Daily Influence

In this revisit to episode 368 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into one of the most challenging aspects of professional and personal life: conflict. Explore strategies to navigate disagreements with empathy and curiosity, turn emotional barriers into collaborative breakthroughs, and use S.M.A.R.T. Management principles to resolve conflicts constructively. Learn how to reframe differences as opportunities for growth, improve communication, and foster alignment within your teams. Tune in to transform how you view and handle conflict!

What happens when an idea becomes action — immediately? In Episode 712 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith sits down with Brian Deurloo, founder of Frog Creek Partners, to explore the journey from a single moment of insight to a real-world solution protecting our environment. Brian Deurloo didn't just have an idea — he acted on it. From building a prototype in his garage within hours to developing stormwater filtration systems now used by municipalities, his story is a powerful example of disciplined execution, purpose-driven innovation, and responsible influence. This conversation goes beyond invention. It dives into: Why action matters more than ideas The responsibility behind building solutions that impact the environment What it really takes to scale something that must work in the real world If you're a business owner, leader, or someone sitting on an idea — this episode will challenge you to move. Core Message: Ideas are common. Action — especially responsible action — is what creates impact.Website: https://frogcreek.partners/ linked in for frog creek: https://wwwlinkedin.com/company/frog-creek-partners/ linked in for brian https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-%E2%80%98huck%E2%80%99-deurloo-008a2414/ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bdeurloo https://www.facebook.com/FrogCreekPartners/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrh25GwIoJvh6mYQ9RotpFA

On this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Marnie Dachis Marmet, author, serial entrepreneur, board-certified health coach, and founder of Zenful Life Coaching, for a conversation about wellness, resilience, and the power of small, sustainable change. Marnie shares her journey from building a successful promotional products business to creating a coaching practice focused on helping women and teens address the root causes of their health challenges. She explains why real wellness is not about quick fixes or extreme protocols, but about listening to your body, simplifying the noise, and taking ownership of your health in a way that works for your unique life. In this episode, Marnie discusses the daily habits that can create the biggest ripple effects, including prioritizing sleep, eating in a way that supports balance, moving your body consistently, and finding ways to calm the nervous system. She also offers thoughtful encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed, reminding listeners that they do not have to change everything at once to begin making a positive difference in their own lives and in the lives of others. This episode is a powerful reminder that influence often begins with how we care for ourselves. Website: https://zenfullifecoaching.com/ Book - My Song, Unleashed: A Memoir: https://a.co/d/0j9mk3xo The Art of Living Well Podcast: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/

In this revisit to episode 563 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores how integrity can be tested when emotions run high—whether in religion, politics, or personal crises. He discusses how empathy and sympathy can de-escalate conversations, why accountability must rise above loyalty, and how to choose words that heal rather than harm. When pressure mounts, asking better questions and grounding ourselves in core values helps us influence responsibly and ethically.

What if what you're feeling isn't burnout at all but something deeper? On this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Lora Cheadle, former attorney turned burnout and betrayal recovery expert, TEDx speaker, and author of It's Not Burnout, It's Betrayal. Together, they explore a powerful reframe that is changing how individuals and organizations understand stress, disengagement, and emotional exhaustion. Lora shares how burnout commonly defined as unmanaged stress can often mask something more profound: betrayal trauma, the breaking of expectations that disrupts trust, identity, and confidence. When left unaddressed, this deeper layer can impact not only personal well-being but also our ability to lead, influence, and show up fully in our work and relationships. In this episode: • The critical difference between burnout and betrayal and why it matters • How broken expectations can erode trust, identity, and influence • Practical ways to self-reflect and uncover what's really going on beneath the surface • Lora's FUEL UP Method for reclaiming energy, clarity, and personal responsibility • Why small moments of self-validation and joy can create meaningful, lasting change This conversation is a reminder that true growth starts with awareness. When we understand the root cause of our challenges, we can move forward with greater clarity, resilience, and intentional influence.https://workplace-burnout.com/lora@loracheadle.com

In this revisit to episode 417 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith challenges leaders to break free from the confines of groupthink and the echo chamber. Drawing on insights from The I in Team Series and the power of SMART communication, Brian reveals practical strategies to identify and disrupt homogeneous thinking. Learn how to foster a culture that champions diverse perspectives, constructive dissent, and empowered individual voices—transforming your leadership approach to drive real innovation.

In this revisit to Episode 427 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into the concept of Invisible Leadership—the ability to influence without authority. In a world where social media personalities, athletes, and entertainers wield significant influence, how do we distinguish between credible, responsible leadership and mere opinion-driven persuasion? Brian challenges us to apply the S.M.A.R.T. framework to the information we consume, ensuring we seek truth, context, and integrity in influence. Whether you're a leader, an influencer, or simply someone navigating today's information overload, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and learn how to cultivate positive and responsible influence—without falling into the traps of misinformation and emotional bias.

On this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Andrea Johnston, seasoned communications executive, exited founder, and founder of Fuel for Female Founders, for a conversation about leadership, growth, and creating impact that reaches far beyond business. Andrea shares her journey from building and scaling Pure Communications into a $12 million firm, to leading at the executive level after acquisition, to stepping into a more purpose-centered chapter focused on helping women founders grow with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. She reflects on the balance between the “I” and the “we” in leadership, the importance of mentoring others, and why true success is about service as much as achievement. The conversation also explores Andrea's commitment to community impact from helping architect a workforce development fund in North Carolina to championing visibility for women through her Women I Want You to Know platform. Along the way, she offers practical wisdom on choosing joy, letting go of perfectionism, taking meaningful risks, and leading in a way that aligns with your own values rather than someone else's expectations. This episode is an inspiring reminder that influence is not just about what you build, but about who rises because of how you lead. Connect with Andrea: https:// /

In Episode 705 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD steps outside the traditional business lens and into one of his personal passions—art. Joined by contemporary wildlife artist Kriti Tiwari, this conversation explores the deeper connection between creativity, discipline, and influence. Kriti shares her journey from a 17-year corporate career to becoming a full-time artist, revealing how emotion, consistency, and intentional practice shape her work. This episode is not just about art—it's about expression, courage, and the discipline required to bring what's inside of you into the world. Key themes include: The balance between intentional design and creative discovery Why discipline—not talent—is what sustains growth How art influences emotion, perspective, and identity The courage to stop hiding and fully express who you are Whether you're an artist, a business leader, or someone navigating your next step, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about how you show up and what you're truly creating.

What if science could become a bridge to peace? In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno speaks with Dr. Zafra Lerman, internationally recognized chemist, educator, and human rights advocate who has dedicated her life to using science as a tool for collaboration across political and cultural divides. Dr. Lerman shares the story behind the Malta Conferences, where scientists from countries throughout the Middle East—including nations often in conflict—come together to collaborate on shared global challenges such as water resources, energy, and environmental sustainability. These gatherings create space for dialogue, discovery, and human connection, helping participants see beyond stereotypes and build relationships rooted in respect and shared purpose. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Lerman reflects on her courageous journey—from advancing science education for underserved students to advocating for human rights and promoting science diplomacy as a pathway to peace. In this episode: • How the Malta Conferences bring scientists from divided regions together to collaborate. • Why shared global challenges like water, energy, and air quality require cooperation beyond borders. • Dr. Lerman's belief that creating a “critical mass” of scientists can spark a chain reaction for peace. • How individuals can use their own skills and passions to influence the world for the better. This inspiring conversation is a powerful reminder that collaboration, curiosity, and courage can transform division into understanding—and knowledge into positive influence. Connect with Dr. Lerman or learn more: Dr. Lerman's website: zafralerman.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zafralerman/ The Malta Conferences Foundation, using science diplomacy as a bridge to peace in the Middle East: maltaconferencesfoundation.org The Lerman Institute for the Advancement of Science, she developed unique methods of teaching science through art, music, dance, drama, rap, poetry, and animation which was proven extremely successful with underprivileged students around the globe: https://www.lermaninstitute.org/

Most leaders don't fail because they lack effort—they fail because they lack intent. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith challenges a common leadership trap: confusing activity with progress. Leaders stay busy, respond quickly, and fill their calendars… but without intentional design, that motion creates drift—not direction. Brian breaks down how intentional leadership is not something you “have”—it's something you build through structure, clarity, and disciplined execution. Using S.M.A.R.T. principles, he outlines how to align your daily actions with your long-term vision and eliminate the subtle drift that erodes trust, performance, and results over time. If you've ever felt busy but not effective, this episode will help you reset, refocus, and operate with purpose. In this episode: Why activity without direction leads to leadership drift How to design intent into your daily structure The hidden cost of “busy” leadership on your team and results How S.M.A.R.T. systems turn motion into measurable progress Core Idea: You don't drift into success—you design it.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith sits down with entrepreneur, investor, and author of The Zenith Code, Boaz Gilad, to challenge one of the biggest misconceptions in business and life: That success comes from working harder. After building and taking public a real estate development company responsible for over a billion dollars in projects, Boaz shares a different perspective — one rooted in structure, not effort. Together, Brian and Boaz explore: Why success is not a linear path — and why that misunderstanding holds people back How high performers think in terms of “games” with rules, constraints, and measurable outcomes The critical role of structure over motivation — and why inspiration alone fails How to reframe failure as data instead of identity A practical approach to 90-day execution cycles that drive real, measurable progress This conversation brings together Boaz's “game-based” thinking and Brian's S.M.A.R.T. Management philosophy — reinforcing a powerful truth:

What happens when successful leaders reach a moment where something simply feels “off”? In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Dr. Bobby Hulme-Lippert, leadership coach, keynote speaker, award-winning storyteller, and author of Small Stories About Big Things. After two decades in professional ministry and serving in the U.S. Army chaplaincy, Bobby now helps mid- and late-career leaders navigate pivotal inflection points in their lives and leadership. Through storytelling, curiosity, and courageous conversations, Bobby guides leaders who feel stuck on the “hamster wheel” of busyness or disconnected from the energy and purpose they once had. In this conversation, Bobby shares how slowing down, asking better questions, and reconnecting with personal stories can help leaders realign themselves before influencing others. In this episode: • Why many leaders feel exhausted or misaligned despite outward success • How curiosity and powerful questions create stronger leadership cultures • The story of the “orange posts” and how small steps help leaders rediscover purpose • Why storytelling builds trust and strengthens responsible influence • How uncertainty and challenges can become invitations to growth Bobby reminds us that leadership transformation rarely happens through grand gestures. Instead, it often begins with small stories, thoughtful reflection, and the courage to pause long enough to realign with what truly matters. Learn more: https://bhl.coach

Episode 700 marks a pivotal moment for Daily Influence — and a shift into a deeper conversation about how leaders actually operate. In this milestone episode, Brian S. Smith challenges a common frustration shared by business owners and leaders: “Why isn't our marketing working?” The answer is direct: It's not a marketing problem. It's a communication problem — and more specifically, a lack of discipline in how communication is structured. Social media doesn't create the issue… it exposes it. Brian breaks down why most marketing today is simply activity without structure, and how that leads to noise instead of trust. In this episode, you'll learn: Why self-focused messaging gets ignored — even when it's accurate How S.M.A.R.T. becomes a communication discipline, not just a goal-setting tool The difference between visibility and true understanding Why consistency, clarity, and relevance build trust — not promotion This episode sets the foundation for the next series: Operating With Intent — From Discipline to Design Core Idea: If your communication isn't structured, it isn't strategy — it's activity.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Dr. Marie Livesey, founder of Lively Holistic Health, to explore a powerful but often overlooked truth: the way we lead is deeply connected to how well we listen to our bodies. As a physician, Dr. Livesey helps individuals and leaders understand how stress, energy, and physiology directly impact patience, decision-making, motivation, and follow-through—especially during demanding seasons of life and work. Rather than viewing burnout or irritability as personal shortcomings, she reframes them as predictable biological signals asking for attention. Together, Gregg and Marie discuss: • How low energy and chronic stress quietly affect leadership presence • Why burnout is often physiological—not a mindset failure • The power of the “pause” between transitions in your day • Practical strategies to stabilize energy, including sleep, nutrition, sunlight, and mental reset practices • Why self-care is not selfish—but foundational to responsible influence Dr. Livesey also shares a meaningful story about helping a patient move from self-blame to empowered decision-making, reminding us that compassionate leadership begins with understanding—of both others and ourselves. If you've been feeling stretched, tired, or unsure, this conversation offers grounded, science-backed encouragement. Because positive influence doesn't come from pushing harder—it comes from showing up steady, aware, and well-supported. Small resets create sustainable impact. Connect with Marie at: https://www.instagram.com/dr.mlivesey/

Legacy is not something you leave behind — it's something you're building right now. In Episode 698 of Daily Influence, Brian S. Smith challenges the traditional view of legacy and reframes it as a system that is actively forming through your daily decisions, standards, and behaviors. What you tolerate gets repeated. What you reward gets multiplied. What you ignore becomes embedded. The question isn't whether your leadership is scaling — it already is. The real question is: is it scaling by design… or by default? Brian walks through how the S.M.A.R.T. framework becomes more than a planning tool — it becomes a filter for what deserves to multiply across your business, your team, and your culture. This episode is a powerful reminder that: Legacy is structural, not situational Multiplication is automatic — design is optional What continues without you defines your true influence Core Idea: Legacy is what multiplies without your presence — design it intentionally.

Leaders don't fail because they make bad decisions. They fail because they're forced to make too many. In Episode 697 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD explores decision fatigue—the silent drain on leadership effectiveness that most business owners don't recognize until it's already impacting performance. When every question, approval, and direction flows through the leader, the organization doesn't gain clarity—it creates dependency. And dependency doesn't scale. In this episode, Brian breaks down how cognitive overload impacts decision quality, why delegation is a sign of leadership maturity (not relief), and how SMART systems can eliminate unnecessary decisions by embedding clarity into the structure itself. Because if everything requires your judgment… You didn't build a system. You built a bottleneck.

What if structure isn't about control — but about freedom?In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Silyana Bozileva, a global leader with over 17 years of experience building and guiding multicultural teams across customer experience, operations, and early-stage growth environments.From serving as a CEO and COO in startups to leading service standards at UKG, Silyana blends operational excellence with deep human empowerment. She shares how leadership rooted in trust, accountability, and clear systems doesn't restrict teams — it strengthens them.Together, they explore:• Why personal responsibility is the foundation of real leadership• How systems and SOPs create calm and confidence under pressure• The difference between ego-driven influence and community-centered leadership• A powerful mentorship story about restoring confidence after a toxic workplace• Lessons from winning Bulgaria's “Hack the Crisis” hackathon with five strangers during COVID• Why stepping up and speaking up can change the trajectory of your lifeSilyana's message is simple yet powerful: Influence isn't about you — it's about elevating everyone around you.If you're building a team, launching a venture, mentoring young leaders, or striving to lead with intention, this conversation will remind you that responsible influence starts with how you choose to show up.Connect with Silyana via LinkedIn or at  silyana@revenuelab.pro or LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/in/silyanabojilova

Accountability is one of the most misunderstood responsibilities in leadership. Too often, leaders fall into one of two traps—avoidance or aggression. They either delay difficult conversations hoping issues resolve themselves, or they overcorrect with pressure, believing intensity drives performance. But neither approach works. In Episode 695 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD breaks down a more disciplined and effective approach: accountability through clarity, not force. Drawing from real-world leadership challenges, Brian explores how to create accountability systems that remove emotion, reduce resistance, and strengthen both performance and relationships. In this episode, you'll learn: Why avoidance and aggression both lead to instability The difference between punishment and clearly defined expectations How SMART metrics transform accountability into a structural advantage Why clarity—not pressure—is the foundation of Responsible Influence When expectations are clear and measurable, accountability stops being emotional—and starts becoming part of your organization's foundation. Core Idea: Clarity removes the need for force.

What if the most powerful leadership lessons came from moments where every word truly mattered? In this compelling episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Scott Tillema — FBI-trained hostage negotiator, former SWAT crisis negotiator, and senior law enforcement leader — to explore how high-stakes communication principles translate directly into everyday leadership. With more than two decades of experience navigating crisis situations, Scott has learned that influence begins with one critical step: managing yourself first. From controlling tone and delivery under pressure to having the courage to step into difficult conversations, Scott shares practical strategies leaders can use to build trust, resolve conflict, and create alignment without coercion. Together, they discuss: • Why leadership starts with self-awareness • How fairness, empathy, and appreciation drive engagement • The power of active listening in building connection • Why slowing down actually helps you move faster • Tactical breathing techniques to stay grounded under stress • How small, intentional daily actions create lasting influence Scott's journey from law enforcement to global keynote speaker reminds us that powerful communication isn't an innate gift — it's a skill anyone can learn and strengthen. If you lead a team, run a business, or simply want to show up more intentionally in your relationships, this episode offers actionable insight into how responsible influence is built through connection, not control. Because leadership isn't about the title you hold — it's about the impact you make. Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tillema/ https://scotttillema.com/

Trust is one of the most talked about concepts in leadership—and one of the least understood in practice. In Episode 693 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD challenges the common belief that trust is built in big moments. Instead, he reveals how trust is quietly formed—or fractured—through small, everyday actions. From missed follow-ups to inconsistent expectations, these “micro-betrayals” often go unnoticed by leaders but are deeply felt by teams. In today's fast-moving environment, speed without structure is accelerating the erosion of trust—and most organizations don't even realize it's happening. Brian breaks down how trust is not just cultural—it's structural. It must be intentionally designed through clear expectations, consistent behavior, and disciplined communication. Because trust doesn't break loudly. It erodes quietly. And over time, it either compounds into strength… or decays into doubt.

Are you trying to build a team? In this revisit to Daily Influence episode 145 we discuss some tips to help build your team, regardless of size and vocation.

After 40 years in the apparel industry, Michael Bernstein had a realization: seeing the problem wasn't enough—he had to act. On this episode of Daily Influence, Michael shares how that conviction led him to launch Burnastic, a company transforming textile and plastic waste into a sustainable polymer designed to reduce global carbon footprints. In this inspiring conversation, we explore: • The moment purpose met possibility • How innovation can offset fast fashion's environmental impact • Why failure is part of leadership • The courage it takes to disrupt traditional industries • How pursuing passion prevents lifelong regret Michael reminds us that influence starts with responsibility—and that even “sleepy industries” can be transformed by bold vision. Connect with Michael and learn more at: https://bernastic.com/

In this revisit to Daily Influence episode 240, Brian Smith delves into the essence of leadership transitions and how everyone, at every level, holds leadership potential. Drawing insights from the I in Team book series, Brian discusses how recognizing individual influence, fostering a supportive environment, and maintaining a positive mindset can ease the stress and anxiety of leadership transitions. Tune in to learn how to manage change as continuous improvement and how to build responsible leadership at every organizational level. Celebrate our latest book, "Responsible Influence: Build the I in Team," now an Amazon international bestseller, and explore the impactful lessons from "Individual Influence: Find the I in Team" and "Positive Influence: Be the I in Team." Join us and embrace your influence!

What happens when life shatters the plan you carefully designed? In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Jennifer Wren Tolo—award-winning health and wellness coach, former critical care nurse, best-selling author, and transformational speaker known as The Soul Connector. Jennifer shares the pivotal experiences that shifted her life from logic-driven achievement to soul-aligned living—including navigating her son's stroke at birth and another child's leukemia diagnosis. Through adversity, she discovered that thriving isn't about controlling outcomes—it's about regulating yourself, trusting your intuition, and leading from within. In this conversation, Jennifer introduces her signature A.B.C. Method of Stress Management: • A – Awareness: Recognizing when you're dysregulated or in survival mode • B – Balance: Resetting your nervous system through breath and presence • C – Choice: Making empowered, aligned decisions from calm—not fear Together, Gregg and Jennifer explore: • The difference between ego-driven reactions and soul-led responses • Why calm is a leadership superpower • How stress impacts decision-making at home, at work, and in community • The hidden cost of perfectionism and people-pleasing • How responsible influence begins with radical self-awareness Jennifer reminds us that influence doesn't start by fixing others—it starts by reconnecting with ourselves. When we regulate our own nervous system, set boundaries, and lead with alignment, the ripple effect transforms families, workplaces, and communities. If you've been operating on autopilot or feeling overwhelmed by expectations, this episode will help you pause, breathe, and reclaim your power. Because sustainable leadership doesn't come from burnout. It comes from alignment. Connect With Jennifer: Website: https://jenniferwrentolo.com Instagram and Facebook: @jenwrentolo LinkedIn: https://Linkedin.com/jennifer-tolo-rn-ma

Remote and hybrid work are now permanent parts of the modern workplace. Technology allows teams to communicate instantly from anywhere in the world, but communication alone does not create cohesion. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores the leadership challenge many organizations face today: the digital illusion of connection. When teams rely heavily on messaging platforms, video calls, and digital collaboration tools, it can appear that everyone is aligned—while trust, clarity, and shared culture quietly weaken. Brian explains why culture is not created by proximity, but by behavior that is repeated visibly and consistently. Leaders who want to rebuild cohesion in dispersed teams must move beyond constant communication and instead establish structural habits that reinforce clarity, accountability, and shared direction. You will learn why successful distributed organizations focus on: • Creating structured clarity around goals and priorities • Establishing consistent rhythms that support accountability • Recognizing the growing importance of individual responsibility and influence in remote environments Because in the end, technology connects people—but discipline and behavior create culture.

When emotions spike, leadership is no longer theoretical — it's neurological. In Episode 687 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith sits down with conflict resolution expert Doug Noll, Distinguished Fellow of the International Academy of Mediators, co-founder of Prison of Peace, Adjunct Professor at Pepperdine University's Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, and author of the bestselling book De‑Escalate: How to Calm an Angry Person in 90 Seconds or Less. After 20 years as a commercial trial lawyer, Doug shifted from fighting conflict to transforming it — including teaching emotional literacy inside one of the most violent maximum-security prisons in the United States. What he discovered is simple, counterintuitive, and backed by neuroscience: Ignore the words. Name the emotions. Reflect them back. In this conversation, Doug and Brian explore: Why conflict is fundamentally about the need to be heard and validated What happens in the brain when tension rises — and why logic fails under stress How leaders can regulate nervous systems before attempting to solve problems Why empathy is not a feeling, but a leadership skill How de-escalation becomes responsible influence in a divided world If you lead a team, manage clients, raise children, or simply want stronger relationships, this episode offers practical tools that can transform how you show up under pressure. Authority can silence people. Position can override people. But influence regulates emotion before it directs behavior. The question is: when emotions rise… do you escalate — or do you stabilize?Be sure to check out the exclusive web page for Daily Influence listeners at dougnoll.co/influence

Is communication really a “soft skill” — or is it one of the most powerful profit drivers in your business? In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Shelley Goldstein, leadership development coach, creator of the Remarkable Framework, and author of the #1 international bestselling book Remarkable Speaking. Shelley works with executives and business owners in high-stakes environments, helping them transform communication into a measurable leadership advantage. Shelley shares how her own fears and communication challenges shaped her work — and why true leadership transformation begins with identity, not just outcomes. From guiding CEOs out of the weeds and back into their visionary role, to reframing meetings as measurable ROI opportunities, Shelley makes a compelling case that communication is not “nice to have” — it's a strategic lever that saves time, builds trust, and drives results. The conversation also explores: • Why identity is a leader's greatest competitive advantage — especially in the age of AI • How responsible influence begins with ownership, clarity, and invitation • The difference between being goal-focused and vision-driven • How AI can serve as a copilot — without replacing authenticity • Practical ways to reduce meeting time, increase clarity, and reclaim thousands of productive hours Shelley reminds us that influence cannot be forced — but it can be invited. When leaders communicate with intention, share their journey, and stay grounded in their identity, they inspire alignment rather than compliance. If you lead a team, run a business, or want to strengthen your impact, this episode will challenge how you think about communication — and show you how to turn it into a measurable asset. Connect with Shelley at RemarkableSpeaking.com or on LinkedIn (links in show notes). As always, at Daily Influence, we believe that when leaders take responsibility for how they show up and communicate with clarity and purpose, the ripple effects are lasting. Small actions. Clear communication. Big impact.

In today's business environment, leaders are surrounded by constant noise—tariffs, regulatory changes, political rhetoric, and nonstop commentary about what might happen next. Markets react quickly, headlines amplify uncertainty, and organizations often feel pressure to respond just as quickly. But responsible leadership requires something different. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores how mature leaders build structural resilience instead of emotional reactivity. Drawing on principles from The I in Team Series and S.M.A.R.T. Management, he explains why reacting to every external signal destabilizes organizations and how disciplined leadership creates stability even when the environment around you is unpredictable. Brian discusses how leaders can design policy-agnostic strategies, maintain decision discipline, and stabilize teams during periods of economic and political uncertainty. Because in leadership, reaction is not strategy — discipline is.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Naowshaba Ferdous, global personal brand strategist, speaker, and business mentor who has supported women across 27 countries in generating more than $10 million in revenue. Naowshaba shares her journey from a conventional path toward law to building a thriving business rooted in storytelling, behavioral psychology, and authentic brand strategy. Influenced by powerful female entrepreneurs early in her career, she went from freelance copywriter to trusted strategist helping six- to eight-figure leaders get seen, remembered, and paid — without compromising who they are. Together, Gregg and Naowshaba explore: • How to scale visibility and income while staying aligned with your values • Why storytelling is a bridge to connection — not manipulation • The mindset shift required to sustain six-, seven-, and even eight-figure success • How to use AI as a tool without losing the human element • Why your “level five” skill can still change someone else's life Naowshaba also shares a powerful story about helping a client eliminate significant debt and transform her family's future — a reminder that responsible influence creates ripple effects far beyond revenue. If you've ever questioned whether you're “ready enough,” this conversation will remind you that influence starts from within — and that your unique voice is your greatest asset. Because influence isn't about being louder. It's about being intentional. Contact Naowshaba at: http://www.naowshaba.com/

For more than a decade, businesses operated in an environment of easy capital. Low interest rates, aggressive funding cycles, and abundant investment made rapid expansion feel normal. Growth was often measured by speed rather than sustainability. But that era is changing. In Episode 683 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores The New Capital Reality — Growth Without Easy Money and why financial discipline is becoming one of the defining leadership skills of our time. As capital tightens and expectations increase, leaders are being asked a different question: not “How fast can you grow?” but “How responsibly can you operate?” Brian examines the risks of ego-driven scaling, the importance of cash flow maturity, and how S.M.A.R.T. break-even management creates clarity when resources are constrained. Because constraint does not weaken leadership. It reveals it. And ultimately, financial maturity is not just about numbers—it reflects how responsibly leaders steward the resources entrusted to them. Financial maturity is influence maturity. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.

Artificial Intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most discussed tools in modern business. From automation to analytics, AI promises to transform organizations and accelerate growth. But there is a critical leadership distinction that often gets overlooked. AI is not strategy — it is leverage. In Episode 682 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD explores how technology amplifies whatever discipline already exists inside an organization. When clarity, accountability, and strong leadership are present, AI can accelerate meaningful progress. When those foundations are weak, technology simply moves confusion faster. In this episode, Brian discusses: • Why tools should never replace leadership thinking • The guardrails leaders must establish to protect accountability • How disciplined organizations use AI to strengthen execution, not bypass it Technology can support strategy, but it cannot define it. Leadership thinking, responsibility, and discipline still determine outcomes. Because in the end, AI does not create success — people do.

What if grief wasn't something to “get over,” but something that could guide you toward deeper purpose? In this moving conversation, Amana Mayfield-Faulkner, founder of Amana Be Love and former palliative care nurse, shares how profound personal loss reshaped her understanding of life, death, intuition, and connection.From witnessing her first love take his final breaths in his twenties… to giving birth to her daughter and holding her through her last moments… Amana's journey through grief has been both devastating and transformative. Through these experiences, she discovered that grief does not end — it changes. And when honored instead of suppressed, it can become a compass.In this episode, we explore:• What working in palliative care teaches about presence and responsibility• Why grief doesn't follow a timeline — and shouldn't be rushed• The importance of community when navigating loss• How to support someone grieving without expectation• What “post-traumatic growth” can look like• Reconnecting with your intuition as a source of strength• Why transitions — like in birth — often feel darkest right before breakthroughAmana reminds us that grief exists because love exists. And when we allow ourselves to move through the “underworld” of loss — without building our home there — we can emerge with greater depth, compassion, and even access to joy we didn't know was possible.Her message is especially powerful for anyone navigating uncertainty, loss, or major life transitions:Start small. Start with yourself. Trust your inner voice. And remember — transitions do not last forever.This episode is a beautiful reminder that influence often shows up in quiet presence, deep listening, and the courage to share what is often unseen and unspoken.Listen in and be inspired to show up — for yourself and for others — with compassion, responsibility, and trust in your own inner guidance.Website URL: www.amanabelove.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanabelove/

For years, leaders have been saying the same thing: “Once things settle down…” “When the market stabilizes…” “When we get back to normal…” But normal isn't coming back. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD challenges the assumption that stability comes from external conditions. Markets shift. AI accelerates. Capital tightens. Politics polarize. That isn't temporary disruption — that's the environment. The real question is not how to predict volatility. It's how to build discipline inside it. In this episode, Brian explores: • Why waiting for certainty quietly erodes leadership • The difference between external volatility and internal instability • How SMART Management creates structured adaptability • Why Six-to-Sixty planning is discipline — not prediction You can't control volatility. But you can control structure, rhythm, clarity, and influence. In an unstable era, disciplined leadership becomes a competitive advantage. Listen now and lead intentionally.

What if your hardest chapter became the foundation of your greatest influence? In this powerful and unfiltered conversation, Lora Tomlinson shares her journey from small-town athlete to addiction, incarceration, and ultimately, transformation. After serving 7 and a half years in federal prison for substance-related charges, Lora experienced a moment of clarity that changed everything. Instead of allowing her past to define her, she chose to take responsibility, do the internal work, and build a life rooted in purpose. Today, Lora is the CEO of a substance abuse treatment center, a licensed professional, and a leader committed to helping others see their potential — often before they can see it themselves. In this episode, we explore: • The moment in prison that sparked real change • Why leadership begins with vulnerability and integrity • How taking care of your team creates true impact • The power of support systems in recovery and in life • Why “a bad day doesn't make a bad life” Lora's story is a reminder that change is uncomfortable — but necessary for growth. Her honesty, compassion, and commitment to serving others demonstrate that our past does not disqualify us. In many cases, it becomes the very thing that equips us to lead. If you or someone you love is navigating a difficult season, this conversation will remind you that transformation is possible — and that leaning in and asking for help can change everything. Listen in and be inspired to keep showing up, leading, and growing — one day at a time.

Authority is temporary. Titles change. Roles evolve. Ownership transfers. Careers shift. But something always remains. In Episode 678 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD explores leadership beyond position, control, or title — and challenges leaders to examine what truly endures after authority ends. In this episode: • Why authority is granted — but influence is earned • The leadership behaviors that outlive careers • How to design influence that improves others after you're gone • The difference between building control and building capacity Drawing from The I in Team Series™ and SMART structural influence principles, Brian asks a powerful question: If your title disappeared tomorrow, what would remain? Because authority ends. But influence echoes. Listen now and reflect on the legacy you are actively designing.

We are living in a time where division feels amplified.Political tension. Social movements. Economic pressure.And in the middle of it all — leaders.In Episode 677 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD explores what it means to carry individual responsibility inside complex and divided systems.This episode challenges a dangerous myth: that responsibility disappears when systems are complicated.It doesn't.It becomes more visible.

What happens when life shifts overnight—and you're expected to show up at work like nothing changed? In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Barbara Palmer, founder of Your 4th Trimester and “Top Broad” at Broad Perspective Consulting, to talk about one of the most overlooked leadership transitions in modern work: returning after parental leave. With more than 30 years of experience across corporate culture, leadership, marketing, and professional development, Barbara supports working parents (and the companies that employ them) through the real-world “oh sh*t” moments—when priorities change, boundaries get tested, and confidence needs a reset. Barbara shares practical strategies that help new parents (and honestly… anyone) protect their time, reduce overwhelm, and show up with clarity—like her simple but powerful practice of blocking the last hour of the workday to close loops and set tomorrow up for success. They also explore how responsible influence shows up through boundary-setting, communication with managers, and creating cultures that truly support parents—not just in policy, but in practice. You'll also hear how Barbara's three-year nomad journey—living month-to-month in communities across the country—has deepened her beliefs about curiosity, kindness, belonging, and leadership without judgment. And she leaves listeners with her favorite two words for navigating hard seasons: “for now.” Connect with Barbara: Instagram: @topbroad LinkedIn: Barbara Palmer Website: broadperspectiveconsulting.com (including Your 4th Trimester + “Wisdom for Your Oh Sh*t Moments”)

We live in a culture that celebrates speed. Fast growth. Fast decisions. Fast pivots. Fast scaling. But as Brian Smith, PhD explains in this episode of Daily Influence, speed and readiness are not the same thing. Drawing from the longest and most in-depth chapter in The I in Team Series™ — “Slow Down” — Brian explores the hidden tax organizations quietly pay months or even years after moving too fast. In this episode: The difference between speed and structural readiness How shortcuts compound into operational and cultural debt Why urgency-driven cultures slowly exhaust trust Fast decisions are rarely free. The bill just comes later. If leadership is about protecting the future — not impressing the present — this episode is essential listening. #DailyInfluence #ResponsibleInfluence #SMARTManagement #LeadershipDevelopment #IntentionalLeadership

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Parker Wilcox, founder of Lifeguard Protection, a health and life insurance agency built on trust, relationships, and service-first leadership. After navigating a career shift during the uncertainty of 2020, Parker made a bold move—leaving the property and casualty insurance world to launch his own agency focused specifically on health and life insurance. But what truly sets Parker apart isn't just his niche—it's his philosophy. Rooted in the principle of “givers gain,” Parker shares why leading with value—not sales—creates long-term trust, meaningful relationships, and sustainable growth. From serving blue-collar trades to becoming a “super connector” for clients and referral partners, he demonstrates how small, intentional actions can create powerful ripple effects. In this conversation, you'll learn: • Why giving first builds credibility and influence • How collaboration fuels business growth • The difference between short-term wins and long-term impact • Why ethical, residual-based thinking strengthens trust • How your thoughts shape your circumstances—and your future Parker also shares a timeless book recommendation that reinforces personal responsibility and daily consistency as keys to growth. If you're building a business—or simply striving to make a positive difference—this episode is a reminder that influence begins with service. Small actions. Daily consistency. Responsible leadership. Tune in and be inspired to lead with value. Connect with Parker: https://www.instagram.com/lifeguard.protection

Psychological safety is often described as a “soft” leadership concept — something rooted in feelings, kindness, or culture. But that's not what it is. In Episode 673 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith reframes psychological safety as a structural performance system — not a mood, not a personality trait, and not an abstract cultural aspiration. When leaders see silence, hesitation, disengagement, or operational breakdown, the issue is rarely personality. It's structure speaking. In this episode, Brian explores: Why safety is a performance system — not a feeling The hidden link between fear, silence, and operational inefficiency How leaders unintentionally reward the very behaviors they later try to correct What feels cultural is often structural. You don't hope for psychological safety. You design it. Because structure is leadership.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Bryan Kramer, globally recognized keynote speaker, best-selling author, and a leading voice in human-centered leadership. Known for his powerful “H2H (Human to Human)” philosophy—made famous through his message: There's no B2B or B2C… it's H2H—Bryan breaks down what it really takes to lead with empathy and integrity in a fast-paced, noisy, and increasingly automated world. Together, they explore what responsible influence looks like right now: doing your homework before you share information, choosing honesty over hype, embracing imperfection, and simplifying how you show up so people can actually feel your presence. Bryan also shares how he uses AI as a thinking partner (not a replacement), and why the leaders who win long-term will be the ones who protect trust, deepen connection, and keep the human element at the center. If you're building a team, growing a business, or simply trying to show up with more intention—this conversation will remind you that small, human actions still create the biggest ripple. Connect with Bryan: • Website: https://bryankramer.com/ • Email: private@bryankramer.com/ Bonus: Bryan is gifting the first three listeners a copy of his H2H book—email him with “HTH book” and Daily Influence in the subject line.

What if the key to happiness isn't success, wealth, or recognition — but helping someone else? On this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with film producer, social entrepreneur, and humanitarian Peter Samuelson to explore how influence, storytelling, and service intersect to create lasting change. From producing major Hollywood films like Revenge of the Nerds and Return of the Pink Panther to founding global nonprofits including Starlight Children's Foundation, First Star, and Everyone Deserves a Roof (EDAR), Peter shares the pivotal moments that shaped his life of purpose. In this powerful conversation, you'll hear: • How one teacher's belief changed the trajectory of Peter's life • The deeply personal story that inspired the creation of Starlight • Why “selflessness can be selfish” — and why that's a good thing • How First Star is helping foster youth attend college at 10x the national rate • Why failure is essential to growth and responsible influence • The connection between storytelling, philanthropy, and real-world impact • His perspective on AI, ethics, and protecting young minds • Why helping others is the most reliable path to long-term happiness Peter reminds us that influence is not about accumulation — it's about contribution. It's about recognizing asymmetry in the world and choosing to apply energy where it's needed most. Whether you're a leader, parent, entrepreneur, or simply someone who wants to make a difference but isn't sure where to begin, this episode will challenge and inspire you to step outside yourself and take action. Because as Peter says, the meaning of life isn't found in what we gather — it's found in what we give. Learn more at: Listen now and be reminded: small actions truly can create extraordinary impact.

Experience is one of leadership's greatest assets — until it becomes unquestioned. In Episode 670 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores how success quietly hardens assumptions and how past wins can unintentionally block present clarity. While experience builds confidence, speed, and pattern recognition, it can also create rigidity if leaders stop examining what once worked. In this episode, Brian unpacks: How success institutionalizes thinking — and why that can become dangerous Why “we've always done it this way” frustrates teams and limits growth How SMART Six-to-Sixty planning prevents fossilized leadership Why structured feedback loops are essential to challenge inherited thinking True leadership maturity is not about abandoning experience — it's about continuously recalibrating it. Because experience informs. It should not imprison. If you are serious about responsible influence, this episode will challenge you to ask: Where might my past success be limiting my present clarity? Find your influence. Be your influence. Build your influence — intentionally.

Is neutrality in leadership even possible? In Episode 669 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith challenges one of the most common — and most dangerous — myths in leadership: the belief that you can stay neutral. Silence is not the absence of influence. It is influence without ownership. When leaders avoid tension, delay difficult conversations, or choose not to clarify standards, they are still shaping culture. Silence communicates values. Silence signals what is tolerated. Silence protects systems — often at the expense of people. This episode launches a deeper season theme: Influence, Maturity, and Responsibility — moving beyond growth mechanics into consequence, awareness, and legacy. Because there is no off switch for influence. There is only conscious or unconscious leadership. Reflective Question: Where in your leadership are you calling something “neutral” that is actually a choice?

Understanding our influence allows us to understand that we are all leaders at different times within our areas of influence. Listen to this revisit of Daily Influence episode 74 where we define leadership in a different context.

After three decades of building organizations, systems, and leaders, experience teaches us more than how to lead — it teaches us what leadership requires. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD reflects on how leadership evolves from proving capability to stewarding responsibility. As influence expands, so does obligation — not just to results, but to people, systems, culture, and long-term impact. This conversation explores why mature leadership is less about speed and ego, and more about judgment, awareness, and intentional influence — especially in times of division, pressure, and constant visibility. Because influence is always happening. The question is how carefully we choose to use it.

So many high-achieving women quietly carry burnout that goes far deeper than a packed calendar and today's conversation names what's really happening underneath it. Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Dr. Julie Merriman, licensed mental health clinician, counselor educator, burnout researcher, author, and founder of the Soul Joy brand, to unpack what she calls identity burnout: the slow erosion that happens when we keep performing a role (dependable, capable, self-sacrificing) long after it stops being sustainable. Dr. Julie shares her personal turning point when outward success masked an inner emptiness and how that experience shaped the Soul Joy Method, a body-based path back to wholeness through somatic awareness, nervous system regulation, chakra psychology, and reconnection to purpose and relationships. You'll also hear why resentment isn't a character flaw it's information and how tiny “micro-boundaries” can become the first step toward real change. Plus, Dr. Julie shares a grounded take on using AI as a support tool not a substitute for connection by clearing mental load so we can return to what makes life feel meaningful. If you've been feeling exhausted, invisible, stuck in obligation, or like you've lost yourself under responsibility, this episode will bring clarity, language, and practical first steps—because positive and responsible influence doesn't start with doing more. It starts with listening more deeply to yourself. Connect with Dr. Julie: Website: https://www.juliemerrimanphd.com/ Book: In Pursuit of Soul Joy https://a.co/d/3HJtsnU

Thirty years ago, Individual Advantages began not as a firm with a master plan, but as a vehicle for learning — a place to observe how people behave when technology, pressure, and change enter their world. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith, PhD reflects on what three decades of S.M.A.R.T. Management — and a lifetime of learning, mistakes, and evolution — have revealed about leadership, growth, and responsibility. This conversation moves beyond celebration and into obligation: Why growth and scaling are not the same — and confusing them causes damage Why S.M.A.R.T. only works when it becomes a discipline, not a checklist Why mature leadership requires letting go of what once worked How influence without awareness becomes harmful, even with good intentions As Brian reflects on turning 60, this episode challenges leaders to slow down, listen to the present moment, and grow without breaking the people inside their organizations.

What if influence wasn't about perfection, polish, or titles—but about energy, accountability, and how you show up for others? In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Chris Starkey, partner at Mojo Maker and the personality behind Dance Dad TV, to explore what positive and responsible influence looks like in real life. Chris shares his journey from performer and entrepreneur to purpose-driven leader, shaped by his daughter's life-changing medical challenges and the special needs community that became his tribe. Through dance, storytelling, and intentional connection, Chris has built a community rooted in joy, inclusion, and momentum—both online and off. Together, Gregg and Chris discuss: • How accountability and humility strengthen influence • Why emotional intelligence (EQ) matters more than ever in leadership • Turning personal challenges into purpose-driven action • Using energy, creativity, and consistency to uplift communities • How giving—without expectation—creates impact that multiplies This conversation is a reminder that influence lives in everyday moments: how we listen, how we include, and how we lead with intention. Whether you're a business owner, parent, creator, or community leader, this episode will encourage you to lean into connection and use your influence responsibly—one interaction at a time. Listen in and take your daily dose of positivity. Connect with Chirs: https://www.instagram.com/dancedad_starkey/ https://www.facebook.com/chris.starkey.142 https://www.youtube.com/@dancedadtv2874 https://www.chrisstarkey.com/

Join Brian Smith on this revisit to episode 226 of the Daily Influence as he delves into the power of fostering a growth mindset within your teams by defining and implementing equity and inclusion. Discover how promoting diversity and creating an inclusive culture can enhance continuous learning, resilience, adaptability, and psychological safety in your organization. Brian shares insights on how these principles align with organizational values, boost motivation, and engagement, and ultimately drive success for both individuals and the company. Tune in to learn how to uplift your team and create a balanced environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. #GrowthMindset #EquityInclusion #DailyInfluence #TheIinTeamSeries