Daily Influence

In Episode 525 of the Daily Influence, Brian welcomes Michael Drelicharz—entrepreneur, tech integrator, and the host of I Got a Guy podcast. Michael shares how he revolutionized fleet tracking for small businesses with real-time AI-enabled tools and an unwavering commitment to legendary customer service. They dive into how technology, human behavior, and personal passion intersect to create powerful influence. From lost equipment in farm fields to building a network of trusted business referrals, Michael's story is a masterclass in purposeful, human-centric leadership.

What if burnout wasn't a personal failure but a structural misalignment? In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Nicole Connor—transformative thinker, systems strategist, and co-creator of The Resiliency Code. Nicole shares her multidimensional journey through law, interior design, offshore finance, and institutional reform, all while navigating and overcoming severe burnout. Nicole introduces the concept of structural correction—a radical framework that shifts focus from emotional reactivity to pattern recognition and systemic realignment. Whether you're confronting overwhelm in your personal life or witnessing misalignment in institutions, Nicole's insights challenge you to examine your capacity, jurisdiction, and the contracts—spoken and unspoken—that shape your experiences. Learn how the Resiliency Code helps individuals pause, prepare, and participate with integrity, clarity, and vitality. Nicole also reveals how these tools are transforming governments, businesses, and everyday relationships—and how one small, self-honoring adjustment at a time can spark deep, lasting change. Key themes include: • Understanding burnout through a structural lens • How self-trust and micro-adjustments rebuild resilience • The importance of capacity, jurisdiction, and contracts in everyday life • The silent collapse of high-capacity individuals—and how to reverse it • Creating change without emotional escalation or conflict If you're seeking alignment, personal clarity, or a blueprint for responsible influence, this episode offers the tools and wisdom to help you restore coherence in yourself and your world.

In this special remake of Episode 148 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith reconnects with David Evans from And Coaching to explore the bold and transformative initiative: “Leadership or Leadershit.” As David and Debbie continue their U.S. Roadshow, this conversation highlights what real leadership looks like today—and why much of what we call leadership might actually be something else entirely. We dive into practical strategies for modeling the leadership required of our time, not just echoing outdated traditions. David shares powerful personal examples and three actionable takeaways for anyone looking to evolve their leadership from positional to purposeful. This episode challenges you to look inward, to lead by example, and to ask the hard question: Am I leading, or am I just in charge?

In Episode 522 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores the silent but powerful energy we carry into every room. Whether you're leading a meeting or showing up to listen, your presence sets the tone before you speak a single word. This episode challenges leaders and individuals alike to own their internal energy, enter spaces with intention, and build influence through quiet confidence and mindful communication. True influence isn't about volume—it's about being present, prepared, and purpose-driven. Be the I in Team by honoring the energy you bring.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Joe Frost — founder and CMO of Your CMO, founder of Frost Media Group, professor, and entrepreneurial strategist. Joe shares his journey from high school entrepreneur to seasoned business leader, reflecting on the power of personal accountability, creative energy, and intentional leadership. Discover how Joe helps businesses shift from reactive to proactive through strategic planning, the role of core values in uniting teams, and how a simple vision conceived while floating in the South Pacific drives meaningful change globally. Joe also offers practical tactics for fostering positivity, from gratitude streaming to unleashing creativity, and highlights the transformative ripple effect of owning your energy. Tune in for a masterclass on influence, collaboration, and building businesses that lift both people and communities. Connect with Joe at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephfrost/

In Episode 520 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith challenges the reactive mindset of desperate hiring and invites leaders to embrace a more intentional, values-based approach. He explores how rushed hiring decisions can erode your organizational culture and how responsible influence starts with knowing your values—and the true value of every role. Brian shares practical insights for aligning hiring practices with long-term vision, focusing on core values, and asking the right questions before making a hire. If you've ever felt stuck in a revolving door of turnover, this episode will help you reframe hiring as a positive, powerful influence on your culture, your people, and your business.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Larry LaMotte, founder of Recapturit, to explore how one entrepreneur's mission is reshaping the construction and demolition industry through reuse, deconstruction, and circular economy solutions. Larry shares his journey from architecture and remodeling to pioneering a marketplace that helps communities and businesses reimagine waste and resources. Listen as Larry discusses how personal values like craftsmanship, hospitality, and stewardship have fueled his passion for sustainability. He highlights the power of collaboration through real-life stories — from transforming municipal practices in Brookline, MA, to building networks that connect people, ideas, and innovations globally. Larry's heartfelt message on the enduring impact of generosity, inspired by his late mother, will leave you motivated to lead with purpose and create positive ripples in your own community.

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores the critical shift from SMART objectives to SMART culture, demonstrating how organizations can create long-term sustainability through intentional frameworks. He discusses how aligning goals with core values fosters resilience, unity, and purpose-driven leadership. Learn how Rerun of 425 - SMART principles—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely—can shape your workplace culture beyond just setting objectives. Tune in to discover how this approach has sustained IA Business Advisors for 29 years and how it can do the same for your organization.

Toxic behavior in the workplace isn't always easy to spot—and it doesn't always come from poor performers. In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores the nuances of toxic employees, defining what toxicity looks like beyond performance metrics. He discusses the importance of emotional intelligence, feedback culture, and structured remediation rooted in SMART communication principles. Whether you're leading a team or navigating workplace dynamics, this episode equips you to protect your culture by addressing the uncomfortable—responsibly and intentionally.

In this eye-opening episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Paul Sippil, forensic 401(k) consultant and founder of Community Dining. Paul shares his mission to expose the hidden fees lurking in retirement plans and empower business owners to ask the right questions for true financial transparency. He offers invaluable advice on advocating for fairness, curiosity, and humility in leadership.Beyond finance, Paul reveals how Community Dining brings people together through shared meals focused on regenerative farming, meaningful conversations, and Jeffersonian dinners. Together, Gregg and Paul explore how both financial literacy and authentic human connection can inspire responsible, positive influence.

In Episode 515 of the Daily Influence, Brian explores the powerful—but sometimes conflicting—forces of analytics and gut instinct in leadership and decision-making. He breaks down why relying too much on either can lead to poor choices, missed opportunities, or burnout—and shares how integrating both leads to responsible, authentic leadership. Whether you're overwhelmed by data or flying blind on feelings, this episode will help you find your balance and lead with clarity, intention, and influence.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Emily Gardner, a former nurse turned functional medicine practitioner, who is on a mission to help women reclaim their health after feeling dismissed by conventional medicine. Through her platform, EM Integrative Wellness, and her online presence as Nurse Acne Emily, Emily supports women in tackling chronic acne, gut issues, and hormonal imbalances with a personalized, root-cause approach. Emily shares her personal struggle with painful cystic acne and debilitating health issues that weren't resolved through traditional medical treatments — and how that experience fueled her passion for integrative care. We explore how she empowers women to take ownership of their health, the hidden impacts of stress on the body, and her advocacy for mental health resources in the nursing profession.

In Episode 513 of The Daily Influence, Brian dives into the often-overlooked power of empathy in leadership. Far from being a soft or secondary trait, empathy is revealed as a strategic tool for building trust, enhancing communication, and increasing team resilience. Learn how practicing authentic empathy can transform not just how you lead—but how your influence is felt. Whether you're guiding a team through stress or building psychological safety, empathy is the key to meaningful, sustainable influence.

We rarely notice it, but influence is with us constantly—like breathing. In this episode, Brian Smith unpacks how influence operates as a continuous, often unconscious force in our lives. From body language to internal dialogue, we're always broadcasting—and always receiving. Learn how building self-awareness helps you better manage the influence you have on others and what's influencing you from within.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg sits down with Candyce Norris Jenkins, known to many as The Diabetic Mom Coach. With 30 years of personal experience living with type 1 diabetes, Candyce shares how she turned her own journey into a mission to empower women facing similar challenges. Through her platform, she creates safe spaces rooted in kindness, empathy, and real-life support, helping women thrive — not just survive — with chronic illness. Listen in as Candyce offers insights on building meaningful community, leading with heart, and creating positive influence both online and in everyday life. Connect with Candyce at: https://www.thediabeticmomcoach.com/

In Episode 510 of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith sits down with Adam San Juan—Managing Director of Retirement Plan Services at RWS Financial and author of the thought-provoking “What Are You Looking At?” Together, they dive into the intersection of influence and finance, exploring how soft skills like empathy, observation, and intentional communication are becoming more valuable than ever in an AI-driven world. Adam shares how his journey as a financial advisor and publisher of the “Human Series” of books—anchored in human behavior and interpersonal awareness—has transformed the way he leads and lives. Discover the importance of asking, “How do you like your steak?” and how understanding this metaphor can reshape everything from sales to personal relationships.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg welcomes Jim O'Brien — visionary leader, connector, and startup advisor — to share his unique journey from running a successful restaurant to becoming a trusted guide for startups and talent development. Jim opens up about the power of grit, radical candor, and human connection in leadership, as well as the importance of embracing failure as a teacher. Now with TalentCraft, Jim leverages cutting-edge technologies while staying grounded in what matters most: people. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating career pivots, building meaningful relationships, and staying human in an AI-driven world. Connect with Jim: jim@talentcraft.com

In Episode 508 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into a topic that hits a nerve: the word “boss.” Why does it bother so many? Because being “the boss” often signals insecurity and a need for control rather than true leadership. Brian challenges listeners to rethink how they define and show up as leaders—ditching titles in favor of influence, support, and mentorship. Whether you're leading a small team or an entire organization, this episode asks: Are you bossing people or building them?

On this special Independence Day episode, Brian reflects on what freedom really means beyond parades and barbecues. He shares a personal journey from his upbringing in the ‘60s, military service during the Cold War, and a time when the idea of freedom was deeply ingrained in daily life. Freedom is more than a moment in history—it's a responsibility we carry every day. This episode challenges listeners to use their personal independence to create positive, responsible influence and ripple effects that uplift others. Be safe, be thoughtful, and honor the responsibility that comes with freedom.

In this special two-year anniversary episode of Daily Influence, Brian reflects on the power of consistency, the ripple effects of intentional influence, and the mission that started it all. From episode one to over 500, the podcast has stayed grounded in the core values of individualism, empowerment, and S.M.A.R.T. Management. Brian honors the team behind the scenes and encourages listeners to slow down, stay intentional, and keep building their unique influence. Whether you're new to the podcast or a longtime listener, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of why Daily Influence exists: to help you Find, Be, and Build your influence—every single day.

In this empowering episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Andrea Coli—Executive Director of Lead Bold, teaching pastor, and improv performer—who shares her dynamic journey of stepping into ministry leadership and embracing her voice as a woman of faith. With over 25 years of ministry experience, an MA in Theology from Fuller Seminary, and a background in improvisational comedy with The Second City, Andrea brings a rare and insightful blend of humor, wisdom, and spiritual depth. From overcoming early limitations on her leadership to guiding other female pastors through moments of transformation, Andrea opens up about how risk-taking, collaboration, and trusting one's instincts have shaped her leadership style. She also explores the challenge and beauty of “narrow influence,” encouraging listeners to embrace purposeful impact over widespread reach. If you've ever felt the tension between humility and owning your power—or you're curious about how laughter, faith, and leadership intersect—this conversation will inspire you to lead with more authenticity and courage.

In this episode, Brian Smith explores the transformative power of being present and how slowing down leads to smarter, more intentional decisions. Drawing from The I in Team Series and the S.M.A.R.T. Management philosophy, Brian challenges listeners to embrace the NOW as the best moment to make their next move. Whether you're leading a team, making a personal decision, or simply navigating your day, presence fuels clarity, influence, and trust. Discover how awareness and purpose can turn any moment into an opportunity for growth.

In this soul-stirring episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Jessica Marschall—CPA, founder of MAS LLC, The Green Mission Inc., and Probity Appraisal Group, and a mother of five whose journey redefines resilience, empathy, and real success. Jessica opens up about her deeply personal and professional path: from confronting outdated career expectations as a young woman in finance, to building companies that value flexibility, diversity, and compassion over rigid metrics and policies. She shares raw and moving stories of adopting a son from the foster care system, raising a daughter with dilated cardiomyopathy, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and humanity. This conversation dives into: • Why hiring from marginalized communities creates stronger teams • The financial realities of MLMs and the silent work gap for women • How embracing imperfection and learning from mistakes is the true mark of success • Finding strength in humor, humility, and service—both at work and at home Jessica's blend of fierce advocacy, financial acumen, and boundless heart reminds us that influence isn't measured in numbers, but in how we treat one another. Tune in for a deeply human look at business, motherhood, and living with purpose. Contact Jessica at: jmarschall@marschallaccountingservice.com

This week marks a major milestone — 500 episodes of The Daily Influence! To celebrate, we're taking you back to where it all began: Episode One, Individual Influence – Defining the (I)individual. (I/We). From the very start, The Daily Influence has focused on the power of responsible, positive influence, beginning with each individual and expanding outward. Whether you're tuning in during your walk, your commute, or your daily routine, we invite you to continue making Daily Influence part of your day — and to share it with others so together we can keep spreading positivity, one ripple at a time.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Milena Miteva-Regos — reformed marketing executive, keynote speaker, and founder of Unhustle — to challenge the deeply ingrained culture of toxic hustle. Milena shares her personal journey from burnout to balance, her insights into mindfulness, presence, and the importance of human sustainability in leadership. Drawing from her extensive research, including interviews with 300+ high achievers, Milena offers practical, science-backed strategies to help leaders and individuals reclaim their well-being without sacrificing ambition. Discover how to build alignment, foster purpose-driven leadership, and create "life wealth" — a richer, more fulfilling definition of success. Learn More About Unhustle: https://unhustle.com/ Connect with Milena: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unhustle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milenaregos/

Today marks a milestone—500 episodes of Daily Influence. In this reflective episode, Brian Smith explores what it means to cast 500 intentional ripples into the world. From the humble beginnings of The I in Team Series to a global platform of responsible and positive influence, Brian shares the power of consistency, the importance of community, and the ongoing journey to build a better world through influence.Featuring reflections on key episodes like deliberate action (Ep. 8), consistency (Ep. 77), and human-centered leadership (Ep. 463), this episode celebrates not just a number—but the stories, listeners, and voices that made the journey possible.If you've ever wondered what real, intentional influence looks like over time—start here. And join us for the next 500.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Liva RJ (aka Leva Judic), globally recognized as "The Quiet Disruptor." From a childhood marked by unimaginable adversity in Madagascar, homelessness, abuse, and loss, to standing on global stages like the World Economic Forum and creating a soul-centered retreat in a 16th-century French farmhouse, Liva shares her remarkable journey of resilience and responsible influence. Liva opens up about the transformative power of presence, intuition, and holding space rather than guiding or directing. She shares profound insights into how trauma shaped her ability to create safe, sacred spaces for healing and self-discovery, especially for women navigating change and reinvention. Through soulful retreats that disconnect from technology and foster creativity, connection, and rest, Liva helps leaders recalibrate their nervous systems, embrace their inner child, and reignite purpose in today's fast-paced world. Discover how ethical leadership is rooted in mindful presence, deep listening, and creating space for others to thrive. Liva's wisdom offers encouragement for anyone facing struggle or transition, reminding us that pain often signals profound growth, and that by shining brightly ourselves, we lift those around us. If you're ready to be inspired by a story of transformation, compassion, and courageous leadership, this episode will stay with you long after it ends. Connect with Liva: Instagram: @liv.alive Website: soulxplorers.com

In this special 498th episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith reflects on the incredible journey leading up to our 500th episode milestone. With a heartfelt look back at how the I in Team Series and Daily Influence have evolved, Brian shares thoughts on the transformative nature of influence—quiet or loud, disruptive or steady—and the importance of recognizing that every person matters. He encourages listeners to revisit past episodes for timeless guidance and previews what's to come with Greg and Liv as we explore quiet disruption and the space between transformation and celebration. Join us as we honor the power of intentional influence and prepare for the next chapter in our journey together.

From a dirt road in rural Alabama to leading global teams at Herman Miller, Knoll, and Hightower, Monique Lecomte's journey is a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and authentic leadership. In this episode, Monique joins host Gregg-Brooke Koleno to explore what it means to be an "expert generalist," how to create psychologically safe spaces in the workplace, and why true leadership is about building trust—not titles. Monique shares how raising her younger brother at 27 shaped her leadership style, the impact of long-term relationship building over transactional communication, and the power of showing up as your authentic self. Her insights are both deeply personal and widely applicable to anyone seeking to influence with purpose and compassion.

In today's episode of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores how one simple tool—your calendar—can become the foundation for intentional and responsible influence. He shares personal habits and professional insights on how structured time management supports clarity, trust, and leadership. Learn how the calendar acts not only as a scheduling tool, but as a strategic framework for aligning your values with action, using the S.M.A.R.T. methodology and the Six to Sixty planning model. If you're ready to bring order to chaos and elevate your influence, this episode is your starting point.

In today's episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Burt Levy, a visionary leader whose journey spans decades in media and technology. From his impactful role as Director of Entertainment at the Chicago Sun-Times to launching and scaling Revenue Mountain, Burt shares how he transformed an organic network into a thriving business with heart. Burt reflects on: • The lessons he learned and how they shaped his leadership. • Why "hiring for character and training for skill" is his unshakable rule. • How a simple act of inclusion transformed a young basketball player's life—and what that story says about real influence. • His belief that leadership is stewardship, where we shape lives by how we treat people, not just how we perform. • Why selling value over price creates lasting relationships—and businesses. This conversation is a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership, human connection, and cultivating influence with authenticity. Burt's message is clear: Machines are getting better at being machines—it's time we get better at being human. Want to connect with Burt? Reach him at burt@revenuemountain.com. Tune in and be reminded why influence is more than a platform—it's the legacy we build through every interaction.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores how the principles of S.M.A.R.T. Management—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely—can help leaders navigate today's increasingly complex and diverse environments. Whether your sphere of influence is local or spans continents, Brian explains how specificity, cultural empathy, and proactive communication can bridge gaps, reduce reactivity, and foster more connected, effective teams. Discover how to lead with intention in a fast-paced world and create influence that transcends borders.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Nell Vandeveld, a financial advisor with BBV Wealth Management at Merrill Lynch, whose passion for financial literacy is transforming lives. From her roots in classical music to working alongside her mother in a predominantly female-led finance team, Nell shares how her unconventional path led her to a career of helping others build confidence through financial clarity. You'll hear: • How Nell helps clients overcome financial anxiety by removing emotion from money management • A touching story of how she supported a client through a complex caregiving situation • Why financial education is the foundation of her practice and mission • Practical encouragement for listeners to take charge of their financial futures This conversation is a reminder that while money isn't the most important thing in life, understanding it can unlock the freedom to focus on what matters most. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or seeking more confidence in your decision-making, Nell's insights will leave you informed and inspired.

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith shares decades of experience leading global, remote teams to explore what it truly means to work without walls. With remote work now a norm, Brian dives into the importance of maintaining intentional influence through consistent communication, empathy, and trust. He offers actionable strategies from IA Business Advisors and the SMART framework to help leaders stay connected, build culture, and lead with purpose—even when teams are miles apart. Whether you're a seasoned remote leader or navigating this space for the first time, this episode provides the clarity and tools to help you influence with intention.

In this thought-provoking episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with David Atkinson, the visionary behind The Resiliency Code, a movement that blends deep introspection, systems thinking, and personal responsibility to combat burnout and restore authentic living. From a rugged start in commercial fishing on the Great Lakes to three decades in global enterprise IT, David's journey has led him to become an Epigenetic Archaeologist and Sovran Systems Architect, uncovering the hidden imprints of our past and building new frameworks for sustainable human systems. Together, Gregg and David explore: • Why subrogation—the silent surrender of responsibility—is sabotaging our personal power • How David and co-creator Nicole Connor recovered from burnout and began reverse aging by restoring alignment and vitality • The power of My Resilient Self, an AI-guided platform that reframes perception and fosters authentic living • What it takes to create a lasting legacy beyond the "three and out" generational curse • Why failure is required and how to fail small, fail fast, and fail forward • What it means to say "collapse is optional" in a world craving true stability This conversation challenges the status quo and inspires you to reclaim your agency, understand your influence, and build resilient systems—for yourself and the generations to come.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian explores the idea of "boardroom frequency"—the tone, energy, and alignment of those we rely on for critical decisions. Whether your advisory group is a formal board, a team of leaders, or trusted peers, how they resonate with your mission and values matters. Brian challenges us to be intentional about who we allow to influence us, how we receive that influence, and whether it aligns with our strategic goals. Discover how clarity, empathy, and SMART decision-making can cut through the noise and elevate both individual and organizational influence.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Beth Nabors, Executive Director of Journeys | The Road Home, to explore the human side of homelessness and the leadership it takes to create lasting change. With over 26 years of service in suburban Cook County, Beth shares how personal experiences shaped her mission, the misconceptions that often surround homelessness, and how her team stays resilient amidst emotional and logistical challenges. From standing in the rain to protect a client's only remaining possession to redefining burnout as moral injury, Beth's insights highlight the power of empathy, presence, and purpose-driven leadership. This conversation is a testament to what it means to lead not from behind a desk, but from beside the people you serve. Tune in to hear: • What suburban homelessness really looks like • How Beth motivates her team through policy, presence, and compassion • A powerful story of standing up for what's right—even in a thunderstorm • Why hope is a strategy, not just a feeling Whether you're in nonprofit work, leadership, or just looking to make a difference, Beth's message will leave you inspired and reconnected to your own power to influence positive change. Learn more about Journeys The Road Home: https://www.journeystheroadhome.org/

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian explores the often-unspoken language that defines our impact—our body language. From posture and eye contact to facial expressions and even wardrobe choices, your physical presence begins influencing others the moment you enter a room. Learn how to align your nonverbal signals with your mission and values to cultivate trust, build deeper connections, and create responsible influence. Whether you're leading a team or just showing up for a conversation, discover how intentional awareness of your physical self can elevate your leadership and relationships.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Gigi Verrey—founder of Very Smart Ideas—to explore how a limb difference became a source of strength, innovation, and global impact. Gigi opens up about growing up in a time when her difference was misunderstood, and how it shaped her mindset, creativity, and leadership. From inventing one-handed life hacks to empowering parents of children with limb differences across the world, Gigi shares how visibility, vulnerability, and humor can break down barriers. Her message is clear: “If I can do it, you can do it.” Whether she's peeling carrots in a new way or inspiring others through viral videos, Gigi reminds us that our greatest challenges can become our greatest leverage. This episode is a masterclass in responsible influence, empathy-driven leadership, and the courage to show up fully—even when it's uncomfortable. Tune in to learn how to lead with authenticity, create inclusive spaces, and turn your uniqueness into your superpower. Connect with Gigi at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063558941643 https://www.instagram.com/verysmartideas/

In Episode 486 of the Daily Influence, Brian explores the transformative strength of quiet influence—leadership that doesn't demand attention but earns respect through intentional actions, deep listening, and unwavering consistency. Drawing from the SMART philosophy and the foundational concepts in The I in Team Series, Brian shares how disciplined, unassuming leadership fosters sustainable trust, clarity, and organizational growth. Learn how to let your presence speak louder than your voice—and how process, empathy, and reliability drive performance and elevate your team's influence.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Cindy Brom—Midwestern leader, changemaker, and affectionately known as “Gumby” and “Clorox Cindy.” From her early days at Northwestern University's Department of Psychiatry to scaling a mental health program from 1 employee to over 400, Cindy's journey is rooted in flexibility, deep listening, and a relentless drive to serve others. Cindy opens up about her unexpected entry into the helping profession, her transformational leadership style, and the meaningful impact she's had on her teams and her own family. She introduces the concept of “currency”—the core motivators that drive individuals—and how understanding these can elevate influence and connection. With anecdotes ranging from disinfecting doorknobs during COVID to coaching her son through one of his toughest academic challenges, Cindy reminds us that real influence starts with authenticity, credibility, and rolling up your sleeves. Tune in to hear Cindy's actionable advice on how to lead with intention, recognize what matters most to others, and be the kind of leader who gets things done—while lifting others up. Plus: Gregg reflects on the power of influence and how it's evolved in her own life. Connect with Cindy: cbrom@simplybee.net Learn about SimplyBee: https://www.simplybeecounseling.net/

In Episode 484 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith tackles a leadership challenge many face but few discuss: the tension between being liked and being a positive, responsible influence. Drawing from personal experience and SMART principles, Brian explores how true leadership is built on clarity, consistency, and integrity—not popularity. Discover why choosing influence over likeability may not always be comfortable, but it's the key to earning long-term respect and trust. If you've ever struggled with making the hard call or wondered if being liked was enough, this episode is your must-listen reminder that leadership is about doing what's right—not what's easy.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Belinda Sandor, affectionately known as Lady Belinda and the visionary founder of The VA Connection. With a story that begins at age 50—amid divorce, a failed business, and raising a young daughter—Belinda shares how she transformed personal hardship into a mission-driven career helping thousands of virtual assistants across the globe. Belinda discusses building a six-figure VA business, the power of connection and mentorship, and how a supportive community has grown into an international movement with over 58,000 members in 47 countries. From a rural mom in Iowa earning $65/hour to forging deep friendships in online cohorts, this episode highlights how Belinda is redefining success through kindness, collaboration, and personal empowerment. She also previews her upcoming VA Connection Live Conference, where virtual assistants will explore holistic success—balancing business with health, mindset, and connection. Learn more about The VA Connection at https://www.thevaconnection.com/ Tune in for words of wisdom, practical insight, and a powerful reminder that it's never too late to step into your power and live life on your own terms.

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian S. Smith revisits one of the cornerstones of leadership—accountability—but with a deeper dive into the synergy between self-accountability and team accountability. Discover how self-accountability serves as the catalyst and team accountability becomes the engine that drives collective success. Brian unpacks how SMART culture transforms accountability from a burden into a shared commitment, elevating individuals while aligning momentum toward common goals.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Debra Duby, founder of Do Be Fit LLC, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation on what it truly means to transform—physically, mentally, and emotionally. With over two decades of experience blending psychology, personal training, nutrition, and meditation, Debra shares her unique philosophy: that lasting change is rooted not in reps and routines, but in resilience and self-awareness. Debra opens up about her own journey from a corporate tech career to becoming a celebrated wellness coach. She shares real-life client stories—like an 80-year-old lifting weights after decades of inactivity—and offers empowering advice for those feeling stuck or unsure of where to begin. Learn why “lowering the bar” isn't failure, but the first step toward sustainable success, and how friction in your journey is actually a sign of progress, not a red flag. This episode is a masterclass in responsible influence and quiet leadership. Debra reminds us that you don't need a platform to inspire others—you just need to be the change.

In Episode 480 of the Daily Influence, Brian explores the transformative role of humor in leadership and workplace culture. Drawing from the SMART Management framework and personal stories—including the roots of his TED Talk—Brian unpacks how appropriate humor fosters trust, psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and resilient leadership. Whether you lead a team or are part of one, this episode shows how laughter, when aligned with values, can break down barriers and build meaningful connections that drive engagement and productivity.

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Lynn Roberts, the newly appointed Program Manager at the Pete DuPont Freedom Foundation. With a dynamic background spanning molecular biology, sustainable innovation, and entrepreneurship, Lynn shares her winding journey from science to social impact—and how each pivot led to a deeper understanding of leadership, vulnerability, and equity. From her work at Agilent Technologies spearheading sustainable packaging initiatives to founding a startup designed to connect marginalized entrepreneurs with corporate buyers, Lynn dives into how real change requires adaptability, cultural awareness, and a human-first approach. She also opens up about her eye-opening experience leading a vulnerability workshop in Australia and how that shaped her leadership lens. Whether you're an aspiring changemaker, a seasoned entrepreneur, or simply looking to lead more authentically, Lynn's story offers inspiration and practical insight into building inclusive, innovative communities. Tune in to learn why it's never too early—or too late—to start something meaningful. Lear More about the Pete DuPont Freedom Foundation: https://www.petedupontfreedomfoundation.org/ Connect with Lynn: lynn@petedupontfreedomfoundation.org

On this special Memorial Day edition of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith shares a heartfelt reflection on the true meaning of the day—not celebration, but remembrance. He explores the legacy of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, emphasizing how their selfless service mirrors the core of responsible leadership. Through the lens of SMART influence, Brian challenges us to look in the mirror and ask ourselves: Are we leading with vision, humility, and accountability? This episode is a powerful reminder that real leadership isn't about authority—it's about responsibility.

In Episode 477 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores The Art of Letting Go—a powerful reframing of delegation as an act of empowerment, not abdication. Drawing from his S.M.A.R.T. Management methodology and The I in Team Series, Brian reveals how effective delegation starts with self-awareness and ends in trust. Learn how to align responsibilities with individual competencies, foster a culture of scalable leadership, and avoid becoming a bottleneck in your organization. If you struggle with delegation, this episode will help you rethink your approach so you can grow by letting go—intentionally, strategically, and smartly.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Andrea Biwer, President of the Schaumburg Business Association, to explore the incredible journey of a woman whose life and leadership are rooted in responsible influence. With over 30 years of professional experience—from hospitality and tourism to chamber leadership—Andrea shares how her upbringing in her family's Chicago drugstore and the mentorship of her mother, SBA co-founder Lori Stone, shaped her commitment to community, connection, and service. Andrea reflects on her full-circle moment returning to lead the very association her mother helped launch and discusses the success of the award-winning Veterans Back to Work Boot Camp—highlighting how mentorship and belief can change lives. Her infectious energy and heart-driven leadership are a reminder that true influence begins with showing up, being authentic, and caring deeply. Whether you're looking to make an impact in your workplace or your wider community, Andrea's story is an inspiring example of how to lead with purpose and legacy. Learn more about the Schaumburg Business Association: https://www.schaumburgbusiness.com/ Connect with Andrea: abiwer@schaumburgbusiness.com

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Michele S. Katz—intellectual property attorney, founder of Advitam IP, and heart behind the Plus One Adoption Foundation—for a conversation that radiates optimism, courage, and purpose. Michele shares her deeply personal journey through building a family via adoption, and how it inspired her to launch The Bright Side Live, a monthly Instagram series celebrating stories of adoption and resilience. Together, they explore what it means to embrace imbalance, how to lead with compassion and conviction, and why Michele believes that every challenge carries the potential to reveal something beautiful. From her decades in international IP law to her unwavering advocacy for children awaiting forever homes, Michele exemplifies what responsible influence looks like in action. Tune in for wisdom on anchoring yourself with daily rituals, the surprising moments when we realize our impact, and how living with intention—on the bright side—can change everything.