Daily Influence

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

Most leaders don't wake up planning to react all day — but urgency keeps winning. Emails pull focus. Problems demand attention. Decisions stack up faster than they can be made. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explains why reactivity isn't a leadership flaw — it's a systems signal. He explores how a lack of structure creates urgency, how leaders unintentionally become bottlenecks, and why disciplined cadence and accountability are the keys to moving from constant firefighting to intentional leadership. This conversation reframes leadership away from rescue and toward rhythm — showing how SMART, when practiced as both a framework and a discipline, creates calm, predictability, and steady progress even in uncertain environments. Leadership doesn't scale through constant presence. It scales through systems that work when you step back.

Connection is not accidental — it's intentionally designed. In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Aaron Smalls, host, DJ, Experience Architect, and creator of Charismatic Advantage: The Art of Social Energy. From his early days at Nickelodeon to commanding stages and designing high-trust experiences for audiences of 50 to 50,000, Aaron shares how presence, intention, and awareness shape meaningful influence. Together, they explore what responsible influence truly means — leading without ego, reading the room with integrity, and creating environments where people feel seen, safe, and empowered to be themselves. Aaron reveals how influence is less about performance and more about stewardship, reminding others of who they already are. They also dive into: • How social energy impacts leadership, communication, and trust • Why influence is an energy exchange, not a spotlight • Using AI as preparation — not replacement — for human presence • Protecting your energy in high-pressure environments • Why every moment, conversation, and space can be a stage for positive impact Aaron leaves listeners with a powerful reminder: influence doesn't require a platform — just presence, care, and intention. Whether you're leading a team, hosting an event, or connecting one-on-one, this episode will challenge you to think differently about how your energy shapes the experiences you create. Connect with Aaron: Website: https://aaronsmalls.com/ Social Links: Instagram: @CuriouslyTalented & @TheAaronSmalls https://www.linkedin.com/in/theaaronsmalls/

Most leaders believe they've been clear. Expectations were set. Goals were communicated. “Good” was explained. And yet — execution still breaks down. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores why the real breakdown isn't effort or intent — it's accountability. He unpacks why expectations without ownership create frustration, how accountability has been misunderstood as control, and why disciplined accountability actually frees people instead of pressuring them. This conversation reframes accountability as clarity with follow-through, shows how SMART makes accountability visible rather than emotional, and explains why strong accountability protects high performers while allowing leaders to step out of rescue mode. Expectations set direction. Accountability is what moves the work forward.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Arianna Rose and Soleil Laurent, the visionary founders of Equality Education, an organization redefining how emotional intelligence is taught across schools, communities, and organizations. What began as a serendipitous friendship in Brooklyn during the pandemic has grown into a movement impacting over 100 New York City schools, partnering with major brands like Puma, Meta, NBC, and Bellevue Hospital, and placing more than 100,000 personal development workbooks into the hands of learners of all ages. In this conversation, Arianna and Soleil share: • Why emotional intelligence should be foundational in education—for students, parents, and leaders alike • How self-agency and self-love create ripple effects that transform relationships, teams, and communities • A deeply moving real-world story of how their affirmation tools helped a child in crisis • Their thoughtful approach to responsible AI use, balancing technology with human development • Practical encouragement for anyone who wants to create positive change—starting right where they are This episode is a reminder that meaningful influence begins within. When we understand ourselves, we lead better, love better, and build stronger communities—together. Connect with Equality Education Website: https://www.theequalityeducation.com/ Instagram (Equality Education): https://www.instagram.com/theequalityedu/ Instagram (Friends Who Want You to Win): https://www.instagram.com/friendswhowantyoutowin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEqualityEducation/

Speed gets attention. Patience builds trust. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith sits down with Mike Hinds, co-founder of Nashville Barrel Company, to explore what building a premium whiskey brand can teach us about leadership, influence, and long-term thinking. Mike shares how Nashville Barrel Company grew from handwritten labels on a coffee table to distribution in 36 states—without sacrificing quality, culture, or credibility. From resisting the pressure to scale too fast, to protecting brand identity in a crowded market, to treating people with the same care as product, this conversation is a masterclass in intentional influence. Whether you lead a company, a team, or simply yourself, this episode reminds us that the best results—like the best whiskey—can't be rushed.https://www.nashvillebarrelco.comhttps://louisvillerickhouse.com/

Motivation gets us started — but it rarely gets us to the finish line. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores why execution has become the defining leadership skill in 2026, and why discipline — not motivation — is what sustains progress when energy fades, distractions rise, and uncertainty increases. Brian breaks down the critical difference between emotional motivation and operational discipline, why most execution failures are structural (not personal), and how disciplined systems like SMART Management create clarity, calm, and predictable progress — even in volatile times. If execution feels heavy, this episode challenges leaders to stop pushing harder and start designing better systems.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Eric Collett, CEO of A Mind for All Seasons, nationally recognized brain health expert, educator, and advocate for proactive cognitive care. Eric shares his unexpected journey from running assisted living and memory care communities to becoming a sought-after speaker and consultant in brain health, dementia care, and caregiver education. With a blend of science, compassion, and leadership, Eric explains how addressing root causes—not just symptoms—can dramatically improve cognitive outcomes and quality of life. Listeners will hear a remarkable story of hope involving early-onset Alzheimer's, learn practical lifestyle and mindset strategies to support long-term brain health, and explore how responsible influence is less about control and more about creating conditions for better choices. This conversation is a reminder that influence doesn't have to be loud or grand—it often shows up in education, service, and taking the next right step. Key takeaways include: • Why brain health is deeply connected to daily choices and lifelong learning • The role of biomarkers, lifestyle, and mindset in cognitive resilience • How leaders and caregivers can influence others by empowering choice • Why small, thoughtful actions often create the greatest impact Whether you're a caregiver, leader, lifelong learner, or someone thinking about your own cognitive health, this episode offers insight, clarity, and hope. Connect with Eric Collett or learn more Website: https://amindforallseasons.com

Economic uncertainty is no longer an occasional disruption—it's the environment leaders are operating in every day. Tariffs, market volatility, geopolitical pressure, AI disruption, and shifting consumer confidence have changed how leadership must show up. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores why resilience alone isn't enough—and how strategic influence becomes the defining leadership skill when conditions are unpredictable. You'll hear: Why people watch leaders more than plans during uncertainty How calm, clarity, and stability outperform forced optimism What influential leaders do differently to turn volatility into strategic advantage This episode is a practical and timely conversation for leaders navigating pressure, ambiguity, and constant change—without losing trust, momentum, or direction.

What if the gap between your potential and your results isn't motivation… but autopilot? In today's Daily Influence episode, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with entrepreneur, success mentor, and Think It, Be It founder John Mitchell to unpack the “missing secret” he uncovered inside the legendary book Think and Grow Rich—and how a simple 12-minute daily practice helped him shift from consistent low six figures to building a life that produced seven-figure results. John explains why most of our daily actions are unconscious, how that silently drives our outcomes in business, relationships, and health, and how his repeatable method helps people build clarity, confidence, and intentional influence—starting with how they lead themselves. You'll also hear practical examples of how this shows up in everyday moments (like patience at the dinner table and focus at work), plus how listeners can access his free training and tools. If you're someone who feels “meant for more,” this conversation offers a grounded, repeatable way to move from intention to action—on purpose. Learn More: Email John: john@thinkitbeit.com Website: Think It, Be It: https://thinkitbeit.com/ THE MISSING SECRET of the Legendary Book Think and Grow Rich : And a 12-minute-a-day technique to apply it: https://a.co/d/61r8r2D

The world of work didn't just change — it's been completely unsettled. Technology, AI, and shifting expectations have disrupted traditional roles, job titles, and career paths. Outcomes now matter more than hours. Skills are replacing roles. And leadership is no longer about control — it's about influence. In Episode 653 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith slows the conversation down to focus on what truly matters in the new labor market: How leaders influence culture when roles shift faster than job descriptions Why skills-based development is becoming the most effective retention strategy What intentional, responsible influence looks like in career ecosystems where people lead themselves more and are managed less This episode is a call to refocus leadership on behavior, trust, and human development — because when structure fails, culture must adapt.

For years, leaders treated technology as something we used. AI has changed that dynamic. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores a shift many organizations are already experiencing — AI is no longer just a tool executing tasks. It's recommending, prioritizing, predicting, and quietly influencing decisions. That raises a new leadership question: How do we lead when influence is shared with a non-human teammate? This episode challenges leaders to rethink accountability, psychological safety, and responsible influence in a world where AI is embedded in daily work. Brian outlines why judgment must remain human, how clarity and SMART discipline prevent chaos, and what it takes to intentionally lead teams where humans and AI work side by side. If AI is influencing your organization, this episode will help you ensure that leadership — not technology — stays in control.

Today on Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Larry Kaufman — global speaker, best-selling author of The NCG Factor, and one of the most respected relationship builders on LinkedIn. Larry has built a life and career anchored in responsible influence, generosity, and authentic connection. His philosophy is simple but profound: lead with giving, and success follows in unexpected ways.In this conversation, Larry shares:• His journey from sales to global speaking—and how being an early adopter of LinkedIn led him to a path of teaching, mentoring, and connecting others.• The “others-focused” mindset that has shaped his approach to relationships, networking, and influence.• Powerful stories of impact, including life-changing introductions that launched careers, created opportunities, and even sparked love stories.• Why listening is the most underrated relationship skill, and how asking one simple question—“How can I help you?”—can transform your personal and professional life.• Lessons from unique life chapters, from appearing in iconic films to driving sports legends to serving on the board of Holiday Heroes.• How service, intention, and generosity create ripple effects far beyond what we can see.Larry reminds us that influence isn't about scale or status—it's about showing up for others with integrity, curiosity, and a willingness to help without expectation. This episode is a powerful guide for anyone who wants to build deeper relationships, lead with purpose, and create positive impact through everyday actions.Tune in and learn how to build a life where connection isn't transactional—it's transformational.Connect With Larry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrykaufmanlinkedinspeaker/Buy Larry's Book: https://a.co/d/8veAVPl

SMART doesn't end once a goal is written down. In this episode of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith builds on the recent discussions around milestones and attainability to introduce a critical shift in thinking: SMART is not a one-time goal-setting exercise—it's a living cycle. When goals, objectives, milestones, tasks, and feedback loops work together, SMART becomes a self-correcting system. This is how individuals stop waiting to be managed, teams move from effort to excellence, and leaders stop reacting and start managing with intention. This episode sets the foundation for deeper conversations on ownership, accountability, and individual influence—because systems don't execute… people do.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Serena Mastin—CEO, speaker, creative visionary, and author of the transformative memoir Exposed. Serena's journey is nothing short of extraordinary: from surviving childhood instability, homelessness, and trauma to becoming a powerhouse leader who builds organizations rooted in creativity, courage, and connection. Serena opens up about the pivotal experiences that shaped her—from navigating witness protection and foster homes, to building a successful marketing agency, to enduring unimaginable personal loss when her husband passed away in 2020. Through vulnerability, self-awareness, and determination, she rebuilt not only her business but the foundation of her own leadership. Together, Gregg and Serena explore themes central to the I in Team series, including: • The influence that begins with self-awareness • How authenticity creates deeper connection and stronger teams • The importance of values-driven leadership • Balancing service with self-preservation • Using storytelling as a vehicle for healing and impact • The role of AI as a tool—not a replacement—for human connection Serena also shares the life-changing shift that inspired her memoir Exposed and the quote that now guides her leadership: “You don't have to set yourself on fire to keep others warm.” This episode is a reminder that influence becomes most powerful when it comes from a place of truth, intention, and alignment. Serena's story will leave you inspired to show up more fully, lead more responsibly, and use your voice to create meaningful impact. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, courage, and a call to step into your authentic influence. Connect with Serena at: https://serenamastin.com/

In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith picks up where we left off on why goals fail without milestones — and goes deeper into why milestones are what make goals attainable in the first place. Milestones don't make goals smaller or easier. They make them humanly achievable through structure, clarity, and momentum. When goals are unsequenced, they overwhelm. When milestones are SMART, they create psychological safety, reduce anxiety, and replace pressure with confidence. This episode explores how progress fuels motivation, why engagement follows evidence, and how attainability lives at the intersection of clarity, momentum, and trust. If your goals feel distant, this episode will help you turn ambition into a disciplined, achievable path forward.

Most goals don't fail because they lack ambition — they fail because they lack structure. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores why milestones are the missing link between setting a goal and actually achieving it. Without milestones, goals drift, accountability becomes emotional, and progress is assumed instead of managed. With milestones, leaders gain clarity, teams gain confidence, and execution becomes intentional. If you want better results in 2026, this episode will challenge you to stop writing better goals — and start building better milestones.

In this powerful conversation, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Carolyn Litton, Founder of Hearts for Hope and creator of The Vision Project, to talk about the transformation that occurs when we choose authenticity, alignment, and faith over fear and busyness. Carolyn shares her journey from high-performing mortgage professional to purpose-driven nonprofit leader and transformational coach. Through thousands of care packages delivered to individuals experiencing homelessness and through her global coaching and retreat programs, Carolyn helps people reconnect to who they really are and operate from flow rather than force. Listeners will learn: • How she rebuilt her identity after burnout • Why slowing down is essential for clarity, influence, and high performance • The story behind Hearts for Hope's growing humanitarian impact • How mindset, energy, and daily habits create sustainable transformation • Why collaboration and open-hearted leadership expand what's possible This episode reminds us that influence begins with who we are, not just what we do. Carolyn's message is grounding, empowering, and full of hope for anyone wanting to make a meaningful difference. Connect with Carolyn: https://carolynlitton.com/

In this revisit to episode 388 of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno shares insights from a powerful presentation on business growth and transformation through the lens of IA Business Advisors' proven methodologies. Founded in 1996, IA Business Advisors specializes in leveraging Individual Advantages (IA) and the principles of S.M.A.R.T. Management to help businesses overcome challenges, identify gaps, and achieve sustainable growth. Gregg discusses their holistic BizVision process, which integrates people, process, and technology to uncover obstacles and create tailored roadmaps for success. Using the example of a client, Blue Rock Financial Group, Gregg illustrates how IA Business Advisors helped the company streamline operations, develop a functional organizational structure, and empower its leadership team. With candid insights and actionable strategies, this episode will inspire you to: • Identify gaps in your business operations. • Embrace S.M.A.R.T. Management principles to create clear, attainable goals. • Overcome challenges with tailored solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're a solopreneur, part of a growing team, or a seasoned leader, this episode provides practical tools and real-world examples to help you take your business to the next level. Ready to unlock your potential and achieve your goals? Tune in now and discover how IA Business Advisors' transformative approach can guide your journey to success.