Lead to Succeed

What does it take to create a workplace that balances the diverse needs of employees while maintaining universal policies? And how can leaders address traditional mindsets that challenge the concept of flexibility? In this episode, Manar Morales shares her strategies for designing flexible yet inclusive workplace policies. Manar is a national expert in building human-centered workplace cultures that prioritize diversity, flexibility, and well-being. As the Founder and CEO of the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance, she has over 18 years of experience helping organizations create inclusive environments and implement effective flexible work strategies. A sought-after speaker and author, her forthcoming book, The Flexibility Paradigm (January 2025), provides a roadmap for creating adaptive, resilient workplaces. Recognized with the President's Lifetime Achievement Award, Manar is committed to empowering individuals and organizations to thrive in today's evolving work landscape.

How does someone transform from being shy to becoming a communication expert? And what practical tools can we all use to communicate more effectively in our personal and professional lives? In this episode, Cynthia Kane shares her journey of finding her voice and offers powerful tips and techniques for mastering the art of clear, confident, and meaningful communication. Cynthia helps people enhance their lives and relationships by teaching them how to become less reactive in difficult conversations, and speak to themselves, others, and their environment in a kind, honest, and helpful way. She has taught over 70,000 people how to change the way they communicate through her books (How to Communicate Like a Buddhist, Talk to Yourself Like a Buddhist, How to Meditate Like a Buddhist), Bestselling DailyOM Course, and the Kane Intentional Communication Training Program. She is a certified meditation and mindfulness instructor, certified breathing coach, and the founder of the Kane Intentional Communication Institute, LLC. Her new book, The Pause Principle: How to Keep Your Cool in Tough Situations, releases on January 22.

What does it mean to truly understand human performance in the workplace? How do leadership, workplace design, and emerging technologies intersect to create environments where people can truly thrive? In this episode, we dive deep into the art and science of optimizing work environments with our guest Brent Kedzierski. Brent is an award-winning and globally recognized thought leader in Human Performance and Connected Worker Ecosystem. Celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions, his insights have been featured in top publications like Harvard Business Press and BBC News. Brent's webinars and podcasts are industry favorites, consistently earning high ratings. After nearly 25 years at Shell as a global HR transformation strategist, he now shapes industrial worker strategies at Hexagon. Brent passionately advocates for human-centered approaches, emphasizing well-being, sustainability and human evolution.

What if the key to success wasn't just about making the right business moves, but about investing in the people around us? How does leading with passion and a genuine love for what we do create lasting impact? In this episode, our guest Josh Bloomfield, shares his approach to leadership through authentic connection and the importance of focusing on people rather than just business. With 20+ years of experience and multiple patents in donation technology, Josh is a mission-driven leader whose innovative designs have transformed donor engagement. He began his journey shaped by his father's struggles, inspiring him to lead a life of resilience and generosity. Self-taught in coding, Josh built a successful career in enterprise applications, eventually founding Givecloud in 2010 to empower nonprofits in building digital donor connections. Today, Givecloud supports nonprofits worldwide. Josh is also a proud father, musician, and advisor, dedicated to helping under-resourced entrepreneurs streamline operations and create new revenue streams across industries.

How does one balance the demands of a successful career while raising a large family, especially as a single mom? What does it take to manage it all without losing sight of your personal goals and well-being? In this episode, Brandy Burch shares her incredible journey of navigating the challenges of business and motherhood Brandy succeeded as a single parent from a non-traditional background to become the trailblazing Founder and CEO of benefitbay. This pioneering company revolutionizes employee benefits and health insurance. Brandy's 20+ year multidisciplinary expertise in finance, tech, and human capital allows her to empathize with working families while solving complex industry challenges. As CEO, she champions innovative solutions like ICHRA to empower employees and employers. Brandy's data-driven strategies increase profitability and growth. Her mastery of industry trends and ability to simplify complex topics make Brandy an inspiring speaker for diverse audiences on entrepreneurship, working parents, benefits optimization and more.

How does one balance the demands of a successful career while raising a large family, especially as a single mom? What does it take to manage it all without losing sight of your personal goals and well-being? In this episode, Brandy Burch shares her incredible journey of navigating the challenges of business and motherhood Brandy succeeded as a single parent from a non-traditional background to become the trailblazing Founder and CEO of benefitbay. This pioneering company revolutionizes employee benefits and health insurance. Brandy's 20+ year multidisciplinary expertise in finance, tech, and human capital allows her to empathize with working families while solving complex industry challenges. As CEO, she champions innovative solutions like ICHRA to empower employees and employers. Brandy's data-driven strategies increase profitability and growth. Her mastery of industry trends and ability to simplify complex topics make Brandy an inspiring speaker for diverse audiences on entrepreneurship, working parents, benefits optimization and more.

In leadership, vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but what if embracing it could make us stronger and more effective? In this episode, Owen Marcus delves into the importance of emotional safety in the workplace, how leaders can model vulnerability, and why creating supportive environments for both personal and professional growth is crucial.

In leadership, vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but what if embracing it could make us stronger and more effective? In this episode, Owen Marcus delves into the importance of emotional safety in the workplace, how leaders can model vulnerability, and why creating supportive environments for both personal and professional growth is crucial.

When faced with wrongdoings like bullying, staying silent is often the easiest choice—but it's also the most harmful. How can we find the courage to speak out and take a stand against bad behavior? In this episode, Jenn Johnson shares her experiences and insights on the importance of confronting bullying in the workplace.

A growth mindset is essential for success, but without clarity, how can we know where we're headed or how to measure our progress? In this episode, Alex Geesbreght explains why clarity is a fundamental building block for fostering a growth mindset and how it can unlock new possibilities for personal and leadership development. Alex is the Founder and Partner of PRAX Leadership, Geesbreght Capital, and Geesbreght Group. He is a former Owner of Emergency Medicine Consultants, where he served in various roles including General Counsel, President, and Chief Strategy Officer for over sixteen years until the sale of the company in 2018. He is also the former Owner and CEO of PhysAssist Scribes, the nation's first medical scribe company. Since selling PhysAssist in 2014, Alex is a full-time investor and counselor of early-stage entrepreneurs.

Do you ever feel like you're busy all the time but not making real progress? What if the key to achieving more isn't doing more, but simplifying how we work? In this episode, Lisa Bodell unpacks the importance of cutting through the clutter to focus on what truly drives value, helping us trade busyness for meaningful impact. Lisa, founder of FutureThink, is a globally recognized expert on simplifying work and driving innovation. She is the author of Why Simple Wins and Kill the Company, both bestsellers that emphasize replacing unnecessary complexity with simplicity to allow people to focus on impactful work. Her insights have influenced top organizations, including Google, SAP, Citigroup, and the U.S. Department of National Intelligence. A frequent Forbes contributor, Lisa's expertise has also been featured in Fast Company, Wired, The New York Times, and Harvard Business Review. She has taught innovation at American University and Fordham University, and her TED Talk on simplification resonates with thousands each year. Through FutureThink, one of the world's largest sources for innovation tools, Lisa's work empowers teams to improve productivity, engagement, and well-being by shifting focus to what matters most.

What does it mean to truly understand our priorities in life? In a world filled with distractions and demands, how do we uncover what genuinely matters to us? In this episode, our guest Matt Shenker shares his insights on the journey of self-discovery and the importance of aligning our lives with our core values. As a licensed professional counselor, meditation teacher, and behavior scientist since 2016, Matt has trained thousands of therapists, educators, and managers on how to harness the greatest learnings from behavior science from the last century. Matt is the creator of Empowered Well-being Theory—a transdisciplinary biopsychosocial spiritual model for understanding human well-being. As a framework, that work serves as a foundation for the work Matt does as Chief Solutions Architect, COO, & Cofounder at MatterMore. At MatterMore, they're working to empower the future of work—what they call Work 4.0.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by conflict, unsure of how to navigate the tension without sacrificing your values or relationships? What if conflict didn't have to be a barrier, but instead, an opportunity for growth and connection? In this episode, we dive deep into these important questions with our guest, Jose Ucar, as he shares strategies for turning conflict into a powerful tool for transformation and success. Jose is an international communication and influence expert with over a decade of experience working with businesses such as Procter & Gamble and SEAT-CUPRA. His actionable strategies for business leaders expose hidden barriers to effective communication, bridge cultural gaps, ignite positive influence and amplify global impact. Jose is the author of bestseller book ‘Global Influence,' a TEDx speaker and host, a professional speaker, a leadership and communication trainer, a speaking coach, and founder of Jose Ucar Ltd. His writing has been featured on Yahoo Finance and Yahoo News, Disrupt Magazine, LA Weekly and The Influencer Age.

In a world that often encourages us to “fake it until we make it,” what's the real value of leading with authenticity? How can loving what we do transform not only our work but also those we lead? In this episode, we explore the importance of embracing who we truly are in leadership with our guest, Rabbi Daniel Lapin. Daniel Lapin, known widely as America's Rabbi, is a noted rabbinic scholar, best-selling author and TV host. He is president of the American Alliance of Jews and Christians, author of America's Real War, Thou Shall Prosper and other best-sellers. A frequent guest on Fox News, WallBuilders Radio, and Glenn Beck TV, he hosts his own popular radio and podcast programs with audiences world-wide. Pairing his inheritance as a descendant of a multi-generational rabbinical family with his background in science and business, he teaches ancient Jewish wisdom in an unparalleled manner.

Effective leadership demands a return to our human roots. How can leaders embrace a human-first approach to foster meaningful connections, drive organizational goals, and inspire their teams? In this episode, our guest Richard Atherton explores how leading with humanity can unlock breakthrough potential and transform our approach to leadership within organizations. Richard is a Partner at FirstHuman, a business coaching firm that helps CEOs, leaders, and top executives achieve leadership breakthroughs and organizational goals with a human-first approach. Its clients include Adidas, Volkswagen, Heineken, PwC, UNICEF and the Olympics. Richard has nearly 10 years of expertise in leadership development and has helped numerous clients achieve significant personal and professional breakthroughs. His own background of overcoming multiple addictions and personal traumas has been crucial in shaping his passion for humanizing the leadership culture within organizations. He was notably involved in helping leaders at the logistics company CEVA close a $400M profitability gap. He is also the host of the Being Human podcast that provides insights on leadership and well-being and reaches 11.9K subscribers.

What makes a business truly thrive? Is it the strategy, the products, or the people behind it? In today's episode, we dive deep into the essential role that people and culture play in shaping the success of any organization. Our guest, Meny Hoffman, shares his insights on why building a strong company culture is not just a leadership buzzword but a crucial foundation for long-term business growth.

In moments of struggle and uncertainty, seeking help can be a pivotal step toward healing and growth. But why is it often so challenging to reach out for support, and how can embracing assistance transform our lives? In this episode, our guest Dennis Franczak explores the profound importance of seeking help when we need it most.

Have you ever found yourself standing at the edge of a decision, uncertain of what's on the other side? What does it take to push beyond fear and take that leap, even when the outcome is unclear? In this episode, we dive into the mindset of a risk-taker with our guest, Terracina Maxwell, who encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown in pursuit of greater rewards.

How can adversity shape our journey to success? When faced with life's toughest challenges, how do we turn pain into power? In this episode, our guest Justin Winstead shares his powerful story of battling cancer and transforming that experience into a driving force for positive change and influence. From a challenging rural upbringing, Justin transformed adversity into a springboard for success. After college, he worked in student ministry and church planting before launching into business endeavors, including oil and gas, real estate, and a multi-million-dollar insurance agency. With over 20 years in business and leadership and as a cancer survivor, Justin's journey epitomizes the power of faith, purpose, and vision. Passionate about personal growth with the goal of serving others, he's committed to enriching people through his insights. As an executive coach, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, and the founder of Improver Group, Justin aims to make the world a better place by helping leaders, entrepreneurs, and their teams improve personally and professionally. Justin has a new book titled "Become an Improver: A Challenge to Escape Average and Unleash Greatness." The book will be released October 1, available wherever books are sold.

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a situation, held back by fear of the unknown? What does it really take to break free from what's familiar, even if it's uncomfortable, and embrace the possibility of something greater? In this episode, we explore these transformative questions with our guest, Dr. Shirley Davis, as she challenges us to "stop living in our known hell because there's an unknown heaven." Shirley is president and CEO of SDS Global Enterprises, a strategic development solutions firm that specializes in human resources strategy; talent management; leadership effectiveness; culture transformation; and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Davis has worked in more than 30 countries on 5 continents and delivers more than 100 speeches a year to a wide range of industries, sectors, and sizes. She continues to consult, coach, and train leaders at all levels, including Corporate CEOs, C-Suite executives, and Board of Directors. Shirley is the author of several books, including: Living Beyond "What If?": Release the Limits and Realize Your Dreams, Reinvent Yourself: Strategies for Achieving Success in Every Area of Your Life, and the first-ever Diversity, Equity & Inclusion For Dummies, which was published in January 2022 by the global publishing company, John Wiley & Sons. Her latest book, Inclusive Leadership For Dummies, was also published by Wiley and released in May 2024.

What truly drives our progress when the initial excitement fades? How do we continue to grow and adapt when motivation alone isn't enough? In this episode of Lead to Succeed, our guest Neil Emeigh delves into these questions, exploring the crucial role of skill development in achieving lasting success and adaptability. Neil Emeigh is the founder and CEO of Rayobyte, a company he started at 21. Rayobyte serves over 5000 customers, including Fortune 500 companies, with a focus on web scraping. Beyond his professional achievements, he has pushed his personal limits by experimenting with activities like an Ironman and participating in a seven-day silent meditation retreat. Despite a generous offer to sell his company, Neil chose to continue leading Rayobyte, driven by a vision to create a greater impact and give back to the world. Listen in to learn how refining your skills can lead to exceptional and sustainable growth.

The true measure of a successful leader lies not just in achieving organizational goals, but in the ability to build and develop their people. Investing in the growth and well-being of team members fosters a culture of trust, innovation, and collaboration. That's what Lead to Succeed guest Nigel Thurlow will be focusing on in this episode. Nigel is the CEO of The Flow Consortium and one of the most sought-after speakers and experts in Lean, Agile, and Flow methods. He was Toyota's first Chief of Agile, where he co-created The Flow System and the award-winning Scrum the Toyota Way approach. Nigel has trained 8,500+ people in Scrum, Agile, Lean, Flow, and Complexity approaches and his coaching portfolio includes GE, Bose, 3M, Microsoft, Vodafone, Lumen, Cox Automotive, and MIT. He is a member of Forbes' invite-only Coaches Council organization and is due to be listed in the Who's Who of America later this year. Nigel has co-authored many peer-reviewed papers and books on methods and approaches to accelerate business transformation, including the renowned “The Flow System” series. He is a highly sought-after international keynote speaker and will appear on the TV series Advancements, which will feature on Bloomberg and Amazon Prime, in June 2024. Listen in to learn the power of building your people.

Within the constantly evolving business world, businesses are increasingly exploring how integrating consciousness can transform traditional practices. How can this integration foster both profitability and a deeper sense of purpose? Join us as we delve into this question with our guest, Josh Sason. Josh brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a fresh perspective to the table. He's got an incredible story having bootstrapped an investment firm out of his childhood bedroom at 22, was called a 'mini-Richard Branson' by Bloomberg in his mid-20's and more recently launched one of the country's fastest-growing boutique commercial real estate investment firms. While Josh's path has been one of achievement and significant success, it hasn't come without challenge. In 2019, he was named in an SEC complaint relating to one of Magna's credit strategies which took a personal and business toll. It took years and millions of dollars of legal fees to clear his name, while through it all, he relied on his deep spiritual foundation to maintain optimism and focus on continuing to grow and build, always pushing towards accessing a greater version of himself. Listen in to learn the power of intersection of consciousness and business.

In the dynamic world of business and marketing, navigating the realm of in-house strategies requires a blend of insight, strategy, and innovation. How does one harness these elements to not just survive but thrive in the competitive landscape? Today, we delve into these essential questions with our guest, Kasper Sierslev. Kasper's passion for in-house marketing is palpable, evident in his best-selling book, "Moving In-House." He envisions a future where books, reports, and talks act as catalysts for innovation, propelling the industry towards new heights. As the founder of a company that helps brands establish and fortify in-house competencies, Kasper brings a wealth of experience. His extensive background encompasses pivotal roles in respected brand agencies, as well as steering his own startup and overseeing global campaigns for one of the world's largest shipping companies. This multifaceted experience equips him with a unique perspective, allowing him to effortlessly bridge the gap between diverse industry landscapes.

When everything around you seems bleak and the future appears uncertain, how do you find the glimmer of hope to keep moving forward? In the midst of despair and overwhelming challenges, where do you draw the strength to persevere? In this episode, we tackle these profound questions, exploring the powerful concepts of hope and perseverance with our guest Yasmin Davidds. Dr. Yasmin Davidds has empowered a generation of women leaders, from senior judges to tribal leaders, from unionized prison guards to accountants, and from public officials to diplomatic trainees. She has received recognition and acclaim for her work with women from the U.S. Congress, the California State Senate, and the California State Assembly. She has been named one of the most influential Latinas by Hispanic Magazine and The Book of Latina Women. Her book, “Graciously Assertive: How Becoming A Better Human Makes You A Better Leader” was just released. Listen in to discover how to find hope even in the most hopeless situations.

ver wondered what it truly takes to kickstart your dreams, especially when the path ahead appears daunting? How do you muster the courage to take that first step, amidst uncertainty and self-doubt? Join us in this episode as we delve into these pivotal questions with our esteemed guest, Dan Ram. Dan travels the globe as an Event MC & Speaker at over 100 events a year. Hosting changemakers like President Barack Obama, billionaire founders Sir Richard Branson and Reid Hoffman, F1 champion Nico Rosberg, Grammy-winning artists, and celebrities, he works on 4 continents from college campuses to parliaments to in-house corporate innovation days for Fortune 500 companies to the biggest tech conferences in the world. His passion is to inspire people with his motto 'Start Now Start Simple' in building a future we all want to live in. Listen in as we unravel the power of starting now and starting simple on the journey towards realizing your dreams.

What does it take to hold onto your dreams when the world seems determined to tear them down? In the face of doubt, skepticism, and negativity, how do you find the strength to press on? In this episode, we confront these challenging questions head-on as we explore the essence of resilience and determination in the pursuit of our dreams with our guest Craig Detweiler. Craig is President of the cultural investment organization, the Wedgwood Circle, and Dean of the College of Arts and Media at Grand Canyon University. He has written multiple screenplays and directed the award-winning documentary Remand. His acclaimed books include iGods: How Technology Shapes Our Spiritual and Social Lives, Selfies: Searching for the Image of God in a Digital Age, Deep Focus: Film and Theology in Dialogue, and his new book, Honest Creativity in an age of A.I. Craig has been featured on ABC's Nightline, CNN, Fox, NPR, and in The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Variety honored him as their 2016 Mentor of the Year. Listen in and learn the importance of continuously pressing on towards your dreams.

We all think of ourselves as mature, but what does it really mean to be mature? In this Lead to Succeed episode, guest Norman Wolfe goes deep on the essence of maturity and how each of us can become more mature in our thinking and behavior. Norman is founder and CEO of Quantum Leaders, a strategy execution consulting company changing business to unleash the power of the human spirit. He is a recognized expert in changing the way businesses work to execute strategy more effectively and rapidly. Norman brings a depth and groundedness to the art of leadership and creating corporate results that is rare, and often sees what others do not. Throughout his career as a Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Director, and Advisor to CEOs, Norman Wolfe has successfully guided corporations through major transitions leading to substantial growth, market expansion and enhanced financial performance. Listen in to this fascinating discussion about Norman's journey, how he defines maturity, and more!

Within each individual resides a unique essence waiting to be unearthed—a truth that embodies their deepest values, passions, and aspirations. "Live in Your True Self" is not merely a directive but a profound invitation to embark on a transformative quest towards embracing one's genuine identity. That's precisely what our guest, Brandon Evans, will guide us through in this episode. Brandon is the Founder and Chief Elevation Officer of 1heart. Before 1heart, his path of building large tech companies in New York led him to financial success but lacked greater meaning, fulfillment, and joy. When his article “Lost on Purpose” unexpectedly went viral, Brandon was called to serve all those with similar stories reaching out for support. Brandon founded 1heart to create new paths for leaders seeking more fulfilling and purpose-driven lives. 1heart combines top facilitators across modern and ancient modalities to support physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being via a highly curated, best-in-class program. Brandon and his wife Jeanette lead retreats and create experiences that support others in creating lives fully aligned with their soul's calling.

No matter where life leads us, one undeniable truth remains: criticism is inevitable. Yet, it is not the mere presence of criticism that defines our journey, but rather, our response to it. In the face of inevitable critique, it is our ability to accept it with grace and the courage to endure disdain that propels us forward on the path of growth, both in life and in business. This profound truth finds resonance in the experiences of our esteemed guest, Rob Moore. Rob is the founder of the Progressive Group, encompassing Progressive Property, Progressive Success, and the Entrepreneurs Business Academy (EBA). His training companies are among the largest in the UK and globally recognized. With over 1,000 speeches delivered in the last decade, Rob is a sought-after keynote speaker known for his unfiltered 'Rob's Rants' and tactical insights. As a mentor to numerous millionaires and celebrities, he's helped tens of thousands of entrepreneurs go from zero to millionaire status.

The importance of connection within the team cannot be overstated. This connection goes beyond mere acquaintance or professional rapport; it encompasses a deeper understanding, trust, and synergy among team members. That's what our guest Michael will be sharing with us. Michael is CEO and co-founder of Prismatic, a leading embedded integration platform (embedded iPaaS) for B2B SaaS companies. A second-time founder, he previously scaled a software company whose product had hundreds of integrations serving thousands of customers. He passionately believes that B2B SaaS companies need a better way to build and manage integrations.

We all have that nagging voice inside our heads—the one that constantly whispers doubts, criticisms, and fears. It's the voice that tells us we're not good enough, smart enough, or capable enough to achieve our goals and dreams. In this episode, our guest Hooman Motevalli will be shining a light on the inner critic, helping us overcome it. Hooman is a senior business analyst and in-demand consultant for high-level blockchain and AI software teams. He is the director of HSP Holdings, an IT-based company investing in intelligent blockchain and DAO-Metaverse startups. He also works to improve the qualities of tech and business teams through his Converting Confusion to Clarity (CCC) training program. Hooman is a macroeconomics expert and author of Don't Be A Crab: A Practical Guide to Building Strong, Joyful Relationships.

In the complex journey of life, our experiences, choices, and outcomes are intricately woven by a force often underestimated yet profoundly influential: mindset. How we perceive the world, interpret challenges, and approach opportunities shapes not just our daily existence, but the very trajectory of our entire lives. In this episode, our guest Sheldon Gilbert will share how developing the right mindset at a young age changed his life. Sheldon founded Kura Labs to create new pathways for ensuring employment in the tech economy for people from underserved communities. Kura Labs is a non-profit vocational academy that offers free training and job placement in the high-demand sectors of devops/SRE, cloud infrastructure computing and cybersecurity at Fortune 1000 employer partners. Sheldon is also the Founder and CEO of Proclivity Systems. Proclivity builds and operates electronic marketplaces for secure trading of digital assets in real-time such as data and media. Beginning first in e-commerce, Proclivity has since developed the largest electronic ad marketplace in the pharmaceutical industry and extended its expertise in autonomous trading systems and secure computation in other industries.

In the relentless pursuit of professional success, it's easy to become fixated solely on honing one's technical expertise and career-oriented skills. However, those who prioritize these aspects at the expense of developing interpersonal skills often find themselves encountering unexpected roadblocks on their journey to success. In this episode, our guest Jeff Baldassari will be emphasizing the importance of developing interpersonal skills. Jeff is a former C Suite Executive and the author of From Associate to Ambassador. It contains the skills and disciplines that are not taught in law school but are needed to build an extraordinary career. This book speaks to law students, summer associates, and young associates who aspire to achieve extraordinary outcomes in their careers.

Selecting the right role for employees is paramount for effective leadership. Matching individual strengths, skills, and aspirations with suitable positions not only maximizes productivity but also fosters job satisfaction and long-term engagement. That's exactly what we'll be talking about in this episode, with our guest John Bennett. John joined Dashlane as its Chief Executive Officer in February 2023, bringing over 30+ years of experience leading high-growth B2B SaaS and communication companies. Prior to joining Dashlane, John served as the CEO of Cordence and held executive positions in LogMeIn and Citrix. During his tenure at LogMeIn, John successfully oversaw and grew the $450M Identity and Access Management unit.

As we pass down knowledge from generation to generation, a prevalent regret among our predecessors is often the unfulfilled pursuit of their ideal selves. This failure to realize their true potential serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of striving towards personal fulfillment. In this episode, we will explore with our guest John Mile this vital lesson. John R. Miles, creator of Passion Struck®, is a renowned authority in behavior change, wellness, and leadership. With a diverse background from the U.S. Navy to Fortune 50 executive roles, his insights are rooted in real-world experience. Through his podcast, Passion Struck, and his latest book, "Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life," he shares science-based principles for personal growth and living with purpose, endorsed by luminaries like Oprah Winfrey. Recognized as a must-read for 2024, it inspires readers to overcome self-doubt and embrace intentional living.

Stepping out of one's family business can offer invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth. By venturing beyond familiar territories, individuals gain fresh perspectives, encounter diverse perspectives, and cultivate a broader understanding of the world. That's exactly what our guest Brent Pohlman was advised to do. Brent is the Owner and CEO of Midwest Laboratories, which performs analytical testing in Human Health, Animal Health, and Agriculture/Environmental. In 2023, Brent released his first book, “Leaders Look Within”. The book is a testimony to Brent owning his heart to live a life of gratitude.

It's important to see constraints not as obstacles that limit us, but rather as opportunities for innovation and creativity. By reframing our perspective, we can harness the power of constraints to drive progress and achieve remarkable outcomes. And this is exactly what Lead to Succeed guest Gary Harpst will demonstrate through his insightful experiences and practical wisdom. Gary Harpst, CEO of LeadFirst, is known for his fusion of faith and work, fostering agile organizations. With four decades of experience, he founded three successful businesses, one of which merged and was sold to Microsoft. He has authored three books. His latest book, "Built to Beat Chaos," makes the biblical case that we are all created to overcome chaos.

In today's competitive business landscape, where efficiency and systems often take precedence, some leaders stand out for prioritizing people above all else. Brian, our guest, epitomizes this ethos. Brian worked in retail for 35 years, from the stockroom to the corner office. He was a VP of stores for PacSun and Urban Outfitters and most recently ran Old Navy stores in Canada. His new book helps people write or rewrite their career outcomes.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), the emulation of human intelligence by machines, and Behavioral Science, the study of human behavior and decision-making, converge to create innovative approaches that optimize team dynamics. In this episode, James Lawrence will teach us how AI and Behavioral Science team up to improve how groups work. James is the co-founder of Happy, which enables organizations to enhance organizational culture, communication, and manager effectiveness at scale. Its Happy coaching platform uses behavioral science and AI to build a user manual for your entire team in less than 10 minutes. James previously served as chairman of the board for the Specialty Equipment Market Association. He also served as CEO and founder of Power Automedia and CEO of Speedvideo. Throughout his career, James strongly emphasized nurturing talent and fostering the next generation of leaders, always with an eye toward meaningful work.

In a marketing world filled with self-promotion, it's time for a change. Instead of shouting "Me, Me, Me," success now hinges on understanding and connecting with our audience. In this episode, our guest, Anthony Iannarino will be talking about the importance of shifting our focus from self-centered narratives to building genuine connections that resonate. Anthony is a highly respected international speaker, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and sales leader specializing in the complex business-to-business (B2B) sale. He is also a founder and managing partner of two closely held, family-owned businesses in the staffing industry, leading both entities in strategic planning while growing sales. Anthony is best known for his work at The Sales Blog, which has helped him gain recognition as a top thought leader in sales strategy. He is also the designer of Level 4 Value Creation™ and Building Consensus, methodologies that help sales organizations achieve transformational, breakthrough results. In each business, Anthony is focused on helping professionals reach their full potential. In 2007, while growing the sales force of his second staffing firm, he discovered a knack for coaching, and realized that he could make enduring contributions to a company's sales culture. He began blogging about complex selling processes and gravitated toward B2B companies facing challenges in sales force management and performance. His transition to professional speaking, consulting, and workshop facilitation led to the development of a trademarked methodology that has proven instrumental in helping sales organizations achieve revenue goals. Listen in and learn more about the importance of building connections that matter.

Remaining entrenched in a career path that fails to resonate with one's true passion is a substantial life misstep. Opting for a fulfilling career isn't merely a luxury but an essential pursuit for a well-rounded and contented life. That's exactly what our guest Cynthia Kay will be sharing about. Cynthia is the Founder of Cynthia Kay and Company, an award-winning media production company, an author, speaker, and an expert in small business leadership. That expertise comes from over three decades of building her own company. As a business leader and trailblazer among women keynote speakers, her success has been widely recognized. Cynthia works with current and aspiring small business leaders across sectors, industries, or growth stages to help them achieve their goals. She is past Chair of the National Small Business Association (NSBA). Listen in and learn more about mistakes leaders often make and how to avoid them.

Passion in the workplace is like the secret sauce that adds flavor to your professional journey. It's the fuel that propels you forward, turning a job into a fulfilling career. When you're passionate about what you do, it transforms your work into a labor of love. That's what our guest Bjorn Billhardt will be talking about in this episode. Bjorn is CEO and founder of Abilitie, a global leadership development company. Prior to launching Abilitie, Bjorn co-founded Enspire Learning in 2001, an early pioneer of e-learning programs and business simulations. Bjorn holds a BA from the University of Texas and an MBA from Harvard Business School. A native of Hamburg, Germany, he came to the US as an exchange student in high school and now lives in Austin, TX with his wife and three young boys. Listen in and learn more about the importance of passion in a fulfilling professional life.

It's really important to regularly think about where we are in our work lives. This helps us grow, adapt, and stay healthy. Robert DeFinis is an expert who helps people do this. He's been working with kids, athletes, coaches, teams, leaders, and groups for more than twenty years. He knows a lot about doing well and has experience in education, leading nonprofits, law enforcement, and understanding behavior. Robert created Total Optimal Performance Solutions and RDF Books. He also helped start the Center for Teaching Excellence - Online. He's written books like The Hero Teacher, Gen-eXceptional, and some children's books about current issues. Listen in to learn why it's important to think beyond just the place where you work.

Most people's pain comes because they're unable to make relationships work. In the professional realm, effective communication is the heartbeat of collaboration, innovation, and productivity. It ensures that ideas flow seamlessly, teams align cohesively, and goals are achieved with precision. And today, that's exactly what our guest Steve Cockram will be sharing insights on. Steve is an inspirational communicator, serial entrepreneur, author, and confidante to elite leaders around the world. He is highly skilled at making people think, laugh, and act. Steve is a co-founder of GiANT Worldwide and GiANT London. He has co-authored multiple leadership books, including his most recent, THE COMMUNICATION CODE, which details how to set the parameters of a conversation from the outset, preventing misunderstandings and miscommunication, and highlights recognizing the power dynamics of interactions to help. Listen in and learn more about the importance of communication.

In the dynamic realm of business, the adage holds true: enterprises are either in a state of growth or on a trajectory towards decline, leaving no room for a middle ground. Our guest, Adam House will share valuable insights and tips to navigate this dichotomy effectively. Adam House is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse background as a former senior executive, professional basketball player, and team Co-Owner. Adam adds a unique perspective to business advising. Over his 25-year career, Adam has not only started, scaled, and exited multiple companies across various industries but has done so with his commitment to values such as faith, family, and personal interests.  Adam has a proven track record of excellence, being the Founder/CEO of DMA - acquired by V12 Group; Velocitude - developed by Akamai Technologies; and Qualmetrix - publicly traded on NASDAQ.  Despite the challenges of being a husband, father, and entrepreneur, Adam maintains his faith, family, and fitness priorities. Adam's professional journey has been a continuous cycle of learning and growth. Listen in and learn more about business success.

In the world of sales, genuine care is the key to success. When you genuinely care about your customers, it goes beyond just making a sale; it's about understanding their needs, providing value, and creating a positive experience. People are more likely to buy from someone they trust and feel genuinely cares about their well-being, that's exactly what we will learn from our guest Jeremy Sandell. Jeremy is an online sales and marketing professional with more than $15,000,000 in 1:1 sales across 6+ different industries. He's spent the last 12 years studying human behavior and evolutionary psychology and has developed a unique, non-salesy approach to sales that results in considerably higher than average closing rates in the high-ticket sales niche. Listen in and learn more about the importance of building trust in sales.

Uncovering the mission that sets our soul on fire is not just about finding purpose; it's about grabbing life by the horns and forging a path that screams, "This is who I am, and this is what I'm meant to do!”. In this episode, we're diving deep with our guest, Dr. Philip Hickman, as he unveils the riveting story of discovering his life mission and the impactful journey he embarked on to bring it to life. As a distinguished public speaker, Dr. Phil has presented at national conferences and workshops for organizations such as the U.S Department of Education and Columbia University. He is a prolific author with three books that showcase his groundbreaking methodologies in leadership, personalized learning, and emotional intelligence. Dr. Phil is a versatile entrepreneur, having created Plabook, an AI powered reading technology solutions firm. He has also co-founded multiple nonprofit organizations and played a key role in successful edutech ventures. Listen in and learn more about life missions.

Being the leading voice in healthcare funding requires the courage to be the first to ask and advocate for change. It's about empowering others to realize they're not alone, encouraging them to step up, and affirming that advocating for change is not just acceptable but essential. This is exactly what our guest Andrea Feigl will empower every leader to do. As Health Finance Institute's CEO and founder, Andrea brings extensive leadership experience in academia, the public sector, international organizations, and the global non-profit sector. Her past work focused on the economics and policies of preventing and treating the economic burden of chronic diseases, as well as on health financing and governance, UHC, and cost-effectiveness of chronic disease interventions. Apart from being the recipient of multiple prestigious awards, she has also authored several high-level reports, including Development Aid Flows for Chronic Diseases for the Center for Global Development and a leading WEF/Harvard report on the global economic burden of chronic diseases. Andrea was a Visiting Scientist at Harvard from 2015 to 2020 at the School of Public Health and is a Salzburg Global Fellow. Listen in and learn how to lead boldly in the healthcare industry.

In the complex landscape of professional challenges, there comes a defining juncture— a moment when setbacks and obstacles prompt a crucial question: Is it time to deepen your skills, to evolve and overcome, or is it the signal for a more profound shift, a redirection towards a new career path? In this episode, we explore this delicate balance with our guest Damon Lembi who himself had to navigate this intricate terrain. For nearly three decades, Damon has led Learnit through the ever-changing L&D landscape, gaining insight into what works, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competition. Coming to business from a career in baseball, he brings an athlete's perspective on leadership and training to my informal mentoring of executives. Damon has distilled those hard-won insights into his bestselling book, “The Learn-It-All Leader—Mindset, Traits, and Tools.” Listen in and learn more about the Learn-It-All Leader.

In the dynamic world of commerce, cultivating profitability in untapped markets with innovative products isn't just a decision—it's the crescendo of a symphony, resonating with the commitment to prosperity and the beat of boundless possibilities. This is precisely where the expertise of Lead to Succeed guest Mosongo Moukwa shines, orchestrating success in this vibrant business symphony. Mosongo is a seasoned executive and consultant who has dedicated his career to helping companies thrive by commercializing new technologies, diversifying their product offerings, and entering new markets. Over thirty-plus years in leadership, he has applied his unique talent for identifying leadership gaps and developing the talent and culture necessary for success. Mosongo helps solve important innovation challenges that hold organizations back by unleashing the collective creativity of their people. This results in increased profitability and growth expansion. Mosongo has held leadership positions in R & D and operations at some of the world's most respected brands, including vice president, global technology at SC Johnson. He is currently President at Hathaway Advanced Materials. Listen in and learn more about ways to help your business thrive.