Daily Influence

In this revisit to episode 265 of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives deep into the transformative power of reflection. Learn how to harness your past experiences—both successes and failures—to build a better future. Brian discusses the importance of self-awareness, ethical reflection, and maintaining a growth mindset. Discover practical tips on how to engage in daily reflection practices, tackle recurring behavioral challenges, and use the SMART framework to set and achieve meaningful goals. Tune in to understand why your influence matters and how you can be your best self for yourself and those around you.

What if the life you're meant to live is just one bold “yes” away? In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Danielle McCombs, life coach, podcast host, and fierce believer in the power of reinvention. Danielle shares her journey from a two-decade career in commercial real estate to becoming a coach and creator of The Opposite of Small Talk podcast. Her story is a masterclass in cultivating a growth mindset, embracing the unknown, and realizing that you don't have to have it all figured out—you just need to start. Together, they explore: • What it means to live with a “growth mindset” • How resilience is built by looking back at what you've already overcome • The power of intentional influence and leading by example • Why it's never too late to change your life—or dream even bigger Whether you're navigating a new chapter, questioning what's next, or just need a reminder that you can pivot with purpose, Danielle's story will inspire you to “stay curious and talk big.”

In this rerun of Episode 256 of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into the art of balancing short-term wins with long-term vision. Discover practical tips and strategies to align your immediate goals with your broader objectives, ensuring sustainable success. Tune in to learn how S.M.A.R.T. Management principles can help you achieve both quick victories and lasting impact. Don't miss this insightful episode! #DailyInfluence #SMARTManagement #LongTermVision #ShortTermWins

In this episode of the Daily Influence, Brian S. Smith dives deep into the complexities of effective communication. Discover how different communication styles, backgrounds, and knowledge gaps can create challenges, and learn strategies to bridge those gaps. Brian emphasizes the power of active listening, transparency, and empathy in fostering meaningful connections. By incorporating S.M.A.R.T. communication principles, you can ensure clarity, build trust, and create a more cohesive and productive environment, whether in personal or professional settings. Tune in to enhance your communication skills and influence.

On this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Parminder Batra, co-founder and CEO of Track and Protect, a company transforming safety in the hospitality industry. With a background in law and risk mitigation, Parminder shares how her journey from attorney to tech founder was driven by a deeper calling: empowering women and creating safer work environments for hotel housekeepers. In this powerful conversation, Parminder opens up about: • The moment she realized her work could save lives, not just track inventory • How vulnerability and mutual accountability shape her company's leadership culture • The mindset shift that helped her overcome imposter syndrome • Why her annual birthday ritual of solo travel and self-reflection fuels her growth • What it really means to be a responsible, empowering leader This episode is a reminder that influence isn't about perfection—it's about showing up, lifting others, and believing you can figure things out. Tune in and get inspired by Parminder's wisdom, humor, and unwavering dedication to making the world safer—one button, one conversation, one empowered person at a time. Contact Parminder at parminder.batra@traknprotect.com

SMART is not just for goal setting; it is for most things in life. When you communicate, which includes more than speaking, ensure you are being Specific. Measurement may not be a topic of conversation but how much time you speak or listen. Attainability can be context. Real or Relevant may be truth or also in context. And timeliness may be, "Is this the right time to communicate?" Slow down and apply SMART to your communication.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Jennifer Bauer, Vice President of Human Capital at RF Ideas, to explore what it means to lead with intention, courage, and compassion. Jennifer shares how her passion for people led her to create RF Ideas' first Employee Resource Group and the highly successful Ignite mentorship program, both of which are transforming company culture and empowering women in tech.From launching initiatives that earned a spot in the Top 100 Inspiring Workplaces to advocating for inclusion, wellbeing, and leadership from every seat, Jennifer's story is a powerful example of responsible influence in action. Her advice? Don't wait—take your shot, make your mark, and lift others as you rise.Tune in for real talk on mentorship, allyship, and the lasting impact of showing up with heart and purpose.Connect with Jennifer: jbauer@rfideas.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-bauer-sphr-5a728711/

This Labor Day, Brian reflects on the true meaning of work and the people who keep our world moving. From the visible contributions to the often-overlooked roles, every individual matters. At IA Business Advisors and The I in Team Series, we celebrate the influence each person carries—reminding us to pause, show gratitude, and honor the everyday efforts that build stronger teams, communities, and lives.

In Episode 354 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith delves into the pivotal role of self-awareness in building resilience as a leader. Drawing from The I in Team Series and SMART Management principles, Brian shares actionable strategies to navigate challenges, foster emotional endurance, and lead with empathy during adversity. Learn how to align short-term tactics with long-term vision and create deeper trust and collaboration within your team. Discover the power of shared vulnerability and how to transform challenges into opportunities for growth.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Lara Effland, LICSW, CEDS-C—an influential leader in behavioral health and founder of the Clinician Development Collective. With nearly two decades of experience building and mentoring large clinical teams, Lara shares her journey from working crisis hotlines in high school to leading national behavioral health programs and supporting hundreds of providers. Together, they explore what it means to lead with positive and responsible influence, how to cultivate trust within teams, and why continuous learning is key to longevity in mental health work. Lara offers powerful insights on creating safe spaces for both providers and patients, shares why leadership is like setting a thermostat, and encourages aspiring changemakers to diversify their passions and embrace growth. Whether you're in healthcare or just want to make a difference in your world, this conversation is full of inspiration and actionable wisdom.

In this episode of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith delves into the core principles of Sustainable Leadership. Often misunderstood as merely environmental responsibility, sustainable leadership goes beyond to prioritize long-term success and the well-being of an organization and its people. Brian discusses the importance of maintaining high ethical standards, fostering a people-centric approach, and ensuring resilience and adaptability within your team. Learn how to integrate these elements with SMART management practices to create a balanced, transparent, and innovative organizational culture. Tune in to discover actionable insights that will help you build a sustainable and thriving business.

On this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno welcomes Sarah Austin—founder and CEO of The Scratch Pantry, creator of Founders Forum, and a passionate advocate for women's health. Sarah shares how her business was born out of hardship, launched from her kitchen during a time of personal and financial struggle. What began as a way to feed her family on a tight budget grew into a mission-driven enterprise, fueled by faith, hard-won experience, and love—including the final recipe perfected just before the tragic loss of her daughter. Sarah speaks candidly about her path through grief, her transition from corporate finance to food entrepreneurship, and how she uses her gift for connection to support other founders and funders through her growing community. She also opens up about her advocacy work with the Endometriosis Foundation of America, where her personal loss became a platform for national awareness and action. This conversation is a moving testament to the power of resilience, reinvention, and responsible influence. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, Sarah's story is a reminder to trust the timing, keep showing up, and lead with heart.

Brian Smith discusses the fundamental importance of cultivating a culture of accountability within organizations. Using insights from the I in Team series, Brian emphasizes that accountability begins with individual leaders who consistently model the company's core values and mission. Learn how to set SMART goals, foster a supportive team environment, and maintain consistent, positive, and responsible influence. Discover strategies from "Individual Influence: Find the I in Team," "Positive Influence: Be the I in Team," and "Responsible Influence: Build the I in Team" to transform your organization into a proactive, cohesive, and accountable team. Join us to strengthen your leadership and enhance your organizational culture!

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Brandon Cohen talks with Brian Smith about how one scaling company transformed its financial operations—not by overhauling everything, but by bringing clarity, communication, and strategy into alignment. Brian shares how IA Business Advisors stabilized the company's accounting structure by integrating both tactical and strategic finance teams under the SMART Management model. From improving reporting and reconciliation to creating a real-time feedback loop, the result was a more efficient, confident leadership team—ready to make better decisions, faster. If your business is growing and your finance systems feel like they're falling behind, this conversation offers real insight into what it takes to build a financial foundation that supports smart, sustainable scale.

In this heart-centered episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes transformational guide, author, and speaker Nina Lockwood, the inspiring voice behind Get Your Happy Back. With a background in psychotherapy, energy medicine, and the creative arts, Nina brings decades of insight to helping people reconnect with joy, purpose, and their own inner wisdom. Nina shares the origins of her work, how blind spots shape our paths, and why cultivating self-awareness is essential to positive influence. From art journaling to mindset shifts, her tools are practical, powerful, and rooted in love. You'll also hear the story of an 81-year-old client who chose to rediscover her voice and passion—and how it's never too late to live a meaningful life. In this episode: • How happiness and mindset fuel purposeful living • The ripple effect of positivity and emotional contagion • What art, truth, and joy have in common • A powerful question to guide your next chapter: “What else is possible?” If you've been feeling stuck, Nina's gentle wisdom and encouragement will remind you that joy isn't just possible—it's your birthright. Connect with Nina: Website: www.ninalockwood.com Podcast: Get Your Happy Back https://getyourhappyback.podbean.com/ Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nina-lockwood/ https://www.facebook.com/nina.lockwood Get Your Happy Back on Amazon: amzn.to/4Kf7QmD

In this episode of Daily Influence, Brandon Cohen interviews Brian Smith about the delicate balance of preserving culture while planning for leadership succession. The business in focus had one major concern: maintaining its strong internal culture through future ownership—without sacrificing value or vision. Brian unpacks how the SMART Management framework helped align team members, clarify stakeholder roles, and create a multi-year succession plan rooted in intentionality. Through stakeholder discovery and transparent conversations, the company moved from uncertainty to confidence about its path forward. If you're leading a mission-driven organization and thinking about succession—even five years out—this episode offers powerful lessons on planning with heart, structure, and strategy.

In this empowering episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Emmy award-winning sports journalist Ruthie Polinsky, host of The Big Pro Football Show on Chicago Sports Network. From small-town Texas to Super Bowls and sideline reporting in Chicago, Ruthie shares the highs, hurdles, and human stories behind her rise in a male-dominated industry. Ruthie opens up about the power of empathy, the importance of finding your authentic voice, and why being yourself is your greatest tool for influence. She also reflects on the impact of mentorship, standing tall in the face of criticism, and what it truly means to lift others as you climb. In this episode: • Ruthie's unlikely journey from musical theater to major league sports • Navigating adversity and self-doubt in the public eye • Why mentorship and advocacy matter—especially for women in media • The emotional story that reminded Ruthie of the power of her platform Whether you're in media, leadership, or simply looking to lead with more authenticity, Ruthie's story will leave you inspired to show up boldly—and unapologetically—as you. Connect with Ruthie: Instagram & X (Twitter): @ruthiepolinsky Email: ruthiepolinsky@gmail.com Watch her on Chicago Sports Network

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Brandon Cohen sits down with Brian Smith to explore how one family-owned business navigated a peak in industry demand while planning for the future. With succession on the horizon, the owners sought a clear, fair valuation—one that reflected long-term worth, not short-term spikes. Brian shares how applying objective financial principles and the SMART Management model helped uncover the business's true value and reshape its succession plan. The result? A transition that honored both generations and set the stage for a confident, strategic future. Whether you're considering selling, transitioning ownership, or simply want to understand your business's real worth, this episode offers insight into building a legacy grounded in clarity and intention.

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Brandon Cohen sits down with Brian Smith to explore how one purpose-driven organization navigated transformational growth with the help of clear vision, strategic alignment, and the SMART Management model. Brian shares how the team overcame operational challenges, clarified leadership roles, and implemented accountability structures that empowered both their people and their mission. From cultural recalibration to systems improvement, this episode offers a real-world look at what it takes to evolve from reactive to intentional leadership—especially when growth is rapid and purpose is central. Whether you're leading a nonprofit, social enterprise, or values-driven business, this conversation is packed with insight on how to sustain momentum while staying true to your core.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Sarah Sleevi, Program Director and Young Entrepreneurs Academy Instructor at Female Strong, a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to building confidence and entrepreneurial skills in girls as young as eight. Sarah shares her incredible journey—from community dinners in West Virginia to housing support in New York to teaching in Tanzania—and how each experience deepened her commitment to service, leadership, and impact. Now, through Female Strong, she helps young women tap into their voice, creativity, and grit to become the next generation of changemakers. You'll hear: • The importance of structure, support, and space in developing confidence • A powerful story of a 6th grader who transformed her bullying experience into a social enterprise • Why real leadership starts with listening and service—not being the loudest in the room • How Sarah's experiences abroad sparked her passion for social entrepreneurship and collaboration  If you've ever wondered how to empower young people or create lasting impact through mentorship and education, this episode is a must-listen. Get involved: https://www.femalestrong.org/ sarah@femalestrong.org

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Brandon Cohen speaks with Brian Smith about how one construction company tackled the increasing complexity of growth by investing in operational safety, cultural alignment, and compliance clarity. As the company expanded its self-performed services, new risks emerged—requiring smarter systems and better communication across field and leadership teams. Brian walks through how IA Business Advisors applied the SMART Management model to assess vulnerabilities, update and digitize safety protocols (including bilingual delivery), and build a culture of transparency and accountability. The result? A safety program aligned with OSHA, union, and client standards, 85% company-wide engagement, and real-time feedback loops that empower teams to apply what they learn right on the job site. This episode is a must-listen for leaders in high-risk industries who want to scale responsibly while protecting their people and preserving their culture.

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Valerie Hogan, JD, CFP® — a wealth advisor, attorney, author, and radio host who works at the intersection of finance, legacy, and purpose. Valerie shares her unique journey from science and law to philanthropy and wealth management, highlighting how she empowers individuals and families—especially women—to navigate financial leadership with confidence. From supporting survivors of trafficking to guiding widows through transformative life changes, Valerie embodies responsible influence in action. Together, Gregg and Valerie explore the ripple effect of financial confidence, the evolving role of women in wealth transfer and leadership, and how to close the confidence gap in financial conversations. This inspiring conversation is a reminder that asking questions, being bold, and embracing vulnerability can lead to meaningful growth and generational impact. Learn more about Valerie and Clearwater Capital Partners here: https://ccpwealth.com/team/valerie-n-hogan-jd-cfp/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehogan/ If something resonates, share it with someone who needs to hear it.

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Brandon Cohen speaks with Brian Smith about the difference between growing a business and scaling one—and why so many companies confuse the two. Brian unpacks a client story that highlights how clarifying this distinction transformed the company's mindset, financial planning, and operational focus. By slowing the team down and applying the SMART Management framework, IA Business Advisors helped them identify high-impact investments, remove friction in operations, and gain a deeper understanding of how their finances could unlock opportunities. From boosting lending capacity to strategically deploying resources, the result was a company ready to move with purpose toward scale—not just more growth. If you're facing operational overwhelm or unsure how to prepare for the next phase of your business, this episode offers clear, actionable insights to move from chaos to clarity.

In this revisitation of episode 421, Brian Smith dives deep into the art of SMART Decision Making. He reveals how accurate, relevant, and actionable data can be integrated with seasoned experience and refined intuition to shape breakthrough leadership. Explore actionable strategies to convert past learnings into insightful, intuitive decision-making and discover how harmonizing these three pillars can transform your leadership style and drive team success.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Melissa Ford—master coach, author of Living Service, and a fierce advocate for servant leadership. Melissa shares her decades-long journey from fear and frustration to fulfillment through the practice of service as a way of being, not just a strategy. Together, they explore what it means to coach and lead with love, how responsible (or radical) influence begins with doing our own inner work, and why helping others before they pay you may be the most rewarding—and effective—approach of all. Melissa also opens up about her work with Rebels for Peace, a Chicago nonprofit focused on equipping youth with emotional intelligence, and shares the heartwarming story of a client who “got her laugh back.” If you're ready to redefine influence, deepen your relationships, and lead from your most authentic self, this episode is for you.

In this revisit of episode 411, Brian Smith delves into the powerful distinction between change and improvement. While not all change leads to progress, all genuine improvement requires change. Drawing from The I in Team Series and SMART Management principles, Brian shares how intentional, purpose-driven improvements can create lasting impact in both personal and professional spheres. Learn how to shift your mindset from simply managing change to fostering meaningful growth, using the SMART framework to guide every step of the journey.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Courtney A. Olson, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Business Banking at First Bank Chicago, to explore the powerful intersection of business strategy and community impact. Courtney shares her journey from teller to banking executive, the influence of her family legacy, and how a deep-rooted passion for nonprofits became a purpose-driven initiative that benefits both community and commerce. With honesty and wisdom, Courtney reveals how she leads with heart, practices responsible influence, and advocates for collaboration over competition in the nonprofit world. From structuring bank accounts that yield grant-equivalent returns to brokering mergers that preserve vital programs, her stories demonstrate how doing good and doing well can go hand in hand. Listeners will walk away inspired to: • Rethink what it means to be a connector and resource • Collaborate instead of compete • Lead with kindness and intention • Embrace the idea that growing the pie benefits everyone Whether you're a nonprofit leader, small business owner, or professional seeking more meaning in your work, Courtney's insights are a roadmap for how to make a lasting, positive impact — and why giving back can be a sound business strategy. Connect with Courtney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-a-olson-6865b410/ colson@firstbankchicago.com

Listen as we describe how this one simple word - SMART - can be the foundation for you and your organization as revisit our talk from episode 180 of the Daily Influence. 

This episode offers Gregg's perspective on slowing down, which can add context because each of us faces different challenges in the 'go too fast' world we live in.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Lauren Fondriest, a corporate team effectiveness consultant turned intentional dating and relationship coach. Drawing from her 17-year career in the corporate world and her personal journey navigating love, Lauren shares how influence isn't just reserved for the boardroom—it's essential in our most intimate relationships. Lauren explores what it means to be a courageous creator of your love life, how to lead with emotional self-awareness, and why dating with intention is about how you want to feel, not just what you want to find. She also reveals the surprising parallels between healthy workplace dynamics and thriving romantic partnerships—both grounded in authenticity, curiosity, and shared growth. Whether you're navigating a career, looking for aligned love, or building deeper human connections, Lauren's insights will leave you empowered to show up more intentionally in every aspect of your life. Connect with Lauren: https://laurenfondriest.com/ https://www.instagram.com/laurenfondriest/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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