed to be more representative of the diversity and variety of cinema and television today. He saw an environment where stories of marginalized groups, off-beat stories, and culturally specific projects could be judged not against the measurement of mainstream conformity, but by a broader and globally aware model.

The title “Septimius” itself has a historical significance. It is named after Septimius Severus, the Roman emperor of North African origin who reigned from 193 to 211 AD. This is not a coincidence—purposefully naming the event after the cross-cultural bridging power of underrepresented culture in dominant structures. In Breure’s view, the title serves as a metaphor and a mission statement for what the event represents: making a difference in a still-susceptible industry that is prone to systemic imbalances.

The Septimius Awards has also succeeded by partnering with influential cultural leaders. Stedman Graham, recognized for his identity leadership work and a longtime partner of Oprah Winfrey, serves as an ambassador. His focus on equity, leadership, and global citizenship adds strength to the event’s broader social goals. AED Group CEO Glenn Roggeman, a prominent figure in the European media landscape, also serves as an ambassador. With an estimated net worth of over €300 million, Roggeman lends industry respectability and strategic influence to the profile of the awards. High-profile guests have also lent credibility to the platform. The presence of celebrities is not merely for show—it’s part of a broader strategy to connect independent creators with mainstream industry networks and mentors.

Among the most unique features of the Septimius Awards is its structure. Compared to most award events that take place over a single night, this one spans two nights. The first day features daytime panel discussions, networking, and masterclasses that permit industry interchange and learning. The second features the actual awards ceremony. This organization is designed to get the event beyond a celebration—it’s an industry professional development experience, especially for filmmakers who may not otherwise have access to other major industry events. Diversity continues to be a paramount theme, not as a marketing hook, but as a foundational operational element. 

Past attendees have included filmmakers from Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East, showcasing a level of continental representation rarely seen in Western-based awards. The intent is not to “diversify” from a central norm, but to decentralize what constitutes the norm. This stands in contrast to other award platforms, which often make room for global entries in side categories, rather than integrating them into the main lineup. The increasing reputation of the event as a pioneering cultural destination heralds a movement toward how awards shows could operate in the next decade. Breure’s original vision and choice of diverse ambassadors format collectively place the platform not as an alternative to conventional awards but as a new model designed for a global age. 

Although still new, the Septimius Awards are likely to draw attention for their emphasis on inclusion, novel format, and cultural symbolism. In a media culture still struggling to achieve representation and equity, such platforms are offering more than praise—they are providing models of what recognition in the future could look like.

Stedman Graham’s involvement with the Septimius Awards brings a unique blend of experience and philosophy to the burgeoning event. Beyond his well-known partnership with media titan Oprah Winfrey, Graham has established a notable career as an author, speaker, and businessman, with a particular focus on identity leadership. This concept, which emphasizes understanding oneself and leveraging personal strengths to achieve success, resonates deeply with the Septimius Awards’ mission of empowering diverse voices.

Graham, a Chicago native, built his reputation on the belief that authentic leadership stems from a clear sense of purpose and a commitment to personal growth. His numerous books, including Identity: Your Passport to Success and Diversity: Leaders Not Labels, reflect his dedication to helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential. This focus on individual empowerment within a collective context perfectly aligns with the Septimius Awards’ aim to provide a platform where filmmakers, regardless of their background, can be recognized for their unique contributions.

Stedman Graham became a Septimius Awards ambassador on September 11, 2024. His ambassadorship is not merely symbolic; it reflects a genuine commitment to fostering equity and global citizenship within the entertainment industry. Graham’s extensive network, cultivated over decades in business and media, provides invaluable strategic support and opens doors for the Septimius Awards. He brings a deep understanding of the global media landscape and the importance of creating opportunities for underrepresented talent.

For Jan-Willem Breure, the founder of the Septimius Awards, having Stedman Graham as a mentor has been transformative. Graham’s insights into leadership, brand building, and navigating complex professional landscapes have been instrumental in shaping the awards’ strategic direction. Breure has often spoken about how Graham’s emphasis on authenticity and vision has encouraged him to remain steadfast in his pursuit of a more inclusive awards model. This collaboration underscores the Septimius Awards’ commitment to not just celebrating diversity, but actively cultivating it through the wisdom and experience of established leaders.

The relationship between Stedman Graham and Oprah Winfrey, although well-known, provides another lens through which to understand Graham’s suitability for this role. Their partnership, which has famously endured for decades without traditional marriage, is a testament to mutual respect, individual autonomy, and unwavering support. This dynamic mirrors the kind of self-reliant yet collaborative spirit that the Septimius Awards seeks to foster among emerging filmmakers. Graham has consistently asserted his own identity and career path, even while being in a high-profile relationship, demonstrating the very principles of identity leadership he champions. 

This personal example provides a powerful backdrop to his professional guidance for Breure, illustrating how one can navigate complex public and private spheres while staying true to one’s core values. His ability to maintain a strong individual brand while being the partner of one of the world’s most influential women speaks volumes about his character and the strength of his personal philosophy. It’s this blend of personal integrity and professional acumen that makes him an ideal mentor for Breure, who is also forging a new path in a highly competitive industry. Their shared vision for empowering individuals and challenging established norms forms the bedrock of their fruitful collaboration, ensuring that the Septimius Awards continues to grow as a beacon of diversity and opportunity.