The Whole Enchilada Podcast

Before getting into the meat of the episode (no pun intended), the Whole Enchilada Crew dined on six types of sopes while they heard Michael tell the story of the best Mexican food he ever had in downtown Phoenix. Michael then tells the story of his childhood, where he learned early on how to take care of himself. He made the decision to become a chef but made the mistake of taking on too much and burning out quickly. His mistake landed him addicted to drugs and homeless, merely surviving from one day to the next. A brakeless car and a phone call gave him a second chance and the opportunity to work again, although not landing exactly where he expected. On a mission trip in Cambodia, a chance encounter with two men answered the question Michael had been asking since his recovery: how can I help others? He moved to Cambodia in 2016 and hasn't looked back. He tells a story of leadership with a young man who needed someone to believe in him and how it changed that man's life. Michael discusses the pandemic and how it changed the course of his mission but didn't throw him off track. Links: Mama Maria's Restaurant, Phoenix https://www.mapquest.com/us/arizona/mama-maria-restaurant-402248994 Century 9 Restaurant https://www.facebook.com/Century9Cambodia Michael Kenyon https://www.kenyoncovenant.com About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers and advisors across North America. And now we provide short-term services qualifying cold leads and event lists. Ask us for details at www.esasolutions.com.  The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at www.asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Physical health and emotional health go together. The show starts out with a controversial dish: the California burrito. Are French fries really appropriate in Mexican food? Isaac does a deep dive into this history of this culinary curiosity. Mitch introduces David, who is not only a friend and colleague, but also Mitch's personal trainer. David's history as a cowboy (yes, a real cowboy, with the hat and horses and everything) plays directly into this career path that he chose as a secondary career. The group talks about fitness being more than just being physically strong. David's commitment is to his clients and their community. Holistic health with accountability and presence will bring about the greatest change. David talks deeply about how physical health can be a component of emotional healing and shares a letter he received from a client who had suffered from 18 years of abuse…and who found that her time at the gym helped her to work through her trauma. David also touches motivational sources (hint: it comes from the person who knows you better than anyone else in the world) and gives a perfect summary of his leadership style when he reminds us about our emotional, mental, and physical strength. Links:  Strong City Strength & Conditioning https://strongcitystrengthandconditioning.com/  Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn  

If you have been trafficked or suspect trafficking is happening near you, please reach out The Human Trafficking Hotline. Over 200 languages available  888-373-7888 http://humantraffickinghotline.org Show Notes: The Whole Enchilada always starts with really good Mexican food and this month it's queso. Which brings to mind the burning question of seasons past: white or yellow? Guest Alli Mellon, Executive Director of The Hard Places Community, says it's white queso all the way. Armed with chips and taquitos, the team takes a dip, so to speak, while Alli explains that her love of queso was born over the tradition of slow meals with friends. She has strong ideas about what should and should not be in white queso and exactly how it should cling to the chips. Mitch introduces special guest, Lanise Santala. Lanise is Mitch's wife and a friend of Alli's, who has served with The Hard Places Community on several occasions. Alli begins the conversation with a story that hit her hard when she was serving orphans in Swaziland. It was here that Alli first encountered the horror of human sex trafficking when she met a five-year-old girl who explained her own ordeal in detail. Back in the US, Alli couldn't shake the enormity of the problem. And thus, The Hard Places Community was born and Alli set her sights on Cambodia, a country notorious for sex trafficking very young children. Alli gives some details about the work they are doing in Cambodia, including their Kids Club program and shares the story of Michael Kenyon, a man who grew up in a hard place and overcame his past to empower Cambodian young men to get out of sex trade industry. The team focuses the conversation back on what “the hard places” means and Alli recalls the story of a ten-year-old boy whose experience, after weeks of patience on the part of the staff, finally led to the arrest of a notorious trafficker in Cambodia. Lanise chimes in to talk about The Hard Place Community's unwavering commitment to their mission and Alli gives the story of a man who came to the community at age 15 and who is now a senior staff member. Alli says she reminds her staff that when disappointment arrives, it means the job isn't done yet. She also dives into the importance of self-care and the ways she encourages it with everyone she works with. Links: The Hard Places Community http://thehardplaces.org http://thehardplaces.org/donate https://www.facebook.com/thehardplacescommunity International Justice Mission https://www.ijm.org Dateline NBC: Children for Sale https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna4038249 Chab Dai Coalition https://www.chabdai.org Century 9 Restaurant https://www.kenyoncovenant.com/century-9-1 About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Should the business world's focus be on returning to pre-pandemic models? Or should we forge ahead with new insights? What's the impact of The Great Resignation on the future of leadership and how are innovation and culture changing as we rethink how we run our companies? The group talks to Dr. Sandra Gray about these topics and more (including the importance of corn in the Mayan diet) in this episode of The Whole Enchilada Podcast. The Whole Enchilada crew welcomes businesswoman, professor, and Asbury University President Emeritus, Dr. Sandra Gray. Distance kept the group from dining together but that doesn't mean that Mitch, Gil, Chris, and Isaac (he's back!) didn't enjoy various enchiladas. As usual, the conversation devolves into bad jokes and strange reactions to certain foods. Chris gives a lesson on the history of enchiladas and Dr. Gray shares that her love for the Mexican dish came from her Texan college roommate…and that she still has the recipe. Diving into Dr. Gray's leadership philosophies, Mitch opens by asking about how she sees the business world evolving as we enter year three of the COVID pandemic. Dr. Gray gives a surprise answer when she says that normal isn't always a good thing. She talks about the legacy that excuses can bring and what can be lost when excuses are made. The group moves on to talk about The Great Resignation and Dr. Gray shares an example of a someone who saw a new solution precipitated by the current situation. She mentions it in reference to Harvard University's Human Flourishing Program. The conversation moves into the strengths and weaknesses of today's job force and how they were affected by their own parents' and grandparents' work ethics. Mitch muses that young, eager graduates are asking more philosophical questions about their futures like, “What does success look like to me?” The topics of measured risk and the downfalls of top-down come up, with a specific question to Dr. Gray about her takeaways on company culture and leadership styles. All four talk about creating a culture of innovation while Chris shares his Mexican Pizza fail. Mitch shares a memory of his son's time at Asbury University and asks Dr. Gray about her gift for making people feel like they matter and that they are the only one in the room. They also talk about what it means to retire and still be useful and productive. Finally, Gil ends by asking about Asbury's Dayton School of Business's motto: training leaders to be the best for the world and Dr. Gray says it's all about focus: is it on yourself or on the greater good? Links: Harvard Human Flourishing Project https://hfh.fas.harvard.edu/ About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Jonathan Anderson is the Executive Director of the Good News Rescue Mission in Northern California where he is changing lives by leading collaborative relationships from the heart. He, Mitch Santala, and Gil Moegerle sit down to talk about building reciprocal bonds between people and organizations in the sphere of influencing how homelessness is solved. But first, one seasoned veteran of super-hot pepper sauces schools two not-quite-as-brave souls in the art of seasoning a pollo taco. Can you guess who reaches for the pepper-flavored water and who doesn't? Pollo tacos are on the menu, but the real star of the show is the array of hot sauces. And we don't mean hot sauces, we mean hot sauces. Ghost peppers, Scorpions, and the Carolina Reaper make up bases of the condiments, culminating in Jonathan's favorite, the Mad Dog 357. Despite their pleas for Cholula and Taco Bell sauces, Mitch and Gil try one of Jonathan's favorites that he says, “is not a risk.” Mitch introduces Jonathan Anderson, the Executive Director of the Good News Rescue Mission in Redding, CA, and asks him about his most dearly held leadership principles. Jonathan talks about how his perception of his position changed over time with the development of his heart. The conversation turns to developing the hearts of others through passion. Jonathan shares his not-so-strategic business model that brings universal truth to your work. He also talks about the collaboration of various approaches and tells a very tense story about an adversarial relationship that turned into an alliance when heart and passion were applied. Gil asks Jonathan more about building collaborative relationships from square one and the realism of mutually beneficial outcomes. There is talk of entitlement on both sides of the relationship and how to break it while preserving self-worth and dignity, with a striking example of a reciprocal relationship between the Good News Rescue Mission and a local business. “It's better when everyone brings something,” says Mitch, shifting the conversation toward the public image of a local non-profit. Jonathan says that everyone has influence but asks if you have intention with your influence. Finally, the question of the hour is answered: How do we solve homelessness? Jonathan tells a story about a relationship forged between a mentor and a Mission guest…and how two lives were changed by a simple connection. Links: Mad Dog 357 Hot Sauces https://maddog357.com/collections/sauces Secret Aardvark Hot Sauces https://secretaardvark.com Good News Rescue Mission https://gnrm.org A Work of Heart by Reggie McNeal https://www.amazon.com/Work-Heart-Understanding-Spiritual-Leaders/dp/1118103181 Brene Brown https://brenebrown.com About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Mitch, Gil, and Chris welcome Mitch's business partner and older sister, Keri Gentry, to the Whole Enchilada Table. After sharing bean burritos and some colorful conversation the team gets down to business talking about Keri's leadership style, her competitive nature, her desire to empower her employees, and what it's like to partner with a close family member. Despite Mitch's skepticism, Keri chose a bean and cheese burrito as her favorite Mexican food. He gives her a particularly hard time about this choice because Keri is not only Mitch's 50/50 partner in Executive Scheduling Associates, but also his older sister. Chris advises that while a bean and cheese burrito may be basic, there are lots of variations that can occur. Loads of cheese, a little salt, and bottles of Jarrito lead the group to question the proper way of dealing with the, um…metabolic effects of a bean burrito meal. Before they get to the digestive point of no return, Mitch introduces Keri as a great example of an everyday leader. You don't have to be a famous superstar to be an outstanding leader. Keri's competitive drive is the topic of conversation when Mitch asks her about how it's played into her success. Keri talks about her earlier years and why she is the way she is. She also shares how she's used it in her role at ESA and talks about employees who outperform their leaders. In the end, she says, it's the moments that matter. Chris dovetails on the conversation to ask Keri how she went from being a top-notch scheduler to making sure her employees are equally successful. The ideas of employee empowerment and finding a better way become hot topics. The team goes back to basics to talk about ESA's start-up days, including suspect office furniture and non-traditional attire. The conversation turns toward resolving tension, especially when you're closely related to your business partner. Keri and Mitch both chime in with good ideas, though they admit that wet willies have been doled out a few times. Keri and Mitch both touch on the topic of their business' purpose (and it's not just filling calendars) and Chris wants to know how they became so successful despite not putting the company's needs before employees and clients. Every business has a COVID story and Keri shares ESA's…and how she led through the pain of temporarily cutting wages by 10%. Finally, prompted by Chris, Keri talks about her leadership legacy and the importance she places on leaps of faith. Links: Jarritos https://jarritos.com/ Heart of Business Hubert Joly https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CNMLDH1/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 La Cocina Economica http://www.lacocinaeco.com/ About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

The Whole Enchilada Podcast welcomes guest Jack Burgess of The Difference Consulting. Jack consults with organizations of all sizes to help them create and plan for the futures of their companies. With his artistic background, Jack sees leadership from an entirely new perspective. As always, the team starts out with a Mexican dish, this time breakfast burritos. Gil is perplexed by the size of these savory delights and poses a philosophical question: to binge or to graze The burritos are filled with all kinds of surprises, including ham, bacon, sausage and carne asada, which Chris lovingly calls a Mexican Smorgasbord. Is ham an innovative move? A lateral move? These are the kinds of public service questions the team tackles. Once they have finished their larger-than-life burritos, Jack talks about how he started out drawing on walls (so to speak) and how he has honed his craft to cater to three different types of learners. Jack goes on to talk about the disadvantages of starting with a blank canvas and Mitch likens the conversation to The Whole Enchilada Season 3, Episode 1 where Joshua Johnson talks about low-definition paintings. Jack continues talking about two types of starting points and gives three examples that show how he helps companies determine their problem and create the strategy to fix it. The team has a laugh when grey-haired Jack admits to being “the face of the patriarchy” and the importance of building trust with those you're working with. Show up, work hard, listen, and adjust. Work, emotional, and rational spaces are all paramount to success. Mitch agrees that silence and listening are not the same thing. Jack and Mitch toss the idea of leadership back and forth as Mitch talks about leading from three different positions…and the benefit of one over the other two. Jack says that the best leadership attributes have two important components and that involving employees in decisions creates ownership of the problem and solution. The team moves to talking about pivoting and looking at a linear path of decision-making from a different perspective and the final conversation revolves around how it's not necessary to always be the expert…but how vision, power, structure, and resources are all places to consider when creating a plan. Links: The Difference Consulting https://thedifferenceconsulting.com/ Jack Burgess http://www.jackburgessstudio.com/ Joshua Johnson Episode https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/podcast/episode/f749208d/s3-e1-leading-with-inspiration La Cocina Economica http://www.lacocinaeco.com/ About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Joining Mitch, Gil, and Chris in the studio is fitness expert and CrossFit coach, Michelle Gallagher, who chooses burritos al pastor before diving into deep conversations about her own leadership path and the principles that guide her as she coaches people to better physical and emotional health. Burritos are measured in grams (who knew?) and in this episode, Chris brought a scale to weigh each burrito, with some coming in over one pound. Michelle chooses her burrito first and after a lot of rustling of paper and a few seconds of silent enjoyment, the team discusses the various fillings, types of tortillas, and even the history of al pastor meat. Mitch gives an in-depth Spanish lesson when he informs everyone that burrito means little donkey. Putting aside their tortilla-wrapped goodness, Mitch introduces Michelle and immediately asks if grunting is acceptable in the gym. Michelle gives a brief overview of CrossFit, her history of owning a CrossFit gym and her current work with all-female gym, FemFit, in Redding, CA. Michelle talks about how her journey began after the birth of her son and her struggle with postpartum depression. She also cites the sudden loss of her brother and her body's refusal to go any further without dealing with the issues at hand as the origin of her trek to where she is today. The group discusses how healthy organizations come from healthy leaders and moving a passion into a profession. Michelle says she wanted others to experience the same mind and body transformation that she experienced. Mitch goes on to speak about authoritative experts and the passions they tend to bring by leading people to their own, personal potentials. Michelle defines a new word for the team when she says she learned the art of "peopling" from her mentor, starting with ditching the one-size-fits-all attitude and Chris asks her about continued motivation of others. Michelle says, “The experience matters,” and gives examples from her retail sales experiences. The conversation turns to surface goals versus deep goals and the theory of self-confidence as currency. Mitch quotes Aaron Hayes saying, “People replicate what you celebrate.” Finally, the group mulls over the ideas of coaches needing coaches, redemptive leadership over transactional leadership, and who should benefit from the leader-leadee relationship. Links: CrossFit https://www.crossfit.com/ FemFit Redding https://femfitredding.com/ La Cocina Economica http://www.lacocinaeco.com/ About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Joining Mitch and Gil this episode are land developer Joshua Johnson and restaurateur Chris DiGiovanna. After digging into carne asada tacos (and fancying themselves food critics), the group digs into leadership principles centered around growing healthy, connected communities. Creating a new tradition, Mitch, Gil, Chris, and Joshua sample carne asada tacos from different locations. In the style of a white elephant gift exchange (with a little bribery thrown in for good measure), the four break down what makes a carne asada taco great? Cheese or no cheese? Sear or no sear? Should they be in Styrofoam or wrapped in foil? These guys are asking the real questions. After their meal, the group begins with Mitch asking Joshua about leadership by inspiration. Joshua likens it to painting a picture and broadening the definition of team. That moves the conversation into a discussion on inspiring people who have different levels of commitment to a project and Joshua talks about the importance of relatability. Joshua also shares his struggle with imposter syndrome, as he moved from being a software developer to a land developer. Chris chimes in with a question about willingness and Joshua discusses what he learned when his business coach asked him, “What do you want?” There's a lot to be said about influence and influencing in the collaboration space. Gil asks Joshua if he thinks that a win-win negotiation is possible and he gives a very surprising answer: No. Mitch likens the answer to a scorecard. Moving onto Joshua's latest project, he talks about designing neighborhoods that inspire and create connection among their residents. Shared experience make healthier communities. Gil wants tips on how to bring this kind of relationship into our own, existing communities and there is lots of talk about front yard barb-b-ques and garage-based viewing parties. In the end, the conversation is about breaking down barriers. Whether you're putting a gate where a fence once was or deconstructing your own personal leadership barriers, be ready to collaborate and share the abundance with those you love and lead. Links: La Concina Economica http://www.lacocinaeco.com/ Kimberly Johnson, The Whole Enchilada Podcast, Season 1 https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/podcast/episode/e1f95af1/s1-e3-searching-for-a-better-way Shiloh Park https://www.shilohparkredding.com/ John Maxwell https://www.johnmaxwell.com/ About Our Sponsors: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers and advisors across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. The Dayton School of Business at Asbury University offers a small-town campus with a big-impact education for future business leaders. Undergraduate studies include accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and sports management. There's even an online Dayton Master of Business Administration program. Learn more at asbury.edu. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Long-time ESA client, Karen Graham, has been in the financial industry for 16 years, advisor and wholesaler. She and Mitch Santala talk about her experiences as a woman in a male-led industry and the four words that she believes have defined her success. Mitch begins with the reminder that The Whole Enchilada spirit resides in every human and that we hope to awaken it in our listeners. He starts his conversation with Karen, asking about her sales team leadership keywords. Karen gives four words that she says defines a leadership personality and talks about the different perspective that a woman has in a male-dominated industry. She cites a couple of stories and pieces of advice from the earlier days of her career, giving appreciation to the wisdom she gained. Mitch and Karen go on to discuss growth in a leadership position and Karen notes her own knowledge of the industry as a turning point in her career. She shares a story about knowing a product will help a client who is reluctant to buy…and why she won't take no for an answer. The pair move on to talking about motivating a team to carry a success target, with Karen giving her point of view as the head of an all-female sales team, along with the usual, more common targets. The Whole Enchilada cites the place, the person, and the path and the conversation leans toward what Karen knows to be the most important part of the path, also stating that long cycles need to be considered. The secret to her success? “Just one more.” When Mitch asks Karen if she believes that leaders are a different breed, she goes back to her keywords to explain what makes a successful sales leader. The two also delve into the role-reversal in Karen's family, with Karen giving an insightful example of what it's like for her at a conference versus what it's like for her male counterparts. Karen talks about betting on herself when she switched career roles, and the pivotal moment when she discovered her “swagger.” Mitch agrees that everyone has swagger and that it's important for leaders to determine what sets them apart from everyone else. Karen also believes that success and failure can be rolled into one factor – that a go-for-it attitude can lead to success but can also lead to failure. What is the cost of being the best? The conversation ends with Karen's story about ethical business practices and Mitch's own thoughts on living beyond the transaction. The final question lands us at Karen's favorite Mexican food restaurant, Casa Alde in Buda, Texas. She says that we'll be going for breakfast to have their famous “Fatty” breakfast taco and wishes us good luck on that Chuy's dinner with Season One, Episode Nine guest, Brett Collins. Apparently, we won't want to eat again for a long time after indulging in the Fatty. Table Talk: Immediately following his conversation with Karen, Mitch introduces The Whole Enchilada team and asks who wants to begin. Erin jumps at the chance, giving her own story of teaching integrity to her daughters much like Karen did in her story about helping a former who no longer had a sales agreement with her distribution company. Gil equates it to his time in media relations and the need to build trust with reporters. Isaac says that he connected with Karen's philosophy of listening, talking about a friend who gave up a big sale in order to benefit the client…and how that came back to bless him later on. Gil says that a solar salesperson he recently met with had a similar story. Mitch recalls learning the lesson that the harder he has to work for a sale, the harder the client is to keep, and that sometimes success means letting go. He ends the episode talking about how success is a tricky and subjective concept. Links: The Spanx Story by Charlie Wetzel and Stephanie Wetzel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T8SG7WZ/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 Margin by Richard Swenson https://www.amazon.com/Margin-Restoring-Emotional-Financial-Overloaded-ebook/dp/B00IDHW5KK The Whole Enchilada, Season 1, Episode 9 https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/podcast/episode/219df1d9/s1-e9-why-bet-on-yourself Casa Alde, Buda, TX https://www.facebook.com/helenscasaalde/ About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at www.esasolutions.com. Follow Us: Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn  

Jefferson Lee, the Director of Philanthropy for World Vision, joins Mitch to talk about the differences (and similarities) of the entrepreneurial spirit in both the non-profit and for-profit workspaces. After a brief introduction, including Jefferson's impressive fundraising record, Mitch leads the discussion by asking Jefferson for his thoughts about non-profit leaders. Jefferson responds with observations on the internal conversation one must have with himself about values, mission, and vision. The two talk about creating a culture that values more than just a paycheck. The discussion moves to the topic of what seems to be a natural transition for some – moving from for-profit to non-profit. Jefferson makes a point about the longevity of success, citing a friend he met in Hong Kong. The two speak specifically about entrepreneurialism in the non-profit space and Jefferson gives his three Ps, telling the story of a benefactor whose donations more than quadrupled because of those three principles and the partnership they helped forge. Jefferson also gives the origin story of World Vision and the atrocities that a journalist witnessed while covering the Korean War. A Korean American himself, Jefferson gives a sincere thank you to the United States for giving his family the opportunity to build a better life. The conversation wouldn't be complete without touching on Jefferson's success in fundraising for non-profits and he cites five points and a compelling story about changing the world one life at a time. Finally, Mitch and Jefferson get down to the most important part of the interview: where is lunch? Jefferson says that he can't pass up the opportunity to go to Javier's, an upscale Mexican restaurant with locations in Southern California and Las Vegas. Mexican food purists, the pair agrees that if the chips and salsa aren't good and fresh, then the rest of the meal isn't worth it. Jefferson assures Mitch that Javier's offerings are the best in the land. Table Talk: The team is together again, wowed by Jefferson's philosophies and conviction. Erin begins the conversation by highlighting Jefferson's statement on seeking significance. How are you doing to change the world for the better? She reminisces on her beloved grandfather – a self-made man and small business owner who reached far beyond himself to help those around him. After a minor mix up with Ivan Pavlov (and his famous dogs), Gil settles on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, where the pinnacle is self-actualization: doing what you are meant to do. Before being interrupted by Mitch, Gil goes into Jefferson's five fundraising tactics, starting with Number One – belief. But wait…that's what Mitch wanted to talk about. And Isaac says it's what he wanted to talk about. Erin points out that she's the only one with an original idea. Isaac jumps right in, reminiscing that belief is a fundamental part of public relations. Belief brings greater commitment and, let's face it, more fun. Mitch shares his own story about taking a job he didn't believe in…one that involved a broken-down truck, wholesale meat, and shady business practices. Gil also cites Jefferson's idea of making your ask into a case statement, expressing the urgency of it and why it's different. He also expounds on the importance of getting outside your organization to gain credibility, which Mitch calls a minimum viable product. Mitch brings it home by reiterating the importance of moving your success to significance. Links: World Vision https://www.worldvision.org/ Drive by Daniel Pink https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033TI4BW/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 Javier's https://www.javiers-cantina.com/about About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers and advisors across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

In this episode, Mitch Santala talks to Hope Seth, an expert in community development and start-up success. The conversation centers around humility and the importance of reaching outside yourself to make a dream come true. Mitch starts off by asking Hope about her first entrepreneurial experiences and she talks about falling in love with customer service while helping her dad with the family business. Hope mentions that she doesn't fit the classic definition of an entrepreneur, but Mitch disagrees. Hope continues with her work history, from doughnuts to catalogs, and the two agree on what it means to be a supporting role. Mitch comments on Hope's philosophy about how the people – not the project – should be the focus and Hope brings up the concept of trust. She talks about trust as a foundation and how important it is to establish trust with the way you communicate. Mitch inserts his similar ideas on giving personal value to the people you work with. The pair touches on the idea that everyone can be an owner of something, be it the whole company, a project, a department. As always, the topic of service comes up. Mitch asks Hope about her best tips for getting an idea off the ground and Hope responds that the vision is easy…but getting the timing right is imperative. She also talks about what she believes is the secret to having a successful plan. She even gives insights into a big project she headed up in the city of Anderson, California and what she credits the success to. The conversation turns to leadership and the importance of being able to follow. Hope gives insight into an approach for team leadership that gives everyone the opportunity to be a leader in their own space. Hope discusses some of the dos and don'ts that she'll highlight in the best-selling book Mitch is sure she's going to write. She has a surprising take on writing business plans and what you should do instead. She also makes sure to note that you must be open to feedback and be willing to adjust as people give you advice. There are big tips, too, for getting started and getting an idea off the ground. There's also conversation about what not to do and a strong insinuation that entrepreneurial ideas are probably not as original as their brain trust thinks they are. Mitch and Hope continue to talk about tricks for pitching and Hope reminds listeners that there has to be a problem first. The solution comes second. And she says not to get too used to your idea in its first form. Hope also introduces an article she wrote called “Let's Try It Again,” and gives a great example of how she pivoted her approach to getting her kids to do things and do them the right way. Mitch gives parents a new perspective on approaching their kids' futures. The topic of failure comes up and Hope cites the rather unconventional way it's been worked into her office's culture. The two then dive into keep entrepreneurs in a city and Hope gives some perspective into how hard it can be to both attract and keep local business…and what cities can do to minimize the risk of losing them. Finally, the most important question of all is asked: Where are we going for really good Mexican food. You can nearly hear the team gasp when Hope says that being from the Midwest means Taco Bell is the go-to for Mexican food. It's established that this will not suffice, and Hope says that she is always on the lookout for the best white queso dip, finding it at Casa Ramos in Redding. Table Talk: Mitch introduces the team: Gil Moegerle, Erin Pruetz, and Isaac the Former Intern. Mitch starts out talking about the difference between entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial spirits. Isaac immediately dives into one of his millennial rants about how social media gets a bad rap. He reminds listeners that social media is a viable means of networking and promoting a brand, content. It's about how you use it. Erin agrees, although somehow gets called a boomer in the process. She says that social media isn't a flash in the pan and that businesses need to adapt and figure out how it's going to work for them. Erin also says that Hope's “I don't want to be the leader” statement was relatable to her. She remarks that she's got a million ideas but just don't want the junk that comes with company ownership. She says she likes being the boss of her own little area, without the pressure of the whole company on her. Gil talks about his own dad's door-to-door career and how the first time his dad let him give a pitch was the first time he really believed in himself for the first time. He relates to Hope's own little experience of learning from doing, with the guiding hand of a beloved parent. Mitch wraps it up with comments on showing up and serving, not worrying what others will give you in return. He says, “Find joy in seeding hope in others.” Links: The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey https://www.amazon.com/SPEED-Trust-Thing-Changes-Everything-ebook/dp/B000MGATWG The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan https://www.amazon.com/ONE-Thing-Surprisingly-Extraordinary-Results-ebook/dp/B00C1BHQXK/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+one+thing&qid=1623088645&s=digital-text&sr=1-1 The Whole Enchilada Podcast: The Eye of the Entrepreneurial Tiger https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/podcast/episode/47548567/s1-e5-eye-of-the-entrepreneurial-tiger The Whole Enchilada Podcast: Everyone is Entrepreneurial https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/podcast/episode/c3e0bf99/s1-e7-is-everyone-entrepreneurial “Let's Try This Again” by Hope Seth https://heaveninbusiness.com/lets-try-this-again-2/ Casa Ramos https://www.casaramos.net/menu About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at www.esasolutions.com. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Mitch welcomes Chris Lamm, a mortgage advisor from the Redding, CA area. Chris' successes include $1 billion in funded loans, more than 600 five-star testimonials and 5,500 successful closings. He and Mitch talk about employees, mentors, health, control, and, of course, really good Mexican food. Mitch begins by introducing Chris and The Whole Enchilada spirit that drove him to become a loan officer and branch manager. Chris talks about how he started out solo and had to make a decision to grow his business or move on. Mitch asks what caused him to decide to grow. Chris cites a lot of resistance to growth, but began to see the advantages of it, including (and perhaps most importantly) the ability to help more people. Mitch brings up possibly the scariest part of scaling up a business: the more people you invite, the more people can ruin your good name. Chris talks about the importance of being careful of who you invite into your house and always being in touch with all departments of your business. He quotes the book Raving Fans and its principles of customer service. Mitch turns the conversation toward intrepreneurialism – a concept brought up by Elizabeth Dixon in Season 2, Episode 1 – and Chris responds with his dreams and goals and a surprising statistic about business owners who fail. The discussion moves on to mentors and Chris names a local investor as the guy who taught him to dream. He goes on to talk about the 2008-2009 housing crisis and subsequent recession and what he learned from it. Chris and Mitch get personal when Mitch asks Chris about the initial path that he was on. Celebrating 18 years of sobriety, Chris lends his own thoughts on how to overcome and survive and the two talk about the illusion of control and finding peace of mind. Mitch ends with the all-important question, “Where are we having Mexican food?” Chris immediately suggests Cabo san Lucas. He says it's no particular restaurant. It's more of the idea of eating where the locals eat…in a restaurant down an alley that has a sheet for a door. Those places always have the best carne asada, cooked right there in front of you. He wants a portion of lingua (the meat that tastes you back) and fresh tortillas. He wants his carne asada taco-style with lots of cilantro. When Mitch asks him how many, Chris says four or five and Mitch laughs, saying he'd like to have 10 or 12. Table Talk: Mitch opens Table Talk by revisiting Chris' little-by-little approach to success, remarking that it's a marathon, not a sprint. He even likens it to building a house: will it be your forever home or is this something you'll pass onto someone else? He quotes Richard Rohr about how familiarity and habits are falsely reassuring and that we should resist getting too comfortable. We should never stop going after the new. Gil talks about the first part of his career, when he worked in businesses with religious backgrounds, thinking it was the only real work. Years later, though, through a painful transition, he learned there is no first- or second-class work. Isaac says that his favorite part of the interview was Chris' insights about mentors. He quotes Season 2, Episode 4 guest, Rita Kirk, who said, “You're only as good as the best you've ever seen,” and cites a long list of people who have mentored him in a variety of ways. Erin rounds out Table Talk sharing the story of her 80-year-old whose all-American, button-up, corporate persona took a totally different path after his wife (Erin's mom) passed away. His journey from three-piece suit guy to spiritual guru reminded her of how Chris' path started one direction but took another. Links: Raving Fans: A Revolutionary Approach to Customer Service by Ken Blanchard & Sheldon Bowles https://www.amazon.com/Raving-Fans-Revolutionary-Approach-Customer/dp/0006530699/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=raving+fans&qid=1621867224&sr=8-1 Selling the Invisible by Harry Beckwith https://www.amazon.com/Selling-Invisible-Field-Modern-Marketing/dp/0446672319/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=selling+the+invisible&qid=1621867252&sr=8-1 Elizabeth Dixon, The Whole Enchilada Podcast, Season 2, Episode 1 https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/podcast/episode/3ddfdf46/s2-e1-risk-potential-and-a-classic-chicken-sandwich Richard Rohr https://cac.org/ Rita Kirk, The Whole Enchilada Podcast, Season 2, Episode 4 https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/podcast/episode/287932a8/s2-e4-seeing-well-and-leading-well About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at: www.esasolutions.com Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

This week, we welcome Daniel Gil, the 2020 American Ninja Warrior champion. Mitch and Daniel talk about having purpose and creating goals, using failure to your advantage, and the importance of how you talk to yourself. As always, Mitch asks about really good Mexican food and the Whole Enchilada team tackles some of the highlights of the interviews. Mitch begins by asking Daniel how he got started on the path to become the American Ninja Warrior. He gives a surprising answer about his athletic prowess and where his passions laid when he was in high school. He talks about the rejection he suffered before ever making it on the show and how he overcame it and continued to move forward. Mitch likens Daniel's fortitude to Lloyd Christmas from Dumb and Dumber. The pair dive further into the idea of failure as a part of the path to winning and talk about goals and purpose. They ask, “What will you do with that failure?” Self-talk is a big part of the episode and Mitch brings up a good point about hearing the negative over the positive and recounts a story of a friend of his who is a public speaker. The duo also tackles authenticity and being the person you are now to help influence others to attain their own goals. Daniel reminds us that when we fail, remember that we probably didn't lose $1m like he did. It's all about perspective. Daniel concludes by telling the tale of two stories: the agony of defeat, when he lost $1 million by a matter of seconds in 2019, and the thrill of victory, when he won the championship by the same, a matter of seconds, in 2020.   Mitch asks the final question: Where are we going for the best Mexican food? Daniel immediately suggests El Ranchero in his hometown of Houston, TX. He'll start with queso con carne, move on to some carne asada on grilled onions and bell peppers with sides of refried beans and yellow rice. He wants to order tableside guacamole and a bowl of tortilla soup. To drink will be Mexican Coke in a bottle (cane sugar always tastes better!) and class of horchata, or vanilla rice milk. Now that is a meal fit for a warrior! Table Talk: Mitch introduces the team and immediately asks what everyone took away from the interview. Crickets. Don't all dive in at once, guys. Gil finally picks up the silence and says that he loves Daniel's take on failure not being final and will always carry with him the reminder that while he may fail, he probably won't lose out on $1m. Isaac jumps in, remarking on the importance of not just being a good athlete, but having good stories and presence. He remarks on how stories connect us and connection leading to caring. Mitch agrees and ponders the thought of “About Us” pages on company websites. Erin says she loved how Daniel tried something new when athletics wasn't his strong suit…and how that new thing served him well in a way he never expected. Did you know that lots of NFL players take ballet lessons? Mitch rounds out the conversation by reiterating the importance of self-talk and keeping the negative and positive in check. Are you carrying a bucket of water or a bucket of gasoline…and which is more useful? Links: American Ninja Warrior https://www.nbc.com/american-ninja-warrior Daniel Gil https://www.facebook.com/DanielGilANW/ https://www.instagram.com/kingdom_ninja/ El Ranchero Restaurant https://www.elrancherohouston.com/menu.html About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn  

Mitch and the team are joined by Peter Iliyn, a servant leader who dives deep into his family history and the principles he learned from people like Holocaust survivor Vicktor Frankl, world leader Desmond Tutu, and, most importantly, Peter's own father. The show begins as Mitch introduces Peter Iliyn, a 45-year veteran of Youth With a Mission, the largest non-profit of its kind in the world. They dive into the great debate on whether college is a good choice for those with entrepreneurial spirits. Peter reminds us that passion should be the driving force behind purpose and that if you don't take the first step, there will never be a second. The conversation shifts to Peter's father, a man so interesting that Peter wrote a book about his life. Through nightly conversation with his dad, Peter learned leadership principles that can't be found in a textbook or classroom, including one where his dad endured a public, verbal lashing of his dad's abilities…and the surprising way his father responded to hearing so many painful criticisms about himself. Mitch asks Peter about his favorite leadership principle and Peter responds with the principle of empowerment from the top down. There's lots of conversation about security in who you are as a person and a leader and being able to turn criticism into a better version of yourself. Mitch brings up a quote from his own time with Youth With a Mission -- You don't know you're a servant until you're treated like one – which sparks a conversation about humility and servant leadership. Peter recalls the time he was surrounded by dozens of world leaders, but that Desmond Tutu was the only one who truly exemplified servant leadership. We could give you the background of the next segment, but we believe this quote can stand on its own: Dude, what is your problem? You farted. Moving on from that odiferous conversation, the pair settle on discussing Peter's favorite leadership principle – having a vision that's greater than your reach. Peter brings up Nazi Concentration Camp survivor Viktor Frankl and Viktor's discovery about the human spirit. The interview wraps up on three key topics – does Peter buy into the idea that an entrepreneur doesn't have to own a company or a product, a bottom-up leadership model, and what 2021 Peter would say to 25-year-old Peter if he could. After such a deep conversation, Peter and Mitch are hungry and Peter recommends a quick flight to Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico. He wants to go to Marlin de Tepic Restaurante de Marsicos and order the Pescado Zarandeado, a red snapper, smothered in chili and Mexican spices, basted continuously while being slowly smoked over mesquite. It's served with fresh greens and a Mexican lime and salt dressing. Table Talk: After introducing The Whole Enchilada team – Gil, Erin, and Isaac – the group launches into their own personal takeaways from the interview. Erin cites the story of Senator Ted Cruz of Texas and his major gaffe during Texas' legendary snowpocalypse in February. He made his mistake, he owned it, and he moved on. Mitch sees things a little differently but agrees that the humility to admit you're wrong is a key principle for all leaders. It all goes back to the story of Peter's dad being called out publicly – and the way he responded to it. Isaac picks up the conversation by going back to Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl and his quote “Living without a goal is death about to arrive.” Isaac relates this to his own season of life, as he embarks on social media consultancy. The goal is big…but taking small, meaningful steps makes it easier to reach the top. Also…how do you eat an elephant? Gil, with lots of humility, states that he has picked out the most important leadership principle thus far; the secret sauce of corporate communications: storytelling. Gil incorporates Peter Guber, CEO of Mandalay Entertainment, and his philosophies of how to make your story your strategic plan. Finally, Mitch chimes in with his favorite principle: treat people with greatness. He goes back to the Desmond Tutu story and waxes philosophical about being in the presence of greatness but not knowing it until later. Growth as a leader means learning to recognize greatness in its rawest form. Links: Youth with a Mission https://ywam.org/ To purchase Peter Iliyn's book, Out of the Far Corners: An Epic Tale of Rejection, Grace, and Deliverance, visit: www.outofthefarcorners.com Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl https://www.amazon.com/Mans-Search-Meaning-Viktor-Frankl-ebook/dp/B009U9S6FI Marlin de Tepic Restaurante de Mariscos https://www.facebook.com/marlindetepic/menu/?ref=page_internal Peter Guber https://www.peterguber.com/ About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn  

When entrepreneurialism and academia collide, you end up with a conversation that gets to the heart of discourse in our culture. Mitch is joined by Rita Kirk in an interview that brings new perspectives to a world where communication is easy to access but hard to master. Mitch opens the episode by asking Rita Kirk, Ph.D., Professor of Corporate Communication and Public Affairs and endowed Director at the Maguire Center for Ethics and Responsibility at Southern Methodist University about her experience in entrepreneurialism as an academician. Rita responds that teaching is the epitome of entrepreneurialism because it's a field of solving problems for the world. She then talks about how her experience in an underwater photography class gave her a new perspective on entrepreneurialism and what it takes to succeed. Mitch asks Rita about her top three principles of effective communication and Rita responds with insightful thoughts from both academic and personal points of view. She notes hometown hero, J. William Fulbright, as one of her role models who helped in the formation of her career goal of ending hate speech. The pair move on to talking about common communication errors and Rita gives a surprising answer about what she sees in her students recently. The conversation turns to Rita's experience in the political strategy arena and a poignant story about knowing your worth. She delves into a memory about a political campaign that was destroyed from the inside out, and how corporate values cannot just be something hidden on a Web site. They must be put into practice. Mitch asks Rita about her greatest joy and the two talk about the rather unique reading material her dad chose during her formative years, leading the conversation to the topic of failure. Rita announces exactly what she'd like to be doing when she draws her dying breath and relays the story of William Wilberforce as an example. The topic of Rita's book, Hate Speech, is broached and Rita shares her personal belief on how hate is born. Mitch likens the conversation to unity versus conformity and compares it to a husband and wife who don't agree on everything. Rita shares a story of a student who found a way to ignore the hate speech that was thrown at her. Mitch and Rita finally get down to business discussing where to get the best Mexican food in The Big D – Dallas. Rita will be taking Mitch to Jalisco Norte in the Oak Lawn section of the city, where they will start with a Bring the Heat, a pineapple-jalapeno mixed drink. They'll order Queso Cowboy, Osso Bucco, Milpa and Tres Leches. Rita gives a mouth-watering description of each and decides to call an Uber. Table Talk: Mitch dives straight into his thoughts on Rita's interview and Gil immediately reminds him that he hasn't introduced the other people at the table. Mitch narrowly escapes insulting Erin's age and, finally, the three of them, along with Isaac the Former Intern, dive into the conversation. Gil was moved by Rita's segment on hate speech and losing the ability to disagree respectfully. He agrees that hate speech does not make the world a better place. Isaac notes that higher education truly is entrepreneurial because it involves the constant creation of new information. He acknowledges that there are many ways to start the journey as a lifelong learner, but says he hates that college and university get a bad rap as one of those routes. Mitch questions Isaac's use of the word hate in the context of this interview. Gil chimes in about writing a thesis and the entrepreneurial spirit that must go into creating something from nothing. Mitch shares his weird but thought-provoking knowledge of teaching, knowing, and doing…and that the three aren't always in that order. Erin attended Southern Methodist University and says that Rita probably wondered if Erin was stalking her because Erin sought out Rita's classes for four years. The conversation about the culture of avoiding risk spoke personally and globally to Erin, who is a recovering perfectionist. Erin mentions her college friend, Adam Russo, who has made an impact on thousands of parents with his presentation on the importance of letting your kids fail. Mitch waxes philosophical about poppies growing in Australia and Erin poses a question about cancel culture. The conversation turns toward speaker and author Deborah Hirsch and her ground-breaking formula that helps companies move from conformity to unity. Links: Hate Speech by Rita Kirk and David Slayden https://www.amazon.com/Hate-Speech-Rita-Kirk-Whillock/dp/0803972083/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=hate+speech+rita+kirk&qid=1618246943&sr=8-1 Rita's Web site https://ritakirk.com/ Adam Russo https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/ct-nvs-letting-kids-fail-st-0131-20160131-story.html Deborah Hirsch https://twitter.com/debrahirsch?lang=en About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Joining The Whole Enchilada this week is author Brandon Waldon, who draws on his own experiences in being an artist to give his own perspectives on the power of words and how being more childlike can enhance our experience as entrepreneurial leaders. Mitch Santala introduces best-selling author Brandon Walden and starts by asking how the idea for his first book, Seeds and Trees, came to fruition. When discussing Brandon's success in some areas of life while he had failures in others, Brandon mentions a childhood trauma that lead him down the pathway of self-discovery, that ended in Seeds and Trees. The two then talk about the timeless principles of entrepreneurial leaders and Brandon says that hands down, the power of words is a principle all leaders need. He follows up with comments on kindness. A conversation about patience leads to a bank account analogy and examples of how bad roots can creep in, to the detriment of the good roots, with Mitch comparing Hallmark Channel movies to an episode of Survivor. Brandon comments on letting seeds grow too big, not anticipating how overgrowth can be stifling, while Mitch shares his own struggles of moving from a career in ministry to a career in business. Is commoditizing something you created akin to selling out? Childlike dependency is discussed when Brandon tells a humorous story about his daughter's need for help after a trip to the bathroom, leading to a conversation about complexity and simplicity. Mitch then asks Brandon about a time when he felt like he was up against too much and wanted to quit and shares his own story about a snafu at Starbucks and how he never saw the third option that was right in front of him. Brandon talks about his dad's own entrepreneurial journey and about how the definition of entrepreneur is changing. Finally, Mitch asks Brandon about his favorite Mexican food and Brandon laments the lack of white cheese queso in California. He wants to take Mitch to San Jose Mexican Restaurant, a regional chain in South Carolina. Of course, they'll order a large bowl of white queso and Brandon suggests a taco salad. Mitch is not prepared to eat rabbit food until Brandon describes the salad in mouth-watering detail and Mitch agrees that he sounds delicious. Table Talk: Gil Moegerle, Erin Pruetz, and Isaac the Former Intern join Mitch to talk about their perspectives on Brandon's interview. Gil is drawn to Seeds and Trees being about kindness in leadership, sharing his own story about a difficult-to-please boss who operated with anything but kindness. Isaac talks about his own journey as he starts out in creating a new social media marketing business. He places importance on creating seeds inside himself that will grow into his own, personal garden of leadership principles. Erin is reminded of a saying that her kids came home from camp with one year and how it can be applied to life and leadership -- fear is a liar. Mitch finishes up the episode by remarking on how small changes, like how we pose a question, can lead to big changes in what we harvest, even going back to his kids' elementary school days and a program that highlighted kids doing good deeds around the school. Links: https://www.brandonwalden.com/ Seeds & Trees https://www.amazon.com/Seeds-Trees-childrens-about-power/dp/1947165682/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=seeds+%26+trees&qid=1616949022&sr=8-5 The King's Way of Life https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZXDSYZL/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1 Manchild [Redefined] https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1925638464/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i2 San Jose Mexican Restaurants https://www.sanjosemex.com/ About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Executive Scheduling Associates' founder and CEO Mitch Santala talks to ER physician and entrepreneur, Jeremy Corbett, about his three start-up companies and the paths he took for each of them. The Whole Enchilada Team then discusses the interview and how it applies to their own journeys. Mitch begins the episode by asking Jeremy about his entrepreneurial journey, taking us back to the mid-80s and a profound and oddly specific letter 13-year-old Jeremy wrote to himself. Jeremy goes on to talk about baseball as an analogy for entrepreneurialism and Mitch asks him to further comment on the three tenets of The Whole Enchilada: the place, the path, and the person. Jeremy uses the word opaque to describe part of his path and then moves on to talk about being a physician during a worldwide pandemic – how it's expanded, rather than restricted, his reach in helping others. Mitch and Jeremy discuss getting to the place, or the destination, and what to do then. Jeremy even ponders if it's right for him to continue moving even after the goal is achieved. He uses his sons' golf course business as an example to further illustrate his point. There's also a humorous story about Jeremy's dad, also a doctor, and what he said to Jeremy when he couldn't decide if he was going to finish medical school or not. Jeremy makes a point that answers can change depending on the timing of the question. Mitch asks Jeremy to talk about seeing a goal from concept through fruition and Jeremy gets real about his strengths and weaknesses. He makes a great point about why ice cream geniuses should not open butcher shops. Mitch and Jeremy end their conversation on entrepreneurialism by discussing surrounding yourself with the right people, not just filling in the gaps with any old belly button. Our signature question, “Where are we going for Mexican food and what are we having?” takes us travelling back in time to Davis Island, FL, when Estella's Restaurant was still open. Young Jeremy and his bride are feeling the financial tightness most new marriages experience, so we order tortilla soup, guacamole, and chips…and leave the restaurant with a bill less than $11 (including tip). Table Talk: Mitch is joined by Gil Moegerle, Erin Pruetz, and Isaac the Former Intern. Mitch asks The Whole Enchilada team what stuck out of the interview for them and Erin chimes in with her experience of putting someone in a position simply because they were willing, not because they were the right fit. Gil had a similar experience when he started a band. Isaac takes the interview very personally as someone who is just starting out in his career. He says that Jeremy's ideas about there being more risk in not doing something than there is in not trying hits home with him, reinforcing Isaac to not stay comfortable in the dugout. He recalls Season 1 guest, Brett Collins, who said he is not afraid of the word no because “it's not like they can eat you.” Gil shares a story about his own failure when someone gave him capital to start a business and that while it was hard to admit defeat, he is still pleased that he gave it a shot. Mitch ends the episode by reminding listeners that there is an entrepreneur in all of us (does he or she look like Baby Yoda?) and that there is no better way to add value to your world than by letting him or her come alive. About Our Sponsor: Executive Scheduling Associates employs 120 professional schedulers filling the sales calendars of 500 financial wholesalers across North America. And we now provide short-term services dispositioning event and cold contact lists. Ask us for details at esasolutions.com. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Start-up CEO Mitch Santala talks to Elizabeth Dixon, the Principle Lead of Strategy, Hospitality, and Service Design at Chick-fil-A about her entrepreneurial background and the leadership principles that guide both her career and her personal life. Gil Moegerle starts Season Two off with a recap of Season One, where financial executive Brett explained the power of “No,” followed by PR practitioner, Jamie, reminding us that, “If your company sucks, PR is not your problem.” We're also reminded of Kimberly Thompson who loudly proclaimed her desire to bathe in the white queso dip of her very favorite boujie Mexican food restaurant. Mitch Santala then introduced the audience to entrepreneur and leader, Elizabeth Dixon, diving right into asking her how she defines an entrepreneur. Elizabeth's thoughtful answer includes a quote from Henry David Thoreau and the importance of working toward something bigger than yourself. She makes a point to mention that we should always add value to others. Mitch follows up by asking Elizabeth about the first time she realized she was an entrepreneur and Elizabeth gives a great story from her freshman year in college. Billy Blanks' Tae Bo, some hazardous conditions, and a non-existent wrestling team are all that it took to get her first small business off the ground. Mitch expands on Elizabeth's experience by commenting on how she took the initiative to get the project started. She had an idea, she solved the problem…then she asked for help. Elizabeth continues the conversation about taking one step at a time, citing the story of how Netflix was born from a bad experience with late fees. The topic shifts to branding when Mitch asks Elizabeth about raising kids to create their own brand. Elizabeth quips that kids are sponges and that we shouldn't be afraid to talk about entrepreneurial concepts with them while they are young. She says that being your own brand is your authenticity and talks about paycheck vs purpose. Mitch also brings up best practices in innovation and customer loyalty and Elizabeth proudly notes that innovation is decentralized at Chick-Fil-A. She explains that customer expectations are always evolving and likens the lack of innovation in business to the Sports Illustrated effect for athletes. Mitch agrees that hubris should not get in the way, because that's where innovation dies. The two discuss the difference between side hustles and side hassles and the struggle that comes with being an entrepreneur – they're always building or creating something. If you don't give them something to do…watch out. Mitch and Elizabeth also agree on maintaining the health of your priorities before you start down an additional path. Anyone who loves Chick-Fil-A, will get a kick out of the “My Pleasure” origin story that Elizabeth shares and, taking inspiration from Kanye West, Elizabeth describes the restaurant's Number One with a lemonade and the unique, chaste relationship the pickles have. Finally, Mitch asks our signature question: Where are we going for Mexican food and what are we having. Elizabeth doesn't hesitate to answer Taqueria del Sol, local Atlanta chain. They have a simple menu of six types of tacos, enchiladas, and sides and Elizabeth orders the pulled pork Carnitas. Mitch says he'll try one of those, too, with an additional carne asada for the heck of it. In true Chick-fil-A form, Mitch thanks Elizabeth for being on the show and she responds with, “My pleasure.” Links: Chick-Fil-A https://www.chick-fil-a.com/ The Infinite Game by Simon Cynic https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079DWSYYB/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 How the Mighty Fall by Jim Collins https://www.amazon.com/How-Mighty-Fall-Companies-Never-ebook/dp/B0058DRTYY/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=how+the+mighty+fall&qid=1614785306&s=digital-text&sr=1-1 Taqueria del Sol http://www.taqueriadelsol.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Sit back and enjoy a moment while we reminisce about some of the more spontaneous moments of our premiere season and give you a preview of what's coming in Season 2, launching in March 2021.

The power of presence and the importance of slowing down to serve others in an otherwise hectic and fast-paced business…and a chaotic sales environment. Mitch Santala talks to a 25-year financial industry veteran who believes that in the middle of a sudden, unexpected change, you have to take time to slow down. Mitch begins by recapping our four-episode mini-series, recalling Brett from Episode 1 who talked about how change can be a good thing. Episode 2 was Brad who said he gained clarity when COVID hit and his business environment changed drastically. And Episode 3 featured Karen who told us about her shift into survival leadership mode, where she put some tried-and-true practices in place and forged ahead with new vision. Mitch then introduces our Episode 4 guest. He asked to remain nameless but is a 25-year veteran in the financial industry, focusing on long term care. He's also been an ESA client for ten years. Our guest begins by sharing his outlook on life and how he keeps it positive. He talks about how he plans his strategies through but that he's found that one tactic that is especially important in times of change: presence. Mitch comments on our guest's philosophy of presence, even bringing in the sage advice of Guns n' Roses. In a fast-paced business environment, we have to take the time to be present with our colleagues, friends, and families. He mentions author Celeste Headlee and her book We Need to Talk, in which she goes through a few key points on what we can do to be more present for others' in our lives. There's also some great lessons that can be learned from chickens and Mitch shares his experience on how hens act (and don't act) when there is a rooster around. Finally, Gil turns the table, so to speak, and asks ESA's Director of Communications, Erin Pruetz, about her favorite Mexican restaurant. A long-time resident of San Antonio, Erin says that she has her pick of great Mexican food, but that Aldaco's is the place to go, where ceviche and chicken enchiladas divorciadas are two must-order dishes. Links: Celeste Headlee, We Need to Talk https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N5US2XA/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 Aldaco's Mexican Cuisine https://aldacosrestaurants.com/locations-stone-oak/menu Whole Enchilada Socks https://www.thewholeenchiladapodcast.com/socks Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Leading through change takes courage, but it also takes common sense. Know your strengths, lean on those around you, and take a moment to assess your plan before forging ahead. Start-up CEO Mitch Santala and his sidekick, Gil Moegerle, start the program by talking about adaptability and the entrepreneurial spirit. The point of The Whole Enchilada Podcast is to make the word entrepreneur more accessible – it's not about starting or owning something, but rather about who you are and the spirit in which you lead. Mitch introduces 15-year financial industry veteran, Karen, and Gil asks her about adjusting her sales strategy in changing conditions. Karen talks about her leadership style and the three specific steps she took to pivot into the new business environment. Mitch expounds on Karen's ideas with his own stories from his days leading young hikers through the Northern California mountains, referencing the basic rules of mountaineering: if you're feeling lost, stop moving forward for a minute and tie yourself to others to survive. Karen then moves on to her philosophy that leadership not always easy, but how she leans on tried-and-true principles to march ahead even when she doesn't want to. This resonates with Mitch, as he agrees that times of abrupt, sudden change are not the times to try new things. He even shares his methods for hearing the voice of calm in the midst of the storm. Finally, Erin Pruetz asks Karen The Whole Enchilada's most important question: Where is your favorite Mexican restaurant and what are you ordering? Karen quickly answers with Casa Alde in Buda, TX, where she orders a Fattie – a breakfast taco stuffed with potato, egg, sausage, bacon, and cheese. She justifies having one because she won't be hungry for another 12 hours (although her 16-year-old son can eat two!). Karen ends the podcast by encouraging listeners to support local business whenever they can. Links: Jumanji 2019: The Next Level https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7975244 How to Survive Anything: From Animal Attacks to the End of the World (and everything in between) https://www.amazon.com/How-Survive-Anything-Attacks-everything/dp/1681884585/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=how+to+survive+anything&qid=1611195387&sr=8-2 Bear Grylls https://www.beargrylls.com/ Casa Alde, Buda, TX https://www.helenscasaalde.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn    

Change is hard, but it's a necessary part of leadership and a true sign of The Whole Enchilada Spirit. In this minisode, Mitch Santala talks to financial wholesaler Brad about the clarity he's gained since the COVID-19 events of 2020. Gil Moegerle starts this minisode off with an introduction to The Whole Enchilada podcast and its vision of inspiring entrepreneurial leaders to embrace the changes of the current business environment. Mitch Santala talks about a key attribute of successful leaders and how the attribute truly captures The Whole Enchilada spirit. Gil quotes Dr. James Dobson's belief on the importance of mental health and Mitch agrees, because 2020 was not just a one-off event. We will always have change in our lives and careers. He further illustrates this concept by sharing a story about stopping in for a coffee at a local shop – and what he was able to leave behind. Mitch then introduces financial wholesaler Brad, a 21-year industry veteran and leader. He's been a client with ESA for more than 14 years and is a doer, versus just being a talker. Erin Pruetz asks Brad about how the pandemic has changed his day-to-day career operations and how it's stayed the same. Brad surprisingly says that the changes that 2020 brought were refreshing. Erin asks if it's going to be hard for him to return to his usual schedule one day and Brad makes an analogy between his job and a professional athlete. Mitch chimes in to talk about change bringing clarity. He discusses an encounter with a homeless man that opened Mitch's eyes and brought him clarity he didn't know he needed. Mitch mentions best-selling author Rick Warren and the three steps Rick believes every person should take to refresh their minds and gain clarity in their own lives. Gil moves on to ask Brad about his relationship with his scheduler and Mitch makes a point about not ignoring the small tasks just because they're small. Brad likes scheduling about as much as the baker in the 1980s Dunkin' Doughnuts' commercial, “Time to Make the Doughnuts,” likes getting up early to bake dozens of different types of pastries. Finally, Brad talks about his favorite place to get Mexican food – Miguel's in Tampa. He loves their chicken fajitas with sweet onions, sour cream, and queso and enjoys sharing the experience with his wife. Links: Dr. James Dobson https://www.drjamesdobson.org Tommy Boy https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114694 Pastor Rick Warren https://pastorrick.com Dunkin' Doughnuts' Commercial, “Time to Make the Doughnuts” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyZtMfMWONI Miguel's Mexican Seafood and Grill, Tampa, FL http://www.miguelscafe.com/index.php   Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn  

In this episode, Mitch Santala talks to Executive Scheduling Associates' client, Brett – a 25-year veteran of the life insurance industry – about how he adapted and lead his team through the 2020 pandemic and into today. After an introduction by host Gil Moegerle, Mitch talks about his take on leading through change – and that not everyone is successful at it. He continues, talking about The Whole Enchilada spirit that defines entrepreneurs, whether their occupation fits the traditional definition or not. Mitch also makes a Chuck Norris claim about how the martial arts master handles shifting trends and variations. Erin Pruetz asks Brett about how his business changed during the pandemic and how it also stayed the same. Brett's answers about new types of communications and the challenges of virtual meetings lead Mitch to talk about his philosophy of forced change and what it can do to strong leaders and entrepreneurial spirits. He discusses adaptation, the pain of staying the same, and how innovation can quickly become tradition. Mitch also shares a personal story about his experience in a Class 4 white water rafting adventure and the invaluable leadership lessons that came from two pieces of advice from the guide. Brett weighs in on his best practices for managing time with clients and Mitch expands on it, advising that productivity may actually mean the opposite of what we've always assumed it means. As always, we asked our signature question, inviting Brett to whisk us away to the best Mexican food he's ever had. Brett doesn't hesitate to mention Chuy's, a restaurant chain in the American South and Southwest, where he urges us to indulge in the Chicka-Chicka Boom-Boom platter - chicken enchiladas smothered in a creamy pepper sauce. Links: The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Peter Scazzero https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PFC9MR0/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful-ebook/dp/B07WF972WK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=9LMN9X09C4HE&dchild=1&keywords=seven+habits+of+highly+effective+people&qid=1609991502&s=digital-text&sprefix=seven+habits%2Cdigital-text%2C183&sr=1-1 The 5 Choices: The Path to Extraordinary Productivity by Kory Kogon, Adam Merrill, Leena Rinne https://www.amazon.com/Choices-Path-Extraordinary-Productivity-ebook/dp/B00LQMDZZI/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+five+choices&qid=1609991422&s=digital-text&sr=1-1 Chuy's Mexican Food https://www.chuys.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

This episode is the full conversation between Mitch Santala and financial wholesaler Brett Collins. Brett and Mitch talk in-depth about the personal role mentorship takes as a leader and the type of mentality you have to keep if you plan to succeed as an entrepreneur. Mitch begins by asking Brett about betting on himself and taking risks rather than playing by the rules. Brett answers profoundly about actions and reactions and the vision that often lies in between. Apparently, Brett is pretty competitive, as evidenced by his reaction when Mitch asks him about how he's gotten to his station in life. Mitch also touches on what it takes to taste the thrill of victory and the two mull over whether everyone has the ability to succeed at something. Brett goes on to talk about learning from winners and if there is ever fear of being replaced by someone who surpasses you in knowledge and/or skill. Mitch responds with some thoughts on maturity before moving to Brett's thoughts on what kinds of reactions a leader takes when workplace disappointment happens – when the big sale gets away or a client leaves for a competitor. Finally, Mitch and Brett talk about work-life balance and Brett shares his distinct thoughts on the matter, on what success and failure really mean in the grand scheme of things. He also shares his two favorite leadership books – one of which is unexpected. As always, Mitch asks our signature question, inviting Brett to step into Bill & Ted's phone booth time machine and whisk them to the best Mexican food he's ever had. Brett doesn't hesitate to mention Chuy's, a restaurant chain in the American South and Southwest, where he invites to indulge in the Chicka-Chicka Boom-Boom platter - chicken enchiladas smothered in a creamy pepper sauce. Table Talk: Mitch, Gil, Erin, and Isaac the Intern break down Mitch's interview with veteran life insurance financial wholesaler, Brett Collins. Erin starts by saying that she appreciated Brett's philosophy on being a mentor and being kind, brave, and clear with those he is leading, even knowing they may one day surpass him. There are throwbacks to 1980s and 90s sales tools, but the team lands on an important Brené Brown quote. Gil tackles the next leadership principle when he says that he related to Brett's thoughts on taking no for an answer. He tells the story of his time in sales and the team reflects on the best quote of the episode. Isaac chimes in, remembering Kimberly Johnson's “mining for wisdom” in Episode 3 and Mitch recalls Coach Greg's style of mentorship from Episode 1. Mitch says his biggest interview takeaway was Brett's abundance mentality. He goes into a theory proposed by authors Darrow Miller and Marit Newton. They say that there are two ways to view the world's resources and that success for all can be achieved by choosing one of those paths. Gil recalls the 1970s oil embargo and that leads Erin to question Gil's age. Links: Strengthsfinder 2.0 by Gallup https://www.amazon.com/StrengthsFinder-2-0-Tom-Rath/dp/159562015X Who Moved My Cheese? By Spencer Johnson https://www.amazon.com/Who-Moved-My-Cheese-Amazing/dp/0399144463/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=who+moved+my+cheese&qid=1604366900&s=books& sr=1-2 Green Eggs & Ham by Dr. Seuss https://www.amazon.com/Green-Eggs-Ham-Dr-Seuss/dp/0394800168/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=green+eggs+and+ham&qid=1604366967&s=books&sr=1-1 Brené Brown https://brenebrown.com/ Dare to Lead by Brené Brown https://daretolead.brenebrown.com/ Daring Greatly by Brené Brown https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1592408419/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwbrenebrown- 20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1592408419&linkId=21eb193ed088e8f79da43be84 0ac4dc9 LifeWork: A Biblical Theology for What You Do Every Day by Darrow Miller and Marit Newton https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009PQ9FLK/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 Chuy's Mexican Food https://www.chuys.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

This episode features the uncut conversation between Mitch Santala and Washington DC-area PR professional Jamie Higdon. Jamie and Mitch discuss a wide range of leadership topics, from what defines an entrepreneur all the way down to reaching the end of your leadership path. Jamie starts the conversation by responding to Mitch's question about what defines an entrepreneur and how everyone defines it a little differently. According to Jamie, there are two types. The two move onto “The Whole Enchilada Spirit” where Jamie cites an article she read in 2012 (see link below) and how it lead her to the philosophy that you can have it all…but that you may have to shift some things around to make it happen. Mitch parlays that answer into his next question about how Jamie juggles multiple roles and projects at once. Jamie remarks that priorities have to be adaptable, while still maintaining structure. She gives a unique definition to her decisions and talks about her approach to seizing opportunities. The conversation moves to the importance of a support system, both personally and professionally, and Mitch remarks that chances of success are a lot higher for those who have a team of supporters versus those who try to do it all on their own. Jamie delivers the best line of the interview as she and Mitch delve into the role of communications in a company. Jamie shares her philosophy on how to be an entrepreneur with the knowledge you already have. She also talks about limitations and how important it is to be humble when you don't have an answer. She also gives a surprising answer about where she sees the end of her communications journey. Finally, Mitch asks Jamie our signature question about her favorite Mexican food restaurant and what she'll order. While there is no shortage of fine dining options in the DC area, Jamie says that she would take us to La Lomita Dos Mexican Food on Pennsylvania Avenue, where she would dive into the warm chips and salsa and order a double portion of the chicken and beef fajitas. Ahhh…we can hear the sizzle now. Table Talk: Mitch, Gil, Erin, and Isaac the Intern tackle Mitch's interview with Washington DC-area PR professional Jamie Higdon. After Isaac the Intern gets a serious snubbing, Gil dives right into his take on Jamie's crisis communication quote, where she delivers one of our favorite lines ever. Gil recalls his experience in the PR field when the company he worked for had to train all of their employees to speak on their behalf during a crisis and how your employees are your most important assets and always your primary audience. Gil also delivers a funny line that's a close second to Jamie's. Erin is struck by Jamie's surprising lack of definition of an entrepreneurial leader, citing her kids and their proclivities toward entrepreneurialism. As a mom, Erin agrees because her own kids display totally different skill sets, any of which could lead to entrepreneurial leadership. Isaac the Intern says that, as a recent college graduate, he's in the thick of Jamie's non-definition of entrepreneurialism. And while there may not be a class on being an entrepreneur, he was encouraged throughout his education to do entrepreneurial things. Mitch dives into Jamie's answer to the question, “How do you do it all?” and focuses on the importance of timing, including Cher's 1989 wish for the ability to go back in time. He says you can't pay attention to everything…you'll just end up paying attention to nothing at all. Mitch finishes his thoughts with a challenge to our listeners about the importance of timing over time. Links: “Why Women Still Can't Have It All” The Atlantic, July/August 2012. Anne-Marie Slaughter. https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2012/07/why-women-still-cant-have-it-all/309020/?gclid=CjwKCAjwlbr8BRA0EiwAnt4MTlicoC7CNtNMfN9ScDTsN5ms7HdsjiLSDtUo4m0PSpkqvY0AYya6TBoCqjcQAvD_BwE Book: The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive. Author Patrick Lencioni. https://www.tablegroup.com/books/obsessions/  Book: The One Thing. Authors Gary Keller and Jay Papasan. https://www.the1thing.com/ La Lomita Dos Mexican Food https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g28970-d481018-Reviews-La_Lomita_Dos_Pennsylvania_Ave-Washington_DC_District_of_Columbia.html Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

This is the uncut version of Mitch Santala's conversation with Garrett Viggers, a cofounder of Limelight Health (which has since been acquired by FINEOS for 75 million dollars), a service that streamlines insurance sales and underwriting processes. Garrett's inspiration comes from an unlikely source and he is led by the experience of having to give up one dream to make room for another. Mitch and Garrett start by talking about Garrett's background in music and how insurance is the last place he expected to land. A devastating event early on paved the path toward his success with Limelight. Mitch asks about Garrett's first year as a start-up founder and the two talk about the excitement and fear that come with doing everything yourself. Garrett goes into detail about the importance of hiring the right people at the right time and recognizing your own limitations. He also says there is an evolutionary process in building a team. Mitch and Garrett chat about the challenges of maintaining integrity while selling from a prototype and the complexity of saying, “Yes we can!” and then actually fulfilling that promise.  There is also a poignant story about why Garrett's son was desperate for his dad to go barefoot in the house. Garrett goes on to answer a question about surviving starting up a company and he gives a surprising answer about authenticity and vulnerability. He also cites his biggest sources of encouragement…two men whose paths couldn't have been more different, but that ultimately led them to successfully make their permanent marks on history. Garrett also talks about how his return to an authentic expression of music helped him build a healthy internal culture as well as connect with the insurance industry through music and virtual concerts. In fact, Garrett picks up his guitar and sings his version on "The Eye of the Tiger." Finally, Mitch and Garrett salivate over the tacos al pastor at Garrett's favorite local Mexican food restaurant, Taqueria Los Gordos. Table Talk: Mitch, Gil, Erin, and Isaac the Intern dive right in, talking about what they personally took away from Garrett's story. Erin says that Garrett's conversation about Saint Brendan resonated with her personally, as there was a time in her life when she didn't know exactly which path to take, while also knowing there was no turning back. Gil talks about Garrett's version of “Eye of the Tiger” as a leadership principle – that leaders need to encourage their charges to get up off the ground, even when they feel like it's not worth getting up again. To further that point, leaders need to pick themselves up off the ground, while still being vulnerable enough to admit that they were knocked down but are going to dust themselves off and try again. Isaac the Intern tries to convince everyone he's never just sat back and played it safe, but the rest of the group has differing opinions. Mitch finishes up the discussion with a rendition of a scene from The Lion King that took everyone by surprise. Links: Limelight Health https://www.limelighthealth.com Eye of the Tiger (Get Up Off the Ground) https://www.iheart.com/artist/garrett-viggers-33015192/songs/eye-of-the-tiger-get-up-73615015/ Garrett Viggers https://www.instagram.com/garrettviggers https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-viggers-90332a20 Taqueria Los Gordos https://www.losgordosredding.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

This is the uncut version of Mitch Santala's conversation with Kimberly Johnson, the CEO of the Children's Legacy Center of Shasta County, where she has created a better way to assist children who have been neglected or abused. Mitch and Kimberly talk about the importance of failure, putting one vision on hold to focus on another, and that life doesn't always look pretty. The conversation opens when Mitch asks Kimberly about the Children's Legacy Center and how her vision evolved into what we see today. Kimberly talks about how her initial idea and timeline were cast aside in order to fill a need that was different from her vision. They continue to discuss the risks and tensions that come with entrepreneurship and how embracing the failures along the way is what makes you stronger.  Kimberly even talks about a very raw day when she decided she needed to walk away from the project for good. Mitch and Kimberly examine perspective and legacy and how to rally your team around a common goal. They also tackle the struggle between ego and humility – and what they discovered may surprise you. Kimberly fully admits to her messy life – a husband who does more than his fair share of shopping and laundry, kids who spend too much time on devices, and a car that's never clean. But she embraces her daily struggles and allows herself to be perfectly imperfect. The conversation ends when Kimberly decides she wants to take a jet time machine to her two favorite Mexican restaurants. The first is a taco stand just inside the Mexican border, South of San Diego, where she says the al pastor tacos are life changing. The second is a Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles where they serve a white queso with chili oil that, if given the opportunity, she would bathe in. Table Talk: Mitch Santala, Gil Moegerle, Erin Pruetz, and Isaac the Intern discuss Mitch's interview with Kimberly Johnson, the CEO of the non-profit Children's Legacy Center of Shasta County, in episode three. The four participants begin by highlighting some of Kimberly's best points – her decision to put down one dream to fulfill a greater need, her desire to learn from others, and the perspective needed to do both. Gil points out Kimberly's desire to serve and the group discusses the beauty in the simplicity of saying, “Your needs before mine.” Isaac the Intern may not have as many years of experience as Mitch, Gil, and Erin, but he shares a powerful story about a servant leader in his life. Erin brings up Kimberly's mastery in learning from others and equates Kimberly's practice of reaching outside her immediate circle to an unexpected analogy: the airline safety briefing. The highlight of the interview for Mitch was the perspective Kimberly had to find when all she could see around her were the weeds. The group discusses her very poignant story of what happened on April 19, 2019, which would become a turning point for her, with the help and support of her husband and children.  Links: The Children's Legacy Center of Shasta County https://www.childrenslegacycenter.org/ Book: Heaven Help Us! Dr. Steven Lawson https://www.amazon.com/Heaven-Help-Us-Eternity-Christian/dp/0891099123 Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

This is the unabridged version of Mitch Santala's conversation with Coach Greg Grandell, one of the winningest high school football coaches in California. The two leaders discuss developing a winning organizational culture, leadership principles, and building championship character in business and in a football program. Mitch and Coach Greg discuss the power of language (what the coach refers to as “championship talk”) to shape an organization's culture and the importance of aligning the values of a culture. They describe how to maintain a consistent philosophy across an institution and the power of modeling desired behaviors. Greg tells stories about learning that the journey to victory is as important as winning. And he talks about how he builds trust among those who follow him. Mitch asks Greg how he sustains his passion for leading young men and how he created staff loyalty resulting in a coaching team with 20 years of partnership. They agree that leaders need to be approachable, grateful, and forgiving. Greg tells the story of how he became involved in coaching, from being the child of divorce who needed structure coaches provided to reading a world leader's quote, “coaches often impact more lives in one year than most of us do in a lifetime.” Finally, Greg responds to our signature final question about where to find great Mexican food. Coach takes us on a trip to Cabo San Lucas to visit a residence-turned-restaurant on Medano Beach that serves what Greg believes are the very best enchiladas in history. Table Talk: Erin is intrigued by Greg's story of having his team – from the star quarterback to the fourth string center – clean an irrigation ditch in a cow pasture. This perfect illustration of teamwork resonates with the entire table talk group as a reminder that in high-performing organizations, everyone is in it together, doing both the dirty and the glory work, celebrating the wins, and mourning the losses. Gil then comments on Greg's practice of leading from values more than emotion. Gil cites a story Greg tells about attending conferences with his younger coaching staff even though he felt like being home, to set an example of continuous learning. Mitch hones in on the organizational culture that Greg builds, instilling a belief that life is more than just winning. “It's about the journey, what we are learning and who we are becoming,” Mitch comments. Links: Seasons of Life by Jim Rohn https://www.amazon.com/Seasons-Life-Jim-Rohn/dp/0939490005 Roland Tiangco, “The Future Belongs to the Few of Us Still Willing to Get Our Hands Dirty." http://www.accidentalmysteries.com/blog/2009/12/future-belongs-to-roland-tiangco.html   The Karate Kid https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087538/   The Office on the Beach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico http://www.theofficeonthebeach.com/   Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Here comes the first season of our new podcast on leading with an entrepreneurial spirit. You've noticed. We call it The Whole Enchilada. And we agree - it's a weird name for a podcast about leading start-ups, for-profits, and nonprofits. This trailer will help explain things. (Full disclosure – the title still might not make sense until you get to the 2:45 mark).  Help us get the word out of this new podcast by sharing it with people you think will enjoy it. Subscribe to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and Stitcher. Follow us: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter