Lets Have This Conversation

Habitat for Humanity is a global movement that unitesindividuals in local communities and across the world to foster prosperous andvibrant societies by ensuring everyone has access to a safe and affordableplace to call home. Since its inception in 1976 as a Christian organization,Habitat for Humanity has transformed the lives of over 62 million people innumerous countries, empowering them to build their futures on their own termsthrough secure housing. This impactful organization achieves its mission bycollaborating with people from diverse backgrounds, working hand in hand toconstruct, repair, and finance homes. Habitat is also committed to innovation,continuously exploring new methods of building and financial solutions totackle pressing housing challenges. Additionally, it advocates for policiesdesigned to simplify the construction and accessibility of housing for allindividuals. Together, Habitat for Humanity focuses on creating not justhouses, but thriving communities filled with hope. Recently, I had theopportunity to speak with Amy Dunham, the Chief Communications Officer atHabitat for Humanity International. She shared insights about how theorganization is actively tackling the homeowner affordability crisis, exploringinnovative avenues for individuals to experience the profound joy ofhomeownership, and detailing how innovation serves as a fundamental pillar intheir forward-thinking strategy. For more information about their inspiring work, visit theirwebsite at https://www.habitat.org/. 

The percentage of American women in leadership positions insports varies by sector, but it is generally low. For instance, women holdapproximately 20-34% of senior administrative roles in professional teams,while their representation in the highest levels of governance forinternational sports federations is around 21-27%. Additionally, women accountfor less than 20% of team doctors in professional and collegiate sports,according to the Women Sports Foundation and the Journal of Sport forDevelopment. Megha Parekh is the Executive Vice President and Chief LegalOfficer of the Jacksonville Jaguars. She has been with the team since 2013 andplays a key role in their executive leadership. Parekh is responsible for avariety of legal and business matters, including transactions, acquisitions,investments, compliance, dispute resolution, risk management, employee growthand development, government relations, intellectual property, security,technology, and stadium and real estate development projects. She is instrumentalin shaping the Jaguars' long-term vision and strategy, including the ambitious"Stadium of the Future" initiative and broader development efforts inJacksonville. Her work sits at the intersection of entertainment, law, andcivic innovation, helping position the Jaguars as a driver of economicdevelopment and community engagement in Northeast Florida. During her time with the Jaguars, Parekh has contributed tovarious significant projects, including the acquisition of Fulham FootballClub, the launch of All Elite Wrestling and its television broadcast deal, theconstruction and opening of Daily's Place amphitheater, and various namingrights and concessions agreements, as well as the Jaguars' international gamesand other Khan family sports and entertainment-related projects. Before joining the Jaguars, Parekh was an attorney atProskauer in New York, where she was part of the Sports Law Group and advisedclients across professional leagues and franchises. She holds both herundergraduate and law degrees from Harvard, graduating magna cum laude. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Parekh isdeeply committed to community service and volunteering. She supportsindividuals in moments of mental health crisis as a volunteer with Crisis TextLine and helps create safe and stable housing for families in need with Habitatfor Humanity. Guided by her personal experiences, she also advocates forsurvivors of trauma. Parekh serves on several boards, including theJacksonville University Public Policy Institute, and promotes access,inclusion, and leadership development in both sports and the legal profession.  She has been recognized as one of SportsBusiness Journal's“Forty Under 40” and has been featured among the most powerful women in sportsin the NFL's series “Earnin' It.” Parekh believes in the transformative powerof sports and music to create stronger, more connected communities and toenhance individuals' lives. Instagram: @meghalegalgirl10 LinkedIn: @MeghaParekhrekh

A small percentage of middle-aged men in America areconsidered healthy based on a narrow definition, with one study finding thatonly 8.5% met the criteria for a healthy lifestyle, which includes diet,exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking. However, a broaderdefinition considers the percentage of men who meet federal physical activityguidelines. In 2020, about 29% of men aged 35-49 met these guidelines for bothaerobic and muscle-strengthening activities, according to the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention. Sean McManus is a Men's Strength Coach and the Founder ofMcManus Strength and Nutrition, a movement dedicated to helping Christian menreclaim their confidence, purpose, and leadership through faith, fitness, anddiscipline. After years spent pursuing success in the corporate world, Seanexperienced burnout, disconnection, and quiet dissatisfaction—a crisis ofidentity that served as a divine wake-up call. Choosing faith over fear, heleft behind comfort and compromise to rebuild his life from the inside out,becoming a better man, husband, father, and leader. Today, Sean empowers high-performing Christian men to breakfree from mediocrity, self-doubt, and burnout, enabling them to develop strongbodies, disciplined minds, and unshakable confidence. His coaching combinesbiblical wisdom with proven strategies for strength training, nutrition,mindset, and masculine leadership. He equips men to lead their families withintegrity and to show up in the world with energy, clarity, and conviction.Whether coaching one-on-one or sharing his message on podcasts, Sean challengesmen to rise above cultural passivity, take radical ownership of their lives,and boldly embrace their God-given calling. A devoted husband and father, Sean lives by the principleshe teaches. When he's not coaching or training, you can find him enjoying thegreat outdoors with his wife and kids, investing in the relationships thatmatter most. Facebook: @SeanMcManus Follow: @theseanmcmanusanus  

Nearly all (98%) of executives using AI believe it is at least "somewhateffective" in creating business value. The majority (57%) reported having partiallyor fully integrated AI into their operations, according to Forbes and McKinsey& Company.  Wes Towers runs Uplift360, a digital agency for builders and trades. His focus is simple: smarterwebsites, practical SEO, and growth you can measure. He earned his playbook onreal jobs, not in theory, and now helps others skip the painful lessons.  I didn't learn business or marketing in alecture theatre. I learnt it on the job, building an agency from scratch,breaking things, fixing them, and keeping what works. I learnt the hard way,and I'm happy to share the war stories from business and life. For 20+ years,I've run Uplift 360 and helped real-world businesses, especially builders andtrades, turn websites and SEO into steady, qualified work. No fluff. No jargon.Clear strategy, clean execution, and results you can see on the calendar and inthe bank. At Uplift 360, we help trades and construction brands get found, gettrusted, and get chosen. My approach is simple. Prioritise authenticity andhuman connection in this AI-driven age, and double down on what moves theneedle. For more information:https://uplift360.com.au/

Recent surveys and research indicate that many men inAmerica, particularly younger men, are hesitant to date. This aversion isreflected in the rising rates of singledom and loneliness among young men, withvarious fears influencing their dating behavior.  **Key Statistics and Findings:** - **Approaching Women:** A 2024 study by psychologist AndrewThomas from DatePsychology found that 59% of single men aged 18 to 25 had notapproached a woman for dating in the past year. This percentage was slightlylower for men aged 26 to 40, at 48%. - **Concerns About Rejection:** In a 2025 article by Vox, aresearcher noted a sense of "risk aversion" among young men, as manyfear rejection when they attempt to initiate romantic connections. Surveys showthat men experience rejection more often than women; one poll indicated that28% of men reported being romantically rejected "at least a fair number oftimes," compared to just 16% of women. Relationship expert and matchmaker Paul Roseberry is here toshare his best practices for finding, building, and nurturing a happy andrewarding relationship. He focuses on helping men gain confidence before theystart searching for a relationship, with advice that benefits both men andwomen—a true win-win for everyone! For more information, visit:[paulroseberry.com](https://paulroseberry.com/) Email: paul@paulroseberry.com 

**Growing Wealth Gap:** As of the first quarter of 2025, thetop 10% of earners in the United States owned nearly two-thirds of thecountry's total wealth, while the bottom 50% held just 2.5%, according toStatista. Many young adults express a desire to save, but it'suncertain whether they are actually doing so. A survey commissioned byfinancial software firm Intuit in April found that 59% of Americans aged 18 to25 prioritize having a well-funded savings account. However, many arestruggling to achieve this goal. Among Gen Z adults aged 18 to 27 in the U.S.,only 15% regularly set aside a portion of their paycheck for savings, accordingto a Bank of America survey released last year. Additionally, less than half ofU.S. adults surveyed by Bankrate earlier this year reported that they could usetheir savings to cover a $1,000 emergency expense. **Richard McWhorter:** As Managing Partner and PrivateWealth Advisor at SRM Private Wealth, Richard McWhorter has established areputation for guiding high-net-worth individuals and families, includingathletes and musicians, through the complexities of modern wealth management.His approach is deeply personal, combining financial expertise with a genuinecommitment to philanthropy and the broader impact of wealth. Richard was named to the Forbes 2024 Best-In-State WealthAdvisors List, which reflects the trust and insight he provides to his clients.With 32 years of industry experience, including leadership roles at MerrillLynch and Smith Barney, he has navigated nearly every financial scenarioimaginable. Richard is dedicated to helping clients align their wealth withtheir personal values and has expertise in asset protection, estate planning,and creative fundraising for charitable causes. His perspective on how influential individuals in theentertainment and sports sectors approach financial planning, along with theintersection of money decisions, personal aspirations, and legacy building, isboth timely and relevant. Richard welcomes challenging conversations, as hebelieves they often lead to the best outcomes. For more information, visit: [SRM PrivateWealth](https://srmprivatewealth.com/)  LinkedIn: @RichardMcWhorter  

Career alignment refers to the state in which anindividual's work harmonizes with their personal values, interests, skills, andlong-term goals. It involves ensuring that your professional life contributesto your overall well-being and personal fulfillment, rather than merely servingas a source of income. When a career is aligned with one's values, it leads toincreased engagement, job satisfaction, and a more meaningful professionaljourney. According to LinkedIn (2023), 82% of U.S. professionalsbelieve that it is important to work for a company with a culture and valuesthat align with their own. Additionally, Gallup (2025) found that 63% ofAmerican workers report that their organization provides opportunities foradvancement. However, these opportunities are not evenly distributed, as 25% ofworkers lack a clear path for career growth. Caroline Sangal is a Life-First Career Coach and the founderof Next Success. She specializes in helping individuals in their next chaptersbecome authentic success creators by aligning their careers with the lives theywant to lead. As a scientist turned career strategist with a Ph.D. in PolymerScience, she combines her expertise in executive recruiting and certificationsin coaching, HR, and career assessments to guide professionals toward careersthat reflect who they are. Through her signature method, Caroline supportshigh-achieving professionals and job seekers in gaining clarity, fulfillment,and a career that truly fits. She encourages clients to pause, reflect, andrealign so they can move forward with confidence and purpose. Caroline'smission is to normalize questioning one's career path, as asking deeperquestions is often the first step toward creating a life that feels authenticand aligned. Additionally, she hosts the podcast "Your NextSuccess," where she shares powerful stories, insights, and strategies tohelp listeners navigate career transitions and create lives they can be proudof. Outside of work, Caroline enjoys spending time with her husband andteenagers, snuggling with her cats, and riding roller coasters with her handsin the air. She joined me this week to discuss career prosperity. For more information, visit: [Next SuccessCareers](https://nextsuccesscareers.com/) Follow:[@nextsuccessmethod](https://www.instagram.com/nextsuccessmethod)  LinkedIn:[@CarolineSangal](https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinesangal)   

Americans' trust in the mass media is at its lowest point inmore than five decades.About two-thirds of Americans in the 1970s trusted the “massmedia -- such as newspapers, TV and radio” either “a great deal” or “a fairamount” to “[report] the news fully, accurately and fairly.” By the nextmeasurement in 1997, confidence had fallen to 53%, and it has gradually trendeddownward since 2003. Americans are now divided into rough thirds, with 31% trusting themedia a great deal or a fair amount, 33% saying they do “not [trust it] verymuch,” and 36%, up from 6% in 1972, saying they have no trust at all in it. GeneJankowski is the former president of the CBS Broadcast Group. Born in 1934 inBuffalo, New York, he graduated from Canisius College, served in the US Navy,and received his master's degree from Michigan State University. Jankowskibegan his career with the CBS Corporation in 1961 and served as president andchairman from 1977 to 1989.Jankowski's new memoir, Behind the Eye: My Life in Media, isthe lively story of how a little boy from Buffalo, enchanted with movingpictures, rose to become president and chairman of CBS Broadcasting duringtelevision's Golden Age in the 1970s and 1980s. Ever the optimist, dealmaker,and creative mind, Gene Jankowski was largely responsible for CBS's meteoricrise to the coveted position of number-one network—and for keeping it there.Jankowski tells the stories behind the headlines about such bold-faced names asWalter Cronkite, Dan Rather, William S. Paley, Martha Stewart, Ted Turner,Donald Trump, and other newsmakers.  HeJoined me this week this week to tell me more.  For more information: https://www.genejankowski.com/

Approximately 90% of college athletes with mental healthconditions and 70% of the general college student population with similarconditions do not seek help. According to the National Institute of health.  Among elite professional athletes, althoughspecific percentages vary, a significant majority experiencing mental healthcrises such as stress, burnout, or eating disorders also do not seek treatment.Reasons for this reluctance include stigma and the perception that asking forhelp is a sign of weakness. If you're interested in unlocking unshakeable resilience tothrive in life and sport, mental health skills coach and speaker Jason Holzerhas an important message for you. He is on a mission to make mental healthissues—like depression, anxiety, and suicide—irrelevant in our society by usingsports to create exceptional leaders capable of handling any season of life. Asthe co-founder of 4D Leaders, Jason envisions a world where leaders becomeconfident, self-motivated, and empowered individuals.  Athletes will share how 4D Leaders have prepared them tosucceed in the game of life and have the courage to pursue their paths. Withlife-transforming content, events, and training, 4D Leaders is shifting thefocus in sports from merely winning on the scoreboard to prioritizing winningin life. This shift is part of the goal to transform 100 million lives by 2030.They teach essential life skills through sports to develop athletes intoconfident, self-motivated, and empowered individuals. **Meet Jason Holzer** *Resilience Architect & Storytelling Coach*  Jason Holzer understands what it feels like to have lifeturned upside down. At 17, he lost his father to suicide. This tragedy couldhave broken him, but it instead gave him a deeper purpose: to help others findhope, resilience, and strength when life gets tough. Jason is the best-selling author of *Shattered by Suicide,Renewed by Resilience,* a book that has impacted readers around the world withits honest message about turning pain into purpose. He is also the co-founderof 4D Leaders, where he equips athletes, coaches, parents, and schools with thetools needed to build confidence, emotional strength, and leadership. What Jason shares isn't mere theory; these are lessons hehas lived through. His story and work remind people that struggles do notdefine them; rather, they prepare individuals for something greater. Throughhis writing, coaching, and speaking, Jason helps others rise stronger, leadwith courage, and create lives filled with meaning and impact. For more information, visit:[jasonholzer.com](https://www.jasonholzer.com/) Discover more at:[4Dleaders.com](https://www.4dleaders.com/)  

A recent survey conducted by Eagle Hill Consultingrevealed that 68% of U.S. workersreport spending a significant portion of their time on low-value, inefficienttasks, highlighting opportunities for improved time management. This insight isreinforced by additional findings; for instance, a survey by Time Doctorindicated that 82% of individuals do notutilize a dedicated time management system, and a Hubstaff report echoedthis, stating that 82% lack such asystem.BusinessConsultant Angelina Rivera brings a wealth of personal and professionalexperience to her field. Raised in a challenging environment and primarilysupported by a single mother with five other children, Ms. Rivera'sachievements—including building a six-figure career, assuming leadership roles,and establishing successful businesses—are a testament to her resilience,determination, and commitment to supporting others.Today, she dedicates her expertise to empoweringhigh-performing women and visionary business leaders to optimize their time,enhance focus, and implement effective systems. As a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, experienced business consultant, andtransformational coach, Ms. Rivera has guided numerous clients—including bothindividuals and organizations—in eliminating inefficiencies, mitigatingburnout, and developing sustainable strategies.The Problem SolverAs a first-generation Latina and one of the pioneeringfemale Black Belts within her industry, Ms. Rivera has broken significantbarriers in manufacturing, optimizing multimillion-dollar operations, leadinglarge teams, training over 600 professionals, and delivering substantial costsavings for government agencies.Additionally,she has supported women balancing family, entrepreneurship, and careers,assisting them in reclaiming their time and establishing meaningful boundaries.Based in Southern California with her husband of more than 20 years, Ms. Riveraremains passionate about continuous learning, outdoor activities, andprofessional growth.For more information, please visit: https://angelinarivera.com/

Business and economic studies reveal a strong connectionbetween creativity and enhanced financial success. A 2023 report from the U.S.Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) found that arts and cultural economicactivity—a key component of the creative economy—is growing at a rate thatexceeds the broader U.S. economy. In 2023, this sector accounted for 4.2% ofthe U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP), totaling $1.17 trillion. Its growth rateof 6.6% in 2023 outpaced the overall U.S. economy's growth of 2.9%. Business creativity is defined as the ability to generatenovel and useful ideas to address challenges, improve processes, or develop newproducts and services. It involves adapting to change, questioning the statusquo, and combining existing concepts in unique ways to create a competitiveadvantage or achieve organizational goals. Paul Eric Pape, a TEDx speaker, author, and creativebusiness strategist known as “Santa for Nerds,” has over 20 years of experienceas a successful creative entrepreneur. He has designed custom collectibles formajor companies like Disney, Universal, and Nickelodeon while building his ownthriving design studio. Paul is the creator of "Gamify Business" andthe author of “The Creative Player's Handbook to Business,” which presentscomplex business concepts in a language that resonates with creative minds. Utilizinggaming principles and adventure mechanics, he helps artists, designers, andcreative entrepreneurs build profitable businesses without sacrificing theirartistic integrity. His mission is simple: to demonstrate that you don't haveto be a “starving artist” to find success. Paul guides creatives to viewbusiness as an exciting adventure, helping them realize that running a businesscan be enjoyable, engaging, and deeply fulfilling. If you want to learn more, check out [GamifyBusiness](https://www.gamifybusiness.com/) and discover more at [thepodcast](https://www.gamifybusiness.com/podcast).

Home ownership is becoming harder for many Americans, with78% citing affordability issues like income and down payments (2024Bankrate/Yahoo Finance). Most buyers (74%) require financing, assessed by rulessuch as the 28/36 rule. The number of loan officers dropped by half from 2021to 2023 (Investopedia), and only 27–40% of buyers use them; most get loansthrough banks or credit unions.Michael Newmann, Branch Manager & Senior Loan Officer atCMG Home Loans, offers expertise in wealth-building home loans nationally. Withover 20 years in the industry and a background in psychology, he leadshigh-profile clients using strategies like CMG's innovative All-In-One Loan—a30-year HELOC with daily interest calculations and equity access. Michaelcombines financial knowledge with empathetic client service and strategicthinking, aiming to help clients save money and reduce their mortgage terms.For more information, For More Information: https://www.cmghomeloans.com/mysite/mike-newmann/team/The-Newmann-Group or call (541) 227-2722. 

Brand visibility refers to how well a brand is seen,recognized, and remembered by its target audience across various marketingchannels. It measures the frequency with which a brand appears before potentialcustomers through touchpoints such as search engines, social media,advertisements, and physical locations. High visibility increases thelikelihood that a brand will be considered during a purchase decision.  A 2025 Nielsen study found that 92% of consumers trustrecommendations from individuals or trusted sources more than traditionaladvertisements. - High investment by executives: According to a report byTenet, 77% of marketing executives consider branding essential for businessgrowth. As the principal at Lynn Aronberg Public Relations (LAPR), Ilead a global communications agency that delivers strategic and innovativemedia relations, government relations, and investor relations campaigns forclients around the world. With over 15 years of experience, I have developedstrong expertise in marketing communications, new media, and editorial work. My company helps clients achieve their goals and reach theiraudiences through effective and creative storytelling. My team has securedmedia coverage for an impressive roster of clients in leading outlets such asForbes, Vogue, CNN, and The Wall Street Journal. We also leverage new mediaplatforms and technologies to enhance our clients' online presence andengagement. We are continually seeking new opportunities to learn and grow inthis dynamic and ever-evolving field. For more information, visit:https://www.lynnaronberg.com/  Follow us on social media: @LynnAronberg  Email: lynn@lynnaronberg.com  

As of 2025, approximately 83% of American employees believethey would trust their company more if their direct supervisor included them inimportant decisions. Furthermore, employees who feel their voices are heard are4.6 times more likely to feel empowered to deliver their best work. Despitethis, overall employee engagement remains low, highlighting a disconnectbetween what employers claim to value and employees' perceptions, according toPricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). "You can't scale chaos; start with clarity." Thisstatement by Dusty Holcomb, CEO and founder of Arcqus Group, emphasizes theneed for organizational clarity. If your team isn't executing as required, theproblem likely lies not in effort but in friction. Dusty Holcomb is a former CEO, a five-time Ironman, and anentrepreneur dedicated to helping leaders exchange burnout for clarity andchaos for alignment. However, his identity is not defined by titles alone;rather, it is shaped by a 28-year daily practice of sharing leadership quotes,a firm belief in the importance of self-leadership, and a mission to helpleaders create lives that embody their values, not just build companies. As the founder of The Arcqus Group and host of the"Leadership Unlocked" podcast, Dusty explores the critical momentsthat influence how we lead and live. His approach is personal rather thanperformative. He emphasizes the need to distill leadership down to its essenceby asking: Who are you becoming? Why does your work matter? And how do you leadin a way that multiplies rather than depletes your impact? Through "Leadership Unlocked," his podcast, andevery conversation he engages in, Dusty brings this perspective. He offers notjust theories but practical frameworks developed through real leadershipexperiences, along with tools and stories that help leaders reconnect withtheir purpose, lead with intentionality, and identify the pivotal moments thatcan transform their impact. For more information, visit: [ArcqusGroup](https://arcqusgroup.com/)  LinkedIn:[@DustyHolcomb](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustyholcomb)  Get the Guide: [Lead withClarity](https://connect.arcqusgroup.com/lead-with-clarity-weekly-insights-and-tools-for-senior-executives)  Find out More:[Podcast](https://arcqusgroup.com/podcast/)  

Gallup's annual update on trust in government institutionsreveals that Americans have the highest level of trust in local government(67%) and the lowest in the legislative branch of the federal government, knownas Congress (32%). In between these two extremes, majorities express trust instate government and the American people. However, less than half of Americansare confident in the executive and judicial branches of the federal government,elected officials and candidates for office, as well as in the federalgovernment's ability to address both domestic and international issues. Michael Butler is currently the first African American Chairof the Missouri Democratic Party. He is also a former Missouri StateRepresentative and was the first African American and Millennial Recorder ofDeeds in St. Louis history. As a former mayoral candidate, Butler is dedicatedto ensuring that "government works for the people" and is activelyleading technological innovations.  This week, he joined me to discuss the current state of theDemocratic Party, exploring whether they have developed an identity thatresonates with Americans and can help them win future elections. Butler alsoshared his thoughts on the state of America under President Donald Trump'sleadership and how the country can begin to heal and move forward after Trumpleaves office. For more information, visit:https://stlouiscityrecorder.org/Instagram: @michaelbutlerstlFacebook: @City Of St Louis, Recorder Of Deedseds  

When askedabout their preferred platforms for receiving news, approximately one-third ofAmericans (34%) say they prefer television. Only a small percentage preferradio or print, with each garnering 5% of responses. Americanshave diverse preferences when it comes to digital news platforms. About 21% ofU.S. adults prefer getting their news from websites or apps, while 14% favorsocial media. Additionally, 10% prefer using search engines, 6% opt forpodcasts, and 3% prefer email newsletters. Fewer than 1% select AI chatbots astheir preferred source for news. According to a recent Pew Research survey. JackBrewster, the founder and CEO of Newsreel, is leading the charge in redefininghow we consume news. With a background as a journalist for Forbes andNewsGuard, as well as a Fulbright researcher focused on the effects of theinternet on our thinking, Jack aims to make news simple, engaging, andunmissable.  Over thepast decade, he has pondered a critical question: What if the way we consumenews is not only broken but purposefully designed to fail us? After researchingmisinformation, online extremism, and AI-generated content at NewsGuard andForbes, Jack created Newsreel—an app that reimagines news for those who havetuned out traditional forms of media. Imagine a combination of Duolingo and TheNew York Times, featuring interactive timelines, daily briefings, and newstailored to match short attention spans rather than encouraging endlessscrolling. JackBrewster's work has been featured in The New York Times, CNN, and TheWashington Post, and he has appeared on national television numerous times.What distinguishes Jack is that he is not just identifying the problems in newsconsumption; he is actively creating solutions. His work lies at theintersection of media, design, psychology, and technology. For moreinformation, visit: https://newsreel.co/

Effective communication is the cornerstone of consistentrevenue conversion in sales. This sentiment is particularly relevant today.According to Salesforce, 53% of sales professionals believe it's harder to sellthan it was a year ago. Sales leaders and managers cite their top challenge asadapting to changing customer needs and expectations, such as demands for lowercosts, deeper understanding, and greater value. Additionally, 57% of salesleaders and managers report that competition has increased since last year. Boyd Hoffmann is a sales and leadership speaker and thecreator of The C.L.O.S.E.D. Formula™, a simple six-step process that helpspeople sell through authentic conversation, without pressure, scripts, ormanipulation. With over 10,000 personal sales consultations and more than $100million in total sales, Boyd knows one thing for certain: people don't buyperfection; they buy connection. He has trained high-performing teams, soldfrom the stage, and led organizations to record-breaking growth through clarityand empathy in communication. Boyd's philosophy is straightforward: “A personconvinced against their will is of the same opinion still.” He now assistscoaches, consultants, and small business owners in communicating with empathyand confidence, enabling them to lead with influence and close with integrity. For more information, visit: https://boydhoffmann.com/

According tothe American Bar Association, between 120,000 and 200,000 young people residein various types of group homes, residential treatment centers, boot camps, orcorrectional facilities in the United States. Although the exact number ofprivate placements is uncertain, it is estimated that over 50,000 of theseyouth have been placed in such facilities privately by their parents. TheAssociation also reports that the “troubled teen” industry is a significantbusiness, receiving around $23 billion annually in public funds to supposedlyaddress the behavioral and psychological needs of vulnerable youth. Many ofthese residential facilities operate as for-profit organizations. The AmericanCommunity Survey indicates that approximately 17% of all children under the ageof 18 in the U.S. live in families below the poverty line, which means over 10million children are part of low-income families considered at-risk. The $23billion figure refers to congregate care facilities, which include wildernessand boot camps for youth with behavioral issues, residential treatmentprograms, hospitals, “therapeutic” boarding schools (also known as“academies”), behavior modification programs, and youth justice facilities. Dr. CoreyJentry, author of "Selling Sanity: The Troubled-Teen Industry, the InsaneProfits, and the Kids Who Pay the Price," is a survivor of this industryand holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from the London School of Economics. Heexposes how troubled-teen programs, often marketed as providing help, can causelong-lasting harm. Jentrystates, “Most parents, educators, and even mental health professionals don'trealize that there's a multi-billion-dollar industry quietly profiting fromvulnerable kids. It's called the troubled-teen industry. Behind the glossybrochures and promises of healing, it often delivers abuse, coercion, andtrauma. I know this because I lived it. As a teenager, I was drawn into one ofthese programs. What I thought would be a lifeline quickly turned into a trap.I experienced manipulation, control, and abuse that left deep scars—experiencesthat countless other kids are still enduring today.” Today,Jentry helps families, educators, and advocates recognize warning signs,protect children, and advocate for meaningful reform—equipping people, with theknowledge to understand and challenge the systems that threaten vulnerableyouth. For moreinformation: https://www.jentryconsultingservices.com/LinkedIn: @CoreyRJentry,PhD Get theBook: https://www.amazon.com/Selling-Sanity-Troubled-Teen-Industry-Profits/dp/B0FLVCG4CV

Corporate culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, andbehaviors that shape how employees interact, make decisions, and collaborate.The importance of strategic initiatives is reflected in a survey by TheEconomist, which found that 88% of C-level executives consider the successfulexecution of these initiatives to be "essential" or "veryimportant" for their organization's competitiveness. Carly Pepin is an international speaker and consultant whospecializes in leadership and scaling businesses through principles of humanbehavior and strategic growth strategies. She emphasizes that regardless ofbackground, occupation, or origin, everyone faces personal and professionalchallenges related to their perceived flaws. Carly showcases the transformativepower of reframing these narratives to lead a fulfilling life. Having dedicatedher life to understanding human behavior, Carly combines this knowledge withstrategic business processes and systems to empower her clients bothprofessionally and personally. Through her guidance, individuals andorganizations learn to intentionally design their paths, moving from a sense ofobligation to true fulfillment and achievement. For more information, visit:https://www.westcoastgrowthadvisors.com/

Americans say it takes more money to feel financiallycomfortable now than it did a year ago, according to a survey by Charles Schwaband The Globe and Mail. Nearly half (48%) of those surveyed reported that theyare either already financially comfortable or are on track to achieve thatstatus. A quarter (25%) believe that achieving financial comfort is possible,but it will require changes in their lifestyle. In terms of wealth, a third (35%) of Americans think theyare either on track to be wealthy or already are, while a quarter (26%) feelthat they can reach wealth but will need to make significant lifestyleadjustments. Overall, achieving financial comfort and wealth issignificantly more attainable for individuals who identify as savers,investors, and planners. Andrew Gold, Vice President of Wealth and Tax Strategyat Prestige Wealth Management in Southlake, TX, specializes in helpingindividuals take control of their finances, grow their wealth, and retain moreof what they earn through strategic tax planning, smart deductions, and realestate insights. One of the main reasons I entered this profession is due toan experience I had at a young age. After receiving an insurance check from ahit-and-run accident, I sought advice on how to manage the money responsiblyfor long-term wealth. To my surprise, no one wanted to work with me because Iwas too young and didn't have enough money. I faced two choices: work hard andblindly save until I had enough to earn someone's attention, or work hard,save, and learn from the ground up on my own. By age 24, as a husband and afather to a one-year-old, I took a leap of faith and left a comfortable job infinance, choosing to cut my pay in half to pursue a career sharingwealth-building strategies, trading techniques, and real estate tips that I hadlearned along the way. Today, with my third child on the way, I have experience ininvestments across businesses and real estate. I dedicate my time to helpingothers grow and diversify their wealth through proven strategies and thoughtfultax planning. Facebook: @PrestigeWealthMgmt - Andrew Gold  For more information: https://www.pwealthmgmt.com/  

When you push all of your chips to the center of the table, in sports it means you believe you are one of the elite teams capable of winning the ultimate prize. Based on the recent trading deadline acquisitions of the Philadelphia Phillies, one could certainly surmise this. Jhoan Duran and Harrison Bader are two high-leverage acquisitions the Phillies hope will help fortify their chances of winning the World Series.Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles are aiming to solidify their status as the best team in football and maintain their championship-caliber identity and mindset as they pursue another Super Bowl title heading into 2025. Can Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley replicate the success they had a year ago as they defend their title? These are all burning questions of great intrigue. For some answers, I turned to Devin Jackson, the Nighttime Sports Editor for the Philadelphia Inquirer. He joined me this week to provide his perspective on everything related to Philadelphia sports.

There are 34,752,434 small businesses in the United States.Small businesses employ 45.9% of American workers, which amounts toapproximately 59 million people. According to the Small BusinessAdministration, small businesses account for 43.5% of U.S. GDP.The Consumer Financial Bureau states that entrepreneursoften use personal and family savings to start their businesses:·        64.4% use personal and family savings·        16.5% use business loans from banks orother financial institutions·        9.1% use personal credit cards·        8.7% use personal family assets (otherthan the owner's savings)Chris Hurn is a business financing professional who hasfounded two companies listed on the Inc. 500. He specializes in U.S. SmallBusiness Administration lending and currently serves as CEO of Phoenix LenderServices and President of Community Bankshares, Inc. He has provided testimonybefore Congress regarding small business lending and has been referenced in 16business publications.Throughout his career, Chris Hurn has established, managed,and advised financial and business enterprises related to small businesses, SBAlending, and economic development. As President of Community Bankshares Inc.(CBI), he oversees business areas such as SBA and USDA lending and financialsoftware solutions. Under his leadership, CBI was named the top USDA B&Ilender in the U.S. for 2024 and achieved Preferred Lender Program (PLP) statusfrom the SBA. Chris also holds the position of Chief Executive Partner atLendesca, a FinTech firm focused on business financing, and is the founder andformer CEO of Fountainhead, one of 17 nonbank lenders authorized to provide SBA7(a) loans. At Fountainhead, he facilitated nearly 300,000 loans totaling $5.15billion.For more information: https://phoenixlenderservices.com/LinkedIn: @ChrisHurnEmail: Churn@Communitybankshares.com

Lead generation is a significant challenge for 61% ofmarketers, many of whom participate in public speaking, according to a study byCleverly and HubSpot. On average, speakers have approximately three seconds tocapture the attention of event planners.Market Size and Growth:The Canadian speakers' market is projected to reachUS$448.52 million by 2025 (Statista). Internationally, the professional speakermarket is expected to grow by USD 608.4 million at a 4.6% CAGR from 2024 to2029.Cam Beaudoin is the founder of The Frequent Speaker, abooking agency that assists mission-driven leaders with securing speakingengagements without the use of cold outreach or agents. Cam's clients includeTEDx speakers, entrepreneurs, coaches, and executives who seek opportunities toshare their messages with larger audiences. The agency focuses on positioning,timing, and understanding the requirements of decision-makers. Cam's teamhandles research, pitching, and logistics related to booking events. Withexperience in storytelling and insights into event planning, Cam supportsclients in developing speaking as a strategy for organizational growth.For more information:https://www.thefrequentspeaker.com/letshavethisconversationDiscover more: https://www.thefrequentspeaker.comLinkedIn: @CamBeaudoin

A strong sense of support or allegiance is often associatedwith significant financial commitments in sports. This is especially relevantwhen trying to retain one of your homegrown heroes, such as one of the mostprominent pitchers in Major League Baseball, Tarik Skubal. In just over a yearand a half, the Detroit Tigers will have to confront a crucial decisionregarding Skubal, as he becomes a free agent at the end of the 2026 season.  With a less aggressive approach to the trading deadline andtheir diminishing lead in the American League Central, all eyes are on theTigers to see if they can establish a clear vision for the present and future.  Meanwhile, the future of Major League Baseball is alsouncertain, as the collective bargaining agreement is set to expire at the endof the 2026 season. Owners are pushing for a salary cap, while players areclearly resisting this effort. The outcome of these negotiations couldsignificantly impact the state of the game, both now and in the future. Finally, it will be interesting to see how the recenttrading deadline affects the race to October and the winner of the FallClassic. To address these pressing questions, I turned to Tom Ruminski, abaseball news editor for theScore, who joined me this week to discuss allthings baseball.  Follow: @TomRuminski

In 2025, it is estimated that 60% of men in the UnitedStates with mental health concerns will not seek professional assistance,despite 77% experiencing symptoms associated with common mental healthconditions. According to The Priory Group, approximately 40% of men have neverdiscussed their mental health with anyone. Jason Prinzo is a mental healthadvocate, public speaker, and example of resilience and personaltransformation.Prinzowas born and raised on the west side of Cincinnati. His engagement with mentalhealth began at age five, when a drawing intended to depict his familyunintentionally highlighted challenges occurring within his home life. Thisartwork prompted the attention of both his teacher and school counselor.Unfortunately, these early experiences were only the beginning of traumas thatwould impact much of his adult life. For many years. Prinzo did not fullyrecognize or accept that he was struggling with mental illness. It was onlyduring a period of outward success—when happiness seemed most attainable—thathe came to realize there was an underlying issue.While considered successful by conventional standards,especially given his early circumstances and limited formal education, Mr.Prinzo built an accomplished career in the music industry. He held executivepositions at Warner Bros. and Capitol Records before founding his own marketingand promotion company. His career took him around the globe and affordedopportunities to attend high-profile events such as the Grammy Awards, SuperBowls, and Masters Tournaments—experiences he once considered unattainable.Despite these achievements, he found little joy, as depression, anxiety, anger,and imposter syndrome persisted throughout his daily life. Each morning broughtuncertainty and concern over potentially losing everything he had worked for.Today,as a public speaker, Prinzo openly shares his journey of recovery, aiming tochallenge misconceptions about mental health, foster empathy, promoteself-care, and inspire others to pursue their paths toward healing and growththrough seeking support.For more information: https://www.jasonprinzo.com/Follow: @jasonprinzomh

The process of sales is complex and requires various skills.According to a Gartner survey, 72% of sellers report feeling overwhelmed by thenumber of skills needed for their roles. Sellers experiencing overwhelm are 45%less likely to reach their quotas, which can negatively impact businessresults. The "Sales Trap Prevention Playbook" by Kelvin Johnsonpresents an approach focused on daily micro-training to help build effectivehabits in sales teams. Drawing on research from over 60 sales organizations, theguide introduces a structured 15-minute-a-day methodology aimed at improvingsales performance, reducing common challenges, and supporting team development.The book includes case studies and strategies intended to provide a frameworkfor navigating today's competitive sales environment.Key topics covered include:·        A 15-minute daily training methoddesigned to build productive habits and improve performance·        Techniques to identify and avoidissues that can impede sales progress·        Methods for effectively schedulingmeetings and advancing prospects through the sales process·        Practice exercises developed with AIto support objection handling, pricing negotiation, and closing deals·        Guidance on goal setting, strategydevelopment, and skill refinementKelvin Johnson, CEO and Co-Founder of Brevity, states, “Ouraim was to condense years of sales experience into a practical playbooksuitable for any sales team. By using these focused, time-efficient methods,sales teams may enhance close rates, shorten cycles, and increase revenue.”For more information: https://www.brevitypitch.com/LinkedIn: @KelvinJohnsonJr.

A limited proportion of the American workforce reports achieving theirfull professional potential. According to Gallup, approximately 70% of U.S.employees do not believe they are performing at their highest capacity.Similarly, a separate study referenced by Lorman Education Services indicatesthat 74% of workers attribute this gap to insufficient developmentopportunities. This data underscores a widespread sentiment among employeesthat their skills and abilities remain underutilized or underdeveloped.In "The Life-Changing Power of Adversity," readers areprovided with guidance on constructing a fulfilling life despite challenges,and on converting adversity into a catalyst for attaining personal andprofessional objectives. This publication serves as a comprehensive resourcefor individuals who aspire to achieve more but find themselves feelingstagnant, uncertain, or undervalued in their current circumstances. Through acombination of real-life examples, practical lessons, and actionable strategies,Jordan Mendoza—renowned podcast host, entrepreneur, and sales coach—details histransformation of obstacles into opportunities and setbacks into achievements.Whether readers face workplace undervaluation, business growth obstacles, orindecision regarding future steps, Mendoza's book presents the necessarymindset and tools to overcome barriers.Key topics explored include:·        Shifting perspectives·        Taking decisive actions·        Creating sustainable success·        Turning past failures into prospects for growthRegardless of an individual's present situation, the book emphasizestheir ability to reshape their narrative. For those prepared to move beyondself-doubt and unlock their true potential, this work offers a valuableroadmap.Jordan Mendoza is a distinguished figure in sales and social mediacoaching, a respected podcast host, and an author devoted to empowering bothindividuals and organizations. His approach to leveraging social mediaengagement for robust, meaningful connections has earned him recognition fordelivering tangible results rooted in resilience, authenticity, and acommitment to elevating others.As the creator and host of the acclaimed podcast "Blaze Your OwnTrail," Mendoza provides listeners with insights from prominent leaders,entrepreneurs, and creatives. The program delves into the foundational storiesbehind notable successes and imparts valuable guidance for forging uniquecareer paths.Mendoza's journey has included significant adversities—encompassing bothpersonal and professional challenges—which have informed his resilient coachingphilosophy. By candidly sharing these experiences, he aims to motivate othersto harness their difficulties as sources of development.With over thirty years of experience in sales and more than a decadespecializing in social media, Mendoza offers methods that are both proven andpractical. His distinctive background merges expertise in personal developmentwith state-of-the-art sales and social media strategies, equipping clients tonavigate today's competitive environment effectively.His methodology centers on the belief that, with the appropriatemindset, strategic direction, and supportive community, individuals can realizeand sustain their full potential.For more information:https://jordanjmendoza.com/Acquire the book:https://www.amazon.com/LIFE-CHANGING-POWER-ADVERSITY-Struggles-Potential-ebook/dp/B0FHYB6JV3?ref=ast_author_mpb

Most executives wish for more hours in a day, with about 80% reportingexhaustion from excessive meetings and feeling unable to focus on their moststrategic work, according to an Atlassian study published by Harvard BusinessReview. Michelle (Melin) Niemeyer, keynote speaker and workshop facilitator,experienced burnout during her demanding legal career but recovered bydeveloping "The Art of Bending Time." After being diagnosed with arare autoimmune disease, she became a certified health coach, studied functionalmedicine, and learned from thought leaders in psychology and leadership. Thisholistic approach helped her reclaim joy and productivity, and now she sharesit to help others gain time, reduce stress, achieve health improvements, anddesign fulfilling lives—without quitting their jobs. Clients often reportgaining at least ten additional productive hours each week and see positivechanges both personally and professionally.Text Clarity To: 33777

Approximately3.5% of women and about 2% of men will experience binge eating disorder intheir lifetime. Half of the risk for developing this disorder is genetic. Intotal, 2.8% of American adults will struggle with binge eating disorder at somepoint in their lives. According to the Eating Disorder Center and McGillUniversity, binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in theUnited States, affecting individuals of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.Approximately 1.25% of adult women and 0.42% of adult men have binge eatingdisorder, and around 1.6% of teens aged 13 to 18 are affected. Amber Abila is aBinge Eating and Overeating Coach who helps women stop binge eating andovereating by rewiring their brains, allowing them to feel normal and incontrol around any food. Through coaching and psychology, she discovered thatthere was nothing wrong with her; she just needed simple brain tools to makesignificant changes in her eating habits and life.  “After many yearsstruggling with numerous eating issues (yes, you name it, and I've probablyexperienced it), I decided enough was enough and embarked on my journey to foodfreedom. I sought therapy and coaching, read every book, and listened to everypodcast I could find. I wouldn't give up until I could finally feel normalaround food again. I didn't take the easy path, but it worked. Now, as yourcoach, I'm here to share everything I've learned and guide you step by step onthe exact path to stop binge eating and overeating, in a way that's muchfaster, simpler, and easier than you ever thought possible.”  She alsoemphasizes that it's important to remember: "You are not broken, andnothing has gone wrong." For moreinformation: https://www.theconfidenteater.org/ Instagram:@@theconfidenteater_  Guided Audio:https://www.theconfidenteater.org/urge

The podcasting industry has experienced tremendous growthover the past decade, and as we progress through 2025, it shows no signs ofslowing down. According to Forbes, there are over 540 million podcast listenersworldwide, and brands are increasingly incorporating podcasts into theirmarketing strategies. However, LinkedIn reports that less than 7% of podcastersmanage to produce more than 100 episodes. Vince Quinn is dedicated to helping business owners scaletheir podcasts. As the Co-Founder and Creative Director of SBX Productions, heassists businesses in launching podcasts and utilizing them to enhance theirmarketing efforts. Vince also empowers podcasters to unlock their hostingpotential, which he believes is a vital life skill. Hosting is about the art ofconversation; if you can host a compelling conversation, you can create bettercontent, build stronger relationships, and express your ideas effectively.“I began my career as a radio intern and worked my way up tobecome a nationally syndicated radio host. Now, I serve as an executive podcastproducer and coach individuals on the crucial skill of hosting—a skill thatoften goes unnoticed. Whether it's a podcast, a work meeting, or a first date,strong hosting skills can help you stand out, lead with confidence, and connectwith others. If you're a business owner, corporate executive, or organizationalleader who wants to improve their communication abilities in all areas of life,let's explore the hosting skills you never realized you needed.” LinkedIn: @VinceQuinn Listen:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-not-just-talking-with-vince-quinn/id1769698285 

Many individuals experience various burdens in their lives.Challenges are common, yet there is a prevailing tendency to manage themprivately, sometimes viewing requests for assistance as a sign of weakness.Evidence suggests that self-awareness can play a valuable role,including the ability to pause, reflect, and seek support when necessary.Surveys such as those conducted by the American PsychologicalAssociation (APA) indicate that 27% of U.S. adults feel so stressed they cannotfunction on most days. The APA's "Stress in America" report alsonotes that 76% of adults believe stress negatively affects aspects of theirlives. Another study reports that 60% of U.S. adults sometimes feel too busy toenjoy life.Certified life coach Brandon Held grew up in challenging circumstances,including the absence of a father and exposure to substance abuse and domesticviolence. He joined the military, pursued higher education, and has had variedprofessional experiences. He also reports having faced significant personalstruggles, including thoughts of suicide. Drawing from these experiences, heseeks to support others who have encountered trauma and adversity, aiming tobuild a community for individuals with similar backgrounds. He is an Ohio StateBuckeye Football fan and incorporates a personalized approach to his work as alife coach, offering support for personal growth and motivation. Thoseinterested in additional information may visit: https://www.brandonheld.com/

A small percentage of small business owners have a formal,written growth strategy. One survey indicates that only 35% of small businessowners have a formal growth plan in place. Many, however, prioritize immediatechallenges over long-term planning, according to RBC. Here's a more detailed breakdown: - **Formal Plans:** While 35% of small businesses have aformal growth plan, another survey suggests that only about 33% have a formalbusiness plan.- **Growth Expectations:** One in five Canadian businessesanticipates negative or no growth in the medium term. Specifically, a GoldmanSachs survey found that 77% of small business owners are concerned about theirability to access the capital needed to run and grow their businesses. I'm Brandon Pflieger, a former marketing agency executivewho transitioned into entrepreneurship after successfully scaling multiplemulti-million dollar operations. Today, I run Capital Growth Partners, aconsulting firm dedicated to helping small business owners identify and fixissues, rebuild effectively, and scale profitably.  What sets me apart is that I'm not just a consultant—I'malso an operator. I own and actively manage businesses in both the fitness ande-commerce sectors, allowing me to bring real-world perspectives to everyconversation. I've experienced firsthand what works and what doesn't, from leadgeneration and team building to margin expansion and strategic turnarounds.  If you're the type of business owner, founder, owners, orleaders who want to grow their business without the corporate nonsense, I'm theperson who provides blunt, actionable insights with no fluff—and I have storiesto back it up. For more information: https://growsmartercgp.com/

According to the Pew Research Center, about 46% of American men considerit important to be seen as masculine, with 9% rating it as very important. Thissuggests that a notable portion of men attribute some significance toperceptions of masculinity, though levels of importance differ.Licensed Psychotherapist Timothy Wienecke focuses on supporting men asthey navigate issues related to masculinity, mental health, and accountability.Over the past two decades, Wienecke has worked in various roles such asadvocate, military service member, mentor, organizer, educator, and counselor,providing support during challenging times. With experience trainingindividuals in technical roles for the NSA and leading bystander interventionprograms in the Air Force, he has instructed over 3,000 Airmen in strategiesfor effectively preventing harassment and sexual assault. His contributionshave been recognized with awards including Airman of the Quarter, EarlyPromotion, and an Air Force Achievement Medal.After leaving the military, Wienecke continued his work as a peereducator at Auraria Campus and facilitated the launch of Colorado University atDenver's Peer Advocates for Veteran Education program. He has developed andtaught curriculum on topics such as time management, communication skills,gender dynamics, bystander intervention, cross-cultural communication, andmilitary culture. His efforts have been acknowledged with recognitions such asFeminist Ally of the Year, a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Phoenix Centerat Auraria, and Outstanding Graduate of the CU Counseling program.For more information: https://empoweredchangece.com/ Discover More: https://www.americanmasculinity.com/

Your mindset is a set of beliefs that shape how you makesense of the world and yourself. It influences how you think, feel, and behavein any given situation. It means that what you believe about yourself impactsyour success or failure. Research suggests a significant and growing number ofathletes utilize these techniques for performance enhancement and mentalwell-being. A study cited by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that96% of athletes surveyed reported knowledge of at least one mental technique,and a significant portion used them before competitions or for regenerationafter injuries. Furthermore, a New York Times article highlights the growingrecognition of deep breathing as a valuable tool for athletes, suggesting itsuse is not niche but rather becoming more mainstream.Jure Koscak was a professional table tennis player for 15years. During his career, he did a lot of research on sports psychology, and inthe last 15 years, after earning a Ph.D. in physical education, he hasspecialized as a mental coach for high performance. He has been working withmore than 50 professional athletes from different sports and more than 1000private clients. He is fluent in Slovenian, English, Spanish, German,Serbo-Croatian, and French. Jure is always inquiring about life and how tocontribute as much as possible so that athletes and others can strive andthrive in their arenas of life and sports. Lately, he has been using the AEQmethod to relax chronic pain and increase emotional maturity.For more information: https://www.thegenuineathlete.com/Follow: @genuine_athlete.jk

A significant majority of executives in the United States recognizethe importance of team building in fostering a strong organizational culture.According to Deloitte, 94% of executives and 88% of employees consider adistinctive workplace culture important for business success. This datasuggests broad agreement on the value of team-building activities in promotinga positive and productive work environment.Kelly Meerbott, PCC, CBTI, is a keynote and TEDx speaker,author, podcast host, and leadership consultant. She is the daughter ofprofessional golfer George Burns III, who had 80 top 10 finishes on the PGATour. Kelly has worked with senior executives, C-suite leaders, and more than400 high-ranking officers in the US military. Her coaching approachincorporates trauma-informed practices and PTSD training, focusing onconfidentiality and psychological safety.  “I help executives drive measurable ROI through strategiccoaching, leadership retreats, and culture transformation. My clients scalefaster, retain top talent longer, and see up to 30% improvements inproductivity, profitability, and trust. With 16+ years across tech, VC, and Fortune 500, I turnhigh-stress growth into focused momentum.”Kelly holds coaching certifications in Human &Organizational Transformation, Unconscious Bias, Leadership, cognitive therapy,improv, communications, and is a certified clinical trauma specialist. She isthe author of "From Burnout To Bliss" and earned her undergraduatedegree from the College of the Holy Cross.https://kellymeerbott.com/Follow: @kellymeerbottEmail: kelly@youloudandclear.comLinkedIn: @Kelly(Burns)Meerbott

Effective leadership is the ability to guide, inspire, andinfluence a group or organization toward achieving common goals. It involvesmore than just managing tasks; it requires setting a clear vision, fostering apositive and productive environment, and empowering individuals to contributetheir best. Effective leaders are not merely bosses; they are also motivators,mentors, and strategic thinkers.  A significant majority of executives—specifically70%—acknowledge that mastering a broader range of effective leadershipbehaviors is important or very important to them. This reflects a strongrecognition among leaders of the need for robust leadership skills to navigatecurrent and future business challenges. According to Harvard PublishingCorporate Learning and their 2024 Global Leadership and Development report,strong leadership is crucial for success. Andre Levingston is an expert in running effective andthriving organizations while leading people with passion and purpose. As theco-founder of Canada's first professional basketball league and team owner, hebrings extensive experience in negotiation, administration, mentoring,leadership, and marketing. He is also the founder and owner of successfulmini-market chains and fried chicken franchises, where he leads strategicexpansion and growth nationwide. Andre is a dedicated business development professionalwith academic credentials from California State University, Chico. Email: levingstonandre@gmail.com  LinkedIn: @AndreLevingstonston

Addressing Screen Addiction: A Path to Regaining ControlIf you are concerned about teenagers spending excessive timeon digital devices, you are not alone. A substantial number of American youth,particularly teenagers, exceed recommended screen time limits. Studies indicatethat a significant percentage of teens spend over four hours per day onscreens, with some reports suggesting nearly half experience more than eighthours of daily screen usage, as documented by the Pew Research Center.Mary Catherine Liscinski is a Certified Life Coach,specializing in the treatment of Digital Addiction.  She's also been a certified mental healthcounselor for the last 14 years. As a professional in this field, she iscurrently authoring a book that delves into the adverse effects of excessivescreen time and provides strategies for reversing these impacts. Her expertisehas been recognized through various interviews and speaking engagements,including regular appearances on The Dave Elswick Radio Show. Dave Elswick haspraised her insight, stating: "This is the first time she's been on ourshow. How have you flown under the radar for so long? Seriously, you'rearticulating what people need to hear in everyday language." He furtherremarked, "Today's show is incredibly compelling; your explanations makeperfect sense," and noted, "I've received overwhelmingly positivefeedback about you."For more information, please visit  https://lifewalkcoaching.com/or contact her (501) 290-7132.

A significant portion of American men are concerned aboutretirement, with some even fearing it more than death. Specifically, 44% of mensurveyed express greater fear of retirement than of death, according to YahooFinance. This apprehension is not limited to financial concerns; many men alsoworry about potential boredom and loss of purpose in retirement, as reported byNasdaq. Additionally, a large percentage of working Americans, including men,are anxious about the possibility of insufficient funds for retirement.Michael Kay, Life Coach and Professional Speaker, emphasizesthat life will be challenging if one allows it to happen passively. Thetransition from professional life to retirement is fraught with obstacles anddifficulties. In his career as a fee-only financial planner, Mr. Kay guidedclients through the complexities of identifying their purpose and values. Now,as a coach and speaker, he continues this work without the financial aspects.Mr. Kay's personal transitions—from musician to CPA, to financial planner, tobusiness creator and owner, to author, and then to life coach—have presentednumerous challenges. He is dedicated to assisting others through similartransitions.To support men transitioning from their careers, Mr. Kayfounded Chapter X, a community aimed at helping them navigate this criticalperiod. As a Certified Life Coach, he assists individuals in recognizing andpursuing their core values. Mr. Kay acknowledges the disorderliness of life andhighlights the importance of having someone to provide support and askpertinent questions. After a five-decade hiatus, he has returned to his initialpassion, music, and finds great enjoyment in it. Additionally, he has shiftedhis focus from writing non-fiction to fiction, relishing the creativity ofcrafting characters and stories for entertainment.Beyond his professional endeavors, Mr. Kay volunteers toassist elderly individuals with managing their bills, mail, and other tasks,striving to be a reliable companion. He maintains physical activity throughweight training and yoga.For more information: https://michaelfkay.com/Email: mk@michaelfkay.comLinkedIn: @MichaelF.Kay

The security of home ownership provides the stability of reassuranceand comfort.  However, in 2025, Ontariois facing a significant homelessness crisis, with estimates suggesting manypeople are experiencing homelessness. Specifically, there are estimatesof 80,000 to 234,000 Ontarians experiencinghomelessness. Without significant intervention, homelessness could doubleor even triple in the coming years. While specific percentage figures of the total populationexperiencing homelessness are not readily available, the data indicate that theissue is widespread and growing. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)reports that known homelessness has increased by over 25% since 2022.Furthermore, it's important to note that a significant portion of thoseexperiencing homelessness are chronically homeless (defined as being homelessfor at least a year or repeatedly in the past three years. The Back Door Mission operates the Mission United Project, alow-barrier access hub for essential supports, social services, and primaryhealth care. ​ MissionUnited provides wrap-around support services to individuals in Durham Regionwho are dealing with homelessness, housing insecurity, mental health andaddiction concerns, and food access challenges. Through this collaboration andyour continued support, the Back Door Mission continues to provide the bestcare for a community in need. Nathan Gardner is the Executive Director at theBack Door Mission.  He's a communitydevelopment professional with a background in social sciences and education. Ihave been fortunate to work in several sectors, including community health,post-secondary student affairs, and recently in social planning. I have apassion for team building and inspiring others, which has included bothvolunteer coaching roles and professional management. My core values include servingthose who require support, servant leadership, and a big emphasis on teamworkand collaboration. He joined me this week to discuss the important work his organizationdoes, and the steps needed to end homelessness, dependency on addiction, andfood insecurity across the province of Ontario.  For more information: https://www.backdoormission.ca/ LinkedIn: @NathanGardnerEmail: ngardner@backdoormission.ca

The commitment to consistency leads to prosperity in business.  It's an indicator your business has a purposeand direction of importance and clarity. In 2025, 68% of organizations report that brandconsistency has contributed at least 10% to their revenue growth. 82% oforganizations use templates to ensure brand consistency, with 37% using themfor design and creative teams, and 16% across all teams, according to a Capital One Shopping report. Over 70%of small businesses believe branding is critical to their growth, and 90% ofconsumers prefer personalized marketing.  Adam Torres is on a mission to encourage others to sharetheir stories for the benefit of all. He has conducted 6,000+ interviews andfounded Mission Matters, a media outlet designed to give voice to the storiesof entrepreneurs, entertainers, executives, and experts. In the coming years,he will continue this mission by adding to their current 100,000+ contentcatalogue of shows, podcasts, media, and books to tell meaningful stories thatwill inspire current and future generations. Before establishing MissionMatters, in Adam's 14+ years in the financial services industry, he amassed aroster of clientele including 1,000+ business owners, and 3.000+ high net worthfamilies. Before his exit, Adam was responsible for the relationship managementof over 400 families with a cumulative net worth exceeding 500 million dollars.Instagram: @askadamtorres

Has civility and empathy been eroded from American politicstoday? With so many people taking divided and fractured stands when it comes tothe state of the government. Well, if you take a deeper dive into the numbers,they will tell a compelling and interesting story. According to Gallup News, Arecord-high 80% of U.S. adults believe Americans are greatly divided on themost important values, while 18% believe the country is united. The percentageseeing the nation as divided has ticked up from 77% the last time Gallup askedthe question in 2016. It is more than 10 percentage points higher than in the prior2004 and 2012 measures.Public skepticism about national unity isn't new. Surveys byGallup and others dating back to the 1990s show that Americans typically haveseen the country as divided on key values. Only in 2001 and 2002, in theaftermath of 9/11, did Gallup find most Americans perceiving the opposite, withover two-thirds of U.S. adults believing the nation was united. For someinsightful answers regarding the current state of play in American politics today,I enlisted the expertise of Brent Giannotta.  Brent was a CIA counterterrorism analyst from 2010 to 2015,tracking ISIS foreign fighters, external operations, and extremist psychology.After resigning, he became an award-winning journalist and ghostwrote op-edsfor political figures published in the Washington Post and Foreign PolicyMagazine. He then transitioned to mental health, joining a psychiatric crisisresponse team and counseling callers to the 988-suicide crisis hotline. He leftthose jobs in 2024 when he was invited to join the 2024 Harris-Walz campaign inPittsburgh. Born and raised in Los Angeles and educated in internationalrelations, Spanish, and Arabic at the University of Southern California, Brentwon a Rotary scholarship to study Middle East studies at the AmericanUniversity in Cairo, Egypt. He's worked in Congress, edited reports for HumanRights Watch, worked on AOC's first campaign, has published op-eds in the LATimes, and guest lectured at USC, UCLA, and Harvard Extension School. Brent nowlives in Las Vegas, where he authors the Substack newsletter, Sleeping Giant.    Subscribe: https://brentgiannotta.substack.com/Follow: @BrentGiannotta 

According to the Centers forDisease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 4 adults (28.7percent) in the United States, or 70 million people, have some type ofdisability. 12.2 percent of U.S. adults have a mobility disability, whichincludes serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs. Devon Wieters is acollege graduate, writer, and podcaster who just happens to have cerebralpalsy. She is passionate about creating a better world for all! Additionally,she is a fierce advocate for the passage of the SSI Restoration Act, whichwould eliminate the Social Security/Medicaid “marriage penalty,” and the SSISavings Penalty Elimination Act, which would raise the salary and asset limitsfor Social Security and Medicaid. These changes would allow people withdisabilities to work and marry without losing vital disability benefits. She isalso advocating for a man named Crosley Green to be released from prison, whomshe believes was wrongfully convicted of murder in Florida in 1990.Furthermore, Devon is a super fan of the TV show Survivor and loves analyzing thestrategy of the game with the fan community. In fact, she learned interviewtechniques from watching host Jeff Probst!  For more information: https://wheelwithit.com/

Mental health is a crucial aspectof cognitive and emotional stability, enabling individuals to navigate theworld with clarity and awareness. National Mental Health AwarenessMonth, observed in May, seeks to increase understanding of mental healthissues, reduce stigma, and promote awareness of mental health conditions. Thismonth presents an opportunity to educate the general populace regarding mentalhealth, dismantle obstacles to seeking assistance, and advocate for enhancedsupport and resources. Mental illness is prevalent; lastyear witnessed a higher incidence of mental disorders compared to illnessessuch as stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy combined. Recent statistics from the DistrictHealth Council (1996) indicate that approximately 62,000 individuals in Windsorand Essex County are contending with mental health challenges. The CanadianMental Health Association (CMHA) provides a comprehensive array of services tosupport nearly all residents in our area. They offer specialized services forthose affected by severe mental illnesses, support for individuals facinglife's difficulties, and educational programs targeting the public.  Kim Wills, Director ofCommunications & Mental Health Promotion for the CMHA of Windsor-Essex,engaged in a thorough discussion with me this week about the state of mentalhealth across Canada, including local concerns in Windsor and Essex. She shared insights on enhancingand expanding the quality of resources available to individuals in need,ensuring broader access to essential support. For more information: https://windsoressex.cmha.ca Follow: @cmhawecb

Consumer confidence serves as a vital statistical measurethat reflects how consumers feel about both current and anticipated economicconditions. It acts as a key indicator of the overall health of the economy.Recent data has shown a troubling decline in consumer confidence, a trend thatcould have significant ramifications for entrepreneurs.  In April, the Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Indexplummeted to its lowest level in five years, a stark indication of shiftingsentiments among consumers. Adding to this concerning picture, a recent surveyfrom The Associated Press-NORC Center revealed that nearly half of Americansare apprehensive about the prospect of a recession, highlighting widespreadanxiety about the economic landscape. Colin Walsh, who has successfully built and sold beautycompanies valued over half a billion dollars—most notably the sale of OUAI toProcter & Gamble—has navigated numerous challenges associated with scalingbusinesses while striving to maintain balance and fulfillment. His extensiveexperiences have greatly shaped his strategic approach at Procter &Gamble's Specialty Beauty division and are also central to his innovative newventure, YayDay. In our recent conversation, Colin delved into varioustopics, including business leadership, the intricacies of entrepreneurship, andthe crucial timing for scaling a business. For more information:  please visit: https://www.myyayday.com/ à If you wish toconnect, with Colin  feel free to reachout via email at colin@myyayday.com or follow along on Instagram at@colin.j.walsh.

The U.S. construction industry plays a vital role in theAmerican economy, contributing approximately 4.5% to the GDP. It employs about8.2 million people and generates roughly $2.2 trillion in constructionannually. As a leading economic indicator, the industry often signals changesin the overall economic landscape, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. I'm Zach Friedensohn, and I am not your typical generalcontractor. Since 2013, I have been deeply involved in the constructionindustry, blending hands-on experience with a business-oriented approach. Afterearning my degree in business and real estate from the University of NorthTexas, I dove headfirst into the industry, managing subcontractors on largecapital projects while often getting directly involved in the work myself. Thishands-on experience has shaped my leadership style and my approach to operatinga construction company. In 2019, I co-founded my first construction firm and gainedfirsthand insight into what it takes to build a successful business in ademanding industry. This journey led me to establish G&R Construction, adesign-build firm that specializes in commercial projects throughout theAtlanta area. Our work spans a variety of projects, from full-scale renovationsto ground-up developments, including Redan Plaza, the Ryder Training Center,and several mixed-use developments. One crucial lesson I've learned is that constructioninvolves much more than just building—it encompasses leadership, communication,and trust. At G&R Construction, I have made it my mission to redefineclient expectations for contractors. Our emphasis on reliability, transparency,and a hands-on, solutions-oriented approach sets us apart in an industry oftenlacking these qualities. I run one of the fastest-growing general contractingcompanies in the Southeast, with over $3 million in booked projects thisyear—and we're just getting started. Our team of five is rapidly expanding aswe take on more commercial projects and scale G&R Construction. For more information: https://www.g-rconstruction.com/ Email: zach@g-rconstruction.comom

The U.S. Department of Education allocates funds to states,which then distribute the money to local school districts. These districts mustjustify their actions to state authorities to receive funding. This funding impacts resources and training for specialeducation teachers. Last year, 70% of public schools reported vacancies in thisarea, with half of the teachers leaving within five years, according to PBS NewsHour.Dr. Diana Fannon, an educator and advocate with over 23years of experience in special education, has a background as a bilingualschool psychologist and special education director. She has attended thousandsof IEP meetings and helped many families understand special education.Diagnosed with epilepsy at 17 and raising a child with autism, she knows thechallenges firsthand. Through DisabilityEdPros, Dr. Fannon provides parentswith the tools to navigate special education and advocate for their children. Sheis dedicated to ensuring every child has access to necessary education andresources.For more information: https://www.disabilityedpros.com/ Follow: @disabilityedpros

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in2022–23, the number of students ages 3–21 who received special education and/orrelated services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)was 7.5 million, or the equivalent of 15 percent of all public school students.Among students receiving special education and/or related services, the mostcommon category of disability was specific learning disabilities (32 percent).  John Fela (Felageller) is the MinistryRelations Manager at Joni and Friends Chicago, working with churches to equipand train them to help the disabled in their communities. Previous to that, hespent almost 20 years in education, working with children from Infants toMiddle School, serving in a variety of roles including Teacher, Mentor Teacherand School Director. John lives in Lyons, IL, is married to his wife Faith, andis the father to his son Christopher (ASD). He is a public speaker, multiplepodcast guest, and regular contributor to Key Ministry's Special Needs Familyblog, as well as other special needs blogs, including Hope Anew and The Mighty.Connect with John on his website: www.johnfela.com“I choose to do this work because I am profoundly aware of what it is like tobe a special needs parent with no support and no one to reach out to as alifeline when times get hard. I found this especially challenging as a man andfather, since there are not as many resources for dads as there are for moms,and men in these kinds of families bear an incredible burden with almost no onethey can seemingly trust or reach out to.”For more information: https://johnfela.com/Facebook: @John'sBlogforSpecialNeedsParents Instagram: @john_fela_1 LinkedIn: @John(Felageller)Fela

Many American entrepreneurs report a better work-lifebalance compared to traditional employment, although nearly half still find itdifficult to disconnect, and 82% have lost sleep due to work concerns,according to Adobe.After coaching over 10,000 individuals over two decades,Andrew Poles has found it possible to build a successful business withoutcompromising one's personal life. He collaborates with first-time founders torealize this transformation. As a sought-after Executive Coach, Andrew workswith visionary founders on various aspects, including raising capital, buildingteams, entering the market, and achieving work-life integration while stayingcommitted to their goals.First-time founders often encounter business demands thatexceed their experience and skills. Coaching provides the necessary supportbetween previous performance and the expectations of their companies. Andrew isexperienced in helping leaders navigate these challenges effectively. He hascoached over 10,000 leaders, collaborated with executives at organizations likeNASA, Dell, Netflix, and Epic Games, and founded three businesses.Andrew specializes in assisting early-stage founders andsmall business owners in managing overwhelm, building high-performance teams,and leading confidently without burnout. For those growing a business andfeeling the pressure, Andrew offers guidance to lead with clarity, resilience,and impact.LinkedIn: @AndrewPolesEmail: apoles@andrewpoles.com 

According to Forbes, for 80% of people, happiness continues to rise with income past $75,000. However, for a minority who are unhappy, their unhappiness decreases as they make more money — but only up to about $100,000 (approximately the same as $75,000 adjusted for inflation). Dr. Travis Parry is the author of "Achieving Balance" and "Marry and Grow Rich". He has earned a master's degree in psychology and a PhD in Family Relations to better understand finances from psychological and family perspectives. Travis founded the Make Time Institute and has assisted thousands of business owners and couples across all 50 states in achieving their financial objectives. He is an international speaker and hosts the podcast "Balanced Growth Show". His personal life includes being a husband to his wife of 22 years and father to their eight children.The Balanced Growth Method is designed to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses without negatively affecting their marriage or health. Business owners using this method are able to improve their health and relationships by saving time and money. The Balanced Growth Method operates on several principles:• Align your values with your time• Increase productivity• Grow your business while working fewer hours• Achieve individual goals with your spouse• Collaborate to reach financial milestonesFor more information: https://www.maketimeinstitute.com/

Intrinsic motivation thrives when individuals feel a senseof authority over their roles and responsibilities. By granting employeesownership of outcomes and the authority to make decisions that affect theirwork, organizations empower them to take initiative, innovate, and take pridein their contributions. According to the Institute for Health and ProductivityStudies at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, increasingemployees' physical activity can lead to a healthier workforce, boostproductivity, and reduce the risk of developing expensive and debilitatingchronic diseases. Physically active employees incur lower healthcare costs,take less sick leave, and are more productive at work. Specifically, researchindicates that employees who engage in at least 75 minutes ofvigorous-intensity physical activity each week miss an average of 4.1 fewerdays of work per year. Furthermore, those who are physically inactive are morelikely to require sick leave, costing an average of 26 cents for each hourworked. Justin Martinez is a former U.S. Army Ranger who hastransitioned into being an entrepreneur, author, and personal transformationexpert. With a diverse background in real estate, fitness, and financialmastery, he has established multiple successful ventures, including scalingAirbnbs and launching a fitness coaching business. A dedicated athlete, Justinhas completed Ironmans, ultramarathons, and the 75 Hard program several times.His book, The Compounder's Guide to Developing the Ranger Mindset, offers ablueprint for achieving success through discipline and resilience. Justin'smission is straightforward: to assist others in breaking limits, embracingchallenges, and crafting a life characterized by purpose, freedom, andexceptional accomplishment. His philosophy is clear: “Do today what your futureself will thank you for.” By shifting focus from short-term gratification tolong-term success, individuals position themselves for a life filled withgenuine freedom and fulfillment. He joined me this week to share more aboutthis journey. For more information: https://compoundercoach.com/ Instagram: @thecompoundercoach Get the Book: https://compoundercoach.com/ranger-mindset   

Trust in various institutions is declining, making itincreasingly valuable in business. The fourth trust survey released byPricewaterhouseCoopers highlights the significance and opportunity of trustamong business executives, consumers, and employees. Among respondents, 95% ofbusiness executives agree that organizations have a responsibility to buildtrust, an increase from 92% in 2023. The numbers for consumers and employeesare also high, with 92% and 94% agreeing, respectively, remaining unchanged fromthe previous year. There is not only a moral case for building trust but also abusiness case, as 93% of business executives believe that the ability tocultivate and maintain trust positively impacts the bottom line. Amongexecutives, 42% cite productivity as the biggest risk if employees do not trusttheir employer, followed closely by the quality of products and services (41%),operational efficiencies (40%), and profitability (38%). Surprisingly, employeeretention ranks lower on the list. Traditionally, companies have consideredtrust among employees as a way to attract and retain talent. However, this dataindicates that a lack of trust among employees significantly affects everydayoperations. The risk is not simply that employees may leave; it is that theymay stay but work only half-heartedly.  Additionally, 60% of employees report that they haverecommended a company as a good place to work because they trusted it, whereas22% have left a company due to trust issues. Adam Malone is a leadership consultant, corporate keynotespeaker, and father of five, known as “The Tenacious Operator.” After a 20-yearcareer in the corporate world—17 of which he spent with one company, risingfrom analyst to VP—Adam left in 2024 to pursue his passion for helping highperformers become great leaders of resilient teams. His mission is to assistleadership teams and mid-level managers in identifying barriers to performance,enabling teams to function cohesively and thrive even in high-pressureenvironments.  Adam's philosophy is that most leadership behaviors arestraightforward but require consistency, especially on challenging days. Hefocuses on transforming “soft skills” like trust and empathy into realstrengths that foster engagement and inspire change. He joined me this week toshare more about his approach.  LinkedIn: @AdamMalone Text operator 33777