The Courageous Podcast

MJ DePalma sees marketing as an act of human connection, not a numbers game. As Head of Marketing with Purpose at Microsoft, she helped turn the phrase “inclusion is personalization” into a company-wide growth playbook, and a case study in countless business schools.  In her conversation with Ryan, MJ revisits the day Satya Nadella's growth-mindset culture lured her back to Microsoft, and explains why every KPI should ladder to a single mission.  MJ also warns that a two-degree course error in AI can send brands hundreds of miles off track, and describes how quantum computing may rewrite the rules of brand empathy.

Emily Bond turns life-quakes into page-turners, turning chemo rooms into writing rooms and everyday crises into bestselling fiction. In her conversation with Ryan, Emily shares how a surprise Stage 2 breast-cancer diagnosis collided with a two-year-old at her feet, and how she finished her “magical realism rom-com” Sort of Seeing Someone between infusions. She explains the mental trick that kept her buzzing her hair with a toddler by her side, and offers blunt advice on talking to friends who are fighting for their lives. From inking a HarperCollins deal to shelving a pandemic-dated manuscript, she shows that humor, strict deadlines, and a touch of woo-woo can turn any detour into a new chapter.

Picture a weary parent stepping through a hospital door and finding a warm kitchen, a quiet bed, and a team that already knows their child's name. Katie Fitzgerald, Global President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities, joins Ryan to explain how she is scaling that welcome across sixty-two countries, and sketches a clear plan for doubling the number of families RMHC can house and support worldwide.  Katie recalls hard-won lessons from guiding Feeding America through the pandemic's first shockwaves, and also explains why psychological safety is the starting point for every bold target she sets. From slashing treatment-abandonment rates in Peru to raising seventy-six million dollars in a single four-month sprint, Katie shows how steady progress, not perfection, can change a family's story forever.

Some people survive disruption; Patrick Leddin reverse‑engineers it for sport. Now he's teamed with the world's best‑selling author, James Patterson, to turn chaos into a step‑by‑step field manual.  In this episode of The Courageous Podcast, Patrick explains to Ryan how a college dropout became a Ranger, a CEO, and a Vanderbilt professor. He explains why he quit tenure to write Disrupt Everything with James Patterson, and how hundreds of interviews showed him that disruption is raw material, not bad luck. Patrick shares the four checkpoints that steer any shake‑up toward progress, plus the “game‑on” mindset that swaps anxiety for motion. From family pivots to global crises, Patrick shows how to turn the next jolt into a straighter path to purpose.

Jason Feifer has turned pattern-spotting into a super-power: on the page, on stage, and on LinkedIn's daily feed.  In his conversation with Ryan, Jason, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur magazine, author of Build for Tomorrow, host of the million-download podcast Help Wanted, and writer of the 65-thousand-subscriber newsletter One Thing Better, breaks down how he turns vague ambitions into clear, repeatable systems. He explains the “fresh-brain” morning ritual that powers his content engine, the incremental risks that build true courage, and the rules that keep his personal brand and Entrepreneur symbiotic. From building scarcity around his own voice to teaching companies how to decode viral ads, Jason shows that the fastest route to tomorrow is mastering one thing better today.

After a 30 hour flight to Kathmandu, Len Forkas, joins The Courageous Podcast before his daunting task of climbing Mount Everest to help raise awareness and funds for kids battling cancer. Len is the Founder of Milestone Towers, a Seven‑Summits contender, and Chairman of the foundation, Hopecam.  In his conversation with Ryan, Len traces the moment his eight‑year‑old son asked, “Am I going to die?” and how that question sparked a mission now connecting 5,500+ children with cancer to their classmates in every U.S. state.  He breaks down the mindset that powers 3,000‑mile bike races, South‑Pole ski treks, and this month's Everest attempt. He reminds us that while he can choose to turn back on his journey on Everest, the kids with cancer don't have that option  Along the way he reveals why the true summit isn't a ridgeline at 29,000 feet but a kitchen table stacked with blueberry pancakes for a daughter who once called him out for training too much.

Aaron Starkman's award shelves are overflowing, but it's the process behind the honors that truly fascinates him. Currently leading Rethink as Global Chief Creative Officer, Aaron guided the fiercely independent agency to become the most awarded in the world, clinching Independent Network & Agency of the Year at Cannes, The One Show, the Andys, and more in 2024. His creative direction has spurred viral hits like Coors Light's “Light's Out” and Heinz's “Draw Ketchup,” with mainstream outlets such as CNN, NBC, and Jimmy Kimmel all spotlighting his team's clever, culture-shaping campaigns. In his conversation with Ryan, Aaron talks about how doubling down on core principles, especially during COVID, fueled Rethink's rise to the top. He also shares his personal journey with anxiety, revealing how therapy and medication freed him from self-doubt so he could focus on bold, simple work. From pivoting big concepts in record time to safeguarding a steadfast no-sell ethos, Aaron shows how a transparent process and a dash of humor can fuel fearless creativity.

As former Global Head of Marketing at TikTok, Nick Tran transformed the company from an upstart app into a global cultural phenomenon, earning it Ad Age's Marketer of the Year in 2021. A marketing executive with a knack for steering high visibility brands, he also drove revivals at Hulu, Samsung, and Taco Bell, always aiming to keep companies culturally on point.  Now, he's stepping into a new chapter as president and CMO of a spirits venture backed by Diageo's Ciroc and LeBron James's tequila brand, Lobos 1707—blending celebrity, storytelling, and lifestyle marketing into one bold move. Beyond the corporate world, Nick invests in consumer disruptors like Liquid Death, Away, and Olipop, and even found time to executive-produce the acclaimed Jeen-Yuhs trilogy. In his conversation with Ryan, Nick explains why CMOs must “unlearn marketing” and shares how he balances creative risk-taking with the need for performance. He also reveals how feeding children carrots became his favorite metaphor for a truly balanced brand strategy and opens up about his pivot to fatherhood in London.

Why settle for corporate ‘mission statements' when you can spark a movement? Thomas Kolster has made it his life's work to help Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, and governments discover exactly who they can help their audiences become. As the founder of the Goodvertising Agency, a recognized global thinker at the intersection of marketing, business, and sustainability, and author of two provocative books—Goodvertising and The Hero Trap—he challenges companies to stop obsessing over their “why” and focus instead on empowering people to own their own transformations. A frequent speaker at TEDx and SXSW, a judge at D&AD and Cannes Lions, and a vocal critic on climate issues, Thomas believes “purpose” isn't about being a savior but a catalyst. Whether he's advising Meta, Adidas, or IKEA, his mission remains the same: deliver authentic impact by making your audience, not your brand, the hero.

What happens when a star chemical engineering student from India becomes one of the world's most lauded marketers? In this episode of The Courageous Podcast, Raja Rajamannar reveals how a serendipitous moment shifted him from scientific problem-solver to “accidental marketer,” igniting a diverse career that has spanned financial services, consumer-packaged goods, and healthcare at powerhouses including Unilever, Citigroup, Anthem, and Mastercard. Raja currently serves as Mastercard's Chief Marketing & Communications Officer and Founding President of its healthcare business. His accolades include Global Marketer of the Year by the World Federation of Advertisers, top 5 “World's Most Influential CMOs” by Forbes, top 10 “World's Most Innovative CMOs” by Business Insider, and induction into The Advertising Hall of Fame. Raja is also a Wall Street Journal-bestselling author, known for his book “Quantum Marketing: Mastering the New Marketing Mindset for Tomorrow's Consumers”.

Agnelo Fernandes didn't set out to become a CEO in the hospitality industry, but his background in finance and marketing gave him the perfect foundation to lead courageously with strategy, and heart. Now, as CEO of COTE Hospitality, Agnelo is focused on inspiring his team, elevating guest experiences, and fostering a people-first culture. In this conversation with Ryan, Agnelo shares the power of authentic leadership, reminding us that “the speed (and sprit) of the leader is the speed (spirit) of the team.” He also recounts a memorable moment when an unexpected whale sighting turned a near disaster into a lasting partnership—proving that adaptability and perspective can make all the difference. Agnelo's all-in on blending strategic vision with service, training, and building a people-first culture, proving that a little empathy and adaptability might just be the secret to the future of hospitality.

When a high-flying tech sales career left him drained and unfulfilled, Tim Perreira realized it was time for a drastic change. Throughout his rise to President's Club accolades, top-tier leadership roles, and hefty stock options, he buried stress and anxiety until it pushed him to an alarming low point. Now, Tim is certain that genuine toughness begins with raw vulnerability—and a willingness to admit when you need help. In his conversation with Ryan, he shares the bold plan fueling his next chapter: a 2,800-mile walk across America to raise $50K for men's mental health and suicide prevention. He's out to dismantle the “lone wolf” myth, convinced that real resilience comes from community, honesty, and human connection.

Co-founding one of the world's most successful ad agencies, Anomaly, would be a dream moment for most—but for Jason Deland, it has simply been part of his journey. In this conversation with Ryan, Jason shares how his father's no-nonsense mantra, “What's really going on here?”, has fueled his relentless approach to business and beyond. He breaks down the grit and guts behind building one of today's most iconic agencies—home to groundbreaking campaigns for Budweiser, Beats by Dre, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Coca-Cola. Despite Anomaly's continued success, Jason remains in pursuit of personal growth, returning to the classroom for a master's in sports psychology. Plus, he reveals the job interview rejection that solidified his belief in challenging the status quo and staying true to his convictions.

Fear. It can flat out paralyze us. It can halt us in our tracks and make us feel small unless we stand up and face it head on. That is exactly what Michelle Poler decided to do as the creator of the “100 Days Without Fear” challenge. Michelle has tackled everything from cliff-diving to diving with sharks to conquering deeper fears of rejection and judgment. In this conversation with host Ryan Berman, Michelle invites us to do the latter through her signature question, “What's the best that can happen?” Today, Michelle has sparked an aspirational movement that has reached over 70 million people. As you'll discover from this conversation, Michelle is a cocktail comprised of positivity, generosity, authenticity and abundance.

Picture an era when advertising didn't just sell products—it shaped culture. That's the legacy Ron Berger helped build, from co-founding the 700-person agency MVBMS with Tom Messner, Barry Vetere, Louise McNamee, and Bob Schmetter to penning era-defining taglines like “Time to Make the Donuts” and “Subway Eat Fresh.” In this episode, Ryan reconnects with his former boss to explore how Ron helped launch Adweek and nurtured a culture of candid collaboration over empty hierarchies. Drawing a line between sports competition and creative excellence, he explains why teamwork, accountability, and “impact winning” have always been at the core of his leadership style. Ron also shares on building a culture at MVBMS that prized strategic clarity over trendy cool.

From assembling elite teams at Ford Motor Company and Sun Microsystems to navigating the high standards of Bridgewater Associates, Steve Fitzgerald has honed the craft of leadership—yet every other day, you'll find him carving through fresh powder in the Rocky Mountains. As a seasoned HR leader, startup advisor, and board member, Steve has spent three decades weaving together people and profits, championing both efficient business outcomes and more fulfilling personal lives. In this episode, Ryan and Steve dive into the principles that have shaped Steve's unconventional career path, such as strategic leaps of faith and walking away from corporate safety in pursuit of authentic balance. They explore Ray Dalio's “pain plus reflection equals progress” outlook, offering tangible takeaways on how to welcome tough feedback, develop a growth mindset, and build teams that thrive on continuous practice. 

Marian Salzman is a celebrated global thought leader, trendspotter, and author credited with popularizing “metrosexuality” and helping launch the worldwide #GivingTuesday movement. Over three decades, she's guided top brands through cultural transformations and now serves as Senior Vice President at Philip Morris International, championing a smoke-free future. In her conversation with Ryan, Marian reveals the driving forces behind her 30th—and final—annual trends report, shining a light on the rising importance of “bite-sized delights” and proactive “life care.” She explores how fear can become a positive accelerant for growth, and why the pursuit of curiosity and courage must go hand in hand. Marian also shares insights on living more intentionally—from the resurgence of traditional rituals like tea time to finding personal refuge in a fast-paced digital world.

The Courageous Podcast celebrates its 200th episode! For our 100th, we had our oldest guest ever, 100-year-old George Krumme. Now, for this milestone, we're flipping the script by featuring our youngest guests yet: Ryan's own kids, 12-year-old Micah and 9-year-old Mackenzie. In this milestone episode, the siblings share fresh insights on bravery—from conquering stage fright to taking literal leaps of courage at Sky Zone. They also turn the tables on their dad, grilling him on how he's embraced his own advice to “unlock courage.” With laughter, honesty, and heartfelt moments, this episode proves that courage knows no age. Whether you're 9, 12, or simply young at heart, Micah and Mackenzie will inspire you to face fears, tackle challenges, and take bold steps toward the life you imagine.

One of the worst parts of the job for many? Figuring out pricing. If you've ever had to price anything, this is a must listen episode. Blair Enns is the visionary behind Win Without Pitching, the organization that's rewritten the rules on how expert advisors and creatives close deals. As the author of The Win Without Pitching Manifesto and Pricing Creativity, plus co-host of the 2Bobs Podcast, Blair has redefined integrity-based selling and value-based pricing for countless leaders. In this episode, he and Ryan explore why fear is an inevitable part of the sales process and how embracing courage can help you command higher fees. Blair shares practical strategies to avoid “pitching prisons,” from anchoring high on pricing to structuring proposals with multiple options. He also shares some nuggets from his new book, The Four Conversations: A New Model for Selling Expertise, and reveals the unexpected path that led him from big-city advertising to a remote Canadian mountain town, where his mission to help businesses thrive took root.

Reggie Butler is a transformative leader whose work spans over 36 years, empowering individuals, teams, and organizations to reach their highest potential. As the CEO of Performance Paradigm, he has influenced thousands across industries, from finance to tech, with his expertise in leadership development, equity, and inclusion. In this episode with Ryan, Reggie dives into the 4G Blueprint: Growth, Grit, Gratitude, and Grace—four guiding principles that have been the foundation of his remarkable career. He discusses how these principles drive not only personal resilience but also organizational success, especially during times of change and challenge. Reggie also explores the power of mindset and how we can shift from fear to courage, offering practical insights for navigating life's transitions.

Dilan Gomih has always been driven to perform at the highest level, but it wasn't until her time on Wall Street that she realized the critical link between well-being and peak performance. After working intense 90-hour weeks in finance, she discovered fitness as a tool to thrive, not just survive. This realization led her to found Dilagence, where she now helps organizations and individuals integrate movement and wellness strategies into their daily routines for better energy, productivity, and longevity.  In this episode, Dilan and Ryan discuss the pivotal moments that shifted her from finance to fitness, including the life-changing event of witnessing a colleague's heart attack on the trading floor. She explains how small, incremental changes can lead to big transformations, both in personal well-being and corporate performance. Dilan also discusses how she works with companies like Google and Pinterest to optimize employee wellness, offering practical tips on how to introduce movement into busy lives—without overwhelming yourself.

If Thelma and Louis were reincarnated, it's quite possible they've come back in the bodies of Kirsten Ludwig and Chris Danton. As partners and co-founders of IN GOOD CO, Kirsten and Chris have crafted badass strategies for companies like Pinterest, Zappos, and Mars, helping them stand out in crowded industries. In this conversation, we dive into their trend-filled Substack —GOOD THINKING —where they reach over 15,000 C-suite executives and creatives worldwide. We also discuss their unapologetic philosophy on brand building where they're not afraid to challenge their clients to embrace change. Throughout the episode the duo share examples of how courage and fearlessness drive their work—whether in creative partnerships or navigating the chaotic world of rebranding.

We're thrilled to bring you the third annual Year End Special of the Courageous Podcast! This year, Ryan is once again joined by his partners at Courageous representing the three pillars of Courage: Knowledge (Billy Collins), Faith (Ryan), and Action (Nicole Miller). But the fun doesn't stop there—this episode features three mystery guests — a mentor, a sports legend, and a Fortune 500 Kenvue executive — who each bring their unique perspectives and surprises to the conversation. Along the way, they reflect on some of the most memorable moments and impactful conversations from Ryan's year on the podcast, tying it all together with wit, wisdom, and humor.

Jeff Ragovin is a visionary entrepreneur who's turned industry shake-ups into his playground. From co-founding Buddy Media, which led to a $745M acquisition by Salesforce, to steering Semasio through a high-stakes rebrand and acquisition by Samba TV, Jeff has mastered the art of navigating complex transformations with grit and a strategic eye.  In this episode, Jeff dives into his journey of leadership, from making the tough calls during a company pivot to having radical, transparent conversations with his team. He reveals how the mantra “action overrides inadequacy” fueled his success and why surrendering his ego led to breakthroughs in both his personal and professional life. Plus, Jeff shares the behind-the-scenes of his latest passion project, combining his love for fishing with his entrepreneurial drive.

Jennifer George isn't just running marathons—she's running entire brands into the future. As the SVP of Communications at The Aspen Group, Jennifer has a front-row seat to the C-suite, serving as the voice of leadership for a $4 billion portfolio of brands, including Aspen Dental and WellNow Urgent Care. Over the years, she's transformed global communications functions at companies like Shutterfly and Headspace. In this episode with Ryan, Jennifer dives into how her unique blend of creativity, grit, and optimism has shaped her impressive career. From her early days crafting communications for Unilever to her work at The Aspen Group today, she shares how she's thrived in challenging environments, always seeking solutions that simplify the complex. Jennifer also opens up about the importance of curiosity and staying active in the face of fear, and how "action overrides inadequacy" in any situation. She reveals how she turned self-doubt into a catalyst for bold actions, making a lasting impact on her career and the companies she's helped lead.

Avery Johnson is a former NBA player and championship coach, best known for leading the San Antonio Spurs to an NBA Championship in 1999. Now the CEO of Avery Capital, a financial advisory firm, he uses his extensive experience in sports and business to help clients achieve financial success.  In this episode, Avery shares with Ryan insights on leadership, perseverance, and the mindset that fueled his success. He reflects on his time with NBA legends like Tim Duncan and David Robinson, discussing what he learned from their discipline and work ethic. Avery also reveals how the principles that guided him on the court—preparation, competitive spirit, and resolving conflict—apply to leadership and entrepreneurship. He opens up about his transition into private equity and how sports metaphors continue to shape his approach to business, showing that the game never stops.

Amy Woodall is the founder of Conscious Habit and host of the Conscious Habit Podcast, a powerful movement dedicated to helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential through consciousness and self-awareness.   With nearly two decades of experience as a human behavior expert, Amy has transformed companies by integrating mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and leadership into corporate culture. A sought-after keynote speaker and co-founder of the High Vibe Tribe retreats, Amy has worked with CEOs and executive teams for over a decade to improve sales, leadership, and personal growth. In this episode, Amy shares how consciousness—when cultivated as a habit—becomes the root of all transformation, both personally and professionally. With insights into how to break free from ego-driven decisions and lead with authenticity, Amy offers practical tools to help people overcome fear, tap into their true potential, and build healthier, more effective teams.

Dave Hersh is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and advisor with over three decades of experience building lean, mission-driven businesses. As the founding CEO of Jive, he grew the company from a small open-source project to its IPO. After stints in private equity and venture capital (at a16z), he now serves as a general partner at Metamorph Partners, which does "operator-led buyouts" of companies needing a second act. In this episode, Dave shares insights from his book, Reignition, a playbook for startups to get unstuck. He opens up about his own journey of getting unstuck after facing personal and professional crises and why the future of competitive advantage will focus on humans, not technology. Dave and Ryan discuss the challenges of balancing personal fulfillment with business success and how leaders can make decisions that align with their core values and intuition.

Angela Jackson was living a life most people only dream of. As a high-profile executive at Nokia, she traveled the globe, navigating her career from the heart of New York City. Life was unfolding according to plan—until a life-changing car accident she never saw coming altered everything. During her recovery, Angela recognized a deeper calling, sparking a shift in her vision for her future. Today, Dr. Angela Jackson is the founder of Future Forward Strategies and a lecturer at Harvard University, advising Fortune 500 companies and policymakers on the rapidly changing landscape of tomorrow's workplace. In this episode, Angela revisits the “negative blessing” of her accident. She also shares her shift which has her sitting at the intersection of leadership, purpose, business, and the future of work.

With a career spanning over 20 years at top companies like Square, Microsoft, Amazon, and Etsy, Dave Brown has mastered the art of leading creative teams and building impactful brands. After a successful run as the founder of his own agency and record label, he made the choice to step into a 9-to-5 role, embracing the stability and fresh challenges it brought. In this episode, Dave reflects on the pros and cons of this shift, his dedication to connecting deeply with customers, and Square's recent billboard purchase above Mr. Beef (the restaurant where they film The Bear). Dave also shares insights on the spaces and routines that spark his creativity and his passion for mentoring others in their careers. Filled with humor, practical advice, and unique perspectives, Dave's conversation with Ryan offers listeners a compelling look at the trade-offs between corporate life and hustle life along with the rewards of staying curious.

Verne Harnish, Founder of the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) and CEO of Scaling Up, joins Ryan to share insights from his four decades of helping companies grow. The author behind bestsellers like Mastering the Rockefeller Habits and Scaling Up, Verne has been a pivotal force in executive education, guiding leaders around the world. In his conversation with Ryan, Verne reveals how one key innovation can propel a company forward, while continuous improvements keep the momentum going. He shares the importance of having a trusted council to help guide decisions and scale a business effectively, alluding to Jeff Bezos' two pizza rule. Verne also explores the power of saying no to customers' demands in order to stay true to the company vision and stand out in the market.  Finally, he reflects on a question posed by Tony Robbins that helped him cut through barriers to success.

Jarrod Dillon is the President of Business Operations for Orlando City Soccer Club (MLS), Orlando Pride (NWSL), Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando City Academy, and Orlando City Youth Soccer Network. With a career spanning over 24 years in sports and business, he's dedicated to creating best-in-class experiences for fans and fostering a winning culture for Orlando soccer on and off the field. In his conversation with Ryan, Jarrod shares his approach to building teams where individual success supports the greater good, and how he turned a last-place soccer team into a championship contender in just two and a half years. He talks about the formation of the "Director Alliance," the key group that connects senior leadership with the rest of the team, and the importance of giving everyone in his organization a voice. Jarrod also touches on the courage it takes to take a break in the relentless world of sports and how getting out of your comfort zone to widen your skillset is essential for anyone looking to work in the industry.

Seth Godin is a 1 of 1. With 21 bestsellers, five TED talks, and numerous entrepreneurial ventures, Seth has dedicated his life to helping people understand themselves and the complex world around them, often through the lens of creativity and leadership. In this episode with Ryan, Seth shares insights on everything from mastering Pictionary to improving organizational systems—even drawing lessons from airplane food. They explore ideas from Seth's new book This Is Strategy, discussing the link between courage and creativity. Seth explains that creativity isn't about grand gestures, but about solving everyday problems generously, and how small, low-risk steps outside your comfort zone can lead to tremendous personal growth.

Have you ever seen a cow flying through the air? Yes, you read that right. On the latest episode of The Courageous Podcast, Ryan Berman sits down with renowned storm chaser and extreme meteorologist, Reed Timmer. Best known for his fearless pursuits inside the armored storm vehicle, "The Dominator," Reed and his team push the limits of science and courage as they drive straight into the heart of some of the most dangerous storms on Earth. We dive into the thrilling and terrifying realities of what it takes to chase tornadoes and hurricanes, as Reed recounts his awe-inspiring experiences both on the ground and in the skies. But storm chasing is just part of the story—Reed's dedication to extreme meteorology and his mission to advance weather prediction make this episode a must-listen for thrill-seekers and science enthusiasts alike.

Sophie Ozoux and Kwame Taylor-Hayford, co-founders of Kin Agency, are renowned for their ability to blend creativity with purpose, driving impactful change for some of the world's most recognized brands. With over 20 years of experience in the advertising industry, Sophie has worked with clients like Absolut, Apple, and Facebook, while Kwame has shaped global campaigns for brands such as P&G, Uniqlo and Chobani. Together, they created Kin to help brands navigate the delicate balance between culture, innovation, and social impact. In their conversation with Ryan, they discuss how brands can move beyond viewing "purpose" as a passing trend and instead embrace it as a growth driver. They reflect on the courage it takes for marketers to implement meaningful change and explore the idea that fear is often the biggest obstacle to progress. Through Kin, Sophie and Kwame are dedicated to fostering long-term, transformative work, helping companies like Delta Airlines and Mailchimp lead with integrity in today's ever-evolving world. 

Nicole Zube's journey is one defined by grit, growth, and transformation. As the EVP and Chief HR Officer at SpartanNash, Nicole leads with integrity and a commitment to making an impact, particularly through fostering a "People First" culture. In her conversation with Ryan, she shares how embracing challenges, taking on tough jobs, and remaining coachable has shaped her career. Nicole also discusses her “four G's” —Growth, Grit, Gratitude, and Greatness—and the powerful impact these core values have on both personal and team development. Together, they explore the complexities of transforming the culture of a century-old company and the rewarding process of helping associates feel heard, included, and valued.

Ryan asked me to write this intro myself since my writing gets credit and blame for a lot of things in my life. I was born and raised in San Diego, the city often written off as the souvenir cup of California. When my writing career managed not to flop and I landed a gig on Food Network, every agent or manager much smarter than me said the same thing. “If you wanna have a shot, you've got to move to New York.” Probably great advice. But I politely declined each time because if every creative person who had ambition moved away to “make it,” San Diego would just be a cultural wasteland, a resort with a city on it. What if some of us stayed and helped build a culture—told the stories of its people and the work being done? So in 2021 my wife and I decided to become the new owners of a 75 year-old, beloved media company, San Diego Magazine, and got to work transforming it into a modern media thing. It was a total rebuild, coming out of a global pandemic. The week we signed the papers, our son was born. We launched a massive festival. We launched a creative studio for brands. We micro-napped. Now? Thank all the gods, it's growing. This is our story.

Craig Dubitsky has built a career out of turning everyday products into something people can't help but love. As the Co-founder & CEO of happy™ Products and the mind behind hello® products, Craig shares with Ryan how he made the pivotal decision to focus solely on his mission and cut out the other noise in his entrepreneurial mind. He explores the difference between FOMO (fear of missing out) and FONT (fear of not trying), a mindset instilled by his mother's constant encouragement to “just try.” Craig emphasizes the power of creativity in business, revealing that intention only becomes magic once it's put into action. He also talks about his business relationship with Robert Downey Jr. and their shared mission to spread mental health awareness through their partnership with NAMI.

Katie McKenna, a professional speaker, leadership coach, and bestselling author, turned a life-altering accident into a powerful story of resilience. On a sunny morning in Brooklyn, Katie was run over by an 18-wheeler, an ordeal that she miraculously survived after 10 hours of emergency surgery. In her conversation with Ryan, Katie recounts that harrowing day and the moment she was told she might never walk again, a prognosis that led her to change the way her doctor delivers life-altering news. Now, with a mission to make life better for everyone she meets, Katie shares how she channels her experience into helping others overcome their own challenges with grit, hope, and humor. She also reveals whether she would change her past if given the chance and why she fiercely pursues joy, feeling blessed rather than entitled to life. And yes, she has gotten back on a bike—at Burning Man, no less, in an unforgettable moment of reclaiming her power.

If you could pick up your phone right now and call the 18 year old version of yourself, what advice or feedback would you give that 1.0 person? On this episode, Danita Johnson, a member of Sports Business Journal's 40 Under 40 and ESSENCE Power 40 Class of 2023, shares her answers. Danita, currently serving as the President of Business Operations for D.C. United, is the first Black President of an MLS Club. She is on a mission to make D.C. United one of the premier clubs in all of sports, focusing on both on-field success and off-field community impact. In this conversation with Ryan, she also shares her mantra, and how it guides her in controlling what she can while driving her ambitious vision for the club. Danita also offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and rewards of running an MLS team and how her club goes about celebrating victories across the organization.

Courageous or Outrageous? Does spirituality have a place in the workplace? Denise Lee Yohn and Steven Morris, two of the most respected voices in brand leadership and corporate culture, believe the answer is a yes. Denise, an in-demand keynote speaker and bestselling author of What Great Brands Do, and Steven, a brand and culture-building expert behind The Beautiful Business, bring decades of experience to this thought-provoking discussion. Together, they delve into the growing demand among millennials for companies that reflect their core values and the courage it takes to foster a workplace where employees feel safe to express their spirituality. Drawing on their extensive expertise, they offer a compelling argument for why integrating soul and purpose into business is not just possible, but essential for creating magnetic, sustainable organizations.

Jeremy Lowenstein, a global brand strategist and marketing visionary, has been instrumental in catapulting Milani to the forefront of the beauty industry as the leading multicultural brand.  His experience at beauty giants like Aveda and Sally Hansen has equipped him with a unique ability to craft compelling brand stories that resonate across diverse markets. In his conversation with Ryan, Jeremy talks about how his approach to inclusivity is inherent to Milani's DNA, allowing it to resonate effortlessly across 40 countries.  He also discusses how TikTok and strategic partnerships, like the one with Olympic athlete Jordan Chiles, have amplified Milani's message worldwide.  Jeremy also shares why makeup is not about changing who you are but embracing and enhancing your true self, offering valuable advice (to Ryan and others) on how to communicate this to the next generation.

Sport-bike racer, track & field All-American, multi-patent holder, biometric lab creator, The Wall Street Journal's Marketers That Matter Visionaries, and Adweek's 50 most important people are just a few of Walter Geer's self-earned epithets.  Currently the Chief Creative Officer of Innovation at VML, he has developed commercials, ad experiences, products and implemented creative strategies for brands including Progressive, Advil, and Google.  In his conversation with Ryan, Walter shares his surreal and harrowing experience of surviving a stroke, the life-saving decision to take an experimental drug, and the pivotal role his wife played in his survival. They two also explore his groundbreaking work as a founder of Blackweek, an inclusive conference and economic forum driving opportunities for diverse businesses and professionals. Tune in to this episode to discover Walter's insights on the evolving role of creative leadership and the fearless approach required to make meaningful change.

Be fierce with the fierce.  Scot Chisholm is a four-time founder with over 20 years of experience in building and leading companies. He founded Classy, which he scaled to over $100 million in revenue and led significant strategic investments and acquisitions, including the sale of Classy to GoFundMe in 2022. Currently, Scot is building Highland, a private accelerator and community designed to support and elevate startup CEOs and founders.  In his conversation with Ryan, Scot highlights some of the key moments throughout his journey as a leader, with the theme of resilience at the forefront of his story.  Scot speaks on the value of having a co-founder when starting a company, and also gives his opinion on the importance of friendship and family in business partnerships.  The two also discuss the concept of “speed to truth” when trying to resolve difficult conflicts, and Scot explains some of the successful strategies he's implemented at his organizations to make sure all employees are heard and valued.  

Kevin Swanepoel is CEO of The One Club, the world's foremost non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and celebrating the global creative community. Through The One Club, he directs prestigious award shows like the One Show, ADC Annual Awards, and Young Guns, as well as several education related initiatives. In his conversation with Ryan, Kevin stresses the importance of taking initiative without waiting for permission, sharing a compelling story about securing funding for a diversity focused education initiative. The two explore the notion that courage inspires more courage, while fear breeds fear, and discuss the necessity of persistence and adaptability when trying out new ideas. Kevin also advises those entering the advertising industry to leverage AI as a powerful tool rather than fear it, and highlights the significance of finding a post-COVID balance that enhances workplace happiness and fosters human connection.

Founder of Abella Consulting and Say It Skillfully Inc., Molly Tschang helps senior management and their teams to Win As One. Molly is host of the popular Say It Skillfully® podcast and video series; and has helped executives navigate over 80 mergers and acquisitions and the human after-effects of intense change.  In her conversation with Ryan, Molly names her three parallels between navigating leadership on the tennis court and in the boardroom, including the notion that to be a good leader is to be a good coach.  Molly also emphasizes the point that good leaders really want to know the truth, and why having a ‘shared reality' between all levels of an organization is paramount in performing at the highest possible level.  Molly also gives advice to not let the fear of saying something ‘perfectly' hold us back from communicating openly, and why we need to make peace with the things we really can't change. 

“Defining myself / Is like confining myself / So I undefined myself / To find myself”.  IN-Q is an Emmy nominated poet, multi-platinum songwriter, world renowned keynote speaker, and the best-selling author of Inquire Within.  The Never Ending Now, his recent spoken word album and poetry journal, explore the importance of creativity for emotional and mental well-being.  In his conversation with Ryan, the two dive into the dichotomy of being a macro-optimist and micro-pessimist while finding anchors to the world to keep you grounded.  They discuss the courage it takes to put out a creation into the world that is truly raw and authentic to oneself, and the benefits of pursuing personal growth and maintaining a student mindset as you age, especially when you begin to feel calcified in your ways.

Good leaders truly listen.  Stephen Shedletzky, or “Shed” to his friends, helps leaders make it safe and worth it for people to speak up. A sought-after speaker, coach, and advisor, Shed has led hundreds of keynote presentations, workshops, and leadership development programs around the world.  In his conversation with Ryan, Shed speaks on some of his early inspirations that set a foundation for his current career inspiring bravery in others, including the courageous tale of his Holocaust surviving Grandfather.  Shed explains how to take steps towards embracing a speak-up culture, reminding leaders to both encourage people to speak up, and reward them when they do.  The two also discuss how it becomes harder to get the truth from employees the higher up the leadership rank you get, and discuss why leadership cannot be claimed, it must be earned.

Brad Montague is creator of the hit web series Kid President and author of Becoming Better Grownups, the New York Times best sellers Kid President's Guide to Being Awesome and The Circles All Around Us.  All of Brad's work has been guided by one key phrase: ‘be who you needed when you were younger'.  In his conversation with Ryan, Brad reflects on his role as a “helper” and how his mission to make goodness attractive has landed him in the company of Beyoncé, Steven Martin, and President Obama.  Brad also gives listeners priceless advice on moving from dreaming to doing, and reminds us that we become more courageous the more we live in our hearts.

Eric Ryan is a serial entrepreneur, investor, advisor, and father. He is the co-founder of multiple household brands including method, OLLY, Welly, Cast, and WILL Perform. Eric has been named an eco-leader by Vanity Fair, was PETA's Person of the Year, and can be found on Fortune's 40 under 40 list. In their conversation, Eric gives listeners an inside look on what it takes to be a serial entrepreneur. He provides candid advice on how to avoid the “sophomore slump” coming off a successful venture. He also shares his motivation behind seeking out negative feedback as a first step to any new project. Or, as Eric likes to say to himself when entering a board room: Improve yourself, don't prove yourself. Ryan and Eric cover a lot of ground in this conversational edition including how Eric recognizes that entering a flow state when discussing an idea is a good sign that he may have a winner. 

Count your Mondays.  Jodi Wellman is a Speaker, Author, and Founder of Four Thousand Mondays where she isn't afraid to stare death in the face in the pursuit of living her most fulfilling life.  As the author of "You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets", Jodi tackles the lively topic of mortality to help people make the most of their lives while they're still lucky to be above ground.  In her conversation with Ryan, Jodi speaks about how a stapler changed the course of her life, and how she took the “now steps” to make her dreams become reality.  The two touch on the concept of “pregrets” and why birthdays can be a good barometer in measuring how happy we are.  Throughout the episode, Jodi gives valuable advice on ways to make immediate changes in an effort to start living “like you mean it” and preventing delayed frustration for your future self..