Podcast appearances and mentions of julie riga

Bryan Daly: The Power of Epic Business Networking Guest Background Bryan Daly is a financial planner and the founder of Epic Business Connections, a networking community he built after the mortgage industry downturn in 2008 forced him to rethink how he grew his business. What started as a way to fill his calendar with clients became something much bigger. Nearly twenty years later, Epic has grown into a thriving community built on trust, learning, and genuine relationships, meeting every Thursday morning online. What Bryan and Julie Discuss Why the 2008 mortgage crisis became Bryan's turning point and pushed him toward a new path Choosing self leadership over giving up and starting something entirely new How consistent referral and networking filled his calendar with clients The unexpected friendships and sense of community that came from showing up week after week Expanding social circles as life and career continue to evolve over time A story about two members who met through the group and got married How Epic Business Connections is designed, including no dues, no fees, and no mandatory meetings The early days at Panera Bread, where 80 to 100 people would show up for breakout sessions The shift from in person meetings across South Florida to an online format after COVID What a typical Thursday morning session looks like, including breakouts and education New ideas for speed networking rounds and friendly contests for members The legendary Purple Monkey Award for the best business commercial Challenging the traditional definition of networking and what makes Epic different Connecting with people who never thought networking was for them, including skeptics Bringing charitable giving back into the group's mission going forward Launching a new website for Epic Business Connections to showcase the community An open invitation to join the free Thursday morning sessions at 8 a.m. Eastern Key Takeaways for Leaders Resilience builds legacy, and a setback can become the foundation for purpose driven impact Authentic connection creates more value than transactional networking ever could Consistent presence, not one big effort, fuels personal and professional growth over time Letting go of old beliefs about networking opens the door to real opportunity Community and relationships are at the heart of long term success and fulfillment Showing up for others builds trust, friendship, and a true sense of belonging If you have ever felt like networking was not for you, this episode is your invitation to think differently. Show up, connect authentically, and discover the opportunities, friendships, and growth that come from genuine community. This episode is great for entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders ready to build meaningful connections and step into purpose driven growth and leadership. Connect with Julie Riga: https://stacklist.app/julieriga Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts, and share this episode with someone who could use a reminder that connection fuels success. #StayOnCourse #LeadershipCoach #PurposeDrivenLeadership #BusinessNetworking #AuthenticGrowth Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Founder's Story: Bullied, Broken, and Built for Purpose Part 1 What You Will Learn: Four years into hosting the Stay On Course Podcast, Julie Riga steps into the guest seat to share the story she has never fully told before. From honoring her father's legacy to surviving Graves disease, from eating lunch alone in a high school bathroom to becoming a leadership coach and transformation catalyst, Julie's journey is proof that our hardest seasons carry our greatest lessons. Key Topics: The Heart Behind Stay On Course: Why Julie created the Stay On Course Podcast four years ago How her father's words of faith became the soul of the brand The meaning behind "Stay on course" and why it carries so much weight Lesson One: The Kid Who Had Lunch in the Bathroom: Being bullied from age five and the identity it almost stole Spending high school years eating lunch alone due to isolation and illness The quiet inner voice that carried her through: "They do not know who you are. They do not know who you will become." The Surgery That Changed Everything: Undiagnosed Graves disease discovered at 16 after a life-threatening surgery Being rushed to the ICU and the doctor's warning to her mother How her senior year marked the turning point toward becoming herself Memorable Quotes: "If the world falls down on your shoulders, brush it off and keep going your way. Stay on course. Have faith." "They do not know who you are. They do not know who you will become." "I am a person of conviction and I am a person of purpose." "It is because of those lessons that I became the unique individual that I am today." Key Takeaways: Your story has purpose. The hard seasons are the foundation of who you are becoming Reframe every setback as a lesson and watch your growth accelerate Faith carries you through seasons you cannot navigate alone Circumstance does not define you or your future Tenacity and conviction are forged through difficulty, not comfort About Julie Riga: Julie Riga is a leadership coach, TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and host of the Stay On Course Podcast. She helps leaders and business owners discover their true purpose, build authentic confidence, and break through to their next level of success. Services: One on One Coaching | Leadership Programs | Training Programs | Brand Building Explore all of Julie's resources here: https://stacklist.app/julieriga Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts Share this episode with someone who needs to be reminded: your story is not over #StayOnCoursePodcast #PurposeDrivenLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #PersonalGrowth #LeadershipMindset Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Operations Advantage: Business Success Beyond SalesGuest: Tonya Odio, Author and Founder of Executive Foundations Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat separates a passionate idea from a thriving, sustainable business? Operations. In this milestone episode recorded live in the studio for the very first time, Julie Riga sits down with Tonya Odio, author of The Operations Advantage: Business Success Beyond Sales, to unpack the systems, structures, and mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to build a business that does not just sell, but scales. Tonya brings 20 plus years of corporate operations experience into a conversation that is practical, purposeful, and fun.Watch the live recording on YouTube: Stay On Course Podcast with Julie RigaThe Operations Advantage: Business Success Beyond SalesAbout This EpisodeJulie Riga sits down with Tonya Odio, founder of Executive Foundations and author of The Operations Advantage: Business Success Beyond Sales, for an inspiring conversation on what it takes to build a business that lasts. Tonya shares her journey from corporate operations leader to entrepreneur and author, offering actionable strategies for business owners ready to move beyond the excitement of the sale and into the engine that powers long-term success.Fun Fact: Tonya loves a good steak. A great steak is always a yes.The Three Ingredients for Business Success1. Clarity - Understanding What Operations Really MeansOperations simply means how you run your business. Getting clear on the behind-the-scenes systems that deliver your product or service is the starting point for every entrepreneur moving from overwhelm to confidence and purposeful growth.2. Financial Foundation - Start With Your NumbersCash flow is the anchor of every smart business decision. Understanding your profit and loss statement empowers you to invest wisely, price correctly, and grow with intention. Facing your numbers is the beginning of real clarity and freedom.3. Systems and Scalability - Rinse, Repeat, and GrowA system is anything repeatable that saves time and energy. Tonya landed her very first client over lunch before her service was fully packaged. The lesson: messy action is better than no action.Memorable Quotes"A business may start with a sale, but in order for it to be sustained, you have got to be able to operate well.""Messy action is better than no action.""You do not need to be an expert at everything, but you need to know enough about everything to ask the right questions." - Julie RigaAbout the BookThe Operations Advantage: Business Success Beyond Sales by Tonya Odio is a practical guide for entrepreneurs ready to build an organized, profitable, and scalable operation. Each chapter covers a specific area of business with best practices, implementation steps, and real-world examples.Available on Amazon beginning June 4th.ResourcesBook: The Operations Advantage on Amazon - June 4thTonya Odio: executivefoundations.comJulie Riga Resource List: stacklist.app/julierigaWatch Live on YouTube: Stay On Course Podcast with Julie RigaKey TakeawaysClarity about operations is the first step toward business transformationFinancial clarity is the foundation of every smart business decisionRepeatable systems free you to focus on growth and the work you loveStarting before you are fully ready leads to real momentum and real clientsBuilding a business should be meaningful, purposeful, and enjoyable

The Operations Advantage: Why Clarity, Systems and Profit Are the True Ingredients for Business SuccessGuest: Tonya Odio, Operational Strategist and Founder of Executive Foundations Host: Julie RigaWhat if the secret to scaling your business had nothing to do with selling more, and everything to do with how you run things behind the scenes? In this episode, Julie Riga sits down with Tonya Odio, founder of Executive Foundations and author of The Operations Advantage. Together, they uncover what truly drives long-term business growth. Tonya brings a purpose-driven perspective: repeatable systems, workflow clarity, and profit awareness are the real foundations of a sustainable business. Whether you are a solopreneur or a seasoned CEO ready to scale, this conversation will transform how you lead.The Operations Advantage: Why Clarity, Systems and Profit Are the True Ingredients for Business SuccessAbout Tonya OdioTonya Odio is the founder of Executive Foundations, where she helps entrepreneurs scale with clarity, structure, and sustainable profit. With a career built behind the scenes of small businesses, guiding workflow and connecting operational dots, she developed a cross-functional understanding of how businesses truly run. Her debut book, The Operations Advantage: Business Success Beyond Sales, launches June 4th on Amazon.Fun Fact: Tonya loves a good steak paired with a fresh salad and a sweet, tangy dressing.The Three Ingredients for Business Success1. ClaritySuccess starts when you understand not only which systems your business needs, but how those systems support your growth. Get clear on your roles, workflows, and priorities. Move from reacting and putting out fires to operating with intention. Focus on one offer, master it, and refine it before expanding. Clarity is a leadership skill, not a luxury.2. SystemsStrong businesses are built on repeatable, flexible systems. Operations is simply a collection of systems, the routines and processes that power your business every day. The why behind your system matters as much as the what and the how. If a system does not support your goals, it does not belong in your business. The setup takes time upfront, but the long-term return in efficiency and profit is transformational.3. ProfitYour systems have a direct impact on your profit. You cannot just chase sales. You have to protect your margins. Audit your workflow regularly to find wasted time and unnecessary costs. Review your profit and loss statement every month. Identify which services carry the highest margins and promote those with intention. Audit your software stack too. Redundancy in tools quietly drains profit.Memorable Quotes"Operations is not a scary word. It is just how you run your business.""If you talk to businesses that have scaled to six or seven figures, it boils down to their repeatable processes.""It is not just the what and the how. It is the why.""We were not meant to do everything alone."Key TakeawaysClarity is a leadership skill. You cannot build what you cannot define.Systems are the real scale engine. Repeatable processes take businesses to six and seven figures.Profit is protected through awareness. Know your margins, your expenses, and your waste.You cannot do it all alone. Collaboration and delegation are the cornerstones of legacy building.AI is a system too. Use modern tools to analyze and streamline, then take action.Connect with Tonya OdioWebsite: executivefoundations.comLinkedIn: Tonya OdioBook: The Operations Advantage: Business Success Beyond Sales, available on Amazon June 4thConnect with Julie RigaPodcast Resource List: https://stacklist.app/julieriga#StayOnCourse #OperationsAdvantage #PurposeDrivenLeadership #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurshipSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.Connect Everywhere:Website: www.julieriga.comPodcast: www.stayoncourse.ioLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/julieriga/Email: julie@julieriga.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Happiness Is a Skill: Neuroscience, Resilience, and the Triumph Steps FrameworkGuest: Beatriz Martinez-Peñalver, Licensed Psychotherapist and Creator of Triumph Steps Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat if happiness was not just a feeling but a skill you could learn, practice, and master?In this episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, Julie Riga sits down with Beatriz Martinez-Peñalver, a licensed psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience and the creator of Triumph Steps, a neuroscience-based framework transforming the way clinicians, coaches, and institutions approach emotional literacy. Beatriz breaks down the science behind why thoughts shape reality, how fear disguises itself in daily life, and why resilience is a muscle that anyone can build. Whether you are navigating a difficult season, chasing purpose, or simply ready to fall in love with your life again, this episode delivers practical tools and real inspiration to help you stay on course.Happiness Is a Skill: Neuroscience, Resilience, and the Triumph Steps FrameworkAbout the GuestBeatriz Martinez-Peñalver is a licensed psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience, a community mental health center founder, and the creator of Triumph Steps. Her work bridges clinical therapy and purpose-driven coaching, making emotional fitness and resilience accessible to everyone who needs it. Over the past decade she has focused on prevention and coaching, believing every single person deserves to know how to be happier. Originally from Colombia, she serves clients globally with a team of certified coaches and clinicians.Key Topics CoveredThe Neuroscience of Happiness There is a direct connection between what we think and how we feel. Positive thoughts produce dopamine and serotonin. Anxious thoughts trigger a completely different neurochemical response. The core equation: Thought leads to Feeling, Feeling leads to Action, Action leads to Results across four life domains: Relationships, Health and Well-Being, Vocation, and Time and Financial Freedom.The Eight Steps to Emotional Fitness Happiness is a learnable skill and an emotional muscle. The Triumph Steps framework guides clients through eight steps beginning with identifying a clear vision, building a bridge from where they are today to where they want to be three years from now, and taking one small controllable step at a time.Befriending Fear Fear disguises itself as procrastination, avoidance, and victim thinking. Clients learn to name it, understand it, and act despite it. Something better always waits on the other side of fear.Purpose and Service as Ingredients for Happiness People who turn their gifts outward toward the good of others discover a deeper and lasting happiness. Purpose is not simply found. It is built through intentional service and the courage to ask how your talents can make a difference.Diaphragmatic Breathing Inhale deeply to a count of four, pause, then exhale slowly to a count of six. Repeat three to five times. This practice immediately resets the nervous system and reconnects you to your inner clarity and wisdom.Memorable Quotes"Not everybody needs mental health services, but every single person needs to know how to be happier.""Your past does not define your future. Your future is designed with the thoughts of today.""We act despite the fear. That is what gets us to triumph.""How would you love your life to look three years from now?"Connect with Beatriz Martinez-PeñalverEmail: beatriz@triumphsteps.com Website: www.triumphsteps.comConnect with Julie RigaExplore all of Julie Riga resources, books, and coaching programs at: https://stacklist.app/julierigaSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with anyone ready to build a life they love.#StayOnCourse #HappinessIsASkill #TriumphSteps #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationJourney Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Resilient Leadership Starts Within: The Three Practices That Change EverythingGuest: Dr. Trisha Vinatieri, Clinical Psychologist and Healthcare Leadership Consultant Host: Julie Riga

Thriving in College: What Nobody Tells YouGuest: Danielle Barone, LCSW, Founder of Waves Therapy Group Host: Julie Riga

Redefining Healthcare Through Relationships, Purpose, and Personalized Care with Dr. Stevi Jenkins-KellyGuest: Dr. Stevi Jenkins-Kelly, PharmD, Founder of My Concierge Pharmacy Host: Julie RigaWhat if your pharmacist knew your name, your goals, and your complete health story rather than just your prescription number? In this episode, Julie Riga sits down with Dr. Stevi Jenkins-Kelly, a visionary pharmacist and founder of My Concierge Pharmacy. Together they explore how she left corporate pharmacy to build something new, a practice grounded in personalized service, trust, and a whole-patient approach to wellness. If you have ever felt like just a number in the system, this episode will inspire you to lead with more intention in your own work and life.Redefining Healthcare Through Relationships, Purpose, and Personalized CareAbout the GuestDr. Stevi Jenkins-Kelly is a licensed pharmacist with over 25 years of experience, including time at major chains such as CVS and Publix. She founded My Concierge Pharmacy in West Palm Beach, Florida after finding that most systems are built for volume, not genuine patient care. Her practice is completely independent, self-trademarked, and rooted in one guiding principle: pharmacy as a relationship, not a transaction.She holds advanced certifications in diabetes care and collaborative practice and specializes in medication management, chronic disease support, and preventative health. She serves patients across Florida and Pennsylvania, with direct delivery and personalized consultations at every stage of life.Fun Fact: Dr. Stevi loves salmon in every form. Lox and bagels with capers and onions is her absolute go-to.The Three Ingredients for Concierge Success1. Service as a Foundation True service is never transactional. Dr. Stevi built her team culture around being service-minded at every level. When you are moving a patient out of a system that has failed them, you must become the new definition of what great care looks like.2. Trust Through Follow-Through Trust is built by doing what you say you will do, every single time. My Concierge Pharmacy proactively manages patient profiles, coordinates with providers, and connects with each patient a minimum of six times per year. Patients soon find they do not need to chase anyone because someone is consistently and genuinely watching over their care.3. Customization That Feels Personal Concierge care is never cookie-cutter. Whether the patient is a parent preparing for summer, an elderly person managing chronic illness, or a performance athlete focused on longevity, every care plan is built specifically around that individual. Intentional personalization is what sets real concierge care apart from everything else.Key Insights from This EpisodePharmacists are trained in anatomy, biochemistry, and treatment protocol, making them the chemistry and treatment counterpart to a physician's diagnostic approach. Most patients never access this full depth of knowledge because corporate environments do not allow for it. Concierge pharmacy is changing that reality.Dr. Stevi also applies a micro-therapy model, focusing on one health challenge at a time rather than overwhelming patients with everything at once. This approach builds clarity, confidence, and a genuine sense of control over personal health, growth, and life balance.Connect with Dr. Stevi Jenkins-KellyWebsite: www.myconciergepharmacy.com Book a consult to explore whether concierge pharmacy is right for you. Service covers Florida and Pennsylvania with direct home delivery available.Connect with Julie RigaExplore leadership coaching, transformation, and purposeful living at the link below.Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with someone who deserves better from their healthcare journey.#StayOnCourse #PurposeDriven #LeadershipMindset #AuthenticGrowth #TransformYo

The Trust Advantage: How Leaders Turn Complexity Into ConfidenceOverviewIn this episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, host Julie Riga sits down with Jeff Willinger, a globally recognized digital transformation leader, Microsoft MVP, and one of the leading voices in enterprise AI and the future of work. Jeff shares the three ingredients that separate visionary leaders from those who fall behind. In an AI-driven world, the most valuable thing a leader can offer is not a solution. It is confidence. Whether you are a corporate executive, an entrepreneur, or a professional navigating change, this episode will shift the way you think about trust, technology, and your own leadership legacy. This conversation is for leaders who are ready to stop reacting and start leading with clarity and conviction.The Trust Advantage: How Leaders Turn Complexity Into ConfidenceGuest: Jeff Willinger, Digital Transformation Leader, Microsoft MVP, Director at Turn Digital Host: Julie RigaAbout Jeff WillingerJeff Willinger is a globally recognized digital transformation leader, Microsoft MVP, and Director at Turn Digital. With over 20 years of experience in the Microsoft ecosystem, Jeff bridges the gap between business and technology. He makes tools like Microsoft SharePoint and AI Co-Pilot simple, tangible, and powerful for organizations of every size. His leadership philosophy centers on clarity, accountability, and always moving toward where the opportunity is going to be before anyone else sees it.Fun Fact: Jeff is a proud New Yorker and a dedicated seafood lover. His ideal meal is king crab with drawn butter and lemon. When he is in a rush, nothing beats a classic New York pizza slice.The Three Ingredients for Leadership Success1. Clarity Over ComplexityIf people do not understand it, they will not act on it. Jeff leads with insight, paints a clear before-and-after picture, and earns trust by delivering real value before asking for anything in return. Simplifying the message is not a soft skill. It is a core leadership advantage that drives growth, alignment, and real transformation.2. Proof Over PromiseEvery leader talks about what AI can do. Jeff shows it. He uses readiness assessments, fast pilots, and measurable results within two weeks to build genuine confidence. Make it tangible, make it fast, and let the results do the talking. This approach drives adoption, closes deals, and creates unstoppable momentum.3. Reduce Risk at Every StepEvery deal and every transformation decision is a risk decision at its core. Jeff breaks big changes into safe, digestible steps and proof-of-concept pilots that let teams experience real results without fear. His goal is not to push a deal through. It is to make saying yes feel like the obvious, safe, and smart choice for every stakeholder.Key Quotes"Everyone goes to where the puck is. I go to where the puck is going to be.""If they do not understand it, they will not buy it.""People are not buying your solution. They are buying your conviction and your clarity.""What took 20 hours in the past is taking 10 minutes with AI and you cannot unsee that productivity.""Bring value wherever you go and you will always have a job and you will always have a client."Key TakeawaysClarity is a competitive advantage in leadership and in businessProof beats promise every single time in businessAI is not optional for organizations that want to grow and stay relevantThe human edge in leadership is real, irreplaceable, and truly essentialGovernance creates real freedom, not limits, when built wellConnect with Jeff WillingerLinkedIn: Jeff Willinger Instagram: @TheRealJWillie Company: Turn DigitalConnect with Julie RigaExplore all resources, tools, and episode links at: https://stacklist.app/julieriga#Leadership #DigitalTransformation #AILeadership #StayOnCourse #Transformation

Why Your Data Is Not the Star of the Show: The Human Science of Powerful PresentationsGuest: Anthony Greiter, Founder of Agent, Technical Translator and Presentation Coach Host: Julie Riga, Leadership Coach and Founder of the Stay On Course Podcast

Stop Letting Your Business Own You: The Role Alignment Secret Behind an $18M ExitGuest: Brandon Lee, Business Alignment Coach and Founder of Build By Design Host: Julie Riga Podcast: Stay On Course Podcast

Whole Health Wealth: The Money Mindset Shift That Changes EverythingGuest: Matt Paradise, Author, Financial Wellness Speaker and Liver Transplant Survivor Host: Julie Riga

Showing Up as Your Authentic Best Self: Ingredients for SuccessGuest: Dr. Lori Smith | Government Contracting Expert, Serial Entrepreneur and Founder Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat does it truly mean to show up as your authentic best self every single day? In this powerful episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, host Julie Riga sits down with Dr. Lori Smith, a DBA-trained government contracting expert, serial entrepreneur, and advocate for women, minority, and veteran-owned small businesses. With over 40 years of leadership experience and a legacy built on radical self-honesty, service, and purpose-driven impact, Dr. Lori unpacks the real ingredients for success in leadership, business, and life. Whether you are a corporate executive, entrepreneur, veteran, or someone on a journey of authentic transformation, this conversation will challenge you to lead from your most honest and whole self.Showing Up as Your Authentic Best Self: Ingredients for SuccessAbout Dr. Lori SmithDr. Lori Smith is a DBA-trained government contracting expert, serial entrepreneur, and founder dedicated to helping women, minority, and veteran-owned small businesses win government work and build generational wealth. She has mentored more than 11,000 small businesses over a 40-year career. She serves as Co-Lead for the Georgia Women Veterans Board and Advisor to the North Georgia Women in Leadership Program.Fun Fact: Dr. Lori is a proud veggie girl. Her most cherished food memory is her mother's lima beans, green beans, and collard greens.The Three Ingredients for Authentic Success1. Radical Self-Honesty Showing up as who you truly are in every room, every role, and every relationship is the foundation of authentic leadership. Trust is the currency of real leadership, and you cannot build a lasting legacy on a version of yourself that is not genuine or sustainable.2. Consistent Micro Habits Small, intentional daily actions are the building blocks of transformation. Movement, reflection, and purposeful routines are not extras. They are the foundation of wholistic wellness and personal growth. Integrate these habits into your calendar the same way physical training was once built into military life.3. Courageous Connections Asking for help is an act of strength, not weakness. Surrounding yourself with people who elevate your authentic growth is one of the most strategic leadership decisions you will ever make. Be discerning about who you allow into your inner circle and courageous enough to release what no longer aligns.Memorable Quotes"We really have to start showing up from that honest place and being who we say we are all the time.""You can still lead while you are still bleeding. You can still lead while you still need to heal.""The goal for management should always be: I am developing you to replace me.""Abundance comes in every aspect of life when you give from an authentic place."Key Takeaways for LeadersRadical self-honesty is the foundation of trust, impact, and legacyMicro habits compound into transformation when practiced with intentionCourageous connections accelerate authentic growth and purpose-driven leadershipAccountability with grace is the mark of true leadership presenceYour energy is your leadership. Show up whole.Connect with Dr. Lori SmithLinkedIn: Dr. Lori SmithPodcast: GovCon Clarity with Dr. Lori Smith on Spotify, Buzzsprout, iTunes and iHeartBook: Rising Beyond the Shadows, releasing in MayComing Soon: The Readiness Room, a membership community for entrepreneursConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadCoaching: Leadership coaching and transformation with Julie Riga#StayOnCourse #AuthenticLeadership #PurposeDriven #LeadershipMindset #LegacyBuildingSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. Share this episode with a leader who is ready to show up as their authentic best self.

Cooking Up Your One-of-a-Kind Signature Offer: The Four Ingredients for SuccessGuest: Deborah C. Smith, Marketing Strategist and Holistic Business Coach Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat does it really take to build a signature offer that sells, scales, and sets you free? In this episode, Julie Riga sits down with Deborah C. Smith, a marketing strategist, holistic business coach, and host of the Mindset to Market Podcast, to break down four essential ingredients every purpose-driven entrepreneur needs to craft a one-of-a-kind offer. This conversation is your blueprint for intentional growth rooted in clarity, joy, and your unique story.Cooking Up Your One-of-a-Kind Signature Offer: The Four Ingredients for SuccessAbout Deborah C. SmithDeborah C. Smith is a marketing strategist and holistic business coach who helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs build simple marketing and sales systems that allow them to scale with ease. With two decades of self-employed experience, she hosts the Mindset to Market Podcast. Deborah and Julie met at PodFest, forming an instant friendship built on purpose and authentic leadership.Fun Fact: Every morning, Deborah hard boils two eggs topped with green salsa hot sauce. Perfect, perfect breakfast.The Four Essential Ingredients of a Signature OfferIngredient 1: Alignment with Your Unique Skills, Story, and Lived ExperienceYour signature offer must be rooted in who you genuinely are. It is the intersection of your expertise, your journey, and your lived experience. The goal is to speak to your audience problem in a way that only you can. This is the foundation of authentic leadership and a personal brand built to last.Ingredient 2: It Solves a Clear, Tangible, and Urgent ProblemDeborah introduces the house on fire analogy. When a house is burning, nobody hesitates. Your offer must speak to that same urgency. In online marketing, you have only seconds to capture attention, so you must speak to the right-now problem. People buy to get out of pain and move toward greater fulfillment.Ingredient 3: A Simple, Repeatable ProcessA signature offer is not a collection of skills. It is a system. A clear, step-by-step process is the key to your freedom as a business owner and your audience ability to trust what working with you looks like. Every service has a process behind it, and that is where your real value lives.Ingredient 4: It Lights You UpThe most overlooked ingredient is joy. If your offer does not genuinely excite you, it will be nearly impossible to sell. Sales is energetic, built on relationships, trust, and authentic connection. Chase the thing that feels like your purpose, and the results will follow.Memorable Quotes"A signature offer is not a random batch of skills. It is a very clear, compelling, and process-driven thing that you create yourself.""If you love it, you will find you can sell anything on the internet.""Sales is energetic. It is about relationships, trust, and connection."Key TakeawaysClarity is the foundation. Get clear on your who, what, and why first.Solve what is urgent. Speak to the problem your audience feels right now.Build a repeatable system. A consistent process turns expertise into a scalable offer.Chase the joy. Your fulfillment is a business asset, not a luxury.Your story is your strategy. Own your lived experience because no one else can.Connect with Deborah C. SmithWebsite: www.deborahcsmith.comPodcast: Mindset to Market PodcastSocial Media: Instagram, LinkedIn, and all major platformsConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadCoaching: Before I Lead program#StayOnCourse #SignatureOffer #PurposeDriven #LeadershipMindset #EntrepreneurSuccessSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. Share with every purpose-driven entrepreneur ready to build something that truly matters.

Leadership Lessons from the Kitchen: The Three C's Every Great Leader NeedsWhat does cooking have to do with building a business? Everything. Julie Riga sits down with Sutton C. McCraney and Lace Flowers, co-founders of the Flavor Room, to explore how kitchen wisdom transforms the way leaders lead and grow. From curry goat to lamb biryani, this conversation is packed with purpose, authenticity, and real talk that leaders need. This episode is a masterclass in intentional, purpose-driven leadership.Leadership Lessons from the Kitchen: The Three C's Every Great Leader NeedsGuests: Sutton C. McCraney and Lace Flowers, Co-Founders of The Flavor Room Host: Julie RigaAbout the GuestsLace Flowers is a British Jamaican home cook and co-founder of the Flavor Room and Empire Kitchen, based in South America, with over 18 years of research into what happens when foundational culture is missing inside organizations. Sutton C. McCraney is a U.S. Air Force veteran and entrepreneur based in Morocco whose background in discipline shapes her approach to building ecosystems rooted in equity. Favorite foods: curry goat for Lace, lamb biryani for Sutton.About the Flavor RoomThe Flavor Room is an invite-only leadership ecosystem for founders and CEOs of color, not a coaching program, mastermind, or networking group. It is a curated space built on mutual benefit, high standards, and authentic connection, represented across five countries. The vision: bring your flavor, build your influence. No performance. Just authentic leaders showing up as themselves.The ResearchSutton and Lace published "Legit: Redefining Equity, Leadership and Influence in Online Business," tackling the illusion of inclusion, ethics in sales and marketing, hidden systems such as care labor and access to resources, and the future of online business. Their findings produced the Legit Business Standards Framework, now deployed with business owners and organizations worldwide.The Three C's: Ingredients for LeadershipClarity - You cannot prepare a meal without knowing what you are making. The same applies in business. Clarity does not come from endless planning. It comes from doing. Stop creating content in isolation. Start selling. Get the buy-in early and refine as you go."You do not get clarity from endless planning. You get clarity by doing." - Lace FlowersCommunication - Even a solo cook must communicate with themselves, their recipe, and their timing. In business, communication means clear systems so every team member knows what they are doing, when, and why. Clear communication creates cohesive results and satisfied people at the end of the table."The first person you need to communicate with effectively is yourself." - Lace FlowersConsistency - Julie visited a different Outback Steakhouse and felt the drop in quality immediately. Consistency builds trust and creates a revolving door of repeat clients and referrals. People trust people they already trust, and that trust is earned one consistent interaction at a time."People trust people they already trust." - Lace FlowersKey TakeawaysClarity is your foundation. Get clear on your vision and systems before anything else.Communication starts with yourself. Know your recipe, then share it with your team.Consistency builds legacy. The standard you maintain is what people return for.Authenticity outlasts ad budgets. Values and standards are your real competitive advantage.You are not in competition with anyone but yourself.ConnectWebsite: www.theflavor.bizPodcast: Fully Flavored Business Podcast on Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, and all major platforms. New episodes every Tuesday.LinkedIn: Sutton C. McCraney and Lace Flowers.Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#StayOnCourse #LeadershipLessons #PurposeDrivenLeadership #FoundersOfColor #TheFlavorRoom

How to Be an Unforgettable Podcast Guest: Ingredients for Success on Any ShowGuest: Steve Ramsey Host: Julie RigaWhat separates a forgettable podcast guest from one that hosts cannot stop talking about? In this candid conversation, Julie Riga and Steve Ramsey unpack the real tips every guest needs to show up prepared, authentic, and impactful before the mic even turns on. If you are stepping into podcasting as a guest, this episode is your blueprint.How to Be an Unforgettable Podcast Guest: Ingredients for Success on Any ShowAbout This EpisodeJulie sits down with Steve Ramsey for an honest conversation about what it truly means to show up as a great podcast guest. From preparation and storytelling to promotion and personal branding, they explore the mindset shifts and practical strategies that transform a nervous guest into a confident, purpose-driven presence. This episode is essential for any leader ready to leverage podcasting for authentic growth and lasting impact.The Three Ingredients for Podcast Guest Success1. Preparation and Research Do your homework on the host and their show before you appear. Listen to several episodes to absorb the tone, vibe, and format. Preparation is the foundation of authentic, confident performance and meaningful connection.2. Clarity and Simplicity Have a two-sentence introduction ready for the host to use. Offer one clear call to action for the audience, not seven. Be ridiculously easy to work with, a principle inspired by David Averin. Simplicity in your message reflects true mastery of your subject.3. Storytelling and Authentic Connection Build a personal story vault, a curated collection of go-to stories that reflect your journey, values, and expertise. Open with a story that creates immediate common ground. People do not just want to know what you do. They want to know who you are and why your work matters.Key InsightsThe Story Vault Principle Preparation is not just logistics. It is emotional readiness. Having a curated bank of personal stories means you will never fumble for words mid-interview. Your story is your most powerful leadership tool.The One Call to Action Rule Audiences can only act on one thing at a time. Direct people to a single destination and let that page send them everywhere else. This is strategic simplicity and intentional leadership in practice.The Ridiculously Easy Standard Arrive with your bio, headshot, links, and stories already prepared. Make showing up effortless for your host and your audience at every step.The Screenshot Moment Taking a real-time screenshot and sharing it before the episode drops signals investment, gratitude, and authentic enthusiasm. This is the mark of a guest who leads with purpose and not just promotion.Memorable Quotes"Have a two-sentence introduction ready for the host. Make it ridiculously easy." - Julie Riga"A story creates immediate common ground. I would rather hear your story than what you do." - Julie Riga"School tells us to write a five-page essay. The real world tells us to say it in seven seconds." - Julie RigaKey TakeawaysKnow the show, the host, and your stories before you arriveOne call to action, one introduction, one powerful story creates impactAuthentic storytelling creates connection faster than any title ever willRemove all friction for your host and your audience at every turnShow the world you value the collaboration before, during, and afterConnect with Julie RigaFind Stay On Course on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen. New episodes drop weekly featuring leaders and coaches sharing their three ingredients for success.Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts Share this episode with a leader who is ready to show up fully#StayOnCourse #LeadershipMindset #PodcastingTips #AuthenticGrowth #IngredientsForSuccess

Three Keys to Identity, Success in Business and LifeGuest: Joanna Harabedian, Faith-Based Relationship Strategist, Amazon #1 Bestselling Author and Miss America 2019-2021 Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat if the greatest challenge you face as a leader is not a business problem but an identity problem? In this episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, Julie Riga sits down with Joanna Harabedian, Miss America 2019-2021 and Amazon #1 bestselling author of From Solo to Soulmate. Together they unpack three transformational keys to identity that shape success in business and in life. From learning to receive gracefully to rewriting your deepest inner story, Joanna brings spiritual depth, emotional intelligence, and practical wisdom to every woman ready to break free from cycles that no longer serve her.Three Keys to Identity, Success in Business and LifeAbout the GuestJoanna Harabedian is a faith-based relationship strategist, Amazon #1 bestselling author, and Miss America 2019-2021, a title she held for three years due to the COVID pandemic. She helps high-achieving women break unhealthy relationship patterns and build emotionally healthy, God-aligned partnerships.Her Princess Crowning Program has reached hospitals and stages. A defining moment came at a quadriplegic facility in California, where a young woman named Karina, non-responsive for five weeks and silent for five years, began to speak after being crowned. That moment became the foundation of Joanna's mission.Fun Fact: Joanna's favorite food is homemade ravioli with pesto sauce, inspired by her grandfather from Peru.The Three Keys to Identity1. The Ability to Receive High-achieving women are often celebrated givers who never learned to receive. Joanna shares a vivid dream in which a bouquet given in love is slapped back in rejection, and a voice tells her: this is how you make people feel when you decline their compliment. In business, refusing a genuine compliment builds invisible walls and signals distrust. In marriage, it slowly dismantles connection. The practice is simple but powerful: say thank you and receive it fully.2. Self-Awareness Patterns rooted in childhood do not disappear; they evolve and bleed into every area of life. Joanna references a study where women with fake scars removed before a job interview still reported being treated unfairly because their inner story shaped what they believed others saw. Self-awareness is the key that uncovers the root of those stories. Without it, cycles of unworthiness continue across relationships, career, and leadership. With it, transformation becomes possible.3. Emotional Intelligence and Alignment Joanna calls it wisdom alignment: the convergence of self-knowledge and purposeful living. She shares her journey through a painful first marriage, asking God to show her how she arrived there, and doing the courageous growth work that led to a thriving decade-long partnership. She teaches that we break twice in life, and that the second break, when met with honesty and faith, becomes the breakthrough that reveals our true purpose.Memorable Quotes"The story you tell yourself about yourself is the most important story you will ever tell.""Little keys unlock big doors, and big doors swing on small hinges.""I help women contrast and complete, not compare and compete.""Diamonds are forged in the fires of the earth. That is how the facets are created."Connect with JoannaWebsite: www.loveunblocked.comInstagram: @thesoulmate_strategistBook: From Solo to Soulmate on AmazonConnect with Julie RigaPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastWebsite: julieriga.com/leadSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. Share this episode with a woman ready to step into her identity and lead with purpose.#StayOnCourse #IdentityAndLeadership #LoveUnblocked #PurposeDrivenLeadership #AuthenticGrowth

Lead Where It Matters Most: Homegrown Leadership Starts at HomeGuest: Joe LaRussa, Mayor, Entrepreneur and Founder of Homegrown Leadership Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat if the leadership skills driving your professional success could also transform your home life?In this episode, host Julie Riga sits down with Joe LaRussa, small city mayor, entrepreneur, and founder of Homegrown Leadership, to explore one of the most overlooked arenas of personal development: leading at home. After 25 years in automotive manufacturing, Joe saw that high performers bring their best to work while their households run on pressure and chaos. This is a practical guide for overwhelmed spouses and parents ready to stop surviving and start leading with intentionality, systems, and community as their foundation.Lead Where It Matters Most: Homegrown Leadership Starts at HomeAbout This EpisodeJoe founded Homegrown Leadership to help high performers bring the same systems and mindset from work into their households, creating more time, less stress, and a home they are proud of. Joe and Julie break down three essential ingredients for stronger household leadership: intentionality, systems, and community. Listeners walk away with practical tools like shared calendars and communication rhythms, and a fresh perspective on building a home that runs with clarity instead of pressure.Guest BackgroundJoe LaRussa is the founder of Homegrown Leadership and a sitting small city mayor. Shaped by 25 years in manufacturing, Joe recognized that strategies enabling professional excellence were largely absent in the households of high-performing individuals.Fun Fact: If Joe had to pick one favorite food, it would be a slow-roasted leg of lamb, prepared with herbs, spices, and olive oil.The Three Ingredients for Homegrown LeadershipIntentionality is the first ingredient. At work, leaders plan for years. At home, many struggle to decide what is for dinner. The average household leader has about two golden hours per day to lead at home. Elevating out of reactionary mode requires a conscious decision to lead with strategy. Be a laser beam, not a light bulb.Systems and Tools create the structure that sets families free. A shared family calendar is the foundational tool. A whiteboard wall and weekly Sunday planning meetings help the whole household align and prioritize. Fun must be planned, not left to leftover time. The 13 Summers mindset reminds parents how finite their seasons with their children truly are, making intentional planning feel urgent and meaningful.Community is the most forgotten ingredient. Most people cannot name the neighbors behind six doors surrounding their home. True community means having people to call when life gets hard. Isolation is a leadership gap. When households are healthy, neighborhoods are healthy, and when neighborhoods are healthy, communities thrive.Memorable Quotes"It is home where your leadership matters the most.""Your life will never be less complicated than it is today. So do not wait.""It is not on the shared calendar? It does not exist.""When households are healthy, neighborhoods are healthy."Key TakeawaysDecide to lead before the moment arrives. Intentionality is the foundation.Shared systems reduce chaos and build confidence for every member of the household.Community is not optional. Isolation is a leadership problem with a leadership solution.Your golden hours are your greatest daily asset. Use them with purpose.Do not wait. In six months, you will either be glad you started or wish you had.Connect with Joe LaRussaWebsite: www.homegrownleadership.netFree assessments and starter tools are available on the website.Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#HomegrownLeadership #StayOnCourse #LeadershipMindset #PurposeDrivenLiving #FamilyFirst

Meditation to Manifestation: Manifesting the Business of Your DreamsGuest: Katie Krimitsos, Founder and CEO of Women's Meditation Network Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat if manifestation isn't about vision boards and morning affirmations? In this powerful episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, host Julie Riga sits down with Katie Krimitsos, founder of the Women's Meditation Network, a platform reaching nearly 3 million downloads each month and ranking in the top 0.1% of all podcasts worldwide. Katie reveals how meditation is the ultimate gateway to manifestation, self-leadership, and intentional life design. From clearing subconscious money blocks to writing into the future, this transformative episode is a masterclass in purpose-driven growth, authentic alignment, and the courageous journey of becoming who you were always meant to be.Meditation to Manifestation: Manifesting the Business of Your DreamsAbout Katie KrimitsosKatie Krimitsos is the Founder and CEO of the Women's Meditation Network, helping millions of women reconnect with themselves through guided meditation and practical, proven life design tools. Her new course, Meditation to Manifestation, pairs deep inner work with actionable journaling techniques to help women consciously build the business and life they truly want.Fun Fact: Katie bakes a fresh sourdough loaf every week on her 15-acre family farm and says she is probably the only one eating it!The Three Ingredients for Success1. Deep Self-Awareness Through Meditation Meditation is not about clearing your mind or sitting cross-legged at 5 a.m. It is about knowing yourself so deeply that you can hear your intuition, access your clarity, and lead from within. Even five deep breaths taken in the driveway counts as a meaningful practice.2. Alignment Alignment means your beliefs, thoughts, words, and actions are all moving in the same direction. Katie uses the image of a garden hose: when there are kinks and knots, the water cannot flow. When the hose is laid out flat, the water flows freely. Your dreams are the water. Remove the kinks.3. Intentional Life Design Pick up a pen. Write into the future you want, as though it has already happened. This free, simple practice activates intention and opens the door to manifestation. Julie manifested five European cities this way as a single mom, and it worked.Key InsightsManifestation is not a vision board. It is the natural byproduct of full alignment between who you are and how you live.Subconscious stories around money, worthiness, and identity create the kinks that quietly block your flow. Awareness is always the first step.Meditation in any form builds the capacity to pause, hear your intuition, and respond thoughtfully to life rather than react to it.Presence is the practice. Stress and anxiety only exist when we leave the present moment. Stillness brings us back to where our joy and guidance live.You are the author of your own life. Self-leadership begins the moment you pick up the pen and choose to write a new story.Memorable Quotes"Manifestation is a natural byproduct of alignment. When what you believe, think, say, and do are all in agreement, that is when it flows.""The most important ingredient for success, no matter what success looks like to you, is a deep knowing of yourself.""The water is meant to flow. Your dreams are already yours."Connect with Katie KrimitsosWebsite: womensmeditationnetwork.comCourse: Meditation to Manifestation, available nowPodcast: Search Women's Meditation Network on any podcast platform or YouTube

Your Story Is Your Greatest Asset: Building a Narrative Operating System That Drives Real GrowthGuest: Rain Bennett, Award-Winning Filmmaker, Author and Fractional Chief Storytelling Officer Host: Julie RigaWhat if your story was not just a marketing tactic but the very strategy that drives transformation, alignment, and legacy in your business? In this episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, host Julie Riga sits down with award-winning filmmaker and Fractional Chief Storytelling Officer Rain Bennett to unpack the power of storytelling as a leadership and growth strategy. Rain reveals how founders can build a narrative operating system that aligns brand, product, sales, and culture into one cohesive belief system. A masterclass in purpose-driven leadership and authentic communication for founders and leaders ready to build a lasting legacy.Your Story Is Your Greatest Asset: Building a Narrative Operating System That Drives Real GrowthAbout Rain BennettRain Bennett is an award-winning documentary filmmaker with over 20 years of experience. As the host of the Storytelling Lab podcast and a Fractional Chief Storytelling Officer, he helps growth-stage companies transform scattered messaging into a clear narrative operating system. His forthcoming book The Chief Storytelling Officer releases August 25, 2025 and is available for pre-order on Barnes and Noble.Fun Fact: Rain grew up on the coast and loves fresh local seafood. His favorite? Raw oysters cracked open right on the pier.What We CoverStorytelling Is the Strategy Storytelling is not a marketing add-on. It is the operating system for your entire organization. The transformation lives in the receiver of the story, not the teller. You must hook people emotionally before any information can land.Narrative vs. Stories Your brand narrative is the overarching mission and change you want to create in the world. Your brand stories are the infinite individual moments that support it. Once this is clear, story opportunities appear everywhere, from a LinkedIn post to a full documentary.Co-Authoring with Your Community Great brand narratives are collaborations, not monologues. Like Nike sending reps to track meets to listen to runners, you must build deliberate systems to find and capture your stories.Everyone Is a Brand Storyteller From the CEO to the server at your restaurant, every human touchpoint is a chapter in your brand story. Culture starts from the top, but the story is lived by everyone on your team.Your Story Is Your Only Unique Asset Skills can be acquired. Tools can be replicated. But nobody on this earth has your path. Your story is the single most valuable asset you own and it is usually the most overlooked.Memorable Quotes"The power of storytelling lies in the receiving of the story, not the teller. That is where the transformation is.""Your story is the only unique thing that you or your brand can ever truly own.""It is not transactional, it is transformative. They are trying to change something in the world."Key TakeawaysYour story is your most powerful and irreplaceable strategic assetStorytelling is the operating system for your whole organizationBuild deliberate systems to listen and co-author your narrative with your communityEvery team member is part of your brand storySelf-leadership and inner clarity are the foundation of authentic purpose-driven storytellingConnect with Rain BennettWebsite: rainbennett.comPre-Order: BarnesandNoble.comPodcast: The Storytelling Lab#StayOnCourse #LeadershipStorytelling #NarrativeStrategy #PurposeDrivenLeadership #ChiefStorytellingOfficer.Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. Share this episode with any founder or leader ready to lead with story as strategy.

Leadership from the Saddle: What Horses Teach Us About LeadingGuests: Britain Mills-Dawes and Tea Di Lillo Host: Julie RigaIn this episode of Stay On Course, leadership coach Julie Riga is joined by equine practitioner Britain Mills-Dawes and Alberta horse trainer Tea, co-hosts of the Uncinched podcast. Together they explore the leadership lessons hidden between horse and rider: trust, presence, intuition, and the quiet confidence that makes others gravitate toward you. Whether you lead a company, a team, or simply yourself, this conversation will change the way you think about authentic leadership and purpose-driven growth.Leadership from the Saddle: What Horses Teach Us About LeadingMeet the GuestsBritain Mills-Dawes is an equine practitioner, clinician, and Western media contributor. She educates riders through biomechanics and horsemanship and co-hosts the Uncinched podcast, building community across the horse industry through journalism and live events.Tea is a horse trainer from Alberta, owner of Qualitea Equine, and a coach for the Calgary Stampede Show Rider team. A lifelong learner and co-host, dedicated to helping both horses and riders reach their full potential.The Three Ingredients for Leadership SuccessDrawing on years of partnership with horses, Britain and Tea share three core leadership ingredients that translate directly from the arena into everyday life and work.1. Trust and ConsistencyHorses are prey animals and their instinct says you might be a threat. Building trust means showing up with positive, intentional energy every single day. The same applies to your team. Stress acts like a predator on the nervous system, and a great leader creates enough safety that people seek guidance rather than hide their anxiety.2. Presence and IntuitionRiding in the mountains, you learn quickly when to lead and when to follow. The horse senses the terrain in ways you never can from the saddle. True leadership presence means being attuned enough to know which role serves the moment best. In the workplace, that awareness is the difference between micromanaging and genuine mentorship.3. Communication and Emotional RegulationHorses cannot lie. Their body language tells you everything. Britain argues it is often easier to communicate with a horse than a human for that reason. For leaders, the lesson is this: create the psychological safety that lets people speak honestly. The ability to walk into a charged situation and lower the emotional temperature without adding to the fire is one of the most valuable leadership skills you can develop.Memorable Quotes"Trust is built over time. It is not just showing up every day. It is showing up with intention every single day." Tea"You have to ride the horse that shows up." Tea"Leadership is quiet. It is that quiet confidence and self-reflection that people naturally gravitate toward." BritainKey TakeawaysShow up with consistent, intentional energy. Trust is a compounding investment, not a one-time gesture.Presence is a leadership skill. Know when to guide and when to step back and follow.Create psychological safety so your team seeks your guidance rather than hides their struggles.Lead by example and with integrity. Quiet confidence draws people naturally to your leadership.Great leadership is a give and take. Empower your people to shine where they shine best.ConnectBritain and Tea: Uncinched on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and most major platforms. Visit stableinstincts.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.Julie Riga: Stay On Course podcast wherever you listen.#StayOnCourse #LeadershipMindset #AuthenticLeadership #PurposeDriven #LeadByExampleSubscribe to Stay On Course and share this episode with every leader in your world who needs to hear it.

Give First and Win Bigger: How Great Partnerships Start with Generosity, Not NegotiationGuest: Stan Valo, Founder of eDots Host: Julie RigaOverviewWhat if the key to business growth wasn't in closing deals, but in giving first? In this episode of Stay On Course, Julie Riga sits down with Stan Valo, founder of eDots and a 21-year e-commerce veteran, to explore a transformational mindset shift. Stan unpacks his three-ingredient recipe for partnership success that helped him build a purpose-driven business where the yeses come easily, clients become true collaborators, and value flows in every direction. Whether you are a solopreneur, executive, or founder, this episode is a masterclass in intentional relationship-building, strategic growth, and legacy-driven leadership.Give First and Win Bigger: How Great Partnerships Start with Generosity, Not NegotiationAbout Stan ValoStan Valo is the founder of eDots, an e-commerce growth engine that helps brands, manufacturers, and distributors scale across new online marketplaces and sales channels. With over 21 years in the industry, Stan developed a performance-only partnership model that blends agency services with distribution expertise. His philosophy, "I don't sell, I solve," reflects his commitment to authentic leadership, purpose-driven business, and building lasting professional relationships.Fun Fact: Stan's favorite food is his grandmother's stuffed peppers with sour cream, a cherished recipe from her home country of Moldova.Stan's Three-Ingredient Recipe for Partnership Success1. Go First: Give Unconditionally In negotiation, the one who speaks first loses. In partnerships, the one who gives first wins. Lead every new relationship with introductions and referrals, no strings attached. Ask "who can I help you meet?" and watch generosity build the foundation of lasting trust.2. Be a Solver: Solve Something Meaningful Stan's core mantra is simple: don't sell, solve. Focus on real problems rather than closing transactions. When you solve meaningfully, value overflows and the relationship deepens naturally. The best leaders are solvers who match people with exactly what they need.3. Create Undeniable Value for Both Sides Value must flow in both directions for a partnership to last. Choose your partners wisely, start light, and let the relationship evolve before committing deeper. Think of it like dating before marriage: coffee first, then friends, then family. Integrity is everything.Memorable Quotes"In a negotiation, the one that talks first loses. In partnerships, the one that goes first wins.""I don't sell, I solve. I've never had to negotiate a single deal.""It's hard to get a no when you're offering so much.""I don't have a contact form. I have an application form. That changes the dynamic."Key Takeaways for LeadersGive Before You Ask - Lead with generosity. Start with a gift of value: an introduction, a connection, or an insight. Trust and opportunity follow naturally.Shift from Selling to Solving - The most powerful transformation in business is moving from transaction to contribution. Solve real problems and the yeses follow.Build Relationships, Not Contracts - Start light, prove your value, and let partnership depth grow organically over time.Stay Narrow and Know Your Strengths - Clarity of focus amplifies impact. Build a power team of trusted partners who complement your core strengths.Integrity Is Your Growth Engine - Authentic connection without an agenda is the ultimate long-game strategy and the foundation of lasting legacy.Connect with Stan ValoWebsite: edots.coSubscribe to Stay On CourseSubscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and share with leaders ready to stop selling and start solving.#StayOnCourse #GiveFirst #PurposeDrivenLeadership #PartnershipMindset #AuthenticGrowth

Rebellious Success: Failure, Bigger Games, and Playing Full OutGuest: Toni Will | Host: Julie Riga | Stay On Course PodcastWhat if failure was your greatest leadership asset? In this bold and energizing episode, Julie Riga sits down with Toni Will, a two-time Guinness World Record holder, General Manager of the Kalamazoo Wings, TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, and author of the upcoming book Rebellious Success. Toni brings contagious energy and hard-won wisdom to a conversation about competence, confidence, and what it truly means to step into your bigger game. She shares her framework for building self-trust through failure, explains why playing small keeps everyone around you stuck, and challenges listeners to declare a bigger game before they feel ready to do it.Rebellious Success: Failure, Bigger Games, and Playing Full OutAbout This EpisodeToni Will is a powerhouse leader who blends elite performance with hard-earned connection, proving that competence and community can coexist. As General Manager of a men's professional hockey team, a professional development coach, and a soon-to-be published author, Toni lives at the intersection of leadership, resilience, and authentic growth. In this episode, she and Julie dig into three transformative ingredients for success that challenge everything you thought you knew about failure, purpose, and personal evolution.Fun Fact: Toni's favorite food is sushi, anything from the grocery store all the way up to fresh-caught in Hawaii.Three Ingredients for SuccessInvite Failure to the Table: Failure is not the opposite of success. Quitting is. The failure resume asks you to write down everything you have walked through and survived. What emerges is not a record of loss but a portrait of resilience, self-trust, and wisdom. When you stop fearing failure and start inviting it, it becomes one of your greatest tools for growth, confidence, and transformation.Stop Playing Small: Because Someone Else Is Playing small to make others comfortable keeps everyone stuck, including you. Authentic leadership means showing up fully, reading the room with emotional intelligence, and never beginning from a diminished version of yourself. Rising tides lift all ships. Collaboration grounded in core values is always stronger than competition driven by fear.Declare a Bigger Game: Growth does not always mean moving up. Sometimes it means growing out. Every micro-decision you make each day either aligns with your next level or holds you back from it. Act from the next level now. Ask not only what something costs you to pursue, but what it costs you to stay exactly where you are.Memorable Quotes"The only time you are failing is when you quit trying." "Stop playing small because someone else is." "The story we tell ourselves about ourselves gets in the room before we do." "What is the cost if I do not do it? Because there is always a cost."Key TakeawaysBuild a failure resume and transform it into your record of courage and growthStop playing small. Full authentic presence is a leadership skillDeclare your bigger game before you feel ready and lead from that placeAlign your actions with core values to unlock clarity, confidence, and self-trustInvest in yourself. The ROI of personal growth compounds over timeAbout Toni's Book: Rebellious Success One part memoir, one part self-help, one part business leadership. A complete roadmap for defining success on your own terms and building it without apology. Pre-order opens March 13th. Book launches August 11th.Connect with Toni WillConference: empowHer Book: Rebellious SuccessConnect with Julie RigaStay On Course PodcastLeadership Coachingjulieriga.com/lead#StayOnCourse #RebelliousSuccess #LeadershipMindset #PurposeDriven #WomenInLeadershipSubscribe to Stay On Course Podcast wherever you listen. Share this episode with the leaders and game-changers in your life who are ready to play bigger.

Your Brand Is Your Business Outfit: The Unspoken Rules of Brand Identity That Drive Real GrowthGuest: Lexy Rubin, Owner and Creative Director of Rubin Design Company Host: Julie RigaOverviewIn this episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, Julie Riga sits down with Lexy Rubin, Owner and Creative Director of Rubin Design Company, an award-winning branding agency in South Florida. Lexy is a purpose-driven brand strategist whose career spans NASA internships, New York City corporate branding, and 11 years building her own legacy as a founder.Together, they explore what it truly means to build a brand that connects and stands the test of time. From first impression psychology to the rise of AI in design, this conversation delivers authentic growth strategies for entrepreneurs and business leaders ready to elevate their brand.Your Brand Is Your Business Outfit: The Unspoken Rules of Brand Identity That Drive Real GrowthAbout Lexy RubinLexy Rubin is the owner and creative director of Rubin Design Company, a South Florida-based branding agency offering custom logo design services, brand identity design, and brand strategy consulting nationwide. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, she became the first graphic designer to intern at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, then worked with Bath and Body Works and L'Oreal in New York City.Fun Fact: Lexy's favorite food is Chicken Romano from the Cheesecake Factory.Key Topics DiscussedWhat Is a Brand, Really? Your brand is your business's first impression. It is the outfit your company wears every day. It shapes purchasing decisions, team recruitment, and client trust before a word is spoken.Why Professional Branding Matters in 2026 Working with a professional logo designer or corporate branding agency is your foundation. With AI everywhere, authentic human-crafted brand identity is a genuine competitive advantage. Apple, Nike, and Starbucks invest heavily in branding because perception is everything.The AI Question Every Business Owner Is Asking Can AI replace custom logo design services? Lexy says not at the soul level. There is an emotional and spiritual dimension to brand identity that no algorithm can replicate. Investment in professional brand strategy consulting is more urgent than ever.Branding Trends for 2025 to 2026 Typography is king, with bespoke typefaces driving personality across logos, websites, and cards. Motion graphics are replacing static visuals. Video-first design is now expected. If your brand has not been refreshed in ten or more years, it is outdated.You Are the Brand Your personal leadership presence and business brand are inseparable. In the age of AI cloning, being authentically yourself is your single most powerful asset.Memorable Quotes"Your brand is basically your first impression. It is the outfit your business wears.""The real, authentic version of yourself is going to be craved now more than ever because of AI.""There is a magical recipe to great brand identity: part logic, part skill, part soul."Key TakeawaysYour brand is your foundation. Get it right before you scale.Authenticity is your superpower in a world of AI-generated content.Every touchpoint is a brand moment: your logo, LinkedIn, and background.Refresh your visual identity as trends and audience expectations evolve.You are the brand. Leadership presence and professional branding are inseparable.Connect with Lexy RubinWebsite: www.RubinDesignCo.comLinkedIn and Facebook: Rubin Design CoConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadCoaching: Learn more about leadership coaching and transformation#BrandIdentity #StayOnCourse #AuthenticLeadership #PurposeDrivenBusiness #BrandingTips2026Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. Share this episode with any business owner who needs to hear this.

When Uncommon Becomes Destiny: Faith, Discipline, and Divine Alignment Transform Your Calling into PurposeGuest: Minister Bernard Marrow Host: Julie RigaWhat happens when you stop trying to fit in and start owning the uncommon path God placed in you? In this episode of Stay On Course, host Julie Riga sits down with Minister Bernard Marrow, founder of By Faith We Good Ministry Inc., musician, author, and motivational speaker. Together they explore how divine alignment, unshakeable faith, and purposeful community can transform isolation into destiny. If you have ever felt too different, too early, or too overlooked, this conversation is for you.When Uncommon Becomes Destiny: Faith, Discipline, and Divine Alignment Transform Your Calling into PurposeMinister Bernard Marrow is the founder and president of By Faith We Good Ministry Inc., a 501(c)(3) faith-based nonprofit that spreads the gospel of Jesus Christ, feeds families in need every month, and sows into the purpose of others. He is also the owner and CEO of Shop BFWG LLC and a multi-faceted creative: singer, songwriter, musician, author, and motivational speaker. He hosts the By Faith We Good Podcast and Radio Show, which includes a Faith and Finance segment covering investments, budgeting, and money management.Fun Fact: Minister Bernard's favorite dish is seafood pasta, known in Italian as frutti di mare.Key TopicsDivine Alignment and Ownership Recognizing your God-given sweet spot and refusing to operate in someone else's lane. You always win when you are in full alignment with your divine purpose and destiny. Comparing yourself to others will only pull you off course.Discipline Through the Process God's timing differs from your timeline. Staying focused, equipped, and inspired even when results are delayed is what separates those who eventually manifest greatness from those who give up just before the breakthrough arrives.Purposeful Community and Legacy Being deeply intentional about who you share your vision with, and transforming seasons of isolation into community-supported, purpose-driven progress toward a greater calling and a lasting legacy.Memorable Quotes"Everything that's comfortable ain't safe.""When God calls you, he calls you to do what's uncommon. He wants us to stand out, to be great, bold, and fearless.""No doesn't mean never. Not yet doesn't mean not ever. If you don't give up, the doors will open.""You can't share everything with everybody. Trust God to connect you with the right people."Key TakeawaysOwn Your Uncommonness - You were not made to fit in. Your uniqueness is your superpower. Take full ownership of who God created you to be.Trust the Process - Stay committed to the alignment and manifestation will follow. Keep going even when you cannot see the finish line.Comfort Is Not Safety - The familiar can be the enemy of the extraordinary. Step out of your comfort zone in faith.Guard Your Vision - Not everyone deserves access to what God placed inside you. Be wise about who you allow into your inner circle.No Is Not the End - Rejection and delay are part of the journey, not the destination. Stay the course.Connect with Minister Bernard MarrowLinkedIn: Minister Bernard MarrowFacebook: By Faith We Good Ministry Inc.Instagram: @ministermarrow / @min.marrowPodcast: By Faith We Good Podcast and Radio ShowShop: Shop BFWG LLCConnect with Julie RigaPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastWebsite: julieriga.com/leadRole: Leadership Coach and Transformation GuideSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with every purpose-driven leader and creative ready to own their uncommon destiny.#StayOnCourse #PurposeDriven #LeadershipMindset #ByFaithWeGood #UncommonDestiny

From Trauma to Triumph: The Three Ingredients for Post-Traumatic GrowthGuest: David Dachinger, Retired Fire Lieutenant, EMT, Peer Coach and Grammy-Nominated Producer Host: Julie RigaWhat if your greatest trauma became your most powerful mission? In this transformational episode, Julie Riga sits down with David Dachinger, a stage four cancer survivor, retired fire lieutenant, Grammy-nominated producer, and resilience advocate, to unpack the three essential ingredients for post-traumatic growth: identity release, meaning making, and mission activation. This is a conversation about courage, clarity, and the power of choosing life.From Trauma to Triumph: The Three Ingredients for Post-Traumatic GrowthAbout This EpisodeIn this deeply moving episode, Julie Riga welcomes David Dachinger, a clear testament to transformation, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership. Together they explore what it means to evolve through adversity and how every leader and entrepreneur can activate their own post-traumatic growth journey. David shares how a stage four cancer diagnosis became the catalyst for a legacy of healing, purpose, and mission activation.Guest BackgroundDavid Dachinger is a retired fire lieutenant and EMT who hosts Responder's Resilience: Igniting the Shift Within, engaging experts on first responder mental health. He serves as a peer coach for 22ZERO, supporting first responders and veterans. A two-time Grammy Award nominee, his life changed in 2014 with a stage four cancer diagnosis that became the foundation of his advocacy for purposeful living and wellness.Fun Fact: David's favorite food is the Holy Shiitake pizza from Mellow Mushroom.The Three Ingredients for Post-Traumatic Growth1. Identity Release A stage four diagnosis instantly shifted David from caregiver to patient. Clinging to a victim identity blocks transformation. Through intentional word choice and daily gratitude, he released the old self and stepped into a healed identity. Like the lobster, we must shed the old shell to grow a stronger one.2. Meaning Making The same event affects people differently because it is the meaning we assign that determines our outcome. David reframed adversity by asking, "What is the gift in this?" Gratitude practice, present-moment awareness, and a shift in self-talk became his most powerful tools. Words, he discovered, are medicine.3. Mission Activation David and his wife created Live Calm with Cancer, a book, app, and calming TV experience for patients. He then joined 22ZERO to help first responders, veterans, and cancer patients heal trauma. His full-circle return to cancer advocacy, equipped with lived experience and proven tools, is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose.Key Quotes"Suffering is optional. We have a choice in every situation.""How do I turn these adversities into my superpower?""We are powerful creators. Positive self-talk is the core of all of it."Key Takeaways for LeadersRelease the old identity. Growth begins when you stop defining yourself by trauma or circumstance.Make meaning intentionally. The meaning you assign to adversity determines whether it becomes a wound or a wisdom.Activate your mission. Pain with purpose becomes power. Your story is meant to serve someone else's transformation.Words are medicine. Language shapes belief, belief shapes biology, and biology shapes your life.Suffering is optional. You always have a choice, and that choice is the foundation of fulfillment and legacy.ConnectDavid Dachinger: www.respondertv.com | 22ZERO: www.22zero.org | LinkedIn, Instagram, FacebookJulie Riga: www.julieriga.com/lead | LinkedIn, Instagram, FacebookSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#StayOnCourse #PostTraumaticGrowth #Leadership #Transformation #PurposeDriven

Selling from the Soul: Confidence, Grit and Purpose-Driven SuccessHost: Julie Riga | Guest: Monique IacobacciWhat does it truly take to show up every day with confidence, resilience, and authentic purpose, even when doors are being slammed in your face? In this heartfelt episode, Julie Riga sits down with her longtime friend and powerhouse sales leader Monique Iacobacci to explore the mindset and soul-driven conviction behind over a decade of transformational selling. From polar-vortex cold calls on the New York City subway to becoming Business Development Manager of the Year, Monique shares the ingredients for success that no sales manual can fully capture.Selling from the Soul: Confidence, Grit and Purpose-Driven SuccessAbout the GuestMonique Iacobacci is an Executive Business Development Manager for the number one professional skincare brand in the country, working with plastic surgeons, dermatologists, high-end spas, and aesthetic clinics. With over thirteen years in her field, she has broken sales records, earned Rookie of the Year honors, and helped transform New York City into one of her company's strongest markets. She brings analytical precision and genuine human warmth to everything she does.Fun Fact: Monique's favorite food is pizza with hot honey pepperoni, a bold and unexpected twist that perfectly mirrors her approach to sales and to life.The Three Ingredients for Success1. Confidence in Who You Are and What You Know Walk in knowing your product, your value, and your purpose fully. Confidence is the clarity and conviction that you have something genuinely meaningful to offer. Without it, no strategy will carry you far.2. A Service-First Mindset Approach every interaction with sincerity and a genuine desire to help. Selling stops feeling like selling when you show up as a trusted partner committed to solving your client's real problems.3. Intentional Focus and Discipline Conversations drift. The best professionals bring them back. Stay present, stay purposeful, and always return to what moves the relationship and the result forward.Filling Your Cup and Building ResilienceMonique's secret to sustained performance is a faith-anchored mindset shift: choosing to declare each day will be great, even when every instinct says otherwise. Her core philosophy: you are the brand. If your cup is not full, you have nothing to pour into others. Prioritizing yourself is not selfishness. It is the foundation of authentic leadership, confident presence, lasting impact, and purposeful living. Fill up so you can fully show up.Key Takeaways for LeadersFill Your Cup First - Self-leadership is the foundation of showing up with the energy and confidence that wins trust.Believe in Your Value - Conviction is contagious. When you know you can help someone, that certainty does half the work.Rejection Is Redirection - A no is rarely final. Treat every closed door as a not yet and keep nurturing the relationship.Ask Better Questions - The most powerful sales tool is a mirror. Ask questions that help your client see their own gap.Stay On Course - Keep learning, evolving, and challenging yourself every day. Growth does not stop when you hit your goals.Memorable Quotes"If my cup isn't filled, how am I supposed to pour into somebody else?""I felt like a doctor knocking on a sick person's door saying, here is medicine that you need and you just don't know it yet.""Nothing worth it is easy. I will tell you that.""Keep sewing into yourself and putting yourself first. That is what gives you the energy and the drive to keep going."Connect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadSocial Media: @julierigaCoaching: Learn more about leadership coaching and transformationThis episode is a must-share for sales leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone building a career grounded in authentic growth, self-leadership, and purpose.#StayOnCourse #PurposeDrivenLeadership #AuthenticGrowth #SalesLeadership #Ingredie

From Corporate Boardrooms to Small Business Breakthroughs: Ingredients for Success with James OrsiniStay On Course Podcast | Host: Julie Riga | Guest: James OrsiniWhat does it really take to build a thriving small business and how do the lessons of the Fortune 500 world translate to the entrepreneurial journey? In this candid and inspiring conversation, Julie Riga sits down with seasoned executive James Orsini to unpack the mindset shifts, operational disciplines, and leadership principles that separate businesses that scale from those that stall. Whether you are a founder, a corporate executive ready to pivot, or a small business owner in the thick of the grind, this episode is packed with transformative insights to help you stay on course.From Corporate Boardrooms to Small Business Breakthroughs: Ingredients for Success with James OrsiniAbout James OrsiniJames Orsini is a seasoned executive leader with more than 35 years of experience as President, CEO, COO, and CFO across high-growth organizations. After an 11-year run at VaynerX alongside Gary Vaynerchuk, where he helped grow the company from $42M to $350M and 2,000 people across 15 offices, James now advises founders and small business leaders through Vyve, Factotum, and J & J Consulting Services, co-founded with his wife Joanne.Fun Fact: James is a proud Italian-American whose ultimate comfort food is his wife's Sunday pasta sauce, slow-cooked for hours every single week.Ingredients for SuccessFocus and Strategic Prioritization Entrepreneurs rarely run out of ideas; they run out of focus. James advocates for working backwards from your endgame and using tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize what truly moves the needle each quarter.Knowing When to Hire and Delegate Founders who hold on too tight risk choking their own growth. Tracking yellow hustle time versus green paid time on your calendar reveals exactly when it is time to bring in your first hire and step fully into your leadership role.Integrity Above All Doing the right thing with your employees, vendors, and partners, even when nobody is watching, creates a reputation that outlives any single business venture. James calls this the most enduring ingredient for success.Community and Accountability Leadership can be lonely. Investing in a mastermind, coaching program, or peer group compresses your learning curve and gives you the sounding board every leader needs. Iron sharpens iron.Culture as Your Competitive Advantage VaynerMedia maintained a 17% voluntary turnover rate in an industry averaging over 35%. Hire for kindness and empathy first, then teach the skills. Culture is your most sustainable edge.Memorable Quotes"Doing the right thing is always the right thing, even when people are not looking.""Some founders squeeze the baby so tight, they choke it. Know when to let go and move to the work only you can do.""Work backwards from the legacy you want to leave. That clarity drives every decision."Key TakeawaysTransition from operator to leader. Work on the business, not in it. This mindset shift is the turning point for every founder ready to scale.Build your network with gratitude and empathy. Relationships cultivated with care become your greatest long-term asset.Stay open to pivoting. The business you build two years from now will look nothing like what you imagined today, and that is a strength.Connect with James OrsiniLinkedIn: James OrsiniVyve: @Revive (social handles)Factotum: factotum.comJ & J Consulting Services (LinkedIn)Connect with Julie RigaStay On Course PodcastBefore I Lead Programjulieriga.com/leadSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with every founder and leader who is ready to build something that lasts.#StayOnCourse #LeadershipMindset #SmallBusinessSuccess #PurposeDrivenLeadership #BeforeILead

From Content Overload to Curated Influence: The Future of ConnectionOverviewIn this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Kyle Hudson, founder and CEO of Stacklist, to explore how curation, not content creation, is becoming the future of trust and influence in an AI-driven world. Kyle shares his journey from building digital solutions for Google, Disney, and Coca-Cola to creating a platform that helps service professionals own their client relationships. Together, they dive into the ingredients for success in today's rapidly evolving landscape, discussing tech stack management, experimental mindsets, and becoming omnipotential leaders.From Content Overload to Curated Influence: The Future of ConnectionGuest: Kyle Hudson, Founder & CEO of StacklistHost: Julie RigaGuest BackgroundKyle Hudson is the founder and CEO of Stacklist, The Social Curation Network, helping service professionals turn local knowledge into shareable, AI-discoverable hubs. With a proven track record building digital solutions for brands like Google, Disney, and Coca-Cola, Kyle now focuses on empowering experts to own their client relationships rather than renting attention from social media platforms. Kyle is a member of the "Nintendo generation" (born 1979), shaped by growing up with technology as native rather than novel. His philosophy centers on omnipotential: the belief that you have the potential to be many things, not just one specialist.Fun Fact: Kyle is a burger connoisseur who dips his fries in mustard!Key Topics DiscussedThe Ingredients for Success:Curiosity & Experimental Mindset - Being open to trying new tools without fear of failure, treating business as one big lab experiment, and learning by doing rather than waiting for perfection.Fluidity & Adaptability - Avoiding vendor lock-in, being willing to scrap established systems for better solutions, and building the "Swiss Army Knife" skillset instead of narrow specialization.Omnipotential Leadership - Embracing multiple roles as an entrepreneur, understanding you're not defined by one label, and how generalists with AI partners become superhuman.Tech Stack Management: The $2000/month subscription problem, using Slack and Zoom as foundations, Linear as an elegant alternative to Jira, Claude Code for financial projections and custom agents. Strategy: Lock into solutions, not vendors.The Stacklist Philosophy: Curation over content creation, transforming personal expertise into discoverable resources, helping professionals own relationships instead of depending on algorithms. Everyone is known for something valuable.Memorable Quotes"Omnipotential is this idea that you are not X, you have the potential to be X, Y, Z, and A, B, C.""I just jump off the cliff, and as I'm falling, I'm learning. That's how I do it.""You only have to worry about AI taking your job if you're standing still. But if you're diving into it, you're learning skills you can teach others."Key InsightsKyle identifies as part of the "Nintendo generation," those who grew up with technology as native rather than novel, creating a fundamental difference in how leaders approach innovation. The conversation validates entrepreneurs who didn't fit the corporate mold. In the AI era, the valuable entrepreneur is the curious generalist who can leverage AI to solve novel problems.Action StepsAudit your tech stack and eliminate 70%Try one new AI tool this weekCreate your stack on Stacklist with your favorite topicsSchedule experimentation timeConnect: stacklist.app/kyle Connect: Stay On Course with Julie RigaEssential listening for entrepreneurs who want to thrive in an AI-driven future.#Leadership #Innovation #AI #Entrepreneurship #PersonalGrowth

Stop Chasing Maybes: The Perfect Fit Client Method for B2B Sales SuccessOverviewIn this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Nicoleta Hajek, founder of Pro Sales and the voice behind Empower Sales by Nico, for her very first podcast appearance. Nicoleta reveals her powerful Perfect Fit Client Method - a simple yet revolutionary approach that helps SME founders and technical teams build repeatable B2B sales systems. Together, they explore the three-part framework (FIT, IMPACT, URGENCY) that helps entrepreneurs stop wasting time on "maybes" and start selling with confidence and clarity.Stop Chasing Maybes: The Perfect Fit Client Method for B2B Sales SuccessGuest: Nicoleta Hajek, Founder of Pro Sales & Voice Behind Empower Sales by NicoHost: Julie RigaAbout This EpisodeJulie connects with Nicoleta Hajek, a purpose-driven sales strategist who helps SME founders and technical teams transform their sales approach from transactional to relational. Nicoleta shares her signature Perfect Fit Client Method, teaching entrepreneurs how to verify leads, run discovery calls that build trust, and connect value to real business impact while avoiding the time-draining trap of chasing "maybe" clients.Guest BackgroundNicoleta Hajek is the founder of Pro Sales and the inspiring voice behind Empower Sales by Nico. Based in France, Nicoleta specializes in helping SME founders and technical teams build repeatable B2B sales systems that eliminate guesswork and create predictable revenue. Her philosophy centers on less than 10% theory and over 90% practice, ensuring clients master concepts through real-world application.Fun Fact: Nicoleta lives in France, where her favorite food is cheese with a glass of red wine.The Perfect Fit Client Method: FIT, IMPACT, URGENCYFIT - Understanding AlignmentWhat triggered this search right now?What outcomes do you want in the next 90 days?What happens in your business if this stays the same?IMPACT - Quantifying ValueWhat does this problem cost you per month?Where does it show up? (delays, rework, downtime)What metrics do you want to move?URGENCY - Determining TimelineWhy now and why not in six months?What happens if you delay?What deadline matters for you right now?Key InsightsThe 20-Minute Qualifying Call: Nicoleta's method cuts qualifying down to 20-30 minutes to verify FIT, IMPACT, and URGENCY before investing deeper time.Not All Customers Are Your Customers: Understanding that some clients aren't the right fit saves time and preserves energy.Active Listening as a Sales Superpower: The best salespeople listen more than they talk. Ask open-ended questions and truly hear what clients need.Value Beats Features: Clients buy transformation, not specifications. Connect your solution to their transformation, not product features.Memorable Quotes"If one is missing (FIT, IMPACT, or URGENCY) then it's a maybe. And maybe is a tax on your time.""The number one mistake we make every single day is that we talk about our product, our features, our specifications. But what value proposition means is that I identify your three problems, and I transform you into a problem-less person.""Have faith in you, have faith in your product, and listen carefully to your customers to really understand the problems and the transformation you can create for them."Key TakeawaysQualify Early, Qualify Fast: Use FIT, IMPACT, URGENCY in 20-30 minutesListen More, Talk Less: Let prospects speak 80% of the timeNot Everyone Is Your Client: Focus on those you can truly serveBuild Relationships, Not Transactions: Authenticity closes dealsConnect with Nicoleta HajekWebsite: www.empoweredsalesbynico.com LinkedIn: Active and sharing valuable B2B sales insights Free Call: Book a complimentary call to explore sales transformation#Leadership #SalesSuccess #PurposeDriven #Transformation #BusinessGrowth

Aligning Your Marketing for Long-Term Growth: The 3 Essential Ingredients Every Business Owner NeedsIn this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Jeremiah Aut, founder and CEO of Involved Digital Marketing, to explore the strategic foundations that drive sustainable business growth. Jeremiah shares his journey from fragmented experimentation to focused execution, revealing the three essential ingredients that align marketing strategy with long-term success. Whether you're a small business owner struggling to find clarity or an entrepreneur looking to scale with purpose, this conversation delivers actionable insights on building a marketing foundation that generates real ROI and creates lasting impact.Aligning Your Marketing for Long-Term Growth: The 3 Essential Ingredients Every Business Owner NeedsGuest: Jeremiah Aut, Founder & CEO of Involved Digital MarketingHost: Julie RigaAbout This EpisodeJulie explores the three essential ingredients for marketing success with Jeremiah Aut, a results-driven strategist who helps brands scale through smart strategy, storytelling, and execution. Jeremiah partners with a team of 20+ experts with over 23 years of combined experience who have built 1,800+ brands.Fun Fact: Jeremiah's favorite food is Pizza Hut Meat Lovers Personal Pan Pizza!The Three Ingredients for Marketing SuccessClarity: The Foundation for Long-Term Growth Most businesses start marketing with no clear objective or measurable outcome. Define your messaging and foundation before investing in social media, SEO, or website development. Get crystal clear on your business vision and purpose first.Strategic Implementation: Executing with Alignment Every marketing dollar should generate a return on investment. Build a strategy that aligns with where your business is now and where you want to go in one to two years and beyond. Your success is directly tied to your clients' success.Collaboration & Continuous Learning Trial and error is essential to business growth. Partner with experts who understand your pain points to transform your marketing from guesswork to strategic growth. Learn from failures and use those lessons to create success.The 2026 Marketing LandscapeAI streamlines marketing operations but isn't everything. Video content on LinkedIn and YouTube is essential for targeting decision-makers and building authority. Being on multiple platforms protects you when one goes down.Key Quotes"You can build a website, all the different ingredients that go into marketing, without that foundation and that clear messaging. There is no real result, no long-term growth.""Their success is our success. That should be the measurable outcome for any strategy that's implemented."Key TakeawaysGet crystal clear on your objectives before spending on marketing. Surround yourself with experts who understand your industry. Every marketing strategy should generate measurable returns. Position yourself as an authority through video content. Learn from failure and use those lessons to build success. Align your marketing with where you want to be in one to five years.Connect with Jeremiah AutWebsite: www.involveddigitalmarketing.com (with an I, not an E!)Social Media: Available on LinkedIn, Facebook, and all major platformsCompany: Involved Digital MarketingDaily News Network: Watch Jeremiah on Ask the Expert and other showsConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastLeadership Coaching: Transformative coaching for authentic leadership and purposeful growthSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#Leadership #Marketing #BusinessGrowth #PurposeDriven #DigitalMarketing

The Art of Presence: Ingredients for Success in Leadership and LifeGuest: Gabriella Salvatore, Global Organizational Effectiveness & Leadership Strategy AdvisorHost: Julie RigaOverviewIn this transformational episode, Julie welcomes Gabriella Salvatore to explore authentic leadership presence. Gabriella shares powerful insights on being truly present in our hyper-connected world. This conversation reveals the deeper practice of presence - how to listen, connect, and lead with clarity even when life pulls us in countless directions. Whether you're a busy professional or entrepreneur struggling with constant distractions, this episode offers practical wisdom for reclaiming your focus and making meaningful connections. The Art of Presence: Ingredients for Success in Leadership and Life Gabriella Salvatore is a global organizational effectiveness and leadership strategy advisor who helps enterprises scale with clarity, humanity, and impact. She has led transformational change across biopharma, tech, and financial services, influencing tens of thousands of employees worldwide.Fun Fact: Gabriella's favorite food is matzo brei - Jewish French toast made with matzo dipped in egg and fried in butter. She shares this unique heritage connection with host Julie Riga, as they're both Italian and Jewish. Gabriella prefers her matzo brei wetted before dipping in egg, served with butter and sugar. What You'll Learn• The distinction between being present (focused attention) and having presence (quality of connection)• How digital distraction undermines leadership and relationships• Practical strategies: turning off notifications, time-blocking, and teaching stakeholders healthy boundaries• Why listening to yourself and others is the foundation of all presence Key Insights• Presence is a practice, not perfection - even experienced meditators struggle daily• Model boundaries to teach others that constant connectivity isn't necessary• Be present to your specific role in each moment and honor what it needs• Quality over speed - singular focus beats divided attention Memorable Quotes"Being present means reducing distraction and listening carefully - both to myself and to the other.""It's really okay to teach our stakeholders that you can wait.""It's more powerful to be present than distracted.""There is no perfection in presence." Who Should ListenLeaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals overwhelmed by modern life's constant pull. If you're struggling with digital distraction, managing multiple priorities, or feeling never fully present, this conversation offers validation and practical solutions. We're all recovering non-present people - the goal is continuous practice, not perfection. Your Next StepTurn off your notifications for one day. Notice what happens. Then experiment with 2-hour time blocks. Presence isn't about perfection - it's about returning to authentic connection with yourself and others. Connect with Gabriella Salvatore• LinkedIn: Gabriella D. Salvatore• Email: gabrielladsalvatore@gmail.comConnect with Julie Riga• Website: julieriga.com/lead• Coaching: Learn more about leadership coaching, personal transformation, and the ingredients for success in life and careerSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcastsShare this episode with leaders who need this reminder about the power of presence#StayOnCourse #LeadershipPresence #AuthenticLeadership #Mindfulness #PurposeDrivenLeadership

From PodFest to Purpose: Building Your Podcast Legacy Through Growth and ConnectionGuest: Junaid Ahmed, Home Studio Architect and Host of Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit StoriesHost: Julie RigaOverviewIn this inspiring episode recorded live at PodFest 2026, host Julie Riga connects with Junaid Ahmed for their second annual PodFest conversation. Junaid, known as the Home Studio Architect and host of Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories, shares powerful insights on podcast growth, audience building, and the evolution required to create a sustainable and purpose-driven platform.This conversation captures the energy of one of podcasting's premier conferences while delivering grounded wisdom for creators focused on legacy, impact, and long-term growth.From PodFest to Purpose: Building Your Podcast Legacy Through Growth and ConnectionAbout This EpisodeRecorded live from PodFest 2026, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at why conferences are transformative for podcasters at every stage. Julie and Junaid reflect on year-over-year growth, share their biggest conference takeaways, and discuss the mindset shifts required to evolve without abandoning what already works.They explore the transition from using a podcast primarily as a networking tool to building it as a true audience-driven platform. Julie also shares her perspective on stepping into the role of front person for the Stay On Course brand and strengthening social media presence to amplify reach and impact.Guest BackgroundJunaid Ahmed, pronounced “like lemonade,” is the Home Studio Architect who helps podcasters and creators build professional home studios. With five years of PodFest attendance, Junaid is a recognized voice in the podcasting community.He hosts Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories, where he highlights how people turn passion into profit while maintaining authenticity and purpose.Fun Fact: This is Junaid's second consecutive year recording with Julie at the GObox studio at PodFest, creating an annual tradition of reflection and growth.Key Topics Discussed• Building genuine connections at PodFest through consistent presence and community • Compounding knowledge year over year rather than starting over • Learning from creators who evolve across platforms while staying aligned • Shifting focus from monetization to audience growth • Becoming the visible front person of your brand • The reality of empire building and the cost of support and collaboration • Investing time and money wisely and implementing what you learnMemorable Quotes“As podcasters, we are compounding knowledge every single year.” “I used to see my podcast as a networking tool. Now I am focused on growing my audience.” “You cannot build an empire by yourself.” “What you gain depends on how you implement what you learn.”Key TakeawaysCompound your growth instead of resetting each year Evolve your platform without abandoning what works Shift from networking to audience building Invest in community, support, and long-term growth Show up consistently and implement what you learnConnect with Junaid AhmedPodcast: Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit StoriesBusiness: Home Studio ArchitectServices: Studio setup consultation and podcasting supportSocial Media: Available across major platformsSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#PodcastGrowth #LeadershipMindset #PurposeDriven #AuthenticGrowth #StayOnCourse

Guard the Work: The Unspoken Rules of Legacy LeadershipGuest: Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, Founder of Golden Ray PublishingHost: Julie RigaOverviewIn this powerful episode, host Julie Riga sits down with Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, a veteran ghostwriter, publisher, and media strategist who transforms lived experience into legacy. Lisa shares her expertise in authentic leadership, personal brand protection, and the responsibility of stepping into the spotlight with integrity. From her work with Navy SEALs to her role as media director for TEDx Maisner Park, Lisa reveals the strategic frameworks that separate professionals from amateurs in publishing and personal branding.Guard the Work: The Unspoken Rules of Legacy LeadershipAbout This EpisodeJulie welcomes Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, a purpose-driven publisher and legacy strategist who helps leaders turn their stories into protected, powerful assets. Lisa is the founder of Golden Ray Publishing and works extensively in the Special Forces and military legacy space. Her work is represented in national SEAL museums, and she serves as media director for TEDx Maisner Park.Guest BackgroundDr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray is a 20-year veteran ghostwriter and founder of Golden Ray Publishing. With 11 books releasing before June, Lisa specializes in military legacy work, having authored SEAL Team 1: Moy Bell and The Painted Frog (releasing August 2026).Fun Fact: Lisa is from Newport, Rhode Island, and her favorite food is a lobster roll, preferably enjoyed in the summer in her hometown.The Three Ingredients for Author SuccessIntegrity: Handle legacy stories with care and truth. Build trust with those whose stories you share.Truth: Tell stories from first-person perspective. Maintain accuracy and authenticity.Vulnerability: Allow authentic connection through honest storytelling. Create emotional resonance that outlives the spotlight.Memorable Quotes"Clarity beats charisma every time.""The red dot is not about performance, it's about responsibility.""Structure doesn't stifle creativity, it protects it.""Guard the work, and the work will guard you.""Success is when your reputation speaks before you even enter the room."Key Insights for LeadersThe Publishing Truth: Books are the most successful piece of marketing when handled correctly. Your book should serve as your lead generator and establish you as an expert, but only if protected and positioned strategically.The Legacy Principle: You're three generations away from everyone forgetting your name. Written legacy from your first-person perspective ensures your story lives beyond the spotlight.Protection Before Promotion: Don't rush to market before your brand is ready. Protect your work through copyright and trademarks. Work with professionals to shape your message with integrity.Rapid Fire InsightsSuccess in one sentence: "Success is when your reputation speaks before you even enter the room."Biggest mistake new authors make: "They rush to publish before they've protected their story or clarified the message."What separates pros from amateurs? "Professionals build systems, amateurs rely on talent and hope."Best advice ever received: "Guard the work, and the work will guard you."One non-negotiable in publishing: "Integrity, because once it's compromised, the book fails before it's even read."Connect with Dr. (h.c.) Lisa RayWebsite: www.goldenraybooks.com Free Zoom Consultation: Available via green button at bottom of websiteKey TakeawaysProtect Before You Promote: Structure and boundaries protect your creativity and messageClarity Over Charisma: Your message must be clean, honest, and grounded in experienceLegacy Is Intentional: Success is building stories that outlive the spotlightTrust Is Everything: In publishing and leadership, integrity is non-negotiableSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#Leadership #Legacy #Publishing #AuthenticGrowth #PurposeDriven

The Truth About 2025: My Raw Review of Small Business RealityHost: Julie Riga | Episode Type: Solo EpisodeOverviewThis isn't your typical year-in-review episode. Julie Riga gets brutally honest about what 2025 really looked like as a small business owner: the hustle that led nowhere, the rejection that stung, the corporate friends who disappeared, and the Friday nights spent wondering if she should just get a "real job" again. But here's the twist: she's not quitting. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Julie shares the unspoken truth about entrepreneurship, the non-negotiable realities of building a business, and why finding your purpose is worth every frustrating moment. If you're a business owner, leader, or anyone chasing a dream while wondering if you should give up, this episode is your permission to keep going.The Truth About 2025: My Raw Review of Small Business RealityWhat You'll Learn:Julie pulls back the curtain on her 2025: months of hustling with no results, feeling stuck, battling frustration and depression, and watching corporate connections fade away. This is the messy middle nobody talks about. But it's also a powerful reminder that transformation doesn't come from comfort zones, and legacy isn't built by quitting when things get hard.Key Topics:The Three Non-Negotiables of Small Business Success:Community Over Isolation - Why doing it alone guarantees you'll quitSales as Your Lifeline - 80% of your first two years is selling (no sugarcoating)The Pivot-Fast Mindset - Learn what doesn't work and change it immediatelyThe Reality Check:Why 2025 felt harder than previous yearsGetting real about depression, frustration, and wanting to quit every FridayThe corporate friends who disappeared and the strangers who stepped upWhat keeps Julie going despite the brutal journeyMemorable Quotes:"2025 kicked my butt. If it didn't kick your butt, let me know in the chat.""If you're not willing to say that 80% of my time in the very beginning is gonna be devoted to selling, just go get a job.""Complete strangers will help me first than some of the people I worked very closely with.""I am a catalyst for you to reach your next level of success."Key Takeaways:Don't do it alone - Community is essentialEmbrace sales reality or get a jobPivot fast, learn fasterNever get comfortable with your pipelineTake care of yourself through the brutal journeyRemember why you startedAbout Julie Riga:Julie specializes in helping leaders and business owners dig deep to understand their true purpose, facilitate that purpose in their lives, and break through to their next level of success with clarity and confidence.Services: One-on-One Coaching | Leadership Programs | Training Programs | Brand BuildingReady for transformation? Schedule a call with Julie and start facilitating your purpose.

This episode marks an exciting milestone for the podcast. After launching in 2022, the show has officially begun charting on Apple Podcasts, and the momentum is just getting started. The focus for this year is clear and ambitious becoming a Top Ten podcast in the Entrepreneurship category.Listeners are invited into the Before I Lead community on Skool, a free space designed for small business owners who want greater visibility, stronger leadership skills, and real connection. The community offers weekly networking and conversations centered on growing and leading a business with intention.The heart of the podcast is learning directly from small business owners and experts who share their real world ingredients for success. Topics include marketing, sales, lead generation, podcasting, social media visibility, and using speaking as a powerful accelerator for business growth.This episode also highlights the importance of visibility through podcasting and stages both local and virtual, along with a behind the scenes look at attending Podfest in Orlando to deepen conversations around podcast monetization and audience growth.Rooted in legacy, the podcast continues to honor the influence of Julie's father, Ennio Riga, whose mentorship and impact shaped generations. His legacy inspires the mission to help others share meaningful messages that create transformation.The episode closes with insight into the Before I Speak program, which supports emerging speakers in building confidence, presence, and a powerful internal story before stepping onto any stage.This podcast exists to educate, inspire, and equip listeners to grow intentionally, lead boldly, and stay on course as they build businesses and legacies that matter.To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

Beyond the Game: How One NBA Player Transformed Adversity Into ImpactGuest: Gary Forbes, Former NBA Player, Published Author & Founder of Soul Survivors Host: Julie RigaOverviewIn this inspiring episode of the Stay On Course podcast, host Julie Riga sits down with former NBA player Gary Forbes to explore what happens when life takes you beyond the game you thought would define you. Gary shares his powerful journey from professional basketball to purpose-driven entrepreneurship, revealing the three essential ingredients that transformed his challenges with Type 1 diabetes into a platform for empowering others. This conversation is a masterclass in authentic leadership, resilience, and creating meaningful impact through intentional living.Beyond the Game: How One NBA Player Transformed Adversity Into ImpactAbout Gary ForbesGary Forbes is a former professional basketball player who spent time in the NBA and played for 13-15 different teams across various leagues worldwide. Since retiring six years ago, Gary has evolved into a purpose-driven entrepreneur, published author, and advocate for children with chronic health conditions. Through his platform Soul Survivors, he's created a children's multimedia platform that empowers kids through storytelling, health literacy, and inclusion.Fun Fact: Gary's favorite food is Asian cuisine—especially American Chinese sesame chicken and anything Korean his partner makes.The Three Ingredients for Success1. Mindset: Building Your FoundationEstablishing a strong foundational mindset shapes how you interpret every challengeLearning that one bad moment doesn't define you"How you do one thing is how you do everything" - Coach Travis Ford2. Optimism: Finding the Silver LiningBelieving there's always a silver lining in every situationUnderstanding adversity as preparation for your purposeThe "aha moments" that reveal why you went through challenges3. Consistency & Sticktoitiveness: The Power of CommitmentDoing mundane, repetitive work consistently every single dayThe 10,000-hour rule: Gary became a professional twice (athlete and author)Getting 1% better every day creates an extraordinary lifeMemorable Quotes"Your present situation is not your final destination.""No testimony without a test.""Everything that we can touch, feel started with a thought. If your thoughts become reality, so think good things.""You have 100% chance to do anything you want in life.""All work is easy work—it's just work."Key MomentsHow a fourth-grader was inspired to try out for basketball despite Type 1 diabetesGary's daily NBA routine: 7am workouts to late-night skill sessionsThe journey from dreaming of a 15-20 year NBA career to discovering true purposeCreating Soul Survivors to gamify health and wellness for childrenThe mindset shift: Even Steph Curry only makes 4 out of 10 shotsSoul Survivors PlatformGary's multimedia platform provides empowerment and encouragement for children with chronic health conditions, helping students, educators, and hospitals improve cultural competency through inclusion and health literacy. The Soul Survivors app launches next month, inspiring kids to see themselves as superheroes.Key TakeawaysEstablish a strong mindset foundation—it shapes everythingThere's always a silver lining; transformation is always possibleSuccess comes from consistent daily action and dedicationYour authentic journey inspires others by living your best lifeLet go of self-imposed limitations—your mind creates your realityConnect with Gary ForbesSoul Survivors Platform: thesolesurvivors.comSocial Media: YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, FacebookConnect with Julie RigaPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastPrograms: Before I LeadWebsite: julieriga.com/lead

The Elevator Pitch Recipe: Crafting Marketing Messaging That Stops the ScrollGuest: Katie Lantukh, Founder of Murphy Marketing Host: Julie RigaOverviewIn this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Katie Lantukh, founder of Murphy Marketing, to decode the art of the perfect elevator pitch. Katie reveals her proven recipe for creating marketing messaging that captures attention and inspires action. Together, they explore the critical ingredients every business leader needs to craft an elevator pitch that opens doors, builds connections, and creates opportunities. This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs, executives, and anyone seeking clarity in their professional messaging and leadership presence.The Elevator Pitch Recipe: Crafting Marketing Messaging That Stops the ScrollAbout Katie LantukhKatie Lantukh is the founder of Murphy Marketing, where she and her team of messaging specialists help businesses create marketing messaging that stops the scroll and starts conversations. Katie specializes in helping entrepreneurs and business leaders gain clarity on what to say and where to say it—from foundational brand messaging to strategic placement across websites, landing pages, email, blogs, and LinkedIn.Fun Fact: Katie's favorite food is Mexican food, especially tacos—her household celebrates Taco Tuesday and Margarita Monday!The Fire Brigade FrameworkKatie introduces her powerful metaphor: your elevator pitch should be like a bucket of water being passed down a fire brigade line—easy for people to hold onto and pass along to others. Your message must be simple enough to remember, clear enough to repeat, and compelling enough to share.The 7 Essential IngredientsWhat You Do - Start with clarity, not your job titleThe Outcome - Focus on the transformation people experienceWho You Serve - Define your ideal client clearly; set boundariesThe Problem - Lead with the challenge your audience facesTiming & Flexibility - Develop 10-second, 30-second, 2-minute, and 5-minute versionsWhy You & Why Now - Showcase expertise and create urgencySimplicity - Less is always more; make your audience feel smart, not lostKey InsightsThe Two Signs Your Pitch Works:They ask a follow-up question: "How does that work?"They immediately make connections: "Oh, do you know...?"Avoid the Laundry List Trap: Don't try to explain everything you do. Focus on one clear problem and solution. Save comprehensive details for the actual sales conversation.The Power of Parameters: Setting clear boundaries on who you serve doesn't exclude people—it attracts the right ones.Julie's "Take the Mic" StoryJulie shares attending a Patrick Bet-David event with 10,000 attendees. She intentionally stepped up to a camera crew and "took the mic"—resulting in her appearing on the event's signup page alongside The Rock and Robert Kiyosaki as the only woman featured. The lesson: Success comes to those willing to step up when opportunity strikes.Memorable Quotes"If you've done this elevator pitch well, you will have a follow-up question.""You really get like one minute to make an impression.""If you wanna be a business owner and you are wanting to be successful, you have to be ready to take the mic."Key TakeawaysLead with the problem your ideal client faces, not your credentialsCreate space for conversation—your goal is to inspire a follow-up questionHave multiple versions of your pitch ready for different contextsTest and refine continuously based on body language and responsesDon't whisper your value—own your message and your momentConnect with Katie LantukhLinkedIn: Where Katie spends most of her timeWebsite: murphy.marketingConnect with Julie RigaPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastPrograms: Before I LeadWebsite: julieriga.com/lead

Reimagining Wine: From Intuition to Innovation with Visionary LeadershipGuest: Amanda Thomson | Host: Julie RigaJoin Julie Riga as she sits down with Amanda Thomson, CEO and founder of B Corp Certified Noughty, to explore how intuition, vision, and curiosity can transform not just an industry—but your entire approach to entrepreneurial leadership.A former BBC Arts broadcaster and Le Cordon Bleu Paris alum, Amanda shares the purpose-driven journey behind creating premium alcohol-free wines and revolutionizing drinking culture with sophisticated, mindful alternatives for modern celebrations.What You'll Learn:How trusting your intuition before having data can lead to breakthrough innovation and business successWhy visionary thinking helps you climb back up when entrepreneurship knocks you downThe power of childlike curiosity in creating authentic connection and continuous learningHow to recognize and fill your knowledge gaps with expert team membersWhy energy management and how you show up directly impacts your business outcomesThe importance of self-awareness in building a sustainable, mission-driven businessFeatured Quotes:"There were millions of wine drinkers like me who stay in our lane and leave celebrations early because we just switch to water. There was nothing for me to drink when I wasn't drinking.""Being a founder and growing an entrepreneurial business is like an MBA on acid.""I am a visionary entrepreneur. I've always seen the macro—the arch, the rainbow I am climbing to. The vision has never wavered.""Curiosity can be hugely underrated in life. The more we know, we think we have to ask fewer questions. I would argue the opposite is true."Connect with Amanda Thomson:Website: noughtyaf.com (that's Noughty with an O!)Social Media: @NoughtyAFCompany: Noughty - Premium Alcohol-Free WinesConnect with Julie:Website: julieriga.com/getreadySocial Media: LinkedIn | Instagram | FacebookListen to Stay On Course with Julie Riga wherever you get your podcasts and discover how to lead with intuition, build a visionary business, and create your legacy through authentic entrepreneurship and purpose-driven innovation.To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

Future-Ready Mindset: Breaking Free from Change FatigueGuest: Allister Frost | Host: Julie RigaJoin Julie Riga as she sits down with Allister Frost, global keynote speaker, award-winning author, and former Microsoft leader, to explore what it means to build a future-ready mindset in a world of constant transformation.With over 10 years of leadership experience and a passion for helping professionals break free from change fatigue, Allister shares the purpose-driven framework that helps leaders find clarity, embrace growth, and step boldly into meaningful work—even when the world feels overwhelming.What You'll Learn:How personal mission drives authentic leadership, confidence, and career fulfillment in times of changeWhy focused learning (not multitasking) is the key to professional growth and transformationThe power of curiosity as a human superpower that AI can't replicateHow to align your purpose, values, and vision to create lasting legacy and impactThe FROST Growth Cycle: A five-step framework for evolving through constant transformationFeatured Quotes:"What got you here will not get you to where you need to be—but that is a change.""I used to think my company employs me to do a job. The day I realized I employ my company to allow me to do amazing things—everything changed.""Your personal mission is everything—it's why you show up, what gives you energy, what anchors you into the moment.""If something works, it's already obsolete. Everything can be improved."Connect with Allister Frost:Website: readyalready.meBook: ReadyAlready – Available wherever books are soldListen to Stay On Course with Julie Riga wherever you get your podcasts and discover how to lead with purpose, build a future-ready mindset, and create your legacy through intentional living and continuous growth.To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

The Ultimate Networker: Building Connection, Confidence, and LegacyGuest: George Dubec | Host: Julie RigaJoin Julie Riga as she sits down with George Dubec, founder of The Ultimate Networker and The Founder's League, to explore what it means to build a purpose-driven network rooted in leadership, integrity, and growth.With over 50 years of experience in business, entrepreneurship, and mentorship, George shares the mindset and values that helped him lead with clarity, build authentic relationships, and create a meaningful legacy through connection.What You'll Learn:How authentic leadership and networking drive career growth and transformationWhy respect, integrity, and follow-through are key to professional successThe importance of mentorship and community in personal and business developmentHow to align your values, vision, and purpose to build lasting impactFeatured Quotes:"You can get anything you want by using your network." "Networking is not about selling. It's about serving, connecting, and staying on course."Connect with George Dubec:Website: theultimatenetworker.com Books: Ultimate Networking Communities: The Founder's League | Love List NetworkListen to Stay On Course with Julie Riga wherever you get your podcasts and discover how to lead with purpose, build authentic connections, and grow your legacy through intentional leadership.

Stay On Course Podcast - Episode Show NotesFlex Your Resilience Muscle: The Three Pillars of Leading Through ChangeGuest: Sheena Eizmendiz, CEO & Founder of The WellBiz Host: Julie RigaAbout This EpisodeJulie sits down with Sheena Eizmendiz, a resilience champion and CEO of The WellBiz, a boutique consulting firm driving organizational development and cultural transformation. Sheena is a bestselling author and keynote speaker who blends positive psychology with strategic leadership to help people and organizations emerge stronger through change.They explore how resilience is like a muscle that gets stronger with practice, the critical difference between reacting and responding, and why leaders need a "resilient circle" to navigate today's high-pressure environments.In This Episode, We Talk About:The three pillars of resilience: self-awareness, adaptability, and connectionWhy the pause between stimulus and response is where your power liesHow to build your "resilient circle" of 2-3 trusted supportersThe "Send It Tomorrow" technique for handling conflict when emotions are highWhy burnout is at its highest point—even higher than during the pandemicHow leaders who lack emotional regulation trigger stress throughout their teamsWhy flexibility is intelligence in times of rapid changePractical strategies to strengthen your resilience muscle intentionallyWhy This MattersIf you've ever felt burned out, isolated, or reactive under pressure, this episode offers practical strategies to build sustainable resilience. Sheena proves that leaders are made, not born—and resilience is a skill you can develop through awareness, adaptability, and connection.Who Should ListenLeaders feeling overwhelmed by today's high-pressure environmentsExecutives who feel isolated at the topAnyone struggling to manage stress and avoid burnoutManagers who want to lead by example and create healthier team culturesGuest BackgroundSheena Eizmendiz is the CEO and founder of The WellBiz, specializing in helping leaders and organizations build resilience through intentional practices. Her approach combines positive psychology with strategic leadership development, creating sustainable pathways for individuals and teams to thrive through disruption and change.Fun Fact: Sheena's favorite food is pizza—"comfort and easy, and you just can't go wrong."Connect with Sheena EizmendizCompany: The WellBizLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sheenaeizmendizInstagram: @sheena.eizmendizWebsite: sheenaeizmendiz.comResilience is a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it becomes. Start with self-awareness, lean into discomfort, and build your circle of support.

No Followers Needed: How to Build a Six-Figure UGC BusinessGuest: Megan Collier, Content Creator & UGC CoachHost: Julie RigaAbout This EpisodeJulie sits down with Megan Collier, who built a six-figure User Generated Content (UGC) business in just 14 months starting with only 200 followers. Megan now helps GenXers and Boomers launch successful UGC careers, and she's here to break down exactly how everyday people can get paid by brands without any influencer status.What is UGC?User Generated Content (UGC) is when creators get paid by brands to create short-form video content (typically 30-60 seconds) without posting to their own social media. Instead, brands use this authentic content for their own ads, emails, websites, and marketing channels.In This Episode, We Talk About:The three essential ingredients for UGC success (hint: talent isn't one of them)Why age is actually an asset in this industry, not a barrierHow Megan landed her first deal within 10 days and what she did to make it happenThe exact step-by-step process to get started, even if you've never created content beforeWhat equipment you actually need (spoiler: probably less than $50)Real student success stories, including a 52-year-old who made $11,500 in 63 daysHow to price your work so you're not leaving money on the tableWhy brands are desperately searching for GenX and Boomer creators right nowThe biggest mistakes new creators make and how to avoid themWhether UGC will survive in an AI and metaverse worldWhy This MattersIf you've ever thought "I'm too old for social media" or "I don't have enough followers to work with brands," this episode will completely change your perspective. Megan proves that the barrier to entry has never been lower, and the demand has never been higher.Who Should ListenGenXers and Baby Boomers looking for flexible incomeAnyone intimidated by traditional influencer marketingPeople seeking a side hustle with low upfront investmentAnyone who's ever wanted to work with brands but thought they needed thousands of followers firstGuest BackgroundMegan Collier discovered UGC in August 2022 while working full-time and needing a flexible side hustle. Within 14 months, she scaled her UGC business to replace her six-figure corporate income. Now she helps everyday people unlock this valuable income stream through her coaching platform.Connect with Megan CollierTikTok: @megan_ugcInstagram: @Megan_UGCWebsite: https://www.megancollierugc.comYou don't need followers, fancy equipment, or years of experience to start earning with UGC. You just need a willingness to learn, the confidence to know your worth, and the ability to have fun with it.

Building Community Through Connection with Bruce StarrGuest: Bruce Starr | Host: Julie RigaJoin Julie Riga as she sits down with Bruce Starr, an internationally recognized relationship coach with over 40 years of experience, speaker, and youth advocate. Bruce shares his passion for supporting foster youth through We Save Teens, his upcoming Body and Soul Expo, and his book "Her Teen Love Coach" - a guide helping teenagers navigate growing up.Discover how Bruce is creating community through wellness events, why today's youth need mentorship more than ever, and how it's never too late to pursue your passion.What You'll Learn:Why today's youth face unique challenges with early physical developmentHow We Save Teens is creating trade schools and support systems for foster youthDetails about the sold-out Body and Soul Expo (October 26th, Palm Beach Gardens Marriott)The story behind "Her Teen Love Coach" and why mentorship mattersHow Bruce went from teaching middle school to producing premiere wellness eventsFeatured Quotes:"Food brings people together.""These kids are 11 and 12 and 13 years old... they look like they're 19 or 20... but they're children with adult bodies.""The energy is still there... I got a bunch of years left in me."Connect with Bruce:Email: BruceStarr412@gmail.comBody and Soul Expo: bodyandsoulexpo.orgRelationships: theopenheartmovement.comBook: "Her Teen Love Coach" on AmazonUpcoming Events:Body and Soul Expo - October 26th, Palm Beach Gardens MarriottSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcastsTo learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

Welcome back to Stay on Course! In this episode, Julie Riga sits down with Omazing Rashad—a multidisciplinary healer and martial arts trainer with over 20 years of experience and the creator of Empower Caravan. Rashad's story is one of profound transformation that exemplifies authentic leadership. From personal struggles to a life of mind–body–spirit and financial empowerment, he now dedicates his work to helping business leaders and entrepreneurs reclaim their own power.This uplifting conversation explores how leaders can create full-spectrum alignment—with yourself, with your team, and in your leadership approach—so you can truly fall in love with leading and inspire others to follow.What You'll Discover in This EpisodeThe Leadership Secret of Alignment: Why personal alignment is the most powerful foundation for executive presence, team performance, and organizational culture.Leading Through Transitions: How to release leadership patterns or team relationships that no longer resonate—and lovingly create space for new, empowering leadership dynamics.From Rejection to Executive Resilience: Practical ways business leaders can process disappointment and setbacks so you can bounce back stronger and model resilient leadership for your organization.Fall in Love with Leading: The mic-drop leadership mindset that turns everyday business challenges, difficult conversations, and strategic decisions into moments of conscious leadership.The Power of Curious Leadership & Unlearning: Why adaptive leaders empty their cup of assumptions and ask deeper questions to spark organizational transformation.Memorable Quotes“How about just falling in love with your life, no matter what's in it or who's in it?” – Julie Riga“Empty the vessel so you can fill it with abundance.” – Omazing Rashad“You can't be who you are and not get sick; alignment is the best medicine.” – Julie RigaConnect with Omazing RashadWebsite & Programs: EmpowerCaravan.comInstagram | YouTube | TikTok: @EmpowerCaravanEmail: empowercaravan@gmail.comIf this conversation inspired you to embrace aligned leadership, share this episode with a fellow business leader and subscribe so you never miss a dose of leadership development wisdom and practical guidance.Stay aligned. Stay inspired. Stay on Course.For more business leadership development resources, visit julieriga.com

Join host Julie Riga as she sits down with Caterina Rando, mentor extraordinary for women in business, to uncover the fastest path from speaking to clients. Discover why speaking beats social media for service-based entrepreneurs, learn Caterina's "sales fountain" approach that keeps clients coming back, and find out how she generates multiple five-figure sales from a single retreat.In this episode, you'll learn the three types of clients (Insta-clients, slow cookers, and super slow cookers), why "at the thing you always offer the next thing," and how to leave every audience more uplifted than when they arrived. Caterina shares her proven strategies for building profitable retreat experiences, the importance of follow-up conversations, and why monthly virtual workshops should be standard operating procedure for every entrepreneur.Whether you're looking to accelerate client acquisition, build deeper relationships with your audience, or create transformational retreat experiences, this episode delivers actionable insights for women entrepreneurs and service-based business owners ready to turn their speaking into a client-generation machine.Connect with Caterina: https://caterinarando.comTo learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

Guest: Cindy Gelormini, The Paint DivaJoin Julie Riga as she sits down with Cindy Gelormini, "The Paint Diva," who has been transforming overwhelming color decisions into enjoyable experiences for over 20 years.In this episode, discover:The three-step Paint Diva Method that prevents costly color mistakesWhy undertones matter more than the actual color you chooseHow design trends have evolved from the 1950s to today's "color drenching"The psychology behind color preferences and personality typesWhy you should never start with paint when renovatingPractical tips for working with existing elements like cabinets and countertopsCindy shares her expertise from thousands of consultations, reveals why most people get color wrong, and explains how to create spaces that work with your lifestyle and personality. Plus, learn about the fascinating evolution of children's color preferences and what's coming next in design trends.Perfect for anyone planning a home renovation, struggling with color choices, or curious about the psychology of design.Connect with Cindy: www.paintdivanj.com | Book: "The Paint Diva Method" (Amazon)Upcoming: Watch for Cindy's new TV show launching on Home Inspo TV!#InteriorDesign #ColorConsulting #HomeRenovation #PaintColors #DesignTrendsTo learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

When the Need Becomes the Call: Jen Mallan on Purpose-Driven LeadershipGuest: Jen Mallan, Host of Come Home with Jen MallanIn this powerful episode, Julie sits down with Jen Mallan, host of the faith-based TV show "Come Home with Jen Mallan" that reaches half a billion homes globally. As a media personality, author, and spiritual mentor, Jen shares the essential ingredients for success in leadership and life.What You'll Learn:The "Ministry of Showing Up" - why presence matters more than perfectionHow to own your voice and break free from childhood conditioningThe principle that "the need can become the call" for finding your purposeOvercoming perfectionism paralysis and imposter syndromeNavigating identity shifts during life transitions like empty nest syndromeKey Quotes: "Real leadership is built in the trenches, and in the trenches it's messy and things aren't perfect, but you're there.""We don't have to be impressive. We have to be impactful.""I wanna die empty. I wanna pour out everything you've given me."Perfect for women in transition, struggling to find their voice, or looking to discover their next chapter in life. Jen's authentic wisdom and Julie's practical insights will inspire you to step boldly into your calling.Connect with Jen: jenmallan.com | "Come Home with Jen Mallan" on CTNTo learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit:

Ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about relationships, masculinity, and the modern dating world? In this episode of OBSESSED, host Julie Riga and co-host Megan Douglas welcome Rich Cooper—entrepreneur, bestselling author of The Unplugged Alpha, and the unapologetic voice behind the viral “Entrepreneurs in Cars” YouTube channel.What You'll Hear in This Episode:The Truth About Red Flags: Rich shares his personal journey through marriage, divorce, and the lessons that drove him to help men avoid toxic relationships—and why making better choices is an underrated skill.Beta vs. Alpha: What's the Difference? Discover why Rich believes today's men are softer than previous generations, why being a people-pleaser won't help you win hearts—or wars—and how ‘beta male' culture emerged from societal shifts, Hollywood, and even school curriculums.Can ‘Alpha Camps' Really Change You? Are weekend bootcamps for men truly transformative, or just another temporary fix? Rich and the team debate whether you can learn masculinity by shouting “I am a man” across a football field.Boss Girls, Masculinity & Modern Dating: Why do successful, independent women struggle to find love? Rich unpacks the truth about the “boss girl” narrative, why high-value men seek peace instead of power struggles, and what really attracts ambitious partners.Green Flags and Red Flags in Dating: Want to spot a high-value partner? Rich explains the traits to look for—and the warning signs everyone should avoid. Plus, find out why women are sometimes attracted to “bad boys,” and why hybristophilia is a real (and wild) phenomenon.A New Perspective on Relationships: From motorcycles as therapy, to teaching your kids the power of competition, to why men and women price themselves “out of the market,” this episode is full of bold, unconventional wisdom.Pop Culture Deep Dive: Hear the crew discuss how TV, movies, and music—from gentle superheroes to “trophy culture”—have changed the way we view men, women, and relationships.Connect with Rich Cooper:Website: RichCooper.caJoin the Conversation:Want to get obsessed with your own life? Let us know what you think! Rate, review, and subscribe to OBSESSED wherever you get your podcasts.