Daily Influence

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.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Dr. Zuri Tau—Founder and CEO of Social Insights, a pioneering organization helping foundations, nonprofits, and government agencies turn data into deeper understanding and measurable, community-centered change. With over two decades at the intersection of research, justice, and healing, Dr. Tau invites us to rethink how we define “success,” why metrics alone are never enough, and how true accountability begins with empathy. She shares her journey from early roots in service and community organizing to reshaping how organizations listen, learn, and respond to the people they aim to serve. Together, Gregg and Zuri explore: ✨ How awareness drives responsible influence inside organizations ✨ Why stories, lived experience, and somatic wisdom matter as much as data ✨ The challenge of aligning good intentions with real-world outcomes ✨ How to stay grounded in leadership while facing resistance to change ✨ What it means to “come close” when work—and the world—feels overwhelming ✨ The importance of trying without perfection, taking risks, and stepping toward what brings meaning Dr. Tau's perspective is a timely reminder that influence isn't just about sharing ideas—it's about shaping outcomes that honor people, community, and collective possibility. Her insights call us to reflect not just on what we're doing, but why and how we're doing it. If you're ready to lead with more clarity, courage, and compassion, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Learn More At: https://www.socinsights.com/ https://www.instagram.com/p/CVQrD1VLZk2/ https://

In this revisit to episode 469 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into one of today's most dynamic and debated topics—Artificial Intelligence. Through the lens of the SMART Management model, Brian explores how AI can responsibly amplify human judgment rather than replace it. He shares personal experiences coaching clients on AI adoption, and gives a grounded perspective on how AI can support strategic decision-making, communication, and culture—when used transparently and ethically. Listeners will walk away with clear, SMART-based guidelines on integrating AI as a tool, not a crutch, in modern leadership and management.

In today's revisit to episode 471 of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith tackles how leaders can navigate uncertainty by applying S.M.A.R.T. Management tactics. Whether facing economic instability, shifting tariffs, or market disruptions, being Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely builds organizational resilience. Learn how transparency, strategic communication, and small measurable wins can stabilize your teams, strengthen relationships, and turn uncertainty into opportunity. Join us as we explore how to lead with intention, influence, and SMART resilience.

In today's empowering episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Shenali Rajaratnam—visionary leader, global changemaker, and co-founder of Power of Women and We Are the Hope. Through storytelling, service, and conscious innovation, Shenali is raising the vibration of communities worldwide and redefining what it means to lead with love, purpose, and responsible influence. Shenali shares the personal roots that shaped her worldview—from her grandmother's legacy of peacebuilding to her upbringing centered on possibility and unity—and how these experiences led her to build two global platforms devoted to empowerment, well-being, and connection. She reveals the Four R's Framework—Reflection, Recognition, Respect, and Resolution—that guides her leadership and teaches individuals how to rediscover their inner power. Shenali also shares an unforgettable story from Uganda's Power of Girls Clubs, where confidence-building and creativity helped young women step into futures they never imagined possible. Together, Gregg and Shenali explore: • How women can reshape global narratives by recognizing the inherent power they already possess • What responsible influence looks like when building a movement rooted in peace, collaboration, and compassion • How music, culture, and storytelling foster unity and healing across borders • Why discovering your purpose begins with turning inward—not outward • The extraordinary ripple effect of simple acts like kindness, acknowledgment, and showing up Shenali's message is a heartfelt reminder that every person carries a unique gift, and even the smallest gesture can spark transformation. If you're seeking clarity, inspiration, or a renewed sense of the impact you can make, this episode will meet you exactly where you are—and lift you higher. Connect with Shenali or learn more: https://www.powerofwomen.info/ https://www.instagram.com/powerofwomen.info/

In this revisit to Episode 73 of the Daily Influence we explore (I)individual responsibility. Understanding (I)individual responsibility can confuse many. Our responsibility extends each time we influence. This is why we believe our influence is our biggest responsibility.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Sarah Johnston—performance coach, transition guide, and former corporate leader turned entrepreneur—whose work centers on helping people navigate life's biggest shifts with clarity, confidence, and intention.Sarah shares her own winding journey from 12 years in the corporate world to building a coaching practice rooted in behavior change, resilience, and responsible influence. Together, Gregg and Sarah explore why so many people fear failure, the power of reframing it as feedback, and why embracing the “gray space” is essential for sustainable progress.They unpack the myth of massive overhauls, shine a light on the importance of micro-actions, and discuss how identity, self-trust, communication, and vulnerability shape our growth—especially during seasons of transition. Sarah also opens up about her deeply meaningful work with new moms and aspiring entrepreneurs, offering grounded and compassionate wisdom for anyone rebuilding, redefining, or realigning their path.Sarah leaves listeners with a grounding message: “You don't need to be perfect—you just need to be present.”An empowering conversation about change, leadership, and showing up for yourself with grace.Connect with Sarah:https://www.sarah-johnston.com/https://www.instagram.com/sarahdjohnston/

Welcome to 2026 with this revisit to episode 375. As we step into a new year, Brian S. Smith reflects on the power of purposeful reflection and intentional action. Learn how to turn fleeting resolutions into meaningful progress using SMART principles—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. Discover the keys to balancing personal and professional growth, building sustainable influence, and setting achievable milestones for a successful year ahead.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg Koleno breaks down one of the most transformative tools for personal and professional growth: SMART goals. If you've ever felt stuck, unfocused, or unsure how to turn your ideas into action, this episode is your blueprint. Gregg walks you through the full SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely—using real examples from business, leadership, and everyday life. Learn why clarity creates momentum, how to avoid the most common goal-setting pitfalls, and how SMART goals can align teams, strengthen communication, and help you build confidence through intentional action. Before you finish your commute or your morning coffee, you'll feel equipped to set one meaningful SMART goal that moves you forward—today. Tune in, get inspired, and start shaping your success with purpose.

On this New Year's Day episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith opens 2026 with a simple but powerful reminder: today is about direction, not speed. After a week of reflection and letting go, this episode focuses on intentional orientation—choosing how you want to show up, who you want to be more intentional with, and what direction you want your influence to move this year. Momentum can wait. Clarity cannot. Brian explores why consistency beats intensity, why teams don't reset but individuals do, and how personal ownership of presence, behavior, and reactions sets the tone for collective improvement. This is an invitation to start the year grounded, aligned, and committed to responsible, intentional influence—one day at a time.

On this New Year's Eve episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith offers a grounded reminder as one year closes and another begins: influence doesn't reset—but responsibility does. Rather than focusing on resolutions, this episode centers on releasing what no longer serves you—old habits, assumptions, emotional weight, and reactive behaviors—and choosing to move forward with greater intention. Brian reflects on why leadership doesn't need to be loud, why clarity requires stillness, and how responsibility can be reset at any moment, not just at midnight. This is a threshold episode—inviting reflection, discernment, and intentional ownership as we prepare to step into a new year.

In this powerful episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with retired Navy SEAL and Marine Corps infantryman Tommy Richardson, founder of Divine Savagery. Once a bullied, “skinny, dorky kid” who nearly ended his life, Tommy shares how a life-changing encounter with God, decades of military service, and extreme adversity forged his mission: to help others build unshakable strength, resilience, and purpose. Tommy opens up about being bullied everywhere he turned, staring down the barrel of his own gun, and the moment he heard, “Stop, don't do it. I've got something for you.” From there, he walks us through his path into the Marine Corps, the SEAL teams, and eventually into coaching leaders, athletes, and veterans—showing how our hardest battles can become the training ground for our greatest influence. Together, Gregg and Tommy explore how responsible influence starts with stewarding your own “I” so you can better serve the team—mind, body, and spirit. Tommy breaks down why there's no such thing as being “self-made,” how to avoid becoming a “supernova” who burns out, and why doing one hard thing every day can transform your capacity to lead and love others well. In this episode, you'll hear: • How Tommy went from bullied kid to Marine, to Navy SEAL, to founder of Divine Savagery • The moment in Haiti when a young Marine told him, “We'd follow you into hell and back”—and how that affirmed his calling as a leader • Why taking care of yourself isn't selfish, it's part of your responsibility to your team and community • Practical ways to “chase the hard” every day—cold showers, accountability, and small disciplines that build big resilience • How faith, scripture, and the “full armor of God” shape Tommy's approach to life, leadership, and influence • What responsible influence looks like when you know your words and actions can either build someone up or tear them down If you've ever felt like you're in the middle of your own battle, this conversation is a reminder that you've survived 100% of your worst days so far—and you're capable of far more than you think. Tommy's story will challenge you to get better, not bitter, and to use your influence to lift others up, even when life feels like a fight. If you'd like to learn more about Tommy and Divine Savagery, visit www.divinesavagery.com . Connect with Tommy: tommy@divinesavagery.com http://linkedin.com/in/tommy-richardson-72a4a4178 https://www.facebook.com/tommy.richardson.667300 https://www.instagram.com/raise.your.horn

As the year comes to a close, Brian Smith explores one of the most overlooked responsibilities of leadership: reflection. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian challenges the idea that reflection is nostalgic or optional. Instead, he reframes it as a leadership discipline—one that prevents repeated patterns, exposes blind spots, and restores clarity before momentum is built. This conversation focuses on understanding how we showed up, how our influence landed (especially under pressure), and what unfinished business—emotional or operational—needs to be closed before moving forward. Reflection, when done honestly, creates the clarity and space required for intentional influence and continuous improvement.