The Book Leads: Impactful Books For Life & Leadership

Episode 140: Laura Di Franco & WRITING: The Brave Healer's Guide for World-ChangersABOUT LAURALaura Di Franco is the CEO of Brave Healer Productions an award-winning publisher for holistic health and wellness professionals. She spent 30 years in holistic physical therapy, is a third-degree black belt, and has authored 13 books. Her company has published over 100 Amazon bestselling books with a global community of over 3,000 authors who are waking the world up to what's possible for healing, one brave word at a time. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The shift from physical therapy to writing.• Writing as a safe space to heal.• To burn or not to burn the journals?• "...to remind myself how far I've come."• The journey to worthiness.• A divorce - The beginning of the journey to today.• The power of mentors at the perfect moments.• Publishing that's about community building.• Post-traumatic publishing disorder.• Other level vibe. Other level awareness.• "Your business needs to be big enough that..."• "I just get shit done."• Taking action through fear.• The presence of imposter syndrome.• That joy place.• Side passion vs. side hustle.• The power of reaching just one person.• The power of discernment.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Laura is, How can you consider who you are, how far you've come, what you want to create, and just get shit done?FIND LAURAWebsite: BraveHealer.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thelauradifranco/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bravehealerproductions2444Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bravehealerbylauraInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravehealerproductions/Purpose Has a Face, a Poem by Laura Di Franco: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fo09sioAz9g&ab_channel=PositivelyPurposefulPoetryLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: CHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Laura Di Franco01:02 - Introduction & Bio02:54 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?04:21 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?05:36 - Laura's original pull to writing.08:58 - Laura's reflection back on her journals from her youth.10:19 - Laura speaking on The Worthiness Game.15:47 - Laura's entry into the publishing world.22:11 - John speaking on the therapeutic effects of writing and working with Laura.25:26 - Laura on community building.28:29 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?31:22 - What do you consider your super power?36:20 - What does leadership mean to you?41:52 - The perfect timing of writing this book now.45:21 - The process of setting up the book.47:24 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?00:00 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?51:20 - What's next for your writing?55:07 - Laura's process of detachment.01:00:23 - What book has inspired you?01:04:51 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 139: David Fradin & his book, Letters From My HymieABOUT DAVIDDavid Fradin was born and raised in Detroit during the automotive go go years of the 1950s and 60s. Later he pioneered the field of environmental mediation and joined Hewlett Packard to help site new facilities after running a successful campaign for Governor Al Quie and John Connally's Minnesota presidential campaign. While at HP he was classically trained as an HP Product Manager during the 50 years that HP grew 20% a year. He was recruited by Apple to bring the first hard disk drive on a PC to market and later became the Apple 3 Business Unit Manager at the same level as Steve Jobs by heading the Apple 3 product line and providing the profits which helped fund the development of the Macintosh. He is the author of "Building Insanely Great Products," "Organizing and Managing Insanely Great Products," and the Wiley published "Successful Product Design and Management" all available now on Amazon plus Letters from My Hymie. He has trained companies such as Cisco on product success worldwide. His mission is to help products succeed. He is a commercial pilot, flight instructor and advanced ground instructor in addition to a certified SCCA race driver and white water rafting guide. Overall, since 1969 he has worked on over 75 products and services, at 25 small, medium and large organizations and eleven startups covering hardware, software, services, internet, SaaS, mobile, advertising, online training, video and for non-profit public policy associations and political campaigns.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The engineer's mind.• The power of mediation vs. litigation, and the need to advocate for oneself.• The shift from product strategy to political strategy.• When companies indoctrinate their values.• Working with Steve Jobs.• The need for authority commensurate with responsibility.• Understanding the customer.• When corporations intentionally try to undermine their values.• A memo is not enough.• Having a North Star.• What is lost by fearing rejection.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with David is, What (or who) is it that informs the non-negotiable values you hold and use to navigate your life, work, and career?FIND DAVIDWebsite: www.davidfradin.comLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidfradinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.fradin/LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: CHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – David Fradin00:16 - Introduction & Bio03:03 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?03:36 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?29:11 - Values across different organizations.34:05 - How values are best ingrained and sustained in organizations.36:22 - How David was drawn toward science.38:36 - David's evolution across different fields, roles, and specializations.42:07 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?44:51 - What do you consider your super power?45:14 - How David ended up in politics.50:04 - What does leadership mean to you?51:19 - David's thoughts on the Great Resignation and what it demonstrated about personal vs. corporate values.54:52 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?01:06:33 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book? (Plans for David's final book)01:12:29 - What book has inspired you?01:13:23 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from theseconversations.Learn more about The Book Leads andlisten to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 138: Rick DellaRatta & Paving the Path for Peace through Music: The Amazing story of Rick DellaRatta and Jazz for PeaceABOUT RICKLong known as one of the world's finest Jazz Pianists, Rick DellaRatta also began to receive major recognition as a composer when his symphonic piece “Permutata” was recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra at the Beatles famed Abbey Rd. Studios in 1999. He was also recognized as a unique and important vocalist in 2004 when he was included in a definitive listing of the greatest jazz singers of all time in Scott Yanow's Book “Jazz Singers”. Through his lifelong endeavor to help advance people to their highest potential through the understanding of Jazz as well as spreading peace worldwide through his "Jazz for Peace World Tour", Rick is considered to be an innovator and a visionary, a designation that became known by many when he was included by The Foundation Center in their list of the top musician philanthropists of our time along with Bono (U2), Elton John, Peter Gabriel and Sting.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The 25-year interval of appreciation for someone's work.• The power of raising your consciousness.• We're not using music to solve any of our problems.• The power of mentors at difference stages of life.• "Damn, I don't know if I want to leave this."• The spiritual journey of the artist.• "...we've got to get out of 3D into 4D and into 5D."• "He has artistically outgrown anything that the superficial world could offer him."• Legacy: Live it now vs. leaving it for later.• We are funding anything but peace at 100%.• Using arts and culture to solve conflict.• Fundraising tips - a trickle up economy for philanthropy. mean,• The power of un-gaslighting (of the self).The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Rick is, What is it you're capable of that allows you to reach a higher consciousness, one capable of helping others?FIND RICKWebsite: https://jazzforpeace.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-dellaratta-08199818/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JazzforPeaceGrant/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jazzmgmtLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-dellaratta-08199818/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzDNcDwDyGlYM4ZrajSOODQLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-138-rick-dellaratta-paving-path-peace-through-john-m--yz9pf/?trackingId=4nQhocU5Tj6QxvbufCYhKw%3D%3DCHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Rick DellaRatta01:07 - Introduction & Bio02:35 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?14:57 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?29:13 - When the piano entered Rick's life.51:36 - Music as a product of tragedy in an artist's life.01:10:00 - Rick's experience on 9/11, living near the twin towers / The beginning of Jazz for Peace.01:24:53 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?01:28:38 - What do you consider your super power?01:29:54 - What do you say to somebody who doesn't feel they have anything creative to tap into? That01:32:18 - What does leadership mean to you?01:34:04 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?01:38:26 - A breakdown of the chapters in the book.02:16:51 - What's changed in you as a result of this book being out?00:00 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?02:20:11 - What other books would you recommend?02:22:26 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 137: Sara Mueller & Her Book, The Balanced Life Blueprint: Revive Your Marriage, Parent With Presence, and Create Feel-Good Success at Work + HomeABOUT SARASara is Harvard-trained emotional intelligence expert, international award-winning success coach, and the best-selling author of The Balanced Life Blueprint. As the CEO of Joy Discovered, she helps managers become leaders of engaged teams that deliver remarkable service and supports high. In her earlier career, she developed service training programs for Fortune Global 500 executives and taught mindfulness to clients like the NFL Combine and behavioral health centers. She's committed to creating a world where people live and lead with connection, courage, and authenticity.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• Taking a stand against mediocrity.• The magic of the everyday.• From Minnesota farm town to cultural immersion in Brazil.• Sara's own deep place of burnout.• The value of rock-bottom moments.• Managing oneself.• Feeling a pull to do more.• What balance doesn't look like.• The value of "teeny-tiny" goals.• What can we find 10 minutes for -- that we really want to do?• "I had to realize where I was trying to be a perfectionist versus putting the best work out there and letting it speak for itself for that point in my life."• The lessons of strength in yoga.• The real definition of balance.• The Bogus Beliefs in life.• Neuroscience and permeating patterns in our brains.• How we can call out our own bullshit.• How do I show up for ______________ ?• Living in joy and modeling it for our children.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sara is, How do you avoid mediocrity by not falling prey to your subconscious programming, choosing instead to live life consciously and intentionally? Are you creating the life of your dreams?FIND SARA• Website: www.joydiscovered.com• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saramueller8/• Free Audio Book: www.bookforbalance.com/audio LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-137-sara-mueller-her-book-balanced-life-your-john-m--w85ne/CHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Sara Mueller01:03 - Introduction & Bio02:27 - Where Sara's meaning of mediocrity comes from.04:29 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?06:11 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?12:31 - Where Sara's focus on emotional intelligence comes from.15:51 - Sara's process of balancing family, book-writing, and business-building.18:47- More on mediocrity.21:18 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?23:37 - Sara on life balance.33:07- Sara's process for recentering herself.40:41 - What do you consider your super power?41:56 - What does leadership mean to you?44:09 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?49:34 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?01:02:49 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:05:22 - What book has inspired you?01:06:56 - What's next for your writing?01:08:24 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from theseconversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:· Watch on YouTube· Listen on Spotify· Listen on Apple Podcasts· Read About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter LastWeek's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 136: Tyler Snure & His Book, The Jewels of FateABOUT TYLERTyler writes fantasy novels that get kids and teens back into reading. He established Snure Stories and published his first novel, The Jewels of Fate, in 2019 when he was a senior high school student. The Sword of Sorenth is the second book in his fiction, fantasy, adventure trilogy and was released in 2022. It quickly reached #8 on Amazon's bestseller list for its category. He has presented at conferences, online summits, schools, libraries, boards of education and been featured on multiple podcasts. He frequently talks about the importance of reading and starting a business as a young entrepreneur.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The power of what can build off a prompt.• Taking the right steps for one's own creative freedom.• The power of planning and tactics -- in writing but applicable to other art forms and work.• How to break free of creative blocks.• The drawback to perfectionism.• The power of detachment.• How to look at feedback.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Tyler is, How do you spark, build upon, empower, and diversify your THING, whatever it may be?FIND TYLERWebsite: https://www.snurestories.comInstagram: @snure_storiesFacebook: @snurestoriesTwitter: @snurestoriesTyler's Free Offer - Reader Jumpstart Session (20 Minute): https://calendly.com/snurestories/reading-jumpstart-callLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-136-tyler-snure-his-book-jewels-fate-jaramillo-mba-msop-aaipe/CHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast00:59 - Introduction & Bio - Tyler Snure02:52- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?03:55 - Tylers work with Reluctant Readers04:46 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?05:41 - How Tyler's first novel came to be?06:59 - Tyler's creative family influence11:44 - The work after publishing his first book.16:20 - The lead-up to his second book.21:26 - Dealing with writer's block.24:25 - The power of detachment.26:27 - What is your super power?28:19 - What does leadership mean to you?30:15 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?32:02 - Building that first novel.34:16 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?38:05 - What book has inspired you?40:12 - Launching his company.41:59 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)43:16 - Tyler's entry into screenplays.This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from theseconversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 135: Connor DeLaney & Endless Customers: A Proven SystemTo Build Trust, Drive Sales, and Become The Market Leader by Marcus SheridanABOUT CONNORAn innovator at heart, Connor is always bringing new ideas to the table and challenging the norm to find better solutions for both the teams and communities he is a part of. If you ask him, he combines his passions for education and marketing to empower others to meet their business and revenue goals and loves building unforgettable experiences through ground-breaking industry events and engaged, passionate communities. In his free time, you will find Connor watching the Yankees game, reading a new book, or out on a hiking trail on his next adventure!CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• Understanding what IMPACT does.• Buyers, trust, and education.• The ever-evolving relationship of customers to business.• The role of AI in sales.• ",...we're in the business of, which is more frankly, in the business of trust and education in, in giving buyers more control of the buying experience than we ever have before."• "...the ones that do the best work are the ones that say, look, I'm not just here to get a paycheck. I'm here to help someone become successful."• The problem with keeping score.• The power, thinking, and ideas behind good feedback.• "I'm someone who people trust."• The need for difficult conversations.• What "balancing" life and work might really look like?• The Four Pillars of a known and trusted brand.• How Endless Customers can be applied to leadership.• Overcomplicating what works.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Connor is, How are you taking the time to intentionally understand what you offer others, to then allow them to find you and trust you?FIND CONNORLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-delaney/Website: impactplus.com/team/connor-delaneyIMPACT LIVE EVENT - Hartford, CT: https://www.impactplus.com/impact-live/2025/hartfordLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-135-connor-delaney-endless-customers-proven-john-m--f8f9e/?trackingId=jaKpxiRlQgW1NmjHfPAkLw%3D%3DCHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Connor DeLaney01:04 - Introduction & Bio04:17 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?08:23 - The evolution of AI since my last conversation with Connor.13:36 - Why customer trust is so low.19:25 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?23:49 - Where Connor's values for his customers come from.26:56 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?29:55 - What is your super power?33:29 - Connor's approach to feedback.38:45 - What does leadership mean to you?47:46 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?49:28 - A breakdown of the 4 Pillars of a known and trusted brand.57:03 - Takeaways from the book for leadership development59:11 - Connor's contribution to the book.1:00:55 - Book recommendations by Connor01:05:12 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 134: Debra Buhring Llapaj (pen name: Sophia Elan) & Her Book, Sicilian Seductions, a Mediterranean Love AffairABOUT SOPHIASophia is a former corporate lawyer turned wellness advocate and multi-genre author, is on a mission to inspire and empower others to live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. After conquering complex PTSD, she centered her life around passion, purpose, and pleasure. A passionate advocate of self-care and Mediterranean living, she shares her insights and journey through her writing and Mediterranean Me lifestyle brand. Sophia has authored over a dozen books, including an uplifting memoir, a holistic wellness “KISS” (keep it simple, sweetheart) collection, and a multi-part Mediterranean-based Happily Ever Now series, inspired by her life. She is a HeartMath® Certified Coach and is creating a non-profit, GiGi's Angels, to raise awareness for mental health and cardiovascular health. Most recently from Napa, California, Sophia, a frequent contributor to International Living, has lived throughout the Mediterranean for the last two decades. She encourages us all to embrace life with a curious spirit and an open heart.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The meaning of KISS.• Examples of the ravages of chronic stress.• Writing to undo repression.• "Happiness loves company."• "...enhance your holistic wealth."• "Hugs not drugs."• The cyclical patterns of relationships we live.• The programming we endure in childhood.• "...until you get to that point where you're helping somebody manage their bodies, their emotions, their minds, and not just pumping them with information, you're just creating little soldiers to send out into the world."• "I think we tend to complicate things by trying to oversimplify things."• "...that my husband trying to kill me is what actually catapulted me to truly living an authentic life."• "Don't blame the clowns for being clowns. Ask why you keep going to the circus."• Living a life like Pinocchio.• "...our brains are wired to where we like the familiar, even if it's familiar misery, familiar hell."• Better vs. Bitter.• Nature as Vitamin N.• The power of community.• Embrace the magic that happens with uncertainty.• LonelinessThe MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sophia is, Where do you feel at home so that you can be truly and authentically yourself?FIND SOPHIAWebsite: www.mediterraneanme.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mediterraneanmeInstagram: https://www.Instagram.com/mediterraneanme52Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewellnessangelLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-134-debra-buhring-llapaj-her-book-sicilian-john-m--prxge/?trackingId=6MQcg4T5ThqapjXrjpXVLw%3D%3DCHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Sophia Elan00:59- Introduction & Bio02:09 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?22:10- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?26:17 - The story of Sophia's PTSD.28:03 - The power of trauma in someone's story.52:36 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?55:49 - What is your super power?58:47 - What does leadership mean to you?59:28 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?01:00:59 - Sophia's love for the Mediterranean and Türkiye01:15:05 - What lessons do you hope readers take away from your novel?01:20:05 - What book has inspired you?01:23:24- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's LeadershipLessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 133: Laura Darrell & Her Book, The Great Resignation: How Coaching and Appreciative Leadership Can Help You Win the War for TalentABOUT LAURALaura Darrell is a top-selling leadership author and guest speaker passionate about franchisee/franchisor success, organizational health, and leadership development. She has twenty-five years of people, team, and departmental leadership experience with some of Canada and the world's most iconic brands. She holds a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership from Royal Roads University with thesis research focused on how enhanced collaboration between multidisciplinary key stakeholders can lead to better business outcomes for both.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The parallels between organizations and communities.• Damaged trust -- especially if left unchecked.• The role of adaptive leadership.• The role of fear in division.• The lessons used in and taken from backpacking through Europe.• The immigrant mindset and mentality.• The power and effect of negative leadership.• How do you awaken someone to who they can be based on who they are?• The risks of not acknowledging employee and worker needs.• "Don't compare, don't complain, and don't criticize."• The lessons we continue to learn after the passing of our parents.• The perception of Mexico vs. the reality.• The new place of play.• "You don't need anybody to give you permission to do anything."• A breakdown of the Top 5 Problems organization encounter.• Awareness of a plan vs. working to change it.• The four o'clock leadership test.• The ripple effect of leadership toxicity.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Laura is, What are you REALLY creating for those you lead?FIND LAURALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauravik/Book Website: thegreatresignationtoolkit.comWebsite: www.lauradarrellleadership.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083941399388LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-133-laura-darrell-her-book-great-resignation-john-m--ztvte/?trackingId=NQNZQu0dSiStI9j19WbeyQ%3D%3DCHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Laura Darrell00:54 - Introduction & Bio03:05 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?16:09 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?28:12 - The source of Laura's appreciation of other cultures.33:15 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?44:06 - What do you consider your super power?54:23 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?58:43 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?01:02:06 - The 5 Major things companies need to take into consideration when it comes to their employees.01:04:21 - How companies seem to be doing now since The Great Resignation during COVID-19.01:10:04 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:14:33 - How leadership impacts employees outside of work.01:17:47 - What book has inspired you?01:19:50 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's LeadershipLessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 132: Dr. Bridget Cooper & Her Book, The Book: How To Navigate Clocksuckers and Live a Happy Abundant Life ABOUT BRIDGETDr. B a cage rattler who helps teams and leaders think and communicate more clearly and strategically so they can work and navigate problems proactively and effectively. She works with clients to overcome the attitudes, tactics, and patterns that derail their success through coaching, corporate consulting, and leading workshops that guide and inspire people to live more authentic, peaceful, and powerful lives. TEDx speaker and best-selling author of seven books on communication, conflict, change, and empowerment (including the 2023 toolkit, “Unflappable”), her mission is to change the world, one life at a time. Dr. B volunteers for Junior Achievement, Lasagna Love, The Miss America Organization, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, and various other charities near and dear to her heart.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• Problem solver vs. problem identifier.• People getting stuck in the wrong stories.• Why B calls herself Goldilocks.• "I didn't allow the amount of the fear to stop me from recreating myself."• The 3 questions to work toward answering at the end of life to live the best life today.• "...watching my parents suffer to exist..."• The laboratory of life.• The power of micro-moments.• "I think in some ways it has challenged me to become a better version of myself in a lot of ways."• Being a duck on a pond.• "Awareness equals choice and choice equals power."• The power of the Otter.• Right here, right now.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Bridget is, How are you regularly reviewing the contracts you have in life and work, making sure they still work with who you are, your energy, and what you want? FIND BRIDGETWebsite: www.drbridgetcooper.comEmail: bridget@drbridgetcooper.comAmazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Bridget-Cooper/author/B00LXT7R26?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueYouTube - TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtsAuqu-TxI&ab_channel=TEDxTalksInstagram: @drbridgetcooperFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrBridgetCooper/ & https://www.facebook.com/bridget.cannoncooperLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-132-dr-bridget-cooper-her-book-how-navigate-john-m--dy82e/?trackingId=Hp7CzJFiTl2oy3wXkWQcIQ%3D%3DCHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Dr. Bridget Cooper00:60 - Introduction & Bio03:02- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?05:45 - The evolution of things since COVID.08:23 - How B has changed over the course of our conversations.13:03 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? (Including the "3 Questions")19:01 - How B came up with the 3 Questions.24:25 - B recaps her car accident and how it's changed her life.35:28 - The driving force between B's study of psychiatry.39:54 - What do you consider your super power?41:05 - What does leadership mean to you?43:49 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?49:53 - B's daughter's reasoning in suggesting the book title and topic.52:15 - Exercise examples from B's books.55:01 - Example of the many people from B's daughters life who contributed messages to The Book.01:01:52 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:08:17 - What do you hope people take away from The Book?01:11:37 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 131: Judi Neal & Her Books, (1) Edgewalkers: People and Organizations That Take Risks, Build Bridges, and Break New Ground; and (2) Creating Enlightened Organizations: Four Gateways to Spirit at WorkABOUT JUDIJudi Neal is an author, scholar, and consultant. Her focus is workplace spirituality and on personal and organizational transformation. After receiving her Ph.D. from Yale University, she served as an internal consultant to Honeywell. Judi taught management at the University of New Haven and then became the director of the Tyson Center for Faith and Spirituality in the Workplace at the University of Arkansas. Author of ten books on workplace spirituality and transformation, she is the President of Edgewalkers International and Executive Director of the Global Consciousness Institute.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The value of spirituality.• Spirituality's two primary directions -- vertical connection and horizontal connection.• The 5 Archetypes of Change• Walking and building bridges between worlds.• The power of trauma and disruption to trigger one's edgewalking.• "I can't be tamed."• What turns an organization into a dinosaur.• How leaders can own their edgewalkerness.• Rigor Mortis of life.• What music and accounting have in common.• The trauma of being a whistleblower.• Spiritual DNA• The power of music in Judi moving beyond her painful shyness and agoraphobia.• "It's like they spoke me into more fullness of who I am."• We need models in courage and curiosity.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Judi is, How are you walking the edge between what it is that you have and what it is you want? What are the worlds you walk between and can bridge for others?FIND JUDIEdgewalkers Website: www.edgewalkers.orgGlobal Consciousness Institute Website: https://www.gci.earth/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judi-neal-99a1027/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judinealLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-131-judi-neal-her-books-1-edgewalkers-2-jaramillo-mba-msop-ftmje/?trackingId=yhwrSKZtRc61grVzoAPRrA%3D%3DCHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Eric Hamilton00:54 - Introduction & Bio03:43 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?06:27 - How Judi defines spirituality.12:16 - The meaning of "Edgewalker."17:16 - Where does someone's ability to edgewalk come from?29:37 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?38:22 - How Judi's ideas on spirituality and edgewalking developed.49:09 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?51:50 - How Judi shifted beyond her painful shyness and agoraphobia?58:57 - What do you consider your super power?01:07:05 - What does leadership mean to you?01:07:58 - Judi breaks down Edgewalkers: People and Organizations That Take Risks, Build Bridges, and Break New Ground. 01:15:09 - Judi breaks down Creating Enlightened Organizations: Four Gateways to Spirit at Work01:19:08 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book? (The 5 Archetypes of Change)01:25:52 - What's next for your writing?01:30:07 - What book has inspired you?01:31:56 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 130: Refugio A. Atilano & His Book, The Latino Leadership Playbook: A Toolkit of Insight to Accelerate Your Impact in the WorkplaceABOUT REFRef Atilano is 2nd-gen Mexican and native Chicagoan. He's a first-generation graduate and business leader with vast experience working in many corporate environments for Fortune 500 companies. He is a senior business leader for the world's third largest global pharmaceutical company and is currently the Director, Cultural Competency, where he helps connect with under-served communities. Ref's passion is advancing the leadership representation of the Latino community. He is the Global Chair of the award winning AHORA Latino ERG, is a DEI Champion, Author of The Latino Leadership Playbook, and creator of the top-tier Latino-centric development program, The Latino Leadership Club. Ref is an influencer for the Latino professional community and uses his network to help drive the collective leadership development of the Latino everywhere.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTSHow tearing his Achilles heel lead to now.Diversifying your presence and value across your organization.How we (Latinos) operate is part of our culture.Undoing "Yes" person programming.Generational changes in parenting."If they can get by me, they can get by anybody."What it is that makes business a magical place to be.Working hard vs. working smart.You as the project manager of your development.Bringing emotion into professional writing.The power of Jackie Robinson and the number 42.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Refugio is, Who is the person who pointed out to you how much further you can go? Who are you that person for?FIND REF• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/refugio-a-atilano-00837912/LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-130-refugio-atilano-his-book-latino-playbook-john-m--xq7xe/?trackingId=3Il9xUPmQ1ujFCTuY9tBSw%3D%3DCHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Refugio Atilano00:50- Introduction & Bio02:40- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?04:23- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?08:46- Where Ref picked up his communication and collaboration skills.15:40- How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?17:28- What do you consider your super power?18:26 - What does leadership mean to you?19:53 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?23:18 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?26:56 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?32:52 - The power of people being made aware of the power they hold.37:19 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?39:53 - The power or writing.47:33 - What's next for your writing?53:53 - What book has inspired you?55:12 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 129: Jennifer Wilson & Her Book The Heart of Homestay: Creating Meaningful Connections When Hosting International StudentsABOUT JENNIFERJennifer Wilson is an author, certified leadership coach, and business consultant. After a 17-year career with her family's business, The Canada Homestay Network (CHN), she now chairs their Board of Directors. At CHN, Jennifer worked in HR, Technology and leadership roles, and served as CEO for 12 years. Prior to CHN, she practiced as a Registered Midwife in Manitoba and British Columbia. Jennifer is a certified Kolbe Consultant and is trained in crisis intervention and compassion fatigue. She holds an MBA in leadership and an MFA in creative nonfiction. Her book, The Heart of Homestay: Creating Meaningful Connections When Hosting International Students is an essential resource for any host family—both new and experienced—complete with practical tools and expert advice.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• How families who host international students are leaders.• Jennifer as sailing instructor, midwife, CEO.• Experiencing burnout as a leader.• Coaching in the role of CEO• The power of teaching, instruction, and guidance in leadership.• How we evolve as leaders.• The impact of COVID-19 on Jennifer's leadership• The divisive topic that is servant leadership.• Plotters vs. PantsersThe MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Jennifer is, How are you continuing to learn and evolve in order to meet the moment when it's required?FIND JENNIFER• Website: www.jenniferrobinwilson.com• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferrobinwilson• Facebook: https://facebook.com/JenniferRobinWilson• IG: https://instagram.com/JenniferRobinWilsonLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-129-jennifer-wilson-her-book-heart-homestay-john-m--5ih3e/?trackingId=O6bzJ8VMT1e9AEDN%2B%2BbIEA%3D%3DCHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Lead - Jennifer Wilson00:51 - Introduction & Bio01:47 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?06:47 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?10:30- What the business of homestay is and looks like.13:02- Jennifer's own evolution as a leader and what lead her to coaching.17:31- How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?19:48 - Where Jennifer's desire to help others -- in teach, leading, coaching, and writing -- comes from.21:37 - What is your super power?22:52 - What does leadership mean to you?26:01 - Jennifer's evolving take on leadership.29:45 - The divisiveness found surrounding servant leadership.33:42 - Jennifer's leadership evolution during COVID-19.36:11 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?38:10 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?51:13 - Takeaways for the reader.54:15 - What book has inspired you?56:05- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:My Masterclass In Humanity: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7150200326447382528/ YouTube Page: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZeSpotify: https://lnkd.in/etCRYycApple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/dxRSTXZXThe Book Leads - Blog Post: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ckFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 128: Jeanne Omlor - 7 figure Coach for Coaches and Consultants & Antifragile: Things That Gain From Disorder by Nassim Nicholas Taleb"I'm mission driven so I just really emotionally connected to helping people to thrive and that's one of my larger massive transformative purposes on this earth..."ABOUT JEANNEJeanne Omlor is a Business Strategist, multi 7-Figure Online Business Coach, and Certified Servant Leadership Executive Coach. At 54 years old she was a solo parent in deep debt and got herself online and to $1M in 17 months, without ads, and has since scaled to multi-millions in 5 years. Her company has helped almost 500 businesses to thrive online. She is emotionally connected to helping others prosper, as she lived in lack for years and overcame that mindset. She is now helping as many people as she can to maximize profits and reach their full potential while being the visionary they're destined to be.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• When business owners lose heart.• Eliminating the word "try" from your vocabulary and mentality.• The power of real partnership in coaching and business.• Business-client communication is a two-way street.• "...everything that we go through, we're either going to develop from it, or we're going to get bitter from it, or we're going to get stuck in a pattern from it, or we're going to grow from it."• Life as an adventure.• The romanticism of a frugal, artistic life.• The primary intelligence of human beings -- adaptation.• Actors and Psychology.• "And I thought, I'm just going to do this. I'm not going to give up. I'm not going to say this is hard. It's the only way forward now. And I knew that it was a gift. I know an opportunity when I see it."• The "No flies on me" idiom.• "I'm kind of bossy."• The value of messy action.• "Getting your ducks in a row is the worst thing you could possibly do ever."• The experimentation and the "series of tests" that is business -- and life, for that matter.• "Why would I want to be in your movie?"• As it pertains to anti-fragility, the value in being triggered.• The danger in using the word "trauma" in the wrong way.• "There's no such thing as a comfort zone." -- paralysis by lack of analysis.• The power of religion to shape who we are.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Jeanne is, How are you taking what has challenged you the most and made yourself better?FIND JEANNEWebsite: https://jeanneomlor.com/reviews/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanneomlorFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanneomlor/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-wealth-impact/id1723749967LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-128-jeanne-omlor-antifragile-things-gain-from-john-m--4bjze/?trackingId=xmeL6E3URDuyEpKe0ehU3Q%3D%3DCHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Jeanne Omlor00:56 - Introduction & Bio01:44 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?03:29 - How Jeanne developed her business philosophy for serving the client.11:07 - The power of Unreasonable Hospitality19:50 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?32:51 - Jeanne on her creative and artistic nature.40:14 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?44:30 - What do you consider your super power?54:56 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?59:52 - The need for anti-fragility in society today.01:12:11 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 127: Mimi Gonzalez & The Creative Act: A Way Of Being by Rick Rubin ABOUT MIMIMimi Gonzalez is the founder and podcast host of griefsense, a platform and community exploring grief, mental health, and social impact. She's a LinkedIn creator, speaker, and community builder based in Hartford, CT, passionate about storytelling that centers community care, identity, and rewriting the narrative for future generations.Mimi created griefsense after losing 36 loved ones, building the spaces she wished existed. In addition to podcasting, she supports first-generation college students and partners with brands and workplaces on responsible marketing, mental health and well-being, and Gen Z inclusion.She's regularly invited to speak to organizations on building inclusive, supportive cultures.Mimi is a 3x alum of the University of Hartford and serves on the Board of Hillyer College. Her work has been featured in NOW THIS, Success Magazine, SHRM, The Atlantic, LinkedIn News and more.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS"...we are all humans having a human experience. Like for us to only talk about one dimension of our lives when we are multidimensional beings, I mean, it's just myopic..."Being radically present.The State of Flow.Making your own rules means breaking someone else's.Organizational Psychology - a catalyst for doing it all.The impact of Scott Haney.Channeling pain into being radically happy, present, and creating.Having to be a parent for yourself.The power of side quests.Being a Manifesting Generator.The power of creator hindsight."We live on a floating rock in space!"The power of detachment.The magic in being sensitive.Being a recovering people-pleaser.The power of your breakout rooms, workshops, and keynotes.How can you tune into your inner frequency?The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Mimi is, Are you living the life you want, or wasting it? Do you know what it is you really want (and need) to do deep down inside, or are you still playing by someone else's rules? FIND MIMIWebsite: https://mimigonzalez.komi.ioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mimi-gonzalez/beehiiv: https://griefsense.beehiiv.com/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: VIDEO CHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast - Mimi Gonzalez 00:45- Introduction & Bio06:05- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?11:51- Mimi and the feeling of Flow22:26 - Mimi on her podcast, griefsense 25:20 - Mimi on self-care after so much loss26:57 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?31:57 - What do you consider your super power?34:45 - Mimi's discoveries through Human Design36:37 - Mimi's definition of griefsense45:36 - The power of detachment48:52 - What does leadership mean to you?49:41 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?52:42- Can you provide a general overview of the book? / A breakdown of the chapters in the book.01:20:06 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 126: Camille Malicdem & Her Book, This is What Doubt Looks LikeABOUT CAMILLECamille is a Communication Arts graduate with love for music and movies. She attended De La Salle University-Manila where her hobby for writing grew. Later, she joined public relations as an Account Manager for Ogilvy PR, supporting major brands like SONY and Facebook. Today, Camille keeps up with two daughters and a husband in the US Army. In her spare time, she enjoys being alone, reading in the bookstore, and sharing her silly but inspiring stories over and over. Camille was born and raised in California.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The need to regularly find something you love.• Parenting and cross-generation comparisons.• Where does the shouting of what's taking place inside of you happen?• How parenting can be an experience that's both a blessing and where you can lose who you are.• Being down with doubt but standing back up.• Bonding over our stories no matter how different they may be.• "If you live by the cheers, you will die by the boos."• Finding the balance of showing who we are while taming ourselves.• What helps you gain perspective on and let go of old fears.•Doing the work and earning your leadership.• How our work today can inform and guide our children in the future.• "...It doesn't make sense you keep calling yourself an amateur."• Hope, humility, humanity.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Camille is, How do you experience but not wallow in doubt?FIND CAMILLE• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camille-malicdem-9a480b14a/• Twitter: camillebwrites or https://x.com/camillebwrites?s=21• My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camille-malicdem-9a480b14a/• Book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/49enrhR• Book on Barnes and Noble Online: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/this-is-what-doubt-looks-like-camille-barrios/1143600232LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-125-camille-malicdem-her-book-what-doubt-like-john-m--7dk5e/?trackingId=p18R%2FDEuHjhxSMgv7yBBtQ%3D%3DCHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Camille Barrios01:04- Introduction & Bio03:56- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?16:38- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?43:32- How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?49:30- Camille on Journaling53:02- What do you consider your super power?56:52- What does leadership mean to you?01:05:43- Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?01:16:51- Can you provide a general overview of the book?01:21:11- What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:22:52- What Camille hopes people take away from her book?01:27:00 - What's next for your writing?01:35:35- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:• Watch on YouTube• Listen on Spotify• Listen on Apple Podcasts• Read About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 125: Sheryl Green & Her Book, You Had Me At No: How Setting Healthy Boundaries Helps Banish Burnout, Repair Relationships, and Save Your SanityABOUT SHERYLSheryl Green has taken “people-pleasing” to Olympic levels. For decades, she put everyone else's needs above her own… until she hit a metaphorical brick wall. After committing to one too many responsibilities, Sheryl discovered the importance of boundaries… okay, she actually discovered that boundaries were even “a thing.” Now, she is the “How to Say No” Expert, working with individuals and organizations to establish healthy boundaries to improve relationships, communication, and well-being. Sheryl has a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology and is the author of seven books, including, “You Had Me at ‘No': How Setting Healthy Boundaries Helps Banish Burnout, Repair Relationships, and Save Your Sanity.” Learn more at www.SherylGreenSpeaks.com.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• "When we do get better at setting our own boundaries and we do create healthy boundaries in our lives, we actually empower those around us to do it as well. And we're better at accepting other people's boundaries."• The power and fear of thoughts - "Oh my God, I have three hours stuck with my own thoughts."• The record that plays in the background of our life.• Feeling Icky.• What you get to do differently.• A happy-go-lucky goth?• The pilgrimage to make as an ultimate animal lover.• How others benefit from your story of resilience.• "I don't ever want anybody to be facing oncoming headlights."• A perfect upbringing for schizophrenia?• "...the funniest people out there are the ones that have gone through some dark shit."• The power of protective mechanisms.• The source of empathy in others.• "'No!' is not a complete sentence."• The word used to be "priority" (singular).The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sheryl is, How are you taking care of yourself and setting boundaries before it's too late for you, your peace of mind, and health?FIND SHERYL• Website: http://www.sherylgreenspeaks.com/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherylgreen/• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/youhadmeatno• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherylgreenspeaks/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sherylgreenspeaksLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: CHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Sheryl Green 00:50 - Introduction & Bio01:39 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?02:53 - Sheryl's thoughts on men's need for boundaries.09:12 - Sheryl talks about her coaching work.16:41 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?26:07 - Sheryl on why she was drawn to forensic psychology.32:54 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?35:54 - Sheryl on an appreciation for her traumatic experiences to date.39:32 - Sense of humor as a coping mechanism.46:03 - What do you consider your super power?50:47 - What does leadership mean to you?51:55 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?58:10 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?01:00:36 - A breakdown of the chapters in the book.01:03:07 - Sheryl's take on the idea that "The word 'No' is not a full sentence."01:10:03 - More on the chapters in the book.01:12:21 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:15:14 - What's next for your writing?01:16:44 - What book has inspired you?01:18:09 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from theseconversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostSubscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons.

Episode 124: Steve Selengut & His Book, Retirement Money Secrets: A Financial Insider's Guide to Income IndependenceABOUT STEVESteve Selengut is the #1 Amazon bestselling author of Retirement Money Secrets (2023). He is an income independence coach with over 40 years of experience in the financial industry. As a retired private investment portfolio manager, Steve managed over 300 different portfolios at a time before selling his business in 2023 with over $110 million under management. He has introduced several proprietary concepts, including the QDI + PT, Smart Cash, The Investor's Creed, and Base Income. Further, he developed the Investment Grade Value Stock (IGVSI) identification system. Today, Steve coaches individuals and other professionals in creating retirement income independence for both themselves and their clients.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTSShifting from doing the work to coaching others on the work.The work you serving as a philosophy. Innovating beyond the expected -- in investing, writing, or anything else.Feeling lost today doesn't mean you'll always feel that way. Where confidence comes from.Know who your accountability partner is.Are you maximizing the return as much as possible for your client or customer?What can come out of a chance meeting? (The ghostwriter story.)The six things you need to become a successful investor.When uncertainty is the only certainty.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Steve is, How consistent are you in utilizing your own methods, and sticking to your own values, regardless of what everyone else is doing?FIND STEVEWebsite: https://theincomecoach.net/The RMS Income Investing Community: RMS Income Investing CommunityLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/privateinvestmentmanagement/Private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/954938162597753Steve's Book: https://theincomecoach.net/book/LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article:CHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Steve Selengut00:52 - Introduction & Bio01:41 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?18:22 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?25:08 - Steve's path into finance.27:38 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?30:49 - Steve's experience coming out of feeling lost and finding purpose.33:26 - What do you consider your super power?35:45 - Where Steve learned the ability to keep a cool, calm head.41:33 - What does leadership mean to you?46:25 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?52:41 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?01:08:49 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:16:20 - What book has inspired you?01:20:37 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 123: Coco Sellman & A Force for Good: Empowering Women to Lead High-Impact, High-Growth EnterprisesABOUT COCOCoco Sellman believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and advisor, Coco's book, A Force for Good, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies. A Force For Good, empowers visionary women founders to amplify impact, scale, and profit in their businesses. Authored by 5X founder Coco, the book offers a roadmap that inspires societal change through women-led enterprises.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTSHow writing a book can be a healing endeavor.Wanting a different life for yourself than the rest of your community.Seeking out your people, tribe, and place in the world.The connection between science and business.The "should do" thing.Making money vs. purpose and making the world better.The appeal of working with founders."This doesn't have enough purpose for me."Wanting to play the game of business while doing good.What Coco says for the first time here.What it is that has a multiplying positive effect."...work of self-trust has been my life's work."Imposter Syndrome."...when I'm anchored by my own clarity, my own wisdom, then I know what to dowith all the information in the world."How inequity happens.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Coco is, How are youunapologetically working in your purpose?FIND COCOLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cocosellman/LinkedIn Business:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-force-for-good-businessTwitter: https://twitter.com/ForceForGoodBizFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AForceForGoodBusiness/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aforceforgoodbiz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyEBYzf332YRsivx-HntmxwSubstack: https://cocosellman.substack.com/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=substack_profileLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-123-coco-sellman-force-good-empowering-women-john-m--emgxf/?trackingId=NzqTZSDlQ0eOjhuQHo1UiQ%3D%3DCHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Coco Sellman00:58 - Introduction & Bio03:43 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?07:37 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?14:53 - Coco's switch from scient to business.28:57 - The power of purpose in Coco's life and work.33:31 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?43:14 - What is your super power?46:41 - What does leadership mean to you?48:20 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?55:31 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:04:29 - Why the book was written for women.01:09:28 - What's next for your writing?01:12:53 - What book has inspired you?01:24:48 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 122: Janet Polach, Ph.D & Her Book, The Strategic Leader's Mindset: Unlocking the Keys to SuccessABOUT JANETJanet is a global authority in executive coaching, team development, and leadership. With her unique ability to elevate leaders from the minutiae to drive unparalleled organizational success, she serves as a trusted strategist and advisor to senior executives worldwide. Janet has expertly coached an array ofexecutive and frontline leaders across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Her expertise in guiding diverse, cross-geography teams to uncover their core purpose and align for success is unparalleled. Janet is celebrated for her insightful questioning, keen ability to synthesize information, and her respect for the power of silence in reflection. Her rich experience is further complemented by her distinguished service as a retired U.S. Marine Corps officer. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTSWhat the diversity of thought and knowledge in the Marine Corps. taught Janet.The evolution of what your leadership looks like from your early to late career."...when you follow your dreams and are true to yourself I think you can getwhere you really had aspired to be"The love of creating and making.The power of the arts on understanding all areas of life.What we take away from our parents.Leadership is not just direction."...mindsets do impact the brand that you create of your leadership self.""How can I think about this differently?"Overcoming procrastination.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Janet is, How can I think about things differently than I always have?FIND JANETWebsite: www.janetpolach.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetpolachphd/Janet's Book: The Strategic Leader's Mindset LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-122-janet-polach-phd-her-book-strategic-keys-john-m--grm2e/?trackingId=YYK7bsmLTcafMAbVHlOxjA%3D%3D CHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Janet Polach00:49 - Introduction & Bio02:03 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work03:52 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?05:32 - Janet's major takeaway from serving in the Marine Corps 11:37 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 16:15 - What is your super power?18:57 - What does leadership mean to you? 20:08  - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 22:32 - Can you provide a general overview of the book? 23:58 - Janet's take on strategic thinking32:04 - Janet on how leaders can rise to meet the unexpected.37:04 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?41:23 - What do you hope readers take away from your book?42:12 - What's next for your writing?43:38 - What book has inspired you? 45:46 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 121: Faust Ruggiero & The Fix Yourself Empowerment SeriesABOUT FAUSTFaust Ruggiero is a psychologist who has been in private practice for over thirty-five years. Before entering private practice, he worked in clinics for deaf children, prisons, nursing homes, substance abuse centers, inpatient facilities, and is a consultant for major national and international corporations. He is a published research author and a professional clinical trainer. In the summer of 2016, he began to develop The Fix Yourself Empowerment Series based on the Process Life Program to help readers address difficult situations in their lives. The series currently includes:The Fix Yourself HandbookThe Fix Your Anxiety HandbookThe Fix Your Depression HandbookThe Fix Your Anger HandbookThe new The Fix Your Addiction Handbook that was just released!He is also the host of the radio show “Fix It With Faust” on the Healthy Life Network.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTSBeing born into what you do.The power of knowledge and experience diversification.Constantly looking for sparks of inspiration to keep learning.When your mind doesn't turn off.What it means to be a journey person.Destinations vs. Goals.The power of your learning machine.Why mindfulness just doesn't go deep enough.How listening is REALLY done."Wisdom has everything to do with being humble and keeping the learning process going."The power of slowing down.Time Management vs. Energy Management.The power of processes.Why life programs are important.What honesty does to you.The key to anger.What produces peace.The co-existence of faith and science.The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation withFaust is, How are you working to understand your processes and what they mean for how you feel -- and how you can get better?FIND FAUSTWebsite: www.FaustRuggiero.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaustInspire/Twitter: https://x.com/faustinspireIG: https://www.instagram.com/faustinspire/LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article:CHAPTERS00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Faust Ruggiero00:47 - Introduction & Bio02:22 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?04:00 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?06:01 - Faust's pull toward psychology and listening ability07:18 - Faust's listening ability11:14 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?14:24 - Faust on being a journeyman23:12 - Faust's take on "mindfulness"25:51 - What is your super power? 27:54 - Faust on listening in the modern world29:49 - What does leadership mean to you?33:12 - Faust on the need to educate on the power of energy36:28 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing45:09 - Faust breaks down some of the chapters in his book59:50 - What lessons have you taken away from the book01:01:56 - What's changed in you in the process of writing this book?01:03:54 - What book has inspired you?01:07:10 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)01:08:40 - Faust speaks on his faith01:10:35 - Faust on the coexistence of science and faithThis series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

My thoughts leading into Season 4.On The Book Leads podcast, I speak to specialists and experts across various industries and from varied backgrounds to learn about the book that made an impact and left an impression on their work, life, and leadership. In the course of my conversation I also learn about my guest's background, experience, and work they're carrying out today.This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTubeRead About The Book Leads – Blog Post

Episode 120: Eric Hamilton, MBA & His Book, The Sales Blueprint: What Winners Do Differently ABOUT ERIC Eric Hamilton is a dynamic sales leader, accomplished author, and the driving force behind Hamilton Sales Academy. With over two decades of experience in sales and leadership, Eric has a proven track record of transforming underperforming teams into high achievers. He is the author of the bestselling book, "The Sales Blueprint: What Winners Do Differently," which provides a comprehensive guide to achieving consistent sales success through preparation, mindset, and execution. Whether through his book, speaking engagements, or training sessions, Eric is dedicated to equipping individuals and organizations with the tools they need to excel. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Eric is a man of God. How rewarding coaching is. The power of the small investments mentors make in you. 'It's the small little things you do that separates the people that exceed to the ones that just get by." What a mirror at your desk can prompt you to do. The power of servant leadership. Success is not accidental. Mindset first. Preparation second. How are you balancing everything that's calling on you with what is calling from within you? The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Eric is, What kind of energy, foundation, and intention do you set in everything you do? FIND ERIC Website: https://www.thesalesblueprintforsuccess.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erichamiltonblueprint/ Instagram: @erichamiltonsalesblueprint LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-120-eric-hamilton-mba-his-book-sales-what-do-john-m--xjvue/?trackingId=nhseaMFkS5Wxd1lw54wLxg%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Eric Hamilton 00:55 - Introduction & Bio 02:44 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 03:47 - Where Eric's appreciation of coaching comes from. 06:42 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 11:05 - Who were the people who influenced Eric's foundation in life? 17:36 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 21:47 - What do you consider your super power? 24:09 - What does leadership mean to you? 25:35 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 28:44 - Can you provide a general overview of the book? 31:50 - What Eric had seen over his career, which prompted him to write the book. 47:12 - How did you evolve or change as a result of writing the book? 55:12 - What's next for your writing? 01:00:18 - What book has inspired you? 01:03:17 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 119: Dr. Benjamin Ritter & His Book, Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be ABOUT BENJAMIN Benjamin is the founder of LFY Consulting and author of Becoming Fearless is an international leadership and career coach, Sr. Talent Management Consultant, Top LinkedIn Voice, global speaker, and host of The Executive, and the Live Fearlessly Podcasts. He has over 12 years of experience working internally as a Talent and Leadership Development leader, and externally as a coach in the realms of career and leadership development. Ben has coached over 500 leaders with a strong focus on senior-level executives across multiple industries and geographic regions, including Amazon, Coursera, Doordash, Google, Fiserv, Northwestern, Pinterest, Yelp, and more. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS "I wrote the book because I don't want people to deal with what I've dealt with." Discussing the responsibility we all have to ourselves. How soccer contributed to Ben's work today. Curiosity and Investing Time. The benefits and dangers of obsession. The power of tinkering and creativity. Ben's super power: Looking at a situation and asking, "Now what?" Questions to ask yourself as a leader to create the right environment for others. "How does the leader then constantly represent or highlight the meaning of the individual to the broader organization and the impact that organization is having?" What becomes heart-wrenching in Ben's work. "Every roadblock in life is there because you believe it's there." Your level of fearlessness across your various lives -- professional, personal, other. "My mind was the worst or best part in my life...my friend or my enemy." Life after suffering. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Benjamin is, Are you willing to sacrifice certain things and accept the no's and the rejection along the way to create what you want in the world? FIND BENJAMIN Website: liveforyourselfconsulting.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drbenjaminritter-leadershipdevelopment LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Dr. Benjamin Ritter 01:00 - Introduction & Bio 02:24 - Books that have impacted Ben. 03:51 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 05:55 - What it feels like for Ben to help others work toward fearlessness. 08:08- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 18:40 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 22:42 - How Ben decided to change his branding, and why. 25:29 - What does leadership mean to you? 28:23 - What do you consider your super power? 29:30 - What do you define leadership? 31:54 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 33:35 - Ben speaks about his own fearlessness. 43:41 - Can you provide an overview of the book? 46:48 - Example of the an exercise in each the professional and personal side of the book. 52:30 - Where Ben's obsession for tracking performance came from. 58:24 - How did writing this book change you? 01:03:43 - What's next for your writing? 01:04:50 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: · Watch on YouTube · Listen on Spotify · Listen on Apple Podcasts · Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 118: ⁠Wendy Wallbridge⁠ & Her Book, ⁠Spiraling Upward: The 5 Co-Creative Powers for Women on the Rise⁠ ABOUT WENDY Wendy is the founder of SpiralUp and a pioneering advocate for women's advancement and gender equity. An award-winning author and speaker, Wendy's Spiral Up! model empowers women to thrive by embracing their unique values and feminine wisdom. She has guided leaders at top companies like McAfee, VMware, Apple, HP, and Disney build high-performing, inclusive cultures where everyone can flourish. Wendy's work, informed by her own journey overcoming life-threatening lupus, has been featured in Fortune and The New York Times. Her latest book, Spiraling Upward: The 5 Co-Creative Powers for Women on the Rise, offers a transformative roadmap for people seeking success in both their personal and professional lives. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Each of us having a unique signature. "...the hardest things that I went through were the things that taught me kind of my that built my character and taught me what was important." How having had Lupus contributed to Wendy's finding her purpose. What Wendy considers the initiations in life. Life: Collecting the four A's vs. the Ow's and Aw's vs. the off-roading path. Masculine vs. Feminine strengths. What inner guidance looks like. Neurosis as Wendy's motivator. The "Little Miracles" of life. Where connection happens. "...the thing that we most missed getting can also be our gift." The vibe of leadership. A breakdown of Maslow's Hierarchy (again) and where we're living our lives on it. A mention of the happiness formula. How we can each have our own little ministry. Synchronicity is magic. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Wendy is, What's in your heart or on the back burner that you need to express and put out there? FIND WENDY Website: ⁠spiralup.com/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/wendywallbridge⁠ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-118-wendy-wallbridge-her-book-spiraling-5-john-m--zrrce/?trackingId=UA4yTPB9Qo2Pdv%2Bb3shLcw%3D%3D CHAPTERS 01:00 - Introduction & Bio 02:23 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 07:44 - Where Wendy's heart-centered focus that guides her work comes from. 17:03 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 23:09 - Where Wendy's interest in psychology came from. 40:00 - Where Wendy's spirituality came from. 43:06 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 47:47 - What is your super power? 48:59 - What does leadership mean to you? 01:04:52 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 01:20:26 - Can you provide a general overview of the book? 01:25:33 - What changed in you from having written this book? 01:28:24 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my ⁠Masterclass In Humanity⁠. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on ⁠YouTube⁠ Listen on ⁠Spotify⁠ Listen on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ Read About The Book Leads – ⁠Blog Post⁠ For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter ⁠Last Week's Leadership Lessons⁠, if you haven't already!

Episode 117: Melissa Marquis, MS, RN & Her Book, Invisible: A Nurse-Turned-Patient's Resource to Living Well with Autoimmune Disease ABOUT MELISSA Melissa Marquis is a nurse, author and emergency management specialist. She has decades of experience in both the nursing and emergency management/public health fields. Beginning in 2008, she began noticing seemingly random symptoms, out of character for her. She quickly began her quest for answers. Utilizing her medical experience and connections, she sought care with numerous specialists. After almost 13 years, 5 rheumatologists, and numerous tests and procedures later- it was confirmed her symptoms were largely related to systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). Since then, Melissa has been a passionate advocate for patients within the autoimmune disease community, specifically scleroderma. After recognizing the lack of information available for patients who undergo years of visits and tests with limited or no answers, Melissa curated a resource book to share her experiences and lessons learned in navigating this challenging spectrum of illnesses. In her debut as an author, Melissa presents Invisible: A Nurse-Turned-Patient's Resource to Living Well with Autoimmune Disease which provides a broad-brush stroke of education about, and living with, autoimmune disease. She wisely incorporates topics such as symptoms, testing, doctor's visits, and then shifts into her experiences as the patient. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Dealing with the predictably unpredictable. Understanding triggers and taking actions for readiness. Knowing what's coming but not really preparing yourself. Melissa's Super Powers: (1) Being a Good Listener & (2) Identifying What's Needed and Stepping In. Leadership and doing the hard things. You DO have something to say! How to be a good self-advocate. The importance of faith and God in Melissa's life and journey. "Your disease is not who you are at your core as a person." How our need for therapy evolves with our life's experiences. Knowing what the right mix of self-care looks like for you. The scariest thing to face in life. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Melissa is, If you were to write a book, what would you write about and share with others of your own life and lessons? FIND MELISSA Website: westhartford.org/living_here/town_departments/health_district/index.php LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melissamarquis Buy The Book LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-117-melissa-marquis-ms-rn-her-book-invisible-john-m--pb2ff/ CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Melissa Marquis 00:53 - Introduction & Bio 03:36 - How did your path into your career begin, and what did it look like up until now? 08:40 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 11:25 - How Melissa prioritizes self-care when it comes to all her work vs. her living with Scleroderma. 15:43 - Where Melissa was in her career and life when she began noticing symptoms. 25:14 - The origins of who Melissa is as a caregiver in life. 27:12 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 28:23 - What's your super power? 29:25 - What does leadership mean to you? 31:48 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 46:24 - Can you provide a general overview of the book? 01:07:12 - How have you evolved as a result of writing this book? 01:10:58 - What's next for your writing? 01:12:43- What book has inspired you? 01:14:19 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 116: Garrett Delph & Becoming Facebook: The 10 Challenges That Defined the Company That's Disrupting the World by Mike Hoefflinger ABOUT GARRETT Garrett's mission is to help medium-to-large businesses transform operational chaos into system-led cultures that are repeatable and sustainable into the future. As a Founder/CEO/Operator with proven and demonstrated success, he has spent the last 25+ years building and scaling three businesses worldwide. With established subject matter expertise in leading and scaling people, processes, and culture. Garrett has a deep understanding of the critical role technology-first operational leadership plays in organizational success, particularly in specialized and high-stakes environments. One of his professional strengths is the systematic elimination of chaos through the implementation of proprietary operational frameworks, optimization of processes, alignment of teams, and the driving of sustainable growth. The culmination of his approach is a sturdy operational transformation to ensure repeatable and sustainable success. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS What makes up the "Engine of Success." The power of having (the right) mentors and tools for understanding people. Garrett turning around his (sort of) militant ways as a founder. The power of epiphanies. The foundation for people. process, and performance. Ignore these basics at your own peril. Sayings on the wall mean nothing -- if you don't abide by them. "...if you don't stop micromanaging your people and your business, you're going to kill it. And you're going to harm them more than you ever can imagine." The leader sometimes being the problem. When the powers the left brain and the right brain come together. How Garrett's belief in God informs his work. Leadership can be as easy as P. I. E. (acronym). Candor with Care The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Garrett is, How are you taking stock of what you're doing (or should be doing) to be successful -- especially when it means going back to the basics of what you stand for and what you want? FIND GARRETT Website: links.clarityops.co/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/garrettdelph Medium: https://medium.com/@garrett_delph Garrett's Thought Leadership Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1tf7Tf5FnswHzrgP_f-wvYuHlKee0t-I LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: CHAPTERS 00:00 – The Book Leads Podcast – Garrett Delph 00:50 - Introduction & Bio 02:21 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 04:00 - How Happiness factors into what Garrett looks for in his clients' companies. 09:38 - How different company cultures and structure can be today versus 30 years ago. 14:34 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 19:37 - The epiphany in Garrett's life that changed his perspective on people. 26:05 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 28:15 - What is your super power? 31:01 - What does leadership mean to you? 36:33 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 38:08- Can you provide a general overview of the book? 53:52 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 115: Rebecca Gebhardt & Her Book, Leaderboard to Leadership, How to Earn and Excel in Your First Sales Leadership Role ABOUT REBECCA Rebecca is a best-selling author, former top 1% sales leader. With over 20 years of experience leading sales teams that have generated over $50 million in revenue, Rebecca specializes in guiding emerging sales leaders through the transition from the sales leaderboard to leadership, while helping corporate sales leadership teams strengthen their leadership pipelines. Kolbe and Leadership Circle assessment certified. Rebecca reached out when she learned about the series and what I was doing, we learned about each other's work. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Rebecca loves "working with people who are in transitions to become who they need to be." "Better people are better leaders." How people are left to fail by their leaders. How Rebecca's work empowers The Three R's: Recruit, Retain, Revenue. "If I can work hard, I have destiny, and I have control over my destiny." Questions Rebecca asked herself, leading her to found her company: What should I really be doing? Where are my talents? What's my purpose? How can I give back? Growing up with a massive chip on one's shoulder. "When the opportunity shows up, do you take it?" Being a corporate teacher. The power of Imperfect Action. Leadership and the Transference of Hope. Who is The Forgotten Middle Child of the Sales World? "No matter how successful you get, if you can still be a student of the game as you're playing the game, you're going to get further ahead than someone else." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Rebecca is, How do you keep moving forward, seeking out the right tools to make you better, which makes everyone around you better? FIND REBECCA Website: riseupconsultinggroup.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/riseup Leaderboard to Leadership Accelerator Training: https://rebecca-gebhardt.mykajabi.com/leaderboard-to-leadership-accelerator LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/last-week-s-leadership-lessons-7058038561366794240/ CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast - Rebecca Gebhardt 00:51- Introduction & Bio 01:53- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 09:39 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 15:40 - Rebecca's pursuit of Liberal Arts in College 20:01- How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 21:15 - What is your super power? 22:38- What does leadership mean to you? 23:16- Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 27:40- Can you provide a general overview of the book? 34:39 - How sales leaders receive Rebecca's work. 39:22 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 48:09 - What book has inspired you? 50:04 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) 52:16 - What's next for your writing? This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 114: Susan Drumm & Her Book, The Leader's Playlist: Unleash The Power of Music and Neuroscience to Transform Your Leadership and Your Life ABOUT SUSAN Susan Drumm is a CEO Advisor, Speaker, USA Today Bestselling Author and Leadership Coach focused on helping leaders and their teams to develop the capacity and mindsets to lead in today's disruptive environment. She has personally coached billionaire CEOs, high profile political figures, prominent Fortune 100 executive teams and incredible entrepreneurs that set out to disrupt the marketplace. She is the two-time #1 bestselling author of The Leader's Playlist: unleash the power of music and neuroscience to transform your leadership and your life. Susan's YouTube channel and podcast, The Enlightened Executive, is ranked in the top 2% of podcasts globally. In the show, she spotlights ground-breaking techniques and strategies to help executives and entrepreneurs get the edge in personal and leadership effectiveness. Susan's firm, Meritage Leadership Development, works with C-suite executives from financial services, private equity, tech, healthcare, professional services, media, consumer products, consulting and law. She has worked with organizations such as KPMG, Oracle, Viacom, Microsoft, Conde Nast, L'Oreal, A&E Networks, USS Steel and Cisco. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS · When it comes to having an eclectic background, each step infuses the leadership development work that we do today. · Developing a skill set and losing interest in its application. · Strategy - Culture = Dead In The Water · Measuring the seemingly unmeasurable. · "What am I going to do with the rest of my life?" · How acting taught Susan to deal with her inner critic. · "It's okay if you don't figure it out. It's about collecting experiences, because if you stay open, the background will come together." · "If you keep looking and keep pursuing where that sort of bliss or passion will come from, you'll find it." · "Childhood wounds and experiences...give you a super power, but they also can come with a liability." · Returning home to an inherent sense of play: Spirit of Play + Fostering Creativity = Producing Best Work · Susan's Super Power: Patter Recognition & Disruption, which lead to Freedom. · From watching her father: I was never going to suffer in a job I didn't like. · "You are who you are in everything you do." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Susan is, Have you learned about what triggers you in life in order to elevate yourself above it to lead others? FIND SUSAN Website: meritageleadership.com/ Website: susandrumm.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/susan-drumm The Enlighted Leadership Quiz: https://susandrumm.com/quiz/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-114-susan-drumm-her-book-leaders-playlist-john-m--kzjye/?trackingId=zo4vjrH8Rfycz9KvgSFCKw%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast - Susan Drumm 00:58- Introduction & Bio 02:57- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 04:14- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 16:16- How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 17:57- What is your superpower? 19:42 - What does leadership mean to you? 20:53- Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 23:38- The importance of music in Susan's life. 25:27- Can you provide a general overview of the book? 28:09- What lessons have you taken away from the book? 37:34- What's next for your writing? 38:56 - Where Susan's aptitude for disruption comes from. 42:01- What book has inspired you? 44:55- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 113: Henry Woodman & His Father's Book, The Reincarnation of Marie: A Love Reborn in Paris from the Pages of History ABOUT HENRY Henry Woodman is a Florida native and a graduate of the University of Arizona for his bachelors and Nova Southeaster for his MBA. He is trilingual, speaking English, Spanish, and French, and is a natural entrepreneur. In 1984, Woodman and his partner formed WoodMark Productions to pursue two of his passions -- film production and travel. He and the film crew would travel the world producing travel films for leading travel destinations worldwide on behalf of major travel companies including American Airlines, American Express, Eastern Airlines, government tourism boards, and leading international cruise lines. After a decade of travels, he settled in Santiago, Chile for two years to produce Machos, a local game show for the younger demographic. In 1997 he founded World Travelvision (WTV), a content provider for Internet Travel and Tourism. WTV pioneered the production and distribution of Digital Brochures and Virtual Reality 360°Panormaic Photography. In 2004, Woodman pivoted WTV to a technology company and formed IcePortal (ICE). ICE was founded to solve a problem in the newly formed online hospitality distribution industry - management and distribution of visuals to online distribution channels. ICE helps hotels and resorts, manage, and deliver their visuals to 1000s of online travel related websites. In 2019 Woodman exited the company. Woodman's commitment found its roots in television and film production and earned him four local area Emmy nominations. Finally, in 1988, Woodman acquired the rights to a book which he just published and plans to develop into a series for streaming TV. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Doing stuff that you want to do, that you're interested in, that makes you happy. "Me, me, me." What is passion- and purpose-consuming to you? Career - Just a bunch of dots connecting along the way. Entrepreneurship vs. Filmmaking -- Both pre-production, a production, and post-production. "How bad can I fuck that up?" "Grit and Discipline...I don't really see the failure thing." On success -- "...you have a better chance with what talent you have to prepare and be lucky and hope for opportunity." How one's idea of leadership can change over time. "Love is a precious thing." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Henry is, How much do you share of who you TRULY are, especially considering what little time we have in THIS life? FIND HENRY Website:iceportal.shijigroup.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hwoodman Book Website: https://mariethestory.com/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-113-henry-woodman-his-fathers-book-marie-love-john-m--ckpie/?trackingId=cfUoACn2Q9mX5X9LSldVNw%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 – The Book Leads Podcast – Henry Woodman 00:51 - Introduction & Bio 03:52 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 09:14 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 19:06 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 20:44 - What do you consider your super power? 22:28 - Where Henry's Grit & Discipline come from. 25:21 - What does leadership mean to you? 27:16 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 32:02 - Henry's reaction to finding out his father wrote this book. 37:03 - What lessons have you taken/others take away from the book? 43:44 - What book has inspired you? 45:43 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 112: Alan Lazaros & The Compound Effect: Jumpstart Your Income, Your Life, Your Success by Darren Hardy ABOUT ALAN At age 2, Alan's father passed away in a car accident. At age 26, after getting into a nearly fatal car accident himself, Alan questioned everything he was doing in life. He questioned who he was and the choices he was making. He was at an all-time low. Filled with regret, Alan searched for answers and found two of the brightest lights he had ever seen. The first bright light was a book by Bronnie Ware entitled, “The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying,” and the second was a Ted Talk by Tony Robbins. Both of these resources helped Alan find his way and guided him to make the choice of going ALL IN on self-improvement to design a life of meaning and purpose. On this self-improvement journey, Alan learned he believed in a heart-driven but NO BS approach to inspiring, motivating, and educating others on what it REALLY takes to get to the Next Level. Today, he is proud to say it is his mission to help others design fulfilling lives, maximize their own unique potential, and build aligned businesses they love on their own terms. Alan has a powerful combination of technical expertise and business acumen specializing in Peak Performance, Productivity, Organizational Design, and Individual, Team, and Business Optimization. He lead a global team at NLU, has given hundreds of trainings all over the world, and has happily completed thousands of one-on-one coaching calls with clients. As he says, It would be his honor to help you get to the Next Level of your life, love, health, and wealth. I interviewed Alan's business partner and partner in crime Episode 103: Kevin Palmieri & Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS "If you don't have self-belief, those adversities that could end up being your advantage actually just end up being adversity." (read that again) Understanding conscious and subconscious belief in yourself -- and whether or not they reconcile. "Every time you feel lost or directionless, just go back to the script." Success vs. Fulfillment and the 4 combinations you can fall into. "I want my future to be an amplified version of what it already is." What's your trauma response -- fight, flight, freeze, or fawn? The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Alan is, How are you sticking to what you want to do to get what you want? FIND ALAN Website: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanlazarosllc/ Podcast: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-university-podcast/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-112-alan-lazaros-compound-effect-jumpstart-john-m--nyiee/?trackingId=oQJQVmrMR2yvIg7axG4nmg%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Alan Lazaros 00:50 - Introduction & Bio 05:12 - The origin of Alan's resilience and self-belief. 12:50 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 18:51 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 34:51 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child 50:39 - What does leadership mean to you? 53:53 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 59:45 - Is there a certain part of the book that stood out for you? 01:02:58 - How being math-minded helped Alan achieve his goals and success in life. 01:11:24 - The power of reprogramming yourself. This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 111: Alexandra Dotcheva & Her Book, It Really Is Simple: A Holistic Approach to Self-Confidence -- A Practical Guide ABOUT ALEXANDRA Born into a musicians' family in Bulgaria, Alexandra came to the United States as a graduate student in 2000 and earned a Doctor of Musical Arts in Violin Performance from Louisiana State University in 2007. In 2008, prompted by the financial crisis, she decided to pursue a career in nursing and has been practicing as an RN since 2011, with a strong passion for educating patients on acquiring optimal health. Her experience includes ICU, orthopedic trauma, and home care. In 2014, she began her investing career with a focus on rental real estate and, later on, options trading. She is the owner of three real estate businesses and a holistic coaching business. Alexandra's passion for health, martial arts, fitness, and financial independence, as well as her experience with the challenges of cultural integration prompted her to write the book, It Really Is Simple: A Holistic Approach to Self- Confidence, in which she shares her path to success in an effort to motivate readers to embrace change and pursue their dreams, in spite of fear and insecurity. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS "20 years of very poor self-confidence and self-esteem with never believing you would ever be able to accomplish even a fraction of what it is today." Becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable. Whether talking about health, career, or finances, moving forward is all about mindset. Fixating on one area of focus as "the problem," when it's really something completely different. Doing the one major thing that seems impossible, and the possibilities it can open up going forward. "...be very careful who you listen to because the influences in your life, they're very well-intentioned, but oftentimes they're wrong." What Black Belt Mentality means. Awakening the child in yourself in order to succeed. What it means to face yourself. Writing in your authentic, true voice. Burning certain bridges in order to prosper. Accomplishing dreams by breaking them down into smaller goals. How fear and anxiety work for you as friends and allies. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Alexandra is, Are you taking proactive steps to freedom by overcoming your insecurities and lack of confidence? FIND ALEXANDRA Website: https://www.holisticselfconfidence.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-dotcheva/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast - Alexandra Dotcheva 00:57 - Introduction & Bio 02:26 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 13:17 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 23:38 - Alexandra's journey in Martial Arts. 26:36 - Alexandra's journey into confidence. 28:48 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 36:17 - What does leadership mean to you? 38:14 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 47:19 - Can you provide a general overview of the book 51:41 - Alexandra on spirituality. 55:58 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 58:26 - What's next for your writing? 01:09:02 - What book has inspired you? 01:11:28 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 110: Aaliyah Miller & Her Screenplay, I Am: Muslim/American ABOUT AALIYAH Aaliyah is a storyteller and uses words as her superpower to help drive change for individuals and organizations. She wrote the script “I Am: Muslim/American” for Long Wharf Theatre's New Haven Play Project. The film was a multimedia project funded by the Doris Duke Foundation to foster connections between Muslim and non-Muslim community members. The film is an official selection of the New York Lift-Off Film Festival, the ‘Pulling Focus' African American Film Festival of the Quad Cities, and the International Black and Diversity Film Festival. The film has also received recognition awards from the Global Accolade Film Competition for the following film categories: African American Filmmaker, Islamic Filmmaker, Women Filmmaker, Women Theme. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS How a really good story can affect change for the things you do. You can't write without listening. Opportunities for creatives exist, even if it's not your full-time job. "When you wear too many hats, you're going to shortchange one thing." Pressing pause and putting aside your biases. A plea to the audience here: Consider what your story is and how valuable it is. "Have a close community that you can trust...to be candid with you, to be truthful with you about your work." No one is going to tell your story better than you. What is your superpower? "Whatever comes from within us, wherever we bring that, we're going to make better what we can." The power of encouraging young people who don't see themselves as being able to command a story. The power of shout-outs to those who have made a difference in our lives. How are you measuring what you do? Consider what it's like to be "the other." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Aaliyah is, How do you invite others to understand who you are, not letting stereotypes and misinterpretations dictate the narrative for you? FIND AALIYAH & OTHER RESOURCES I Am: Muslim/American (trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5y7eLY_Xb2k LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaliyahmiller/ ProduceHERS FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/TheProduceHERS Mentioned: Western Connecticut State University | Online MFA in Writing LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-110-aaliyah-miller-her-screenplay-i-am-jaramillo-mba-msop-e46jf/?trackingId=QUH61ho0Rv%2Brarom9VelUA%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Aaliyah Miller 00:53 - Introduction & Bio 03:57 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 05:52 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 24:19 - The kind of work Aaliyah was doing while working on her writing career. 44:51 - Where Aaliyah's desire to help others comes from. 48:38 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 56:57 - What does leadership mean to you? 01:02:31 - Can you introduce us to the screenplay 01:06:19 - Can you provide a general overview of the screenplay's format? 01:26:41 - What did this project change in you? 01:34:13 - What's next for your writing? 01:37:34 - What book has inspired you? 01:39:21 - What do you want people to take away from the film? 01:40:41 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 109: ⁠⁠Ernest Ellender, PhD ⁠⁠& (a) His Book, ⁠⁠This Is How We Heal from Painful Childhoods: A Practical Guide for Healing Past Intergenerational Stress and Trauma⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠(b) Up From Slavery by Booker T. Washington ABOUT ERNEST Ernest Ellender worked in the fields of psychology, life coaching, and martial arts for over 25 years before authoring his first book entitled “This Is How We Heal from Painful Childhoods: A Practical Guide for Healing Past Intergenerational Stress and Trauma.” His advanced martial arts training combined with his doctorate in clinical psychology to produce his effective skills-building curriculum for healing past childhood traumas and family dysfunction. Ernest was raised in Louisiana's Cajun communities that celebrate family life and a close connection to nature, and he spends his free time enjoying the wonderful Cajun cuisine, marshlands, beaches, and local microbreweries of south Louisiana with his family and friends. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS What a little bit of mischief and thrill-seeking in youth can mean for adulthood and career later. Going from general practitioner to finding your niche. Where the overlap exists between martial arts and psychology. Being aggressive in a good way. Examples of generational trauma vs. generational desire to help the community. How Sylvester Stallone, Charles Bronson, and Chuck Norris led Ernest to the work he's doing now. What you find in the MRI Images associated with childhood trauma. Playing as an adult is essentially diving into the mud of life. "Healing requires training, education, empathy for all." The power of healing in human connectivity. Even coaches, therapists, and doctors needs to take their own medicine. "Anger begets anger, violence begets violence, and love begets love." The dignity of work. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Ernest is, What does your intentional process and practice for healing look like? FIND ERNEST Website: www.ernestellenderphd.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coach-ernest-ellender Ernest's Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXJ5C4NB LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-109-ernest-ellender-phd-his-book-how-we-heal-john-m--iibdf/?trackingId=mbJaytKBQ7aLHNjQMO0UXg%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast 00:53 - Introduction & Bio - Ernest Ellender 02:27 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 05:57 - Ernest's life coaching specialization. 07:48 - The connection between martial arts and psychology. (More at 39:00) 10:42 - What "respectful aggression" means. 16:53 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 26:45 - What draws Ernest to the field of trauma and family dysfunction. 41:12 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 43:34 - What does leadership mean to you? 45:05 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 45:47 - Can you provide a general overview of the book (Ernest's Book)? 47:34  - What made Ernest write his book. 50:20 - An overview and breakdown of the chapters in the book. 01:18:43 - What evolved in you in the process of writing the book? 01:28:45 - What's next for your writing? 01:30:16 - An overview of Booker T. Washington's book and why Ernest chose to discuss that book as well. 01:46:13 - The lessons readers can take from Booker T. Washington's book. 01:57:03 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 108: H. Jackson Calame & 5 Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni ABOUT JACKSON Jackson teaches visionary entrepreneurs how to unlock sustainable revenue growth and expand their legacy by becoming a Power Brand in their market. 96% of businesses fail within the first 10 years. Jackson teaches businesses, not only how to avoid failure, but how to win, by becoming a true leader in their market. Having worked in, launched, and scaled several successful startups in the b2b industry & SaaS space, servicing thousands of SMBs, Jackson has seen firsthand that even the best operators struggle and often fail. The problem begins with poorly managed growth, due to establishing a weak foundation, which inevitably leads to collapse. Jackson and his teams prepare business owners and executives to bridge their growth gaps. Collectively, we often fill the roles of COO, CMO, or CEO during this transformative process. Your key to success as growth occurs and operations shift, will require that you evolve. Developing an incredible culture, built around a clear vision dedicated to customer satisfaction, must be the focal point of a company's mission in order to ultimately thrive. Most operators think they are prepared for this. The truth is, you aren't. Personal growth will be necessary. Personnel shifts will occur. And in order for everyone to win, a business can only afford to have leaders who pull their own weight, who add value to the mission, not anchors who will hold you back. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Jackson story as a son of God. "...instead of...honoring or fostering the anger that existed in my dad's home, taking the choice to stand for the values that I learned about virtues from my mom's home." What he learned by convincing his dad to pay child support. The power of representing what you absolutely love. "There are so many ways that we react as leaders rather than allowing our people to step up and guide us." Being a student of life. The power of your impact on other people. The importance of a rally cry in the workplace. "...if I can't feel love in the way that I'm leading, then I need to take a step back." What it means to work in a championship culture. Do you have meetings that reinvigorate you? The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Jackson is, What lessons are you taking from your past trials and tribulations to instead create value and empowerment for yourself and others moving forward? FIND JACKSON Website: firstclassbusiness.io LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacksoncalame Podcast: https://visionproslive.com/vision-pros-guest LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-108-h-jackson-calame-5-dysfunctions-team-john-m--1cxse/?trackingId=j2xySK0LS%2FCHmh8%2BIaJOIg%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Jackson Calame 00:53 - Introduction & Bio 03:06 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 07:10 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 21:40 - Jackson speaks on his faith. 32:29 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 45:59 - What does leadership mean to you? 53:17 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 55:49 - What 5 Dysfunctions Of A Team means to Jackson's company including a poster designed to summarize its points. 01:17:56 - How Jackson would pitch the book's lessons to someone. 01:18:46 - What's in store for your own writing? 01:26:12 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 107: James Hipkin & His Book, Journey to Success: Digital Marketing for Small Business Owners ABOUT JAMES Over a 40-year career, James has worked in marketing and advertising at a high level. Since 2010, he has built his clients' businesses with digital marketing. James is an accomplished, forward-thinking marketing professional. His clients included Sprint, Apple, Wells Fargo online bank, Nestlé, and Toyota. They appreciate his practical, no-nonsense approach. He has the scars and many stories to share. His stories are always valuable and entertaining. His humor and infectious good-natured approach to marketing are fun and practical. But he never loses track of what's important. Marketing, done well, creates value for customers and the business. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Applying strategy to marketing versus Just making it pretty. How a conversation with Geddy Lee, lead singer of Rush, helped shape James' path into advertising and marketing. Marketing is a discipline, being creative about the things you're doing. The power of listening in being a successful marketer. How advertising was a balancing act between the left brain and the right brain for James. Stereotypes surrounding degrees. Standing out through Critical Thinking. People are more creative than they think and know. Water the flowers and prune the weeds. Don't be part of the noise. The power of inherent curiosity. Respect, patience, and empathy in leadership. Are any puppies going to die? Understanding the delicate dance of people talking to each other. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with James is, Whether in your leadership or marketing, how are you stepping away from the message you want to share to ensure you're conveying it in the most thoughtful and intentional manner? FIND JAMES LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jameshipkin Website: inn8ly.com/ Website: https://red8interactive.com/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – James Hipkin 00:55 - Introduction & Bio 01:56 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 05:46 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 07:55 - Geddy Lee's wisdom that helped shape James' path. 12:43 - James' pivot from musical promotion to advertising. 25:03 - James and his passion for music. 33:53 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 36:10 - What does leadership mean to you? 46:14 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 48:58 - What made James want to write the book. 50:51 - Where James' practice of patience and respect comes from. 56:21 - Can you provide a general overview of the book 01:01:13 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 01:02:38 - What's next for your writing? 01:06:11 - What book has inspired you? 01:09:30 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 106: Cameron Nathan Singh & His Book, Navigation and Discovery: A Path of Navigating and Discovering Through Your Journey of Faith ABOUT CAMERON Cameron Nathan Singh was born and raised in San Bruno, California. Cameron primarily works in the business aviation industry and has such a dire passion for leadership and making an impact on the younger generations. Over the last decade, Cameron has had the privilege of moving up the ladder very quickly within the aviation industry throughout his 20s living in New Jersey, Southern California, Chicago, and the beautiful Caribbean twin island of Antigua and Barbuda. Cameron has a Doctorate of Executive Leadership from the University of Charleston and now resides in Northern Colorado. He is the host and co-host of several podcasts and a John Maxwell certified coach, speaker, and trainer. Cameron is also the author of Navigation and Discovery: A Path of Navigating and Discovering Through Your Journey of Faith. Cameron's passion is to help young people strive for leadership and is so excited to share his journey of leadership to you. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS "Oftentimes, the root of the business issue is a people issue." Workplace culture focus during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Giving back to next generations to help navigate their life path. All the times we don't recognize others are looking at us as the leader. The power of one's religious faith. "Start with those 30-second conversations and those 1 minute touch points." The powerful seeds planted in our minds by others. "...you can strive for higher, you are called for more." "Run your race." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Cameron is, How are you stepping back from your own life to assess it, learn about it, and share it (and its lessons) with others? FIND CAMERON LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronsingh/ Website: www.CameronSingh.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/cameronsingh LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-106-cameron-nathan-singh-his-book-navigation-john-m--rlk4f/?trackingId=XirQqFrZTyGoYO8SkeeiLw%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Cameron Singh 00:43 - Introduction & Bio 02:15 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 04:24 - The business of people / Management vs. Leadership 08:12 - Impact of COVID-19 on workplace culture 10:55 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 15:58 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 22:10 - What does leadership mean to you? 24:35 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 29:36 - Cameron's realization of the power of faith in his life. 35:00 - The focus on the younger generation. 42:45 - Can you provide a general overview of the book? 46:59 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 51:39 - What's next for your writing? 55:19 - What book has inspired you? 56:37 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 105: Massimo Backus & His Book, Human First, Leader Second: How Self-Compassion Outperforms Self-Criticism ABOUT MASSIMO Massimo has dedicated his career to empowering leaders with a powerful reminder: You are enough. His journey began amidst personal battles with perfectionism and a harsh inner critic fueled by the challenges of dyslexia. These struggles ultimately guided him towards finding and teaching self-compassion. As an executive coach, speaker, and facilitator, Massimo has revolutionized the leadership styles of thousands across prestigious companies like Amazon, Nintendo, Fox Entertainment, and Sony. His coaching approach is straightforward and impactful, tailored for open-minded and committed senior leaders who are serious about change. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Massimo can't help people if he's not committed to being his best self ever day Emotions and what they are and aren't. “It felt like a healthy drug for me…it lit me up inside for the first time, to see the impact of something I can do to benefit other people and make their experience better.” What's on the other side of change? The power of trauma in shaping people's later lives and careers. "Self-love is a leadership epiphany." The biggest misconception about leadership today. Massimo's admitted past hypocrisy. Who are you without defensiveness and fighting the good fight to prove you're the smartest person in the room? What a W.I.M.P is. Massimo's WARD Model What being internally resourced means. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Massimo is, In the face of your past adversities, and even traumas, how are you utilizing self-compassion and self-love to move forward? FIND MASSIMO LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/massimo-backus/ Website: MassimoBackus.com Massimo's Book: https://massimobackus.com/book LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Massimo Backus 00:51 - Introduction & Bio 02:04 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 04:55 - How the human aspect of Massimo's work evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic. 21:31 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 32:16 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 36:21 - What does leadership mean to you? 39:08 - What Self-Compassion means in Massimo's work. 47:36 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 52:56 - Can you provide a general overview of the book? 57:01 - A breakdown of the chapters in the book. 01:06:33 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 01:09:32 - What book has inspired you? 01:12:14 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 104: Oksana Yusupova & Limitless: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life by Jim Kwik ABOUT OKSANA With over two decades of experience since beginning my career in 2001, I am dedicated to understanding and helping others navigate their emotions. As a psychotherapist, I specialize in Emotion-Focused Therapy, working with children, families, and adults. My areas of expertise include treating emotional trauma, behavioral and social issues, anxiety, depression, and life challenges.  I hold a Master's degree in Psychology and offer a range of psychotherapy services (individual, family, couple). In addition to one-on-one sessions, I lead workshops, events, and courses on emotions and emotional intelligence for schools, universities, and organizations. I am also a content creator and speaker. You can find my YouTube channel, "Focus On Emotions," and hear me as a guest speaker on Spotify. As an author, I have written a book for children and teenagers about emotions, titled "Focus on Emotions. The Kids' Guide to Themselves." I am passionate about emotions, the brain, and psychology, and I explore the powerful connections between these areas. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Emotions are different than what people usually find in books about emotions and emotional intelligence. The benefits of emotions and unlocking the power of their energy. Emotion - The Inner Self vs. Socially Appropriate Roles The power of one's calling. The error in teaching to stop emotions, especially in children. Exhibiting leadership -- in the face of low self-esteem. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Oksana is, How are you utilizing the tools available to you to navigate your emotions, do your best work, and show who you really are? FIND OKSANA Website: https://yusupovapsy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oksana-yusupova-0b330b194/ Facebook:facebook.com/yusupovaoks LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-104-oksana-yusupova-limitless-upgrade-your-john-m--c6wje/?trackingId=iVms25m0QDKGH0MV9z703Q%3D%3D VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - The Book Leads - Oksana Yusupova 00:49 - Introduction & Bio 02:16 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 03:38 - How Oksana views emotions differently than most others. 10:01 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 18:41 - How Oksana's views on emotions evolved into what they are now. 30:54 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 34:11 - What does leadership mean to you? 36:20 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 39:45 - Can you provide a general overview of the chapters in the book? 42:43 - How Oksana utilized the tools in the book in her own career and life. 51:31 - Oksana speaks on her own book, Focus on Emotions: The Kids' Guide to Themselves. 01:02:19 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 103: Kevin Palmieri & Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck ABOUT KEVIN Kevin is the founder and co-host of the Next Level University podcast. Early in his life, Kevin found “success”, but after a brush with near suicide he realized he wasn´t living a life he truly wanted. He became passionate about self improvement and decided to make it his purpose in life to impact as many people as possible by becoming a role model, podcaster, and speaker. He has succeeded at making his podcast one of the top 100 with almost 1700 episodes and  one million listens in over 170 countries. He has taken his life to the next level and achieved both personal and professional success. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Identity Crisis: "I was quite literally in the best shape of my life. But internally, I was miserable and unfulfilled and depressed and anxious and all those things." Living Unconsciously Kevin's ideations of suicide and what pulled him back from the edge. What happens when your awareness doesn't reconcile to your environments? How do we get a little better? The problem with your expectations being your desires. Overnight Success vs. Overnight Awareness "Don't ego up when you're scared." Human beings are malleable: "The way you are today is not the way that you must remain." Fixed Mindset vs. Growth Mindset. What failure looks like. What mentorship can look like when it comes to the Fixed vs. Growth mindsets. "The thing that would benefit us the most is the thing we run fastest away from." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Kevin is, How do you become hyperconscious in order to become intentional about getting a little bit better as you go? FIND KEVIN LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-palmieri-5b7736160/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-103-kevin-palmieri-mindset-new-psychology-john-m--kej8e/?trackingId=M9aQn%2FxAQUWh6llrBCekNw%3D%3D VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - The Book Leads - Kevin Palmieri 01:45 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 02:37 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 09:09 - Kevin's process and goal for his podcast, Next Level University 16:26 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 28:26 - What does leadership mean to you? 29:49 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 32:59 - A general overview of the book and the Table Of Contents 43:08 - How moving into a Growth Mindset can cause trauma 46:04 - Kevin's process for alleviating stress and anxiety 55:27 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) 56:15 - Where Kevin's drive for serving others comes from. This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 102: Jenn T. Grace & Her Book, Publish Your Purpose: A Step-by-Step Guide to Write, Publish, and Grow Your Big Idea ABOUT JENN An award-winning author, nationally recognized speaker, and savvy publishing strategist, Jenn is the founder of Publish Your Purpose, the acclaimed hybrid publishing company that gives first-time authors the secrets to getting their books written, finding an eager audience & marking their place in the publishing world. Publish Your Purpose is a certified B Corp social enterprise that meets the gold standard of socially and environmentally-friendly business practices. Jenn leads ambitious authors through every aspect of writing, editing, and publishing so their book strategically aligns with their business objectives. Whether it's a business guide that shows the breadth of their expertise or an emotional memoir that takes readers deep into life's challenges, she helps authors articulate their purpose and fulfill their mission.  Jenn has published the books of almost 200 business owners, entrepreneurs, speakers, and memoirists so more diverse stories can exist in the world and her authors can make a positive impact and achieve the recognition and success they deserve. she is the author of seven books, including, Publish Your Purpose: A Step-by-Step Guide to Write, Publish, and Grow Your Big Idea. Jenn has been featured in Forbes, The Huffington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and CNBC. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Getting your reader into your ecosystem. Motivation is knowing your message is bigger than you. The power of a zig-zaggy path in life, career, and work. The temptations of (and the fault in) the shiny objects. The defining characteristic of curiosity. Leadership: Not a destination but a way of being. The power of doing the work and showing your clients what's possible. Lovingly using the phrase "shit-show." Providing epiphanies and Ah-Ha moments to others. The importance of your North Star. Words of the Year: "Fuckery" & "Experiment." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Jenn is, With regard to what you want to share with others, how are you sharing and infusing your story into the process to enhance the lessons? FIND JENN Website: http://www.publishyourpurpose.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenntgrace/ Twitter: www.Twitter.com/JennTGrace & www.Twitter.com/PublishPurpose Facebook: www.Facebook.com/JennTGrace & https://www.facebook.com/publishyourpurpose Instagram: www.Instagram.com/JennTGrace & https://www.instagram.com/publishyourpurpose YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/publishyourpurpose Company Video: https://youtu.be/9xnwBQAvLI4?si=7MS_cNDoXF-7is04 LnkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-102-jenn-grace-publish-your-purpose-guide-big-john-m--yyy9e/?trackingId=oL7AP2M2Tz%2BuSJDX1ye9OA%3D%3D VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - The Book Leads - Jenn T. Grace 00:42 - Introduction & Bio 03:07 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 05:33 - What kind of authors Jenn works with. 12:25 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 20:01 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 23:11 - What does leadership mean to you? 25:08 - A walkthrough of some of Jenn's books, including her latest book. 29:23 - Can you provide a general overview of the book 35:52 - What fueled Jenn's drive for storytelling? 43:52 - How Jenn enhanced her values and integrity, being selective in which authors she works with. 46:38 - A book that has inspired Jenn recently. 55:26 - What's next for your writing? 01:02:59 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. Check out why! Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 101: Rev. Michael Sean Harvey, MSOD, MSEd & His Book, Warrior Compassion: Unleashing The Healing Power Of Men ABOUT SEAN Sean is a TEDx Speaker and founder of Warrior Compassion Men's Studio. Sean is an Interfaith Minister whose book, Warrior Compassion: Unleashing the Healing Power of Men offers a roadmap for men's soul-healing as a catalyst for systems change. Sean brings 25 years of experience in leadership and organizational development consulting and taught organizational behavior and change at Cornell, NYU, and Baruch College CUNY. His work focuses on deepening compassionate humanity into hyper-masculine systems and developing leaders as emergent facilitators, compassionate bridge builders, and conscious change agents equipped to transform systems and heal cultures on a global scale. His current research focuses on facilitating bridges across polarized divides. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS When Sean was asked to show his heart instead of his polish. Sean's pillars of authenticity, connection, and purpose. The messaging for healthy masculinity, for deeper connection, for healing, and for breaking down the walls of isolation and disconnection. "You're not broken, but you might be wounded." "We've had toxic conditioning and faulty teaching." When we're born, we have everything within us. Where shame breeds. "Let's stop saying what the answer is and start creating a set of questions for men to be in their own inquiry, to discover their own truth of who it is that they are that reflects their journey, that honors who they are, and that moves from a place of self-loathing of the ways that they're not measuring up to self-love for gratitude for who they are." The two things we can't do when talking about men's healing, men's growth, men's transformation. The power of seeing someone's humanity even if you don't agree with or abhor their views. he need to get out of the over-intellectualization we do on most topics. The four existential question in every one of Sean's engagements. The difference between learning how to behave vs. learning how to be. How do we heal the wounds that hold us back from being compassionate? The Shame Spiral The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sean is, What kind of wounds do you need to address and heal in order to move forward with your life and live your truth? FIND SEAN Website: https://warriorcompassion.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/seanharvey Instagram: @warrior_compassion LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-101-rev-michael-sean-harvey-warrior-healing-john-m--7cjke/?trackingId=aelMCAQAQoOfagIMw0pVkQ%3D%3D VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast - Sean Harvey 00:47 - Introduction & Bio 02:12 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 10:49 - Sean's take on what's happened to lead to the current state of men in America. 28:34 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 44:04 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 48:26 - How ministry plays into Sean's career and mission. 57:27 - What does leadership mean to you? 59:22 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? (Overview included) 01:03:44 - The reaction Sean gets when his work is carried out in hyper-masculine environments. 01:17:52 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 01:20:24 - What's next for your writing? 01:31:09 - What book has inspired you? 01:34:09 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 100: Christina Dufour & The Fifth Agreement: A Practical Guide To Self-Mastery ABOUT CHRISTINA Christina, a Founder with Native American heritage, has a background in Finance and brings over a decade of experience in Business Development to her mission of specializing well-being in the workplace. With a degree in Business Management and Organization, Christina integrates well-being and performance practices into corporate settings, collaborating with esteemed organizations and executives. Christina developed an expertise in well-being with 13+ years of studying and teaching meditative modalities and supports individuals at all levels to overcome their unique challenges, foster inner balance, find confidence, and more effectively manage stress. She has studied with many expert teachers and a Buddhist monk, and is certified in multiple other introspective and expressive modalities. She leverages her unique blend of wellness and business expertise to craft customized programs that provide results-based tailored solutions for industry-specific stressors. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS How the COVID-19 pandemic brought to light more of the need for stress reduction. The power of introspection through meditations and mindfulness. How meditation is truly part of the beginning of knowing yourself. How theater is the study of expression and the opposite end of things, all of your emotionality. What the early exposure to death and dying opened up for Christina. "We don't have enough respect for being human and what we're built to do and not do." The power of being a good friend to yourself. Needing opposites: Needing distraction to practice focus. Needing doubt to practice faith. The Attentions of the Victim, the Warrior, and the Master. What kind of messenger are you? Why peace can be hard. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Christina is, How has life's programming of your perception limited your understanding of yourself AND the world around you? FIND CHRISTINA Website: www.carnelianconnection.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinaldufour The Book Leads, Episode 2:https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6824361291977670656/ LinkedIn Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-100-christina-dufour-fifth-agreement-guide-john-m--geguf/?trackingId=8RlmwMneQIao%2B4zCOjRAhw%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads - Christina Dufour 00:46 - Introduction & Bio 02:42 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 04:03 - The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Christina's work and people's needs. 07:18 - How Christina's expressive work has contributed to the introspection work with her clients. 10:44 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 16:35 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 21:29 - What does leadership mean to you? 22:52 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 25:46 - Overview of the 1st Agreement - Be Impeccable With Your Word 33:37 - Overview of the 2nd Agreement - Don't Take Anything Personally 52:56 - Overview of the 3rd Agreement - Don't Make Assumptions 01:21:35 - Overview of the 4th Agreement - Always Do Your Best 01:31:12 - Overview of the 5th Agreement - Be Skeptical, But Learn To Listen 01:39:07 - Overview of the Three Attentions: (1) Victim, (2) Warrior, and (3) Master 01:51:07 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: · Watch on YouTube · Listen on Spotify · Listen on Google Podcasts · Listen on ⁠Apple Podcasts · Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 99: Sean Stewart and (a) The Greek Hoplite Phalanx: The Iconic Heavy Infantry of the Classical Greek World by Richard Taylor & (b) Living Latin: Everyday Language and Popular Culture by Charlie Kerrigan ABOUT SEAN Sean Stewart is a seasoned historian, leadership consultant, and business trainer. With over 30 years of experience in studying and working in the history field, Sean's multifaceted expertise in history, sailing, and storytelling enables him to connect people with our shared human experience across millennia. Sean has been dedicated to unveiling the power of history to transform our present perspectives and inspire positive change. As a historical leadership excellence expert, he guides managers into becoming effective leaders by leveraging the lessons of the past. Sean's use of artifacts and compelling narratives serves as a powerful tool to illuminate history and shape cohesive, high-performing teams. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS When it comes to the issues we have, you can learn that (1) we've been here before and (2) you're not alone. Infusing ancient artifacts with essential leadership lessons An artifact in view is a lesson in view. "A Silent Coach." Leadership acting as a service. A leadership example from the 19th century Bobby/London Police Whistle. The power of going to find the story. Making what you learn relevant for others. Human Interaction & Understanding --> Overcomplicating Everything vs. Going Back To Basics Why we shouldn't write off the people -- or the stories -- of 98% of us who came before modern society as we know it. The two level of how you enrich yourself by extracting modern lessons from ancient history. What would you write on your own epitaph? "Act now so you deserve your own epitaph later." "We need in the modern world a built-in structure where we give people the chance to take a breath and we don't have that anymore." "What connects us to antiquity or the Middle Ages is more than what separates us." Why the word "history" should be a verb rather than a noun. "Uncertainty is where leadership lives." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sean is, How do you utilize the stories of your past -- and history, overall -- to shape your approach to your work, life, and leadership? FIND SEAN LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-stewart-speaker/ Website: https://pastforwardtalks.com Medium: https://medium.com/@sean-stewart LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7203475413115781121/ CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast - Sean Stewart 00:41 - Introduction & Bio 02:42 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 13:57 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 16:11 - Where did your curiosity for the story come from? 25:00 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 26:00 - What does leadership mean to you? 31:39 - Can you introduce us to the books we're discussing? (Greek Hoplite Phalanx) 38:37 - More on the book Living Latin 39:44 - How we should teach history today 44:46 - Synopsis of Sean's upcoming book 46:35 - A leader from history who stands out to Sean 56:25 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 98: Jeff Buehner and His Book, The Sultan's Seven Secrets ABOUT JEFF 30 years ago, Jeff came across the writings of the richest man to ever walk the earth, Sultan Musa of Mali who could not talk openly about how he learned these wealth secrets, so he embedded the principles of his success in a fairytale. Contained in his writings is something called the Language of the Gods. When you speak this language, the world obeys your commands! As Jeff just dabbled in speaking this language, some very strange coincidences occurred. So, he got serious about speaking it... and his whole world changed! He went from a $60,000-a-year concrete guy to making hundreds of thousands a month in a new business that just dropped into his lap. Over the past 30 years, Jeff has successfully mentored and coached countless others to speak this all-important language that changes everything. When you learn to speak the Language of the Gods, you can drastically improve your sales, success, fitness, relationships, and anything else you desire. It's all contained within Jeff's book, The Sultan's Seven Secrets. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS "I blew my opportunity to get some advice from a mentor." How things are different when you're raised on a farm. "...oftentimes the more you chase something, the more you try to make it happen, the more elusive it becomes." The power of reading a first page and taking a first step. The true lesson in Aladdin & The Magic Lamp. "Feelings are self-fulfilling prophecies." "Change your feelings, change your life." The power of imagination and pretending -- even as an adult. What is/are your magnificent obsession(s)? "Your subconscious mind is like a GPS." The power of glimpses. How the subconscious mind is a willing servant. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Jeff is, How are your deep feelings about yourself and your circumstances impacting the result of what you want for yourself? FIND JEFF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-buehner-4710a71aa/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jeff_Buehner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/7SecretsInstitute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeff_buehner/ Website: https://sultans7secrets.com/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast - Jeff Buehner 00:42- Introduction & Bio 02:16- Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 03:02- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 07:48 - When you say you're more of a black or white person, where does that come from? 12:00 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 13:17- What does leadership mean to you? 14:05- Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing 23:04 - An overview of the origin of the Sultan's Secrets. 59:10 - How the Sultan's Secrets affected Jeff's life up until the point he wrote his book. 01:10:00- What's next for your writing? 01:13:08- What book has inspired you? 01:15:53- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 97: Mónica Esgueva and Her Book, The 7 Levels of Wisdom: A Path To Fulfillment ABOUT MONICA Mónica Esgueva is a renowned self-development teacher and spiritual guide known for bridging the gap between Eastern and Western philosophies. With a profound understanding of the mind, human consciousness, and spirituality, she has been helping the transformation of individuals for more than fifteen years.  She is a prolific author who is celebrated for her impact on self-development in Spain and Latin America, and she has 9 empowering books. Mónica's journey extends beyond her literary contributions; during a decade-long exploration of India and Nepal, she immersed herself in profound teachings from Tibetan lamas, including the revered Dalai Lama. She teaches workshops and guides meditation & transcendence retreats. She has been a TEDx speaker and a frequent Spanish national TV guest. Very committed to guiding others' inner evolution, she has worked as a transformational coach for the last fifteen years. Since 2008, she has taught emotional mastery, self-knowledge, and mindfulness to more than 2,500 executives at companies such as Accenture, Samsung, and Oracle. She was honored as one of the Top 100 Women Leaders in Spain and one of the Top 10 “Thinkers and Experts Awards.” Besides her native Spain, she has lived in Paris, London, Tanzania, and Asia. She speaks four languages fluently. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS What happens when you try to fit in anywhere with something that's not authentic to what you TRULY need to be in alignment with your soul's purpose. How a trip to India upended her life completely (in a good way). What self-transcendence means. The fault in our life's programming. Self-Leadership & finding yourself. "I am an example of if you don't give up, if you are constant in your work, if you have faith and you do things from your heart, at some point, the right timing will appear and then things will flow." The power of humility. The seven levels of wisdom and our three tiers of development. "I am not an animal that will just follow a crowd." You're not supposed to know where life's tests will take you -- or else they wouldn't be test. Near-death wisdom. Points of peace in your life. The power of inner kindness and benevolence. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Mónica is, How are you responding to the voice that's calling you to transform into what it is you're meant to be? FIND MONICA Website: http://www.monicaesgueva.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/m%C3%B3nica-esgueva-b85b9727a/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MonicaEsgueva Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monica_esgueva/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-97-m%2525C3%2525B3nica-esgueva-7-levels-wisdom-path-jaramillo-mba-msop-h4wge/?trackingId=UytCUHY9TCG6Jqg2rDkrlg%3D%3D CHAPTERS – NEED TO FIX FOR AUDIO 00:00 - The Book Leads - Mónica Esgueva 00:50 - Introduction & Bio 02:54 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 07:05 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 16:29 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 18:12 - What does leadership mean to you? 20:06 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 27:25 - Can you provide a general overview of the book? 29:00 - What are the seven levels of wisdom? 43:40 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 49:46 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 96: Dr. Eric Boyd and his book with Anna Alvarez Boyd, PCC, FairWays to Leadership®: Building Your Business Network One Round of Golf at a Time ABOUT ERIC Eric is Professor Emeritus at James Madison University and associate professor of marketing at the University of Central Florida. His research on leadership has been published in leading management journals like Harvard Business Review and Advertising Age. He received his PhD in marketing from the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia and is an award-winning scholar who is recognized internationally for the innovativeness and quality of his instruction. Eric promotes leadership development and training through his work with FairWays to Leadership (FWTL), a national nonprofit he co-founded with his wife, Anna Alvarez Boyd. The mission of FairWays to Leadership is to teach leadership and networking skills to college students from diverse communities through the experience of learning to golf. Eric is also a leadership coach with Inntinnean Coaching. Eric's coaching philosophy is that every person has innate strengths, and the use of those strengths is key to successfully leading others and oneself. Working with clients to understand their leadership strengths through reflection and assessment, Eric provides clients with a customized approach that allows them to be more effective leaders.  CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Who are the people who give him checks, showing him he's taken certain things for granted? "Don't take for granted that you have confidence. Not everybody has it." Being aware of your superpowers -- and sharing them. The question that seems to sort of stop a lot of young leaders in their tracks. How his mom inadvertently taught him about competition. "OK, get the opportunity first. Then you can figure out all the details." (Using where you want to get as your North Star.) What made his life richer. How his students' frustrations during the Summer of 2020 led to Fairways to Leadership. The source of Eric's servant leadership. The power of adaptability in life, leadership, and golf. What branding means vs. what networking means. "How do you bring your brand to life for other people?" Looking back over your past to see where you had "the zig." "Networking within the family." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Eric is, Which superpower, that could benefit and possibly be life-changing for others when you share it, are you overlooking? FIND ERIC Website: https://fairwaystoleadership.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-eric-boyd-6322274/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7196579462459572224/ CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction & Bio - Dr. Eric Boyd 03:00 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 11:38 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 25:30 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 26:11 - Where does your servant leadership come from 28:38 - What does leadership mean to you? 29:35 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? A breakdown of the chapters in the book. 32:47 - What do alumni of FairWays to Leadership say about their takeaways? 35:20 - How does the program work, between the classwork and golfing? 41:38 - What lessons have you taken away from the book 43:24 - How did it work out with you cowriting the book with your wife? 45:05 - What's next for your writing? 45:36 - What book has inspired you? 49:00 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 95: Suzi Hunn & Her Book, Big-Hearted Entrepreneur: Own Your Worth and Amplify a Mission That Matters ABOUT SUZI Suzi Hunn founded Teach Your Thing in 2017 to help changemakers amplify their impact. Her specialty is designing education experiences that expand audiences and create income streams. Her book, Big-Hearted Entrepreneur, is a practical guide for helping purpose-driven leaders own their worth and amplify a mission that matters to them. Suzi has more than twenty years of experience developing learning tools for nonprofits, social enterprises, cultural institutions, K–12 schools, corporate groups, authors, and founders. As an educator at the Minnesota Historical Society, her largest project was coordinating the second edition of Northern Lights, a history curriculum used by sixty-five thousand sixth graders annually. Other favorites included developing multimedia materials on Ojibwe beadwork and Hmong immigration and presenting at conferences like Games + Learning Society and National Council for the Social Studies. She lives by the rallying cry, “You have medicine that you must own.”  Suzi lives outside St. Paul with her partner and golden retriever. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS The humility, curiosity, and honor we can have for the work clients have already done. When it comes to teaching, "The person doing the talking is the person doing the learning." The opportunity that exists among those we're teaching. How her own experienced trauma and her experience as an entrepreneur bolstered her message to others of recognizing and protecting their worth. How a crime made her more passionate about sharing her ideas and made her trust that she had a voice. How much you can achieve for yourself -- even in the face of Imposter Syndrome? The power of finding what the right container is for you -- does it allow your work to be fun or to be a drudge? Give yourself permission to create what you want to create, not what you think you should create. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Suzi is, What's the medicine in you that others need? How do you own it and amplify what you can share with others? FIND SUZI Website: teachyourthing.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzihunn/ LINKEDIN – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-95-suzi-hunn-big-hearted-entrepreneur-own-john-m--yznrf/?trackingId=FGp0c384TJCkomY0QtB25g%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 - The Book Leads - Suzi Hunn 00:50 - Introduction & Bio 02:41 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 24:07 - What it means when "the person doing the talking is the person doing the learning. 27:46 - What the mantra "You have the medicine that you must own" means. 34:51 - How did your path into your career start off, and what did it look like up until now? 36:23 - Where Suzi's interest in business came from. 42:09 - How Suzi's entrepreneurial journey began. 52:32 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 01:04:49 - What does leadership mean to you? 01:05:44 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 01:10:46 - How the book is organized and laid out for the reader & breakdown of the chapters in the book. 01:17:38 - Breakdown of the chapters in the book. 01:19:48- What lessons have you taken away from the book? 01:30:28- What's next for your writing? 01:31:54 - What lessons Suzi hopes readers take away from the book. 01:33:16- What book has inspired you? 01:36:25- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 94: Sandra Long & Her Book, LinkedIn for Personal Branding: The Ultimate Guide ABOUT SANDRA Sandra is a leading global independent LinkedIn consultant, instructor, speaker, and author. She is the author of the best-selling book, LinkedIn for Personal Branding: The Ultimate Guide. Sandra was the first speaker to share her ideas about LinkedIn on the TEDx stage in 2019. Her company is Post Road Consulting, and her speaking clients include sales teams, companies, executives, event organizers, HR teams, universities, and associations. Sandra is a professional member of the National Speakers Association and a Certified Virtual Speaker. She lives in New Hampshire and loves the outdoors and spending time with family. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS The importance of personal touch when it comes to LinkedIn. The critical foundation of being a good thinker, not just a good learner. Even with no examples of what someone like you can do, you can set the standard. The common traits that exist in both teaching and sales. What being the "new girl" can teach you. Why being a thought leader might not mean what you think it means. "Positioning yourself includes your profile, your network, and your content, all together." Why you want to be like the orange fish. Why personal branding is an ongoing process. How do your values come through on your LinkedIn profile? The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sandra is, How are you crafting your personal branding, itemizing the pieces of your strengths and values, incorporating them into your story? FIND SANDRA Website: postroadconsulting.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/longsandra Newsletter: linkedin.com/newsletters/sandra-s-linkedin-newsletter-6861673500688556032/ LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7190804621861208064/ VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - Guest - Sandra Long 00:49 - Introduction & Bio 02:31 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 04:26 - Changes in Sandra's field during the COVID-19 Pandemic. 07:47 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 08:59 - Sandra's jump from sales to LinkedIn consulting, writing, etc. 16:40 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 17:51 - What does leadership mean to you? 18:52 - What Thought Leadership can mean 24:23 - What the proliferation of AI might mean for LinkedIn 26:59 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 31:45 - General Overview of Book / Breakdown of Chapters 45:49 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 47:10 - What's next for your writing? 48:25 - What book has inspired you? 49:20 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 93: Melanie Herschorn & Her Book, Make a Big Impact with Your Book: Author Marketing Strategies for Long-Term Success ABOUT MELANIE Melanie wants to help you step into your spotlight as an authority. A publisher and book marketing expert for business owners, consultants, professionals and speakers worldwide, she's on a mission to empower authors to share their message with the world. With her comprehensive background of over 20 years as a celebrity publicist, award-winning journalist in radio, print, and TV, as well as a clothing designer and entrepreneur, Melanie is uniquely positioned to support authors to step into thought leadership and make a big impact with their book. Her new book, Make a Big Impact with Your Book, is available now. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS "It's like a drug, and I was addicted" The power of looking back at everything you've done and what brought you joy to move forward. What feeling like your voice didn't matter then can mean for your voice today. "I always wondered what was wrong with me." The importance of what's happening now (as opposed to fiction). Intention is nothing without tactical execution when it comes to messaging. The reminder of coming back to something to bolster its messaging and credibility. Where is the enjoyment in your journey? The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Melanie is, How are you telling and empowering YOUR story? Are you telling it at all, or have you given up? FIND MELANIE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-herschorn/ Website: https://vipbookmarketing.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melherschorn LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-93-melanie-herschorn-make-big-impact-your-john-m--ktzae/?trackingId=dukN9pJiRcWmw52F8mxlKg%3D%3D VIDEO TIME STAMP 00:00 - Guest - Melanie Herschorn 00:49- Introduction & Bio 02:55 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 07:34- While in the field of publishing, what kind of shifts have you seen in the industry? 10:44- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 17:52- What was it that drew you to journalism and telling other people's stories? 21:53 - Does it make sense from who you were as a child that this is what you would be doing in your career? 29:14- What does leadership mean to you? 30:06- Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 33:20- Can you provide a general overview of the book? 43:48- A breakdown of the chapters in the book. 51:20 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people? 53:33 - Takeaways from a toxic relationship 56:30 - What's changed in you as a result of writing this book? 57:38- What book has inspired you? 01:00:54 - What's next for your writing? 01:02:39- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 92: Bernard Chong & Made In America: My Story by Sam Walton ABOUT BERNARD Bernard stands at the helm of a billion-dollar investment empire, seamlessly navigating traditional businesses and cutting-edge tech startups alike. His diverse portfolio spans industries from retail, real estate, and entertainment to food and beverage. His interests range from animation (ASI Studios) and radio communications (Energy FM) to food and beverage (Tim Hortons/Kko Kko), entertainment (RKB Productions), and IT (Thirty One Digital), among others. A luminary in the esports industry, Bernard gained international acclaim for founding the award-winning Bren Esports (now APBren) in 2017. Bernard's philanthropic endeavors are as extensive as his business ventures. As the co-owner of Synergy88 Studios, the Philippines' first Microsoft-accredited art supplier specializing in mobile games and 2D character designs, he contributes to the flourishing creative industry. His upcoming ventures include the U.S. expansion of Mendo Coffee Company, a new mobile app platform, housing developments in Panama, the BrenNetwork investment fund, and the launch of the BrenSEED Foundation—a global education-focused non-profit. Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Bernard is an avid Legos enthusiast, chess player, and comic book aficionado, with a particular fondness for Batman. Currently residing in Beverly Hills, CA, he is a devoted father and family man. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS The power of trust in others. Understanding what someone is good at and getting out of their way. The importance of knowing one's blessings. Curiosity is key to understanding people What we can get from helping people with no expectations in return. Stepping away from work to relax. Needing to meet people with a colorful past. "We, as a leader, should really find every good person we can and try to get them and attract them and hopefully be aligned with them in how to go about business or shared dreams or shared projects." "When you meet a good employee, a good person, and you want to troubleshoot a different area, you just put the good person there and the value, the culture will suddenly change." The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Bernard is, How open, curious, and prepared are you for the opportunities and people in both the world you see and what's beyond its borders? FIND BERNARD Website: linktr.ee/brenchong LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/iambrenchong LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-92-bernard-chong-sam-walton-made-america-john-m--8oowe/ CHAPTERS 00:00 - Guest - Bernard Chong 00:47 - Introduction & Bio 02:40 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work? 04:25- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now? 24:50 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child? 28:58 - What does leadership mean to you? 32:23 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing? 36:40 - What lessons have you taken away from the book? 36:59 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.) This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 91: Carl Grant III & His Book, How To Live The Abundant Life ABOUT CARL Carl Grant III lives in Austin, TX and is the married father of five adult children. He's the Author of “How to Live the Abundant Life,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Carl is CEO of Capital Raise and Connexa Holdings, LLC, is Chairman of Cationic Mineral Formulations, Inc., and is a partner in Super Connector, LLC. Previously, Carl served as global head of business development for Cooley, during which the firm's annual revenue grew from $310M to over $2B. He was the first business development hire at PricewaterhouseCoopers where he grew revenue 33% in his market. He is the founder of the SxSW Sunday Service and the High Tech Prayer Breakfast – DC Metro, Inc.  CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS The connection between service in the U.S. Army and service mentioned in the Bible What it looks like to have a more holistic approach to living life How Carl's book has opened up a dialogue between the East and the West based on his study of both the Bible and the Quran. "Work hard but rest." How you can serve others with success yet set boundaries for yourself The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Carl is, What is the faith that drives you to make the most of what you can in your work and community? (It doesn't even need to be religion.) FIND CARL LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlgrant/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/carlgrant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlgrant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carl.grant.iii/ Buy The Book:  https://a.co/d/7X3lBoY LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-91-carl-grant-iii-how-live-abundant-life-john-m--0ucde/?trackingId=FYASqhTcSzuX3v7tZeBlJQ%3D%3D CHAPTERS 00:00 – The Book Leads – Carl Grant III 00:48 - Introduction & Bio 01:54 - Who Carl is today and more information on his work 06:13 - Carl's career path to today 13:06 - How Carl went from atheist to finding his life with and under God 26:17 - How Carl's work today reconciles to who he was in his childhood 27:55 - What leadership means to Carl 32:49 - Carl's introduction to his book 42:20 - Carl's general overview of the book (& books that have inspired Carl) 47:54 - A certain part of the book that resonates most with people 52:40 - Lessons Carl learned in the process of writing the book 01:04:46 - What's next for Carl's writing 01:07:02 - Lessons Carl hopes others take away from his book 01:09:34 - What Carl is up to these days This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations. Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Apple Podcasts Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!