Terminal Value

We trace why “bring your whole self to work” fell flat, how subtle detractor patterns (ignoring, courtesy code switching, email habits) silently erode trust, and why inclusion is less about demographics and more about everyday micro-behaviors. Kimberly makes it real: when team members only get replies if they CC the boss, people stop trying. When leaders say they value input but don't create safety, trust collapses.The surprise? Homogeneous teams with strong inclusion behaviors can outperform diverse ones without them. Inclusion isn't about who's at the table—it's whether voices matter once they're there.I push back on the myth of “leader angst”: making things better is the leader's job. Kimberly adds the missing truth: the biggest cost isn't money or time—it's the vulnerability of having real conversations with your team.This isn't theory. It's leadership on the line. And it's the difference between wasting hours in ignored emails versus amplifying effectiveness by 30% with no extra cost—just courage.TL;DR* Inclusion ≠ diversity quotas—it's behaviors that create belonging.* Five detractor patterns silently kill inclusion (ignoring, courtesy code switching, etc.).* Leaders can't outsource inclusion—HR can't carry this, only teams can.* Effectiveness jumps when small friction points (like ignored emails) get fixed.* The real cost: leaders must get vulnerable, confront team dynamics, and stay accountable.Memorable lines “No one wakes up in the morning saying, ‘I hope I'm excluded today.'” “Courtesy code switching sounds respectful—but it actually silences voices.” “Making things better is literally the leader's job. Otherwise, a bot could replace you.” “Inclusion isn't a social program—it's how you answer your team's emails.”Guest Kimberly Lewis Parsons — Founder & CEO of Bamboo Teaming; expert in inclusive teaming, executive team coaching, and shifting leaders from ineffective habits to productive collaboration.

We start with a simple truth: if something triggers you, it owns you. From marriages strained by defensiveness, to children calling out their father's lack of emotional intelligence, Chad shows how unchecked reactions erode trust, respect, and legacy.His own turning point came when his son told him he had “zero emotional intelligence.” Instead of firing back, Chad began the slow work of asking why every sharp word stung—and what it revealed about his need for respect, affirmation, and value.We explore how men often hide behind discipline, how protection and fear shape family dynamics, and why “being open” is useless if you don't create a safe environment for truth. The conversation turns personal—broken trust, blended families, strokes, and the moment Chad realized decades of construction projects weren't a legacy if his family couldn't stand him.The fix isn't perfection. It's self-awareness. Triggers are symptoms. And the healing comes when you let the people you've hurt tell you the truth—and you listen.TL;DR* Triggers own you until you own them.* Overreactions reveal insecurity, not reality.* Emotional intelligence starts with self-awareness, not slogans.* Legacy is people, not projects.* Leaders (and fathers) go first—healing is contagious.Memorable lines “Anything that triggers you is telling you more about yourself than the other person.” “Legacy isn't bridges or hotels—it's your kids wanting to talk to you.” “If you don't create a safe environment, your ‘openness' is just virtue signaling.”Guest Chad Brignac — Transformationalist consultant, speaker, and author of Blend Don't Break, focused on self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and healing through small shifts.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chadmbrignac/Why this matters Whether at work or at home, unchecked triggers destroy trust. Healing them isn't just about avoiding fights—it's about building a legacy of respect, connection, and compassion.Call to ActionIf this conversation lit something up for you, don't just let it fade. Come join me inside the Second Life Leader community on Skool. That's where I share the frameworks, field reports, and real stories of reinvention that don't make it into the podcast. You'll connect with other professionals who are actively rebuilding and leading with clarity. The link is in the show notes—step inside and start building your Second Life today.https://secondlifeleader.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Right now, companies are leaning hard on AI—sometimes instead of people. Engagement is tanking, anxiety is spiking, and most leaders have no playbook. We unpack why workers sneak AI into their jobs, how silence from the top fuels fear, and why “pizza parties” don't solve the fulfillment gap.The real story: engagement ≠ purpose. People want meaning, not slogans. And AI, like an Ivy League intern, can't deliver that alone. Leaders need to connect tools, people, and mission—or risk losing their best talent.TL;DR* AI intern: smart but needs human guidance.* Engagement ≠ fulfillment: employees want purpose, not perks.* Fear gap: no AI policy = employees assume worst.* Work-life is merging: productivity ≠ meaning.* Future leaders: integrators who connect tech + humanity.Memorable lines “AI is like having an Ivy League intern—smart, fast, but still an intern.” “Engagement is attention. Fulfillment is purpose. Don't confuse the two.” “If leaders don't talk about AI, employees will imagine the worst.”GuestJaime Raul Zepeda — CEO, Best Companies Group; 15 years studying engagement; former VP at Great Place to Work.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimezepeda/Website: https://jaimeraulzepeda.com/Why this matters To thrive in the AI era, companies must design for reality: clear AI policies, honest leadership, and cultures where people find meaning—not just a paycheck.Call to ActionIf this conversation lit something up for you, don't just let it fade. Come join me inside the Second Life Leader community on Skool. That's where I share the frameworks, field reports, and real stories of reinvention that don't make it into the podcast. You'll connect with other professionals who are actively rebuilding and leading with clarity. The link is in the show notes—step inside and start building your Second Life today.https://secondlifeleader.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Most leaders think they're setting the tone—but often, it's someone else. Matt breaks down how to identify the real influencers in the room, recognize subtle shifts, and build a repeatable process for situational mastery.From his decades in sports medicine and leadership research, Matt shows how the same tools used to train Olympic athletes apply to executives, dads, and anyone navigating high-stakes conversations.TL;DR* Situational mastery ≠ luck: it's about recognizing, reordering, responding, and reflecting (the R4 framework).* Invisible cues rule the room: deep sighs, eye rolls, micro-pauses—miss these and you miss the moment.* Leaders aren't always the influencers: figure out who others look to for cues, and win them as allies.* Tacit knowledge = wisdom: mastery comes from integrating hindsight, insight, and foresight (3D thinking).* The pace of change breaks hindsight: you can't solve today's problems with yesterday's logic—blend past, present, and future.* No solo mastery: like Dickens' Scrooge, you need “ghosts” (mentors, coaches, truth-tellers) to correct blind spots.Memorable lines* “The metrics of success shift every time the room shifts.”* “Most leaders think they're setting the tone—usually, they're not.”* “Tacit knowledge is intuition you can trust, and it can be learned.”* “You can't solve today's problems with yesterday's logic.”* “Every leader needs to know their Kissinger in the room.”GuestMatt Kutz, PhD — Professor of Sports Medicine & Athletic Training; VP of the World Federation of Athletic Training and Therapy; author of 8+ books on leadership, human performance, and global strategy.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmattkutz/Website: http://www.matthewkutz.comWhy this mattersLeaders today operate in a VUCA world—volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous. Titles don't guarantee influence, and old playbooks don't work. Contextual intelligence bridges the gap between knowing and being: it's not just about logic or intuition, but the fusion of both in real time.If you want to lead effectively—whether in boardrooms, classrooms, or family rooms—you need the ability to read the invisible cues, reframe priorities on the fly, and adapt without losing credibility.Call to ActionIf this conversation lit something up for you, don't just let it fade. Come join me inside the Second Life Leader community on Skool. That's where I share the frameworks, field reports, and real stories of reinvention that don't make it into the podcast. You'll connect with other professionals who are actively rebuilding and leading with clarity. The link is in the show notes—step inside and start building your Second Life today.https://secondlifeleader.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

In this episode, Tracy and I break down why leaders cling to stories instead of facts, how “no one wants to work” is rarely true, and why 89% turnover in 90 days doesn't mean failure—it means you're solving the wrong problem. We dig into the hidden costs of poor onboarding, why perfection is the enemy of progress, and how small experiments compound into lasting change.We also role-play the hard conversations most leaders avoid: asking for resources, addressing pay gaps, and backing process changes. Tracy shows how turning impact into a clear request transforms whining into influence—and why fear of tough conversations keeps organizations stuck in chaos.The throughline: stop venting, start requesting. Systems won't fix themselves, people won't magically stay, and sales numbers don't rise just because you hope they will. Elite leadership is having the clarity and courage to pitch the real solution.TL;DR* Complaints hide requests: Every gripe signals an unmet need—translate it into a clear ask.* Facts over stories: “No one wants to work” → actually 89% quit in 90 days, but 11% stayed. Find the real cause.* Perfection kills momentum: Incremental fixes beat waiting for the flawless solution.* Onboarding matters: Most “lazy hires” are system failures, not people failures.* Courage in conversations: Leaders stall not because they lack answers, but because they fear asking for change.* Compounding gains: Small, repeatable improvements snowball into massive organizational shifts.Memorable lines* “Every complaint is a poorly worded request.”* “If perfect is the standard, walk out the door now—you'll never reach it.”* “The biggest leap isn't good to great, it's chaos to not that bad.”* “Tough isn't stubborn—tough is smart clarity backed by courage.”GuestTracy Austin — Leadership consultant focused on trade industries and frontline retention. She helps organizations cut turnover, build onboarding systems, and transform complaints into action.

Former EOS implementer, author, and manufacturing CEO Michael Erath joins me to explore what happens when business frameworks turn from liberators into cages—and how elite organizations escape the trap.Rigid systems like EOS can bring chaos under control, but stop short of greatness. Michael and I dig into why prescriptive “20 tools forever” models break down at scale, how to design for outcomes instead of checklists, and why A-player imposters cost more than missed A-players. We unpack the dangers of short-term cost cutting (Intel, GE), the overlooked genius of Eli Goldratt's Theory of Constraints, and why profit-per-X clarity beats generic “best practices.”The theme running through it: systems should serve people and outcomes, not the other way around. Elite organizations don't settle for “not that bad”—they build adaptive frameworks, measure the right constraint, and pursue excellence with discipline.TL;DR* Systems ≠ salvation: EOS and similar tools help kill chaos but cap out at mediocrity.* Mechanical vs. organic: Treat processes like machines when possible, but don't ignore the living, adaptive side of organizations.The A-player trap: The costliest errors are (1) losing true A-players, and (2) mistaking B-players for A-players.* Constraint clarity: TOC says find the one constraint—fixing it yields immediate profit, unlike slow checklist efficiency.* Profit per X: Identify the metric tied to your real constraint (throughput, calendar days, etc.) and align decisions around it.* Outcomes over inputs: Define every role by its most critical outcome, not by tasks or titles.Memorable lines* “Most systems are built for chaos-to-decent. Elite requires more.”* “Don't pay A-player salaries for B-player conformity.”* “World-class accounts payable never made anyone strategic.”* “Profit per X isn't a spreadsheet trick—it's a spotlight on your real constraint.”GuestMichael Erath — Former manufacturing CEO, EOS implementer turned founder of his own operating framework, and author of Five Obsessions of Elite Organizations.https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelerath1/http://www.fiveobsessions.comWhy This MattersBusinesses chasing short-term fixes or worshipping rigid frameworks stay stuck at “good enough.” The path to excellence is clarity: knowing your real constraint, aligning outcomes at every level, and designing systems that bend with your people instead of breaking them. If you want organizations that outlast hype cycles and downturns, trade dogma for discipline.Call to ActionIf this conversation lit something up for you, don't just let it fade. Come join me inside the Second Life Leader community on Skool. That's where I share the frameworks, field reports, and real stories of reinvention that don't make it into the podcast. You'll connect with other professionals who are actively rebuilding and leading with clarity. The link is in the show notes—step inside and start building your Second Life today.https://secondlifeleader.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Negotiation coach and author Saad A Saad joins Doug to rethink what “the ask” really means—why win-win isn't always wise, how to thrive even with less power, and why tension isn't the enemy but the spark of creativity.Most people think negotiation is stressful or adversarial. But Saad reframes it asan outcome-based conversation—something we're all in daily, whether with clients, colleagues, or family. We dive into why “dominate or be dominated” is outdated, how over-indexing on win-win kills creativity, and why the real skill shows when you're negotiating from a power disadvantage. Saad also shares his framework from In the Lead: Mastering Your Sales Negotiation—a six-principle model that balances assertiveness and empathy like the two wheels of a bike.TL;DR* Negotiation = outcome-based conversation—happens every day, not just in boardrooms.* Win-lose damages trust, but pure win-win leads to weak, uncreative outcomes.* Power imbalances matter less than you think—focus on clarity of outcome.* Tension and friction aren't threats—they're the conditions for respect and innovation.* Assertive empathy: be ambitious in your ask and genuinely curious about the other side.* Context is king: sales, hostage talks, and family dinners require different tools.Memorable lines* “Anytime you're trying to reach an outcome, you're in a negotiation.”* “If you over-index on win-win, you become less ambitious and less creative.”* “Friction isn't failure—it's the fuel for better outcomes.”GuestSaad A Saad — Negotiation expert, sales coach, and author of In the Lead: Mastering Your Sales Negotiation.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saadasaad/Why this mattersWhether you're closing a deal, pitching an investor, or discussing chores at home, negotiation is everywhere. Reframing it as outcome-based—and learning to balance advocacy with empathy—lets you push for better results without burning bridges.Don't just “hope” your conversations land—design them. Grab Saad's book In the Lead on Amazon, connect with him on LinkedIn, and the next time you're in a negotiation—big or small—practice assertive empathy. Book: https://a.co/d/6AkbgX3Call To ActionIf this hit—don't scroll past it. Take the Second Life Leader Quiz to see where you're powerful, where you're blocked, and what to do next: leaderquiz.app. Then share this with one man who's rebuilding.https://leaderquiz.app This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Retired social worker Jack Kammer (MaleFriendly Media) joins me to separate real men's issues from the manosphere circus—and map a sane path forward.Most conversations about men mistake the pyramid for the whole picture. Yes, a few at the top feast—but millions grind at the bottom. In this episode, retired social worker Jack Kammer and I dismantle lazy patriarchy takes, unpack mating market math (power laws, hypergamy, real options vs imagined ones), and contrast male hierarchy with the female network—a “heart-centered” power structure that's present but hard to see. We trace how wealth-induced social isolation (sprawl, cars, planned hangouts) erodes trust, why “work-life balance” collapses under the burden of performance, and how honesty about desire, capacity, and family roles beats quota-based fantasies. The fix isn't rage—it's community at Dunbar scale, merit with compassion, and finishing the other half of the gender-role revolution: giving men social permission for relationship labor, not just income labor. No villains. Just truth, trade-offs, and a way to rebuild.TL;DR* Apex fallacy: don't judge men by the 0.1%—see the “Misfortune Five Million.”* Two power systems: men = visible hierarchy; women = diffuse heart-centered network.* Isolation tax: the McMansion dream kills accidental community—connection needs proximity.* Work is not separate from life: entrepreneurs blur lines; corporate men carry the performance burden.* Real reform: finish the 1960s shift—normalize men taking relationship/care roles without penalty.* Strategy > slogans: meritocracy plus flexibility; transparency about intentions in dating and at work.Memorable lines“Don't look at the Fortune 500—look at the Misfortune Five Million.”“The female power structure isn't a skyscraper; it's a campus with a heart at the center.”“Community isn't a social program; it's your neighbors knocking for Friday pizza.”GuestJack Kammer — Retired social worker focused on the social issues of men and boys; founder of MaleFriendly Media.https://www.linkedin.com/in/malefriendlymedia/https://www.malefriendlymedia.com/Why this mattersIf you want stronger men, healthier women, and better kids, stop arguing abstractions and design for reality: smaller, closer communities; honest courtship; flexible pathways for fathers; merit with compassion at work.Call to ActionIf this hit—don't scroll past it. Take the Second Life Leader Quiz to see where you're powerful, where you're blocked, and what to do next: leaderquiz.app. Then share this with one man who's rebuilding.https://leaderquiz.app This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

This week I sit down with Damon Lembi, a man who once stood on the edge of a pro baseball career, only to watch that dream disappear in his early 20s. What followed was not the straight-line success story that corporate planners love to sell—but the messy, real work of reinvention.We go deep on:* Why life almost never moves in a straight line—and why that's a gift, not a curse* How failure is fuel, not a flaw* The transferable skills that carry you from one arena to another* Why vulnerability paired with confidence is the mark of a true leader* The difference between safe, compounding plans and the resilience forged through risk and resetDamon's story isn't about baseball. It's about every man or woman who's looked up from the ashes of one path and wondered if they had the courage to start another.If you've been burned by the old game—but your fire still burns—this conversation will remind you: you are not finished. You're being reforged.⚒️ Listen in, then share it with someone who's rebuilding.And if you want to follow the thread deeper, head to DougUtberg.com for my Second Life Leader newsletter—where we talk leadership, sovereignty, and the art of building a life that cannot be taken from you.Freedom isn't granted. It's forged.Connect with Damon:www.learnit.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembiSubscribe to Second Life leader at https://dougutberg.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Burnout doesn't come from weakness—it comes when your greatest strengths turn against you. In this conversation, Scott Anderson breaks down how perfectionism and endless “yeses” fuel early success but eventually scale into exhaustion, despair, and collapse.We dig into:* Why the common “solutions” to burnout actually make it worse.* The existential moment when superpowers become kryptonite.* How redefining success—and building your 2.0 motivation—restores energy and clarity.* Practical techniques to break free from survival mode and operate in your genius zone.* Real client stories showing how a few course corrections can double business while repairing family and self.If you've ever paid the price of ambition with your health, marriage, or spirit, this episode shows you how to reclaim capacity, rebuild alignment, and create impact without burning out.Connect with Scott:https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottandersonms/https://doubledareyou.us/https://burnoutbreakthrough.comSubscribe to the Second Life Leader Podcast on Substack:https://dougutberg.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Former corporate soldier turned sovereign strategist Doug Utberg dives deep with Amazon bestselling author Charlie Newcomb on the many hats of effective leadership—listening to lead, influencing without authority, delegating without losing accountability, and knowing when to break the rules you wrote.From 40+ years in McDonald's corporate trenches to high-stakes sales, Charlie shares how to manage change, measure what actually matters, and avoid the leadership traps that kill morale and results. If you're done with hollow metrics, permission-seeking, and leadership theater, this conversation is your map to leading with clarity, principle, and real influence.Connect with Charlie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-newcomb-1307b57/Life, Leadership and Success (Amazon)Subscribe to Second Life Leader on Substack:https://dougutberg.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Second Life Leader is where burned-out high achievers come to rebuild—not retreat. I'm Doug Utberg, former corporate soldier turned sovereign strategist. If the old game broke you but didn't kill your fire, you're in the right place.In this episode, I'm joined by John Knowlton, a veteran of 20+ mergers and acquisitions, to unpack the real playbook for buying and scaling businesses without sinking in chaos. We break down:* The three core reasons to acquire—same offering, new geography, or expanded services* Why small- and mid-sized businesses are often better M&A targets than big-ticket corporate buys* How to spot “total chaos” deals you can turn into gold with simple best practices* The invisible layer of management most founders miss when they double in size* The truth about integration—why it's messier (and more decisive) than negotiationWhether you're a first-time buyer or building a portfolio of companies, this conversation will sharpen your lens for growth by acquisition—and help you avoid the traps that kill most deals.Listen in, take notes, and remember: freedom isn't granted. It's forged.Connect with John:https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-knowlton-516b828/https://AbundantThoughtRevolution.comSubscribe to the Second Life Leader Podcast & Newsletter:https://dougutberg.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

Leadership isn't hard ... It's brutal.In this episode of Second Life Leader, I sit down with Alan Lazaros—CEO of Next Level University, 10,000+ hours of coaching, 2,000+ podcast episodes—and we tear the mask off what real leadership demands.We talk:* The brutal reality of scaling too fast (and crashing harder)* The secret poison of B players who think they're A's* Why obsession is necessary—and entitlement is lethal* How to lead without authority (the only real kind)* Why "building the self" is always the first step* And how leadership is both a science and an artAlan shares the moment a near-fatal car crash shattered his illusion of success—and forced him to play the game from the inside out.If you've ever felt the pull to lead, rebuild, or rise…This is the one to listen to.https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanlazarosllchttps://www.nextleveluniverse.com

What if “work-life balance” was the wrong question?In this electrifying episode of Second Life Leader, Doug Utberg sits down with executive coach and former Fortune 500 insider Lindsay Barnett to dismantle the productivity cult and offer something radically more powerful: work-life harmony.This isn't another burnout sob story. It's a tactical reframe for warriors, rebuilders, and sovereigns ready to stop apologizing for wanting more—and start structuring their life around energy, not just time.Inside this episode:* Why “busy” has become a socially sanctioned addiction—and how to detox from it* The 3 Energetic Levers: Creative, Connection, and Completion Energy (this framework alone is worth the listen)* How to build presence into your workflow without pretending your inbox doesn't exist* Why work-life balance is a corporate myth—and how real leaders orchestrate their days like symphonies, not spreadsheets* Doug's personal ritual of sovereignty: baking bread, brewing kombucha, and anchoring presence through foodLindsay brings decades of high-level HR and coaching wisdom, but this isn't corporate fluff. It's a blueprint for reclaiming your day, your energy, and your soul—without waiting for someone else to give you permission.

What if your greatest limitation isn't a skill gap—but a silent script you're still obeying?In this episode of Second Life Leader, I'm joined by Kevin Palmieri, host of Next Level University, for a direct, unsanitized conversation about core wounds, hidden rules, and the unspoken patterns that govern performance—at work, in leadership, and in life.We unpack:* Why some people fear failure—and others secretly fear success* How emotional wounds shape behavior long after the story has faded* The subtle difference between leaning into a weakness and confronting a wound* How to build psychological safety without coddling mediocrity* And why true leadership starts with self-exposure—not authorityThis is not performative vulnerability or manufactured growth content. No buzzwords. No funnels. Just the hard-earned truth behind what really helps people evolve—and how leaders can either perpetuate old pain or become the space where transformation happens.If you're rebuilding something real, this episode pulls no punches.Listen now. Share it with someone who's done pretending.—Subscribe at DougUtberg.com for weekly insights on reinvention, leadership, and sovereign systems thinking.Principle over permission. Signal over noise. Growth over theater. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.com

When life overloads you with noise, you don't need more information—you need a play sheet.In this episode of Second Life Leader, Doug Utberg sits down with Brian Hurtak, corporate strategist and author of The Play Sheet, to explore how football coaches manage complexity—and how you can do the same in your career, relationships, or personal reinvention.⚔️ Whether you're facing a divorce, a re-org, or just trying to reclaim your edge, this conversation breaks down how elite coaches condense chaos into clarity. We talk:* Why a 400-play playbook is useless without a focused 28-play game plan* How college football schemes teach the art of simplification under pressure* What to do when your OneNote is a hot mess of forgotten insights* The real reason most professionals never reach mastery (hint: it's not talent)Doug also shares his observations from the West Coast offense, 49ers dynasty days, and why throwing before the break matters—in football and in life.This episode is for sovereign men and rebuilders who don't just want to survive complexity. They want to cut through it and execute with precision.

In this episode, Doug speaks with Ken Cox about how AI can be deployed in small businesses to generate tremendous value.One of the biggest things most small businesses can do to increase their revenue is to ensure the phones are always answered. However, this is frequently difficult since business owners must choose between operating their business and answering the phone to potentially intake new clients who are responding to their advertising, referrals or a search listing.As it turns out, this is a place where AI can create tremendous value since callers can be routed to an automated agent that will diagnose their needs and roll over to a virtual assistant who gathers information and sets an appointment for you to call them back. This is one of many ways Ken and I discuss that AI can benefit small businesses.If you want to know more about Ken, click below:https://inlink.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kencox/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Kamran Loghman about how the ‘Warriors Mindset' from eastern philosophy can be brought into the work and lives of people in the West.In a world that worships comfort, distraction, and cheap dopamine, we stand for something ancient.This isn't your typical pep-talk on grit. It's a deep dive into the timeless warrior mindset—drawn from the stoic sword of Japan's samurai, the disciplined breath of India's yogis, and the still waters of Zen monks.We decode Eastern philosophies—Bushido, Taoism, Buddhist detachment—and forge them into practical, hard-hitting tools for Western living. No incense required. No chanting in Sanskrit you don't understand. Just fierce mental clarity, emotional discipline, and the quiet, sovereign confidence of someone who knows who they are and what hill they'd die on.Each episode arms you with a principle or story, then translates it into daily, actionable strategy—whether you're building a business, navigating love, or fighting your own inner chaos.Because true strength isn't found in the gym or the boardroom. It's in the mind.If you want to know more about Kamran, click below:https://www.riseofgiants.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamran-loghman-b1a50a24/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Georgio Natili about the importance of trust when leading.Our conversation took place specifically within the context of technology companies, since many engineers are promoted to management based on technical expertise. As it turns out, leading people requires a much different skillset, which is what we discuss.If you want to know more about Georgio, click below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/giorgionatili/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Dale about the importance of adaptability in leadership.In the world of leadership, one of the most important things we can do is ask ‘why' and take our curiosity out to the people we are looking to lead and influence.If you want to know more about Dale, click below:https://leadadaptimpact.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/daleturnbull/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://forms.gle/VLTgHs8sjJJRZ7kj7 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Elona Lopari about incorporating purpose into a profit generating business. There is a tendency in the business world to emphasize the ‘bottom line' to the exclusion of other value drivers. In this episode, we discuss how purpose is one of those key value drivers, and the way to integrate it into a business and make it even more successful.If you want to know more about Elona, click below:https://www.elonaloparicoaching.com/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://forms.gle/VLTgHs8sjJJRZ7kj7 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Jeremy Barker about his journey through two bankruptcies to tremendous success with Murphy Door and Murphy LadderMuch of what our conversation revolved around was the difference between having access to resources and being resourceful. Many businesses stop trying to solve hard problems once they have resources, and Jeremy sees that as a big area for weakness. Because of this, he endeavors to continually operate with a mindset like he is still broke and needs to figure out how creatively solve problems.If you want to know more about Jeremy, click below:https://murphydoor.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-barker-02007648/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. Guest Application Form This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with team leadership strategist Isabelle Fortin about human-centered leadership.They discuss the distinction between leadership and management, emphasizing the importance of treating employees as unique individuals. Isabelle highlights the need for leaders to support and empower their team members, rather than just managing tasks. They also explore the lack of leadership training in organizations and the significance of personal connections in fostering engagement and productivity. TThe episode underscores that effective leadership involves a genuine commitment to understanding and supporting team members to create a positive work environment.If you want to know more about Isabelle Fortin, click below: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabellemfortin/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Yosi Kossowsky about about transitioning from judgment to awareness in leadership.They discuss how leaders can cultivate curiosity and self-awareness to manage challenges, reduce anxiety, and avoid binary thinking. Yoshi emphasizes practical strategies over theory, sharing insights from his engineering background. The episode highlights the importance of conscious responses to stress, practical solutions for immediate change, and engaging with the community for growth. Doug encourages listeners to connect with Yoshi and participate in the podcast's community to foster a people-first leadership approach.If you want to know more about Yosi Kossowsky, click below:LinkedInIf you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Mike Peterson, founder of Apex Consulting Partners and author of "Leading in the Age of Digital Disruption." They explore how leadership must evolve amidst rapid technological advancements, particularly digital disruption and AI. Mike emphasizes the importance of trust, transparent communication, and accountability in building high-performing teams. They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies, the need for organizational agility, and the balance between leveraging technology and maintaining a human-centric leadership approach. Mike also introduces a core leadership framework to navigate these complexities effectively.If you want to know more about Mike, click below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpeterson3/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. Guest Application Form This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Dan Sheil about the importance of connecting with the ‘person' on your team before interacting with them as an employee of the company.The corporate world can feel draining at times. There are lots of teams where work is completely transactional. The problem is that transactional work is NOT how the company gets the best from its people or how the people get the best from themselves and their career.Listen as Dan and I dig into this phenomenon and chart out a better way forward for leaders who truly believe in ‘People First.'If you want to connect with Dan on LinkedIn, click below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dansheil/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. Guest Application Form This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Kevin about the way he creates value in his careerDoug worked with Kevin at Intel in 2003, and has followed his career since then, observing the way he brings a genuine interest in human connection to his leadership style by bringing trust to the front of his interactions.If you want to know more about Kevin, click below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mcclaughry/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://forms.gle/VLTgHs8sjJJRZ7kj7 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Tim Lawson about operating a business with a consulting mindset.Doug and Tim have known each other for over 20 years and they have both worked in the consulting world at one point or another throughout their careers. In today's episode, they discuss how the principles of consulting can be brought into a traditional business to enhance its results.If you want to connect with Tim, click below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-lawson-portland/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Andrew about how entrepreneurs create blessings for others at scale through business ventures.Doug and Andrew discussed If you want to know more about Andrew & Red Balloon, click below:https://RedBalloon.workConnect with Andrew on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/acrapuchettes/If you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Neil about the parts of leadership that are hard … specifically when a company is going through layoffs.If you are a leader of people for long enough, you will go through times that aren't fun. This is especially true in the technology industry where layoffs cycles seem to happen every few years.The way you navigate these difficult times is what ultimately distinguishes you as a leader … It's easy to be in charge when things are going well, but it gets much more difficult when you're going through tough times.If you identified with Neil's message, you can help him to support veterans by clicking the link below:https://thefund.orgIf you're a business leader who prioritizes people and the planet ahead of profits, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Scott Zimmerman about the things you learn in business and life that people don't tell you about.Scott has spent multiple decades in the insurance industry and is sharing the insights he has learned with us in today's episode.If you want to know more about Scott, click below:https://TheScottZimmerman.comIf you're a business leader who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://DougUtberg.us This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, Doug speaks with Dan Winter about The Difference Between Groups and Teams.It turns out that one of the core things that Dan does at Altus Growth Partners is work with leaders to grow groups into teams. In fact, the team has published a book called 'Growing Groups Into Teams' that shares the real life stories of people who get results and thrive together. (Link below)https://growinggroupsintoteams.com/If you want to know more about Dan, click below:https://AltusGrowth.comIf you're a business leader who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest Get full access to People First Leaders at www.dougutberg.us/subscribe

In this episode, Doug speaks with Vikki Espinosa about her experience with battling breast cancer.Doug met Vikki when they were both working at Intel Corporation. She brings a deep background in Finance, Accounting and Human Resources to this interview where she shares her lived experience and the things people can do to help their friends, co-workers and loved ones who are battling with cancer.If you want to know more about Vikki, click below:https://vikkiespinosa.comIf you're a business leader who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest Get full access to People First Leaders at www.dougutberg.us/subscribe

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Amanda Frank about what it really means to get deals done in the high pressure world of real estate and business mergers.Amanda and her husband run the Frank Law Firm in Long Island, NY … specializing in real estate and bankruptcy cases. In the interview, we discussed the ways that people frequently posture during negotiations and how to cut through that noise to generate results.If you want to know more about Amanda, click below:https://frankfirmpc.com/If you're a business leader who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Simon Severino about building communities is the new method for sustainably marketing businesses. Simon helps client businesses to turbo charge their results, creating a backlog of customers, pricing power, faster sales cycles and lifetime customers. If you want to know more about Simon, click below: https://www.strategysprints.com/ If you're a business leader who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.dougutberg.us

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Bryan Rutberg about injecting love into the way you lead your people. Bryan describes himself as a "Hippie with an MBA" and blends spiritual awareness with logical power to help his clients. If you want to know more about Bryan, click HERE. https://www.bryanrutberg.com If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Angela Rakis about getting everybody involved in the sales process. Angela works with client companies to help them sell with confidence and realize their revenue potential. If you want to know more about Angela, click HERE. https://www.metissalessolutions.com/ If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Scott Bee about how to eliminate (or at least reduce) the chaos in your business. Scott works with small and mid-sized business to help the owners reduce chaos and make more time for what matters. If you want to know more about Scott, click HERE. https://mybusinessonpurpose.com/ If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Jess Cervellon about what real leadership really means, or Real Effing Leadership as we like to call it. Jess partners with client brands to take them through meticulously crafted, customer-centric journeys. If you want to know more about Jess, click HERE. https://jesscervellon.com/ If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Nathaniel Harding about why people are assets in a business. Cortado Ventures is a venture capital fund that implements a unique model to increase the success rate for the founders they bring into their investment portfolio by growing their leadership teams. If you want to know more about Cortado Ventures, click HERE. https://cortado.ventures/ To connect with Nathaniel on LinkedIn, click HERE. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanielharding/ If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Jessica Koehl about turning around distressed product teams. At 'The Product Consult' Jessica and her teams partner with businesses to help their product teams grow to the next level of effectiveness. If you want to know more about Jessica, click HERE. https://www.theproductconsult.com/ If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Victoria Kennedy about how entrepreneurs can use their personal brand to grow their business without expensive advertising plans. Victoria's PR firm works with successful entrepreneurs to help them build their personal brands to grow their businesses. https://victoriouspr.com If you want to know more about Victoria, click HERE. https://victoriakennedyofficial.com/ If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Dr. Ravi Iyer about empowering people and the narratives that happen inside our minds. Having been in a private medical practice for multiple decades, Dr. Iyer shares his experiences with how he empowers people to make his business thrive. If you want to know more about Dr. Iyer, click HERE. https://Linktr.ee/driyermd If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE. https://peoplefirstleaders.net/guest

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Edrizio De La Cruz, Co-Founder & CEO of Arcus, about Edrizio inspiring life story of overcoming poverty and adversity.From selling guava on the streets to dropping out of the Air Force, he eventually found his path in finance and became an investment banker. Despite facing challenges and being told he couldn't succeed, Edrizio's determination led him to start a tech company aimed at revolutionizing remittance services.If you want to know more about Joe's work, click HERE.If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE.

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Ray Blakney, CEO/Founder of Rayvensoft Ventures, about the importance of learning from bumps in the road.Ray shares his story of becoming an accidental entrepreneur. He talks about his background, growing up in various countries, studying computer engineering, and eventually stumbling into entrepreneurship. If you want to know more about Joe's work, click HERE.If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE.

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Joe Schaeppi, CEO and co-founder of Solsten, about the importance of building human-first experiences and using technology to understand people better. Joe explains how adventure-based psychotherapy uses adventure settings and play to gain insights into individuals' psychology. He also talks about Solsten's focus on games as a means of understanding human behavior and promoting cognitive benefits. He emphasizes the accessibility of games and their positive impact compared to passive media consumption.If you want to know more about Joe's work, click HERE.If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE.

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Wayne Mullins, Marketing Manager of Ugly Mug Marketing, about the importance of focusing on what truly matters in advertising and marketing, rather than getting caught up in the pursuit of cool designs or awards.Wayne also reveals a powerful strategy he used to grow his own business, which involved building a network of evangelists through small gestures of kindness and personal connection. Additionally, Wayne discusses his journey as a leader and how he overcame initial doubts about his ability to be a people-first leader. If you want to know more about Wayne's work, click HERE.If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE.

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Joe Altieri, President of FlexScreen, about the significance of balancing growth with employee well-being and promoting a people-first approach in business for long-term success.Joe shares insights on leadership, operational execution, and fostering a healthy company culture, challenging conventional business paradigms. If you want to know more about Joe's work, click HERE.If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE.

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Brandon Woodside, about the significant influence of effective leadership on organizations, emphasizing its positive impact and the harm caused by toxic leadership. Brandon draws from his experience in the nonprofit sector to highlight the unique challenges of leading unpaid or underpaid individuals and the importance of vision casting and communication in driving change and uniting teams towards shared goals.If you want to know more about Brandon's work, click HERE.If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE.

In this episode, your host Doug Utberg speaks with Greg Davis, Chief Executive Officer of Bigleaf Networks, about the drawbacks and benefits of a scattergram organizational structure that accepts remote work.Greg discusses his experiences navigating cultural divides in this remote-first era while leading a distributed team in Portland.If you want to know more about Greg's work, click HERE.If you're a founder or CEO who is value-focused and puts your people first, please apply to be a guest on the show HERE.