Podcasts about success leaves clues

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Best podcasts about success leaves clues

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Latest podcast episodes about success leaves clues

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 303 - You Don't Have to Be Ruthless to Be Successful with Scott Vanderwel, CEO at PointsBet Canada

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2026 37:08


Do successful leaders need to be ruthless, or can kindness, character, and high performance coexist?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Scott Vanderwel, CEO of PointsBet Canada, for a candid conversation about people-first leadership, strategic growth, employee empowerment, and building a successful company without compromising who you are.Scott was brought in to build PointsBet Canada before Ontario's regulated online gaming market officially opened. Starting with a team of three, an emerging industry, and no established Canadian brand presence, he had to determine where the company could compete, how it would earn trust, and which opportunities were worth pursuing.He shares how PointsBet used strategic partnerships with organizations including Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, Curling Canada, the NHL Players' Association, the NBA, and the NFL to establish credibility in a rapidly evolving market. Scott also explains why being ready on day one, controlling the company's technology, and focusing on in-play betting gave PointsBet a meaningful point of differentiation.But the heart of this conversation is not betting. It is leadership.Whether you are a CEO, entrepreneur, people leader, executive, or emerging leader, this conversation is a powerful reminder that success is not only measured by what you build. It is also measured by how you treat people while building it.You'll hear about:How Scott Vanderwel built PointsBet Canada from the ground up What leaders learn inside a startup that established businesses cannot teach them How strategic partnerships helped an unfamiliar brand earn trust Why choosing what not to pursue is essential to business strategy How PointsBet differentiated itself through proprietary technology Why geographic focus helped the company concentrate its resources Why strategy means little if you cannot move people toward it Why Scott's team believes he should run a CEO school How leaders can inspire people to contribute their “extra 25%” Scott's personal definition of success and stakeholder balance Why you do not have to be ruthless to become successful How to make difficult people decisions while preserving dignity How regulated gaming can create greater consumer protection The example Scott hopes to leave for the next generation of leadersWe talk about:00:00 Al McDonald's Great Cycle Challenge for SickKids 00:56 Meet Scott Vanderwel, CEO of PointsBet Canada 02:23 Building PointsBet Canada before Ontario's market opened 05:02 Creating a market-entry strategy in a brand-new industry 06:08 Earning trust through major Canadian sports partnerships 08:13 The skills Scott carried from Rogers into the CEO role 13:09 Choosing where to compete and where not to play 16:00 How in-play betting became a competitive advantage 18:27 Why starting with Ontario gave PointsBet greater focus 21:08 Why Scott's team says he should run a CEO school 23:24 Creating the conditions for people to do their best work 28:18 Scott's personal definition of success 33:12 The mentors who shaped Scott's leadership 35:13 Why successful leaders do not have to be ruthless 40:56 Making difficult decisions with consistency and humanityConnect with ScottLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottyvanderwel/ Website: https://join.pointsbet.ca/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 302 - The Moneyball Strategy Changing How Companies Hire with Andrew Tai, Co-Founder at Deeply Talented

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2026 38:21


Will AI replace recruiters, or will it make the best recruiters even more valuable?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Andrew Tai, Co-Founder at Deeply Talented and creator of Detra, an AI recruiting teammate helping enterprise recruiting teams work more efficiently without losing the human connection at the heart of hiring.After building, scaling, and exiting his first company, Andrew returned to entrepreneurship with a different perspective. Success, he explains, is rarely an overnight event. It is a collection of hard-earned repetitions, difficult seasons, imperfect decisions, and the willingness to keep moving when the outcome is uncertain.Andrew shares why AI will not replace the judgment, chemistry, trust, and connection required to hire great people. Instead, it can handle the repetitive work recruiters often have too little time to perform properly, from reviewing large volumes of applications to identifying qualified candidates who fall outside a rigid checklist.Whether you are a recruiter, HR leader, entrepreneur, hiring manager, or business leader navigating the future of work, this conversation offers a practical and optimistic perspective on using AI to strengthen human judgment, not replace it.You'll hear about:The leadership lesson Andrew learned after building and exiting his first companyWhy most overnight successes are actually ten-year journeys How to appreciate the good old days while you are still living them Navigating the storms and sunshine of entrepreneurship Why AI will never replace human connection in recruiting The recruiting tasks AI can perform faster and more consistently How overwhelmed recruiters can overlook excellent applicants Why rigid job requirements can eliminate people capable of doing the work How AI can help companies take a Moneyball approach to recruiting The difference between demographic bias and recruiting shorthand How AI can challenge assumptions and expose gaps in hiring criteria Why recruiters remain responsible for judgment and final decisions What Andrew learned from hiring people who did not check every box How to make peace with decisions made using the information available at the time The danger of waiting for perfect conditions before beginningWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to Andrew Tai and the future of AI in recruiting 03:00 Leadership lessons from building and exiting a company 06:23 Why most overnight successes take ten years 08:09 Surviving the storms and sunshine of entrepreneurship 10:02 Will AI replace recruiters? 13:34 Human connection as recruiting's enduring advantage 17:09 The hiring mistakes successful companies continue to make 19:00 How AI rediscovered a rejected candidate who was later hired 21:17 Why the best candidate may not meet every requirement 23:00 The Moneyball approach to finding overlooked talent 27:12 Recruiting bias, merit-based screening, and responsible AI 32:19 How an AI teammate can challenge a recruiter's assumptions 35:21 Taking chances on candidates with potential 39:43 The proverbial trees Andrew is planting through entrepreneurship 42:06 Building a company to model resilience for his daughters 43:13 Why waiting for perfect usually means never beginning 46:12 How to connect with Andrew Tai and Deeply TalentedConnect with AndrewLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahytai/ Website: https://www.deeplytalented.com/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 301 - If Not Now, When? Reinventing Yourself in Midlife with Brenda Benard, COO at Benard + Associates

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2026 34:30


What if the most meaningful chapter of your life hasn't happened yet? In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Brenda Benard, COO at Benard + Associates, to explore midlife reinvention, overcoming self-doubt, and finding the courage to create a life that reflects who you are becoming.Brenda never planned to become a business leader. After turning down an opportunity to study theatre, struggling with low confidence, and believing her happiness would come from other people, she spent years moving through life without a clear sense of what she wanted. But a quiet voice continued reminding her that she was capable of more.Brenda shares why walking into a room filled with CEOs changed how she saw her own value, what her professional-athlete daughter taught her about self-belief, and how perimenopause affected her confidence, identity, and mental health. She also explains why asking “What's the worst that could happen?” can make intimidating decisions feel possible.Robin, Al, and Brenda discuss intentional aging, protecting your health, listening to the whispers that tell you something needs to change, and refusing to postpone meaningful experiences until someday.Whether you're questioning your career, navigating midlife, rebuilding your confidence, or wondering whether it's too late to make a change, this episode is a powerful reminder that today is the youngest you will ever be again.You'll hear about:Why Brenda calls herself the “reluctant COO”How self-doubt shaped Brenda's early life and career decisionsWhy she turned down her dream of studying theatreBecoming a police officer at 33 while raising two young daughtersHow to recognize the quiet signs that you are capable of moreThe question that changed Brenda's outlook on time and opportunityWhy taking responsibility can be more empowering than assigning blameThe moment Brenda realized she deserved to have her success celebratedHow other people may see strengths you cannot yet recognize in yourselfOvercoming feelings of inferiority around senior leaders and executivesWhy even the most accomplished leaders are still figuring things outHow perimenopause can affect confidence, identity, and mental healthWhat Brenda's daughter taught her about making her younger self proudHow evaluating the worst-case scenario can help you move through fearWhy health and longevity have become central to Brenda's next chapterThe power of trading expectation for appreciationWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to Brenda Benard and rethinking success in midlife03:43 Self-doubt, abandoned dreams, and expecting happiness from others05:02 Listening to life's whispers and becoming a police officer at 3308:41 “If not now, then when?” and why someday may never arrive11:31 The moment Brenda decided she deserved to have her success celebrated13:53 How Brenda's employees saw strengths she couldn't recognize in herself21:06 Walking into a room of CEOs and overcoming feelings of inferiority26:00 Perimenopause, self-confidence, and navigating the dark years27:52 What Brenda's daughter taught her about honouring her younger self29:42 Using the worst-case scenario to move through fear31:02 Raising courageous daughters and refusing to waste more time33:10 Intentional aging, protecting your health, and living while you can38:57 Trading expectation for appreciationConnect with BrendaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenda-benard-4a259188Website: www.benardinc.com Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Franchise Freedom
Success Leaves Clues: Here's What I Learned at the National Franchise Conference

Franchise Freedom

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2026 15:48 Transcription Available


Franchise consultant Giuseppe Grammatico just returned from the national franchise conference in West Palm Beach, FL—where 400+ franchise professionals, 130+ franchise brands, funding partners, and over 100 franchise coaches gathered for the industry's biggest semi-annual mastermind.In this full Franchise Industry Insider Report, Giuseppe breaks down everything the industry is talking about and what it means if you're considering franchise ownership.WHO THIS IS FOR: Whether you're a corporate executive exploring executive semi-passive franchise ownership, a military veteran looking for your next mission, or someone simply tired of trading time for money in the corporate world. This episode gives you the insider perspective you need before investing in a franchise.ABOUT YOUR HOST: Giuseppe Grammatico is a franchise business coach, certified franchise consultant, and 20-year franchise veteran who has helped hundreds of families explore franchise ownership. As a franchise business advisor and consultant for franchise business, he prescreens every brand he recommends through direct relationships with franchise founders, CEOs, and development teams; not brochures or websites. He works alongside 100+ fellow franchise consultants to bring candidates the most current, real-world intelligence in the industry.

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: **Ep 300** - Why People Strategy Is a Growth Lever with special guest Joanna Kmiec, CPO at Loopio

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2026 47:27


What if people strategy was treated as a driver of growth rather than an HR cost centre?For the milestone **300th** episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald welcome back Joanna Kmiec, Chief People Officer at Loopio and one of the people who helped shape the direction of the podcast.Joanna challenges the idea that a Chief People Officer's job is simply to keep employees happy. The real mandate is to build an organization that can grow, perform, and endure, without losing the humans inside the org chart. That requires business fluency, empathy, accountability, systems thinking, and the courage to speak up when everyone else in the room agrees.She explains how a strong people strategy reduces organizational drag, improves time to productivity, strengthens manager effectiveness, and allows senior leaders to spend more time building instead of repairing. Joanna also shares which workforce metrics matter, how people leaders can connect their work to business performance, and why the story behind the data is often more valuable than the number itself.Whether you are a CEO, founder, people leader, HR professional, or executive scaling a growing company, this episode offers a candid look at what strategic people leadership requires and how it can become a genuine lever for organizational growth.You'll hear about:What a Chief People Officer is actually responsible for Why people strategy should be treated as a growth lever How culture can accelerate or obstruct business strategy Why people outcomes belong to managers, not only HR How to be bold without sacrificing kindness Measuring time to productivity and manager effectiveness Identifying and reducing organizational drag Why responsibility without authority causes leadership burnout How HR leaders can protect themselves during periods of chaos The quieter strengths that define exceptional leadership Why great employees sometimes leave great companies How former employees can become lifelong brand ambassadors Why creating other leaders is one of leadership's greatest successes Using persistence and setbacks to move closer to a breakthroughWe talk about:00:00 Celebrating 300 episodes of Success Leaves Clues 03:02 The real role of a Chief People Officer 06:16 How strategic HR leadership has evolved 09:47 Becoming comfortable with tension as a leader 14:33 Why people strategy is a growth lever 18:14 Measuring the impact of people initiatives 22:23 What causes burnout among HR leaders 28:00 Staying calm and healthy during organizational chaos 34:38 The quieter qualities of exceptional leaders 38:00 Why great employees leave great companies 42:02 Why real leaders create other leaders 44:33 The advice that shaped Joanna's leadershipConnect with JoannaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-kmiec-chrl/ Website: https://loopio.com/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Eric Ragundu

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2026 28:46


In this episode, Sarah speaks with Eric Ragundu, a legal sector professional and Animas-trained coach who experienced an unexpected transformation through building his marketing strategy. Eric shares how stepping out of his comfort zone on social media completely reshaped his career trajectory.About the Guest: Eric RagunduEric spent nearly a decade working in the legal sector before embarking on his coaching journey to find greater fulfilment. After completing his training with Animas and achieving his ICF ACC credential, he sought to build a sustainable practice to avoid becoming another startup statistic. His marketing efforts around legal sector mental health eventually led to his appointment as a trustee on the board of Law Care, the leading mental health charity for the legal profession.About the Episode:Sarah and Eric explore how learning the skill of client acquisition can create unexpected visibility and career opportunities.Key highlights include:Overcoming Marketing Hesitation: How a self-proclaimed "non-creative" who rarely posted on social media learned to embrace video content and consistent posting on LinkedIn. The "Seven Out of Ten" Rule: Moving past perfectionism in marketing and recognising that imperfect action is always better than perfect inaction. Curated Authenticity: Speaking directly to the unspoken struggles of legal professionals—such as overwhelm and imposter syndrome—without making oneself unnecessarily vulnerable. The Downstream Impact of Visibility: How Eric's authentic marketing caught the attention of global law firm partners, opened doors with Law Care, and elevated his profile within his own organisation. An Unexpected Pivot: Why Eric ultimately decided to step back from coaching to embrace exciting new project opportunities and heightened fulfilment in his day job, all brought about by his new visibility. Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠⁠⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 299 What Gets Recognized Gets Repeated | Kristian Gaetano, COO at Achievers

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2026 37:06


What if one of the most effective ways to improve employee engagement, workplace culture, and business performance costs nothing more than a thoughtful thank you?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Kristian Gaetano, Chief Operating Officer at Achievers, to explore why employee recognition is far more powerful than an annual award or expensive incentive.Since joining Achievers nearly 15 years ago, Kristian has progressed from customer success into the C-suite by volunteering to solve the complex problems others avoided. He shares how leaning into his strengths, embracing challenges before he felt fully qualified, and becoming known as a dependable problem-solver shaped his leadership journey.The conversation also explores how leaders can balance data with instinct, why information requires human context, and how Kristian uses a “worry list” and trusted truth tellers to manage high-stakes decisions. As AI reshapes the workplace, he offers an important reminder that technology remains a tool. Critical thinking, community, empathy, and human connection are still what move organizations forward.Whether you are a CEO, founder, people leader, customer success professional, or executive navigating the future of work, this episode offers a human-centred approach to building stronger teams, customer relationships, and organizations.You'll hear about:How Kristian grew from customer success into the COO role Why tackling difficult problems can accelerate leadership growth How customer success has become a strategic partnership Balancing data, instinct, empathy, and human context Why senior leaders need trusted truth tellers How to stop late-night worries from controlling your thinking The biggest misconception about employee recognition Why everyday recognition can influence workplace behaviour The connection between employee engagement and customer experience Why AI must support people, not replace critical thinking How organizations can remain human during workplace transformation Helping other people recognize and reach their potentialWe talk about:00:00 Welcome and introduction to Kristian Gaetano 03:02 Growing from customer success into the COO role 04:00 Solving the problems nobody else wants 06:13 Leaning into your strengths as a leader 12:00 Why the customer is not always right, but is never wrong 13:19 Using empathy and constructive tension with customers 15:17 Balancing data with instinct and experience 18:09 The weight of making high-stakes leadership decisions 19:19 Kristian's late-night “worry list” strategy 20:14 Why leaders need trusted truth tellers 22:15 Adding human context to data and AI 25:53 The biggest misconceptions about employee recognition 27:20 Recognizing everyday behaviours, not only major achievements 29:00 How employee engagement affects business performance 30:53 When AI transformation makes employees feel disposable 32:52 Attracting, engaging, and retaining talent in the future 34:20 Why the future of work requires community and humanity 36:24 Planting trees by helping people reach their potentialConnect with KristianLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiangaetano/ Website: https://www.achievers.com/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 298 - How Great Leaders Build Workplace Belonging in Remote Teams with Stephanie Crombie, Employee Experience Manager at HeyOrca

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2026 32:39


What makes people genuinely love where they work?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey is joined by special guest co-host Ashlea DesRoches for an inspiring conversation with Stephanie Crombie, Employee Experience Manager at HeyOrca, about the power of creating workplaces where people truly feel they belong.Drawing from a career that began in hospitality and took her around the world aboard cruise ships, Stephanie shares how memorable experiences, intentional leadership, and personalized employee journeys can transform workplace culture, especially in fully remote organizations.Rather than relying on generic perks or one-size-fits-all programs, Stephanie explains why today's most successful organizations create meaningful moments that help employees feel seen, valued, and connected from their very first day. From onboarding new hires to recognizing everyday contributions, she reveals practical strategies leaders can implement to improve engagement, retention, and long-term business success.Robin, Ashlea, and Stephanie also discuss remote culture, personalization, employee recognition, onboarding, belonging, leadership, workplace happiness, and why the way leaders make people feel will always matter more than any KPI.Whether you're a CEO, founder, HR leader, people manager, or someone passionate about building stronger workplace cultures, this episode offers actionable ideas for creating organizations where people thrive.You'll hear about:Why employee experience extends far beyond perks and benefits Creating meaningful workplace moments that employees remember Building a culture of belonging in fully remote teams The connection between employee happiness and business success Why personalized recognition outperforms generic rewards How intentional onboarding increases engagement and retention Practical ways leaders can make employees feel seen and valued Recognizing effort throughout the journey, not just outcomes Voice and choice as the foundation of great employee experiences How small moments create lasting workplace cultures Why human connection remains leadership's greatest advantageWe talk about:00:00 Welcome and introduction to Stephanie Crombie02:00 From hospitality to employee experience leadership05:45 Why people remember how work made them feel10:20 Building belonging in fully remote organizations15:30 Spotting culture shifts before they become problems17:30 Creating unforgettable onboarding experiences22:20 Personalization versus automation in employee experience27:00 Why generic perks no longer create engagement28:15 The power of "Voice and Choice"30:00 Happiness, belonging, and leadership culture32:00 Planting trees for future employees35:00 Final leadership lessons and closing thoughtsConnect with StephanieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-crombie14/ Website: https://www.heyorca.com/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Coach John Daly - Coach to Expect Success - Podcasts
Clues For All of Us - Daily Thought With Coach Daly - Wed. 7-15-26 - #1930

Coach John Daly - Coach to Expect Success - Podcasts

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2026 6:16


“Send Coach John a message”Another legend comes to the front of the class to share some invaluable lessons about life. You know what?? These are simple lessons too, but I'm just talking about me here - they are not easy to keep remembering.  I've always had trouble paying attention. It's one of many things that Jim Rohn helps me and all of us remember to work through.  The clip comes from Jim Rohn Official (@OfficialJimRohn) - “Growth isn't always about grinding harder. Sometimes, it's just about watching more closely. Jim Rohn believed that success leaves clues, and the people who progress fastest are the ones learning from the wins of others. Look at what's working around you. Ask questions. Study outcomes. The better you observe, the more you learn what to repeat and what to release.”  He's one that helps leave clues for all of us as we all navigate this journey of life.  Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.  ** I would appreciate anyone to try clicking on the top of the show notes where it says "Send us a text" to leave a few thoughts / comments / questions.  It's a new feature that I'd like to see how it works. ** 

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 297 - Why Talent Strategy Is Your Biggest Competitive Advantage with Kristin Condon, Chief Talent Officer at Sales Talent Agency

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2026 33:59


Has AI made hiring easier, or has it simply made recruiting more complicated?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Kristin Condon, Chief Talent Officer at Sales Talent Agency, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping recruitment, leadership, and the future of work.With more than 25 years of experience advising founders, CEOs, CHROs, and executive teams across North America and the UK, Kristin has helped organizations make more than 4,000 successful hires. She explains why the companies winning today's talent market aren't relying on AI alone. They're building authentic leadership, investing in employer branding, and creating cultures where people want to stay.The conversation dives into the growing disconnect between AI-generated applications and the highly sought-after passive candidates companies actually want to hire. Kristin shares why attracting top performers now requires stronger leadership, greater transparency, and a talent strategy that's every bit as intentional as a company's revenue strategy.Robin, Al, and Kristin also discuss employer branding, succession planning, leadership development, candidate experience, and why curiosity, adaptability, and human connection are becoming even more valuable in an AI-driven world.Whether you're a CEO, founder, HR leader, hiring manager, or professional navigating today's evolving workplace, this episode offers practical insights into building organizations where both businesses and people thrive.You'll hear about:How AI is transforming recruitment and hiring Why more applications don't necessarily mean better candidates The growing importance of employer branding Why passive candidates are today's most competitive talent How leaders can retain high performers in an evolving workplace The leadership qualities employees are looking for today Why authenticity and transparency build stronger teams Helping junior talent succeed in an AI-driven economy Why curiosity and adaptability matter more than ever Building succession plans for long-term business success The connection between talent strategy and business growth Why CEOs should treat talent strategy like revenue strategy Creating candidate experiences that attract top performers How human connection remains a competitive advantageWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to Kristin Condon and Sales Talent Agency02:00 How AI is changing recruitment and talent acquisition06:00 Why hiring has become more competitive, not easier09:15 What employers should look for in future talent13:45 Why employer branding matters more than ever17:30 The founder's role in attracting top candidates20:00 Leadership qualities that retain exceptional people23:40 Why employees quietly disengage and leave27:00 The power of vulnerability and transparency in leadership31:00 Why talent strategy deserves the same focus as revenue strategy33:00 Building a legacy through connection, contribution, and communityConnect with KristinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristincondon00/ Website: https://www.salestalentagency.com/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 296 How Healthcare Innovation Improves Patient Access with John Leombruno, CEO at OkRx

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2026 21:39


What happens when life-saving medications exist, but patients still can't access them?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with John Leombruno, CEO of OkRx, healthcare entrepreneur, pharmacist, and former founder of Patient Direct Pharmacy and GMD Distribution, to explore one of healthcare's biggest hidden challenges: helping patients get the medications they need without being buried in paperwork, outdated systems, and administrative delays.John shares how witnessing breakthrough treatments transform children's lives at SickKids Hospital shaped his career and inspired him to focus on improving patient access rather than simply developing new therapies. That experience became the foundation for building businesses that simplify specialty medication access for patients, physicians, insurers, and pharmaceutical companies.The conversation explores why healthcare still relies heavily on manual processes, how digitizing prior authorization can dramatically reduce administrative burden, and why trust, relationships, and patient-first thinking remain essential when introducing innovation into one of the world's most complex industries.John also discusses entrepreneurship in healthcare, balancing innovation with patient safety, the realities of building trust across healthcare systems, and why lasting business success begins with solving meaningful problems.You'll hear about:How a life-changing experience at SickKids Hospital shaped John's entrepreneurial journey Why patient access remains one of healthcare's biggest challenges The hidden barriers preventing patients from receiving specialty medications Why healthcare still relies on outdated administrative systems How digital prior authorization can transform patient care The importance of building trust before driving innovation Why patient-first thinking leads to better business decisions Balancing innovation with patient safety The role technology plays in reducing healthcare administration Building successful healthcare companies by solving real problems Lessons from multiple healthcare exits and entrepreneurial ventures Why relationships matter more than speed in healthcare innovation How healthcare technology can improve outcomes for patients and providers Creating meaningful impact through purpose-driven entrepreneurshipWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to John Leombruno and OkRx02:10 The experience at SickKids that changed John's career forever05:15 Why breakthrough medications still don't guarantee patient access07:00 What a truly patient-centered healthcare system should look like10:20 Why specialty medications are becoming mainstream healthcare11:00 Building OkRx to simplify specialty medication access14:20 Balancing scientific thinking with entrepreneurial leadership16:10 Why trust is healthcare's most valuable currency18:00 How innovation succeeds one relationship at a time21:00 Planting seeds that improve healthcare for future generationsConnect with John:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-leombruno-4bb1777/ Website: https://www.okrx.ca/ Connect with Us:LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Dr. Wendy Nicholls

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2026 31:57


In this episode of The Business of Coaching, Sarah sits down with the inspiring Dr Wendy Nicholls. Wendy pulls back the curtain on her 20-year career as an academic psychologist, details a massive market pivot she had to make, and shares how she built a highly successful, multi-stream coaching business.About the Guest: Dr Wendy NichollsDr Wendy Nicholls is a Chartered Coaching Psychologist and an EMCC-accredited coach who spent over two decades in academia. While designing health behaviour interventions at her university, she realised she wanted to be in the room doing the transformational work directly with individuals. This led her to establish an incredibly popular internal coaching program for faculty navigating major life events like parental and maternity leave. Today, she operates an independent, thriving coaching practice tailored specifically to academics.Sarah and Wendy discuss what it actually takes to build a sustainable coaching business, how to deal with unexpected market disruptions, and why relying on the word "coaching" is a losing strategy. Key highlights include:The 70-Hour Week Reality: Before joining The Coaching Revolution (TCR) in July 2024, Wendy was exhausted, working over 70 hours a week across five different universities using casual contracts to "keep the lights on" after taking voluntary redundancy. The Unexpected Market Nose-Dive: Wendy candidly shares how her original dream business—using psychology for weight management coaching—was completely disrupted when weight-loss medications like Mounjaro hit the mainstream. The Strategic Pivot: How she let go of what wasn't commercially viable and aligned her focus with her true lived experience: supporting stuck academics standing at career crossroads in a higher education sector facing crisis. Why Academics Don't Buy "Coaching": Wendy explains that scientists, engineers, and practitioners look for evidence and often view the word coaching as remedial or "happy-clappy". Instead, they buy outcomes—like getting paperwork off their desk, overcoming writer's block, or reclaiming their core purpose from bureaucratic overload. Systematising the Income Streams: How Wendy moved from offering free LinkedIn workshops to building a secure, highly profitable business consisting of 21 one-to-one client packages, corporate group coaching commissions, and paid speaking gigs. "Talking about the outcome is what matters. People buy outcomes; they don't buy coaching."Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠⁠⁠

The Aligned Mama
The Money Door : How One Decision Changes Everything

The Aligned Mama

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2026 18:46


What if the "big decision" you're losing sleep over isn't actually the one that changes your life? Sometimes it feels like every choice is a "forever" decision... a high stakes game of choosing what's behind Door #1 or Door #2. But instead of stressing, overanalyzing, and freezing... what if we could tether ourselves to the reality that life isn't built on the "big choices." It's the daily micro-decisions that run the show.  I'm pulling back the curtain on the move that changed everything for me... from a scary "burning it all down" moment to getting a corporate-funded relocation that was more than I even dared to ask for. Let go of the pressure to be perfect and see how sometimes taking one step forward is the ultimate answer.  Push play to start trusting your alignment and become the kind of Money Making Mom who makes daily decisions that move the needle.   PS. You are the creator of your life... start calling in the exact things you desire

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep295 - Building a Legacy Beyond the Exit with Nicholas Reichenbach, founder of Flow Water

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 41:59


What separates entrepreneurs who build companies from those who build legacies?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Nicholas Reichenbach, serial entrepreneur, private equity investor, conscious capitalist, and founder of Flow Water.Nicholas shares lessons from more than three decades of building and scaling businesses across technology, gaming, wellness, consumer products, and private equity. From creating Flow Water to launching Formosa Springs, a 155-year-old Canadian mineral water brand rooted in his family history, Nicholas explores what it means to build with purpose, patience, and long-term impact.Nicholas also challenges the traditional startup mindset, encouraging entrepreneurs to think beyond fast exits and focus instead on creating lasting prosperity for employees, communities, shareholders, and future generations.If you're interested in entrepreneurship, conscious capitalism, sustainability, and building a lasting legacy, this episode offers powerful lessons from a founder who has spent decades turning vision into reality.You'll hear about: The entrepreneurial formula Nicholas uses to identify winning opportunities Why conscious capitalism is becoming the future of business How consumer behavior reveals untapped market opportunities The environmental moment that inspired the creation of Flow Water Building one of North America's most sustainable beverage brands Why timing matters in entrepreneurship and innovation How ESG principles can drive both impact and profitability The importance of product obsession and consumer insight Why legacy matters more than exits The story behind Formosa Springs and its 155-year history How family values influence long-term business decisions Building brands designed to last for generations The shift from hustle culture to sustainable leadership Why purpose-driven companies outperform transactional businesses Creating prosperity for employees, communities, and future generations We talk about: 00:00 Introduction to Nicholas Reichenbach and his entrepreneurial journey 03:30 Building businesses across entertainment, technology, wellness, and consumer products 06:00 Why brand building is the common thread across every venture 07:30 The family history behind Formosa Springs and a lifelong connection to water 12:00 Growing up around one of Canada's historic mineral water sources 16:00 The first attempts to commercialize the family spring 18:00 Building technology companies and finding success in mobile entertainment 19:30 The Burning Man experience that inspired Flow Water 22:00 Creating a sustainable alternative to plastic bottled water 24:00 Acquiring and relaunching Formosa Springs 27:00 Understanding consumer intent and identifying market white space 30:00 The innovation behind Flow Water's packaging and product strategy 33:00 Why timing is critical for entrepreneurial success 35:00 Sustainability, ESG leadership, and conscious capitalism 39:00 Building businesses that create long-term positive impact 41:00 Legacy, leadership, and the future of entrepreneurship 44:00 Why founders should focus less on exits and more on longevity 46:00 Creating generational prosperity through purpose-driven business Connect with Nicholas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasreichenbach/ Website: https://formosasprings.com/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Business Coaching with Join Up Dots
Mini Series - Dot Two Success Leaves Clues

Business Coaching with Join Up Dots

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 12:18


Mini Series - Dot Two Success Leaves Clues In this episode of Join Up Dots, we explore how to strengthen your first messy "dot" by studying what's already working in the world around you. Instead of guessing or trying to reinvent the wheel, success comes from observing others, spotting patterns, and learning the simple clues that already exist. When you stop trying to figure it all out alone and start researching real examples, clarity replaces confusion and your actions become more effective and focused. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more people and continue bringing you valuable content. See you in the next episode! #JoinUpDots #SuccessClues #StartNow #EntrepreneurMindset #TakeAction

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 294 - The Mindset Behind Breakthrough Leadership with guest Hugh Chow, CEO at ventureLAB

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2026 37:48


What actually creates innovation? Is it technology, intelligence, funding… or something much deeper? In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Hugh Chow, CEO at ventureLAB, inventor, entrepreneur, investor, and global innovation leader, to explore the mindset behind breakthrough leadership, meaningful innovation, and building companies that create lasting impact.With more than 30 years of experience across semiconductors, startups, venture capital, sustainability, and global technology, Hugh shares the deeply personal journey that shaped his perspective on leadership, opportunity, and resilience. From immigrating to North America to helping scale technology companies with hundreds of patents and hundreds of millions in revenue, Hugh unpacks what it really takes to build something meaningful in a rapidly changing world.This conversation explores the future of Canadian innovation, why founders need to think globally from day one, and how true innovation comes from challenging the status quo rather than accepting it. Hugh also shares why he believes leadership is about creating opportunities for others, lifting people up, and planting seeds for future generations to grow.Throughout the episode, Hugh offers powerful insights on entrepreneurship, commercialization, AI, hardtech, startup ecosystems, mentorship, and the lessons he learned from his parents that continue to guide his leadership today.If you've ever wondered what separates visionary leaders from everyone else, or how innovation can become a force for long-term impact, this episode delivers a masterclass in leadership, humility, and purpose-driven growth.You'll hear about:Why innovation starts with challenging the status quo The leadership philosophy behind building win-win relationships How one phone call changed the trajectory of Hugh's career Why great leaders recognize talent before people see it in themselves The difference between taking risks and creating opportunity Why Canadian founders need to think globally from the beginning The commercialization gap holding Canadian innovation back What makes Canada one of the strongest innovation ecosystems in the world The future of AI, hardtech, and medical technology startups Why learning matters more than avoiding failure The importance of sustainability and lifting others up How Hugh's parents shaped his approach to leadership and resilienceWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to Hugh Chow and ventureLAB02:00 Seeing potential in people before they see it themselves05:00 Why leadership is about creating win-win opportunities08:30 The career moments that shaped Hugh's innovation mindset10:00 Moving to North America and starting in semiconductors13:00 Building a global technology company from Canada15:00 What innovation actually means in today's world17:00 Why innovation requires challenging the status quo19:00 Leadership, sustainability, and creating long-term impact21:00 Canada's strengths in innovation and AI23:00 Why Canadian companies must think globally25:00 Commercialization challenges in Canada28:00 The future of hardtech, AI, and medical technology31:00 What founders often misunderstand about success34:00 Supporting startups through uncertainty and change36:00 The question every leader should ask themselves38:00 Hugh's parents, resilience, and the lessons that shaped his life42:00 Why opportunity should be passed on to future generationsConnect with HughLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-chow-445b332/ Website: https://www.venturelab.ca/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 293 - The Leadership Behaviours that Shape Culture with Jessica Lewis of PointsBet

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2026 27:54


What actually creates a great company culture?Is it the values written on the wall… or the behaviors happening behind closed doors?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Jessica Lewis from PointsBet to explore what it really takes to build high-performing teams, strong workplace cultures, and leadership environments where people genuinely thrive.Jessica shares her journey from executive assistant to senior people leader, unpacking the lessons she's learned while scaling teams in fast-paced, high-growth organizations. From mentorship and strategic hiring to difficult feedback conversations and leadership accountability, this conversation reveals why culture is never owned by one person. It's built collectively, reinforced daily, and tested most during difficult moments.This episode dives into the realities of modern leadership, including the growing role of AI in HR, the importance of trust and transparency, and why the best leaders understand that people strategy is business strategy. Jessica also shares her passion for creating more opportunities for women in leadership and building workplaces where more voices are welcomed to the table.If you've ever wondered why some organizations create loyalty, growth, and energy while others quietly lose their best people, this conversation offers a powerful look at what separates healthy cultures from performative ones.You'll hear about:Why company culture is built through everyday behavior, not mission statementsWhat leaders reveal about culture behind closed doorsThe hiring mistake that quietly damages organizations over timeWhy technical skill alone is never enough for leadership successHow mentorship changes careers and builds long-term confidenceThe importance of giving feedback early and with kindnessWhy trust and transparency are critical for strong workplace culturesHow AI is reshaping HR and the employee experienceThe role frontline managers play in reinforcing company valuesWhy creating more women leaders matters for the future of businessWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to Jessica Lewis and PointsBet02:00 From executive assistant to people leadership04:30 Why HR became Jessica's purpose and passion06:30 Staying ahead in leadership through mentorship and community08:30 The connection between leadership and company culture10:00 What actually causes workplace culture to break down11:30 Why culture is revealed behind closed doors13:00 Hiring for values, not just technical competence15:30 How fast-growing companies redefine leadership needs17:00 Giving feedback early and building accountability19:00 Technical skill vs cultural alignment, which matters more?21:30 The leadership lessons mentorship creates23:30 Building confidence as a woman in leadership25:00 Why representation and equity in leadership matter26:30 The future of workplace culture and leadershipConnect with JessicaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-lewis-86744352/ Website: https://on.pointsbet.ca/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 292 - The Power of Bold Decisions and Relentless Persistence with Dan Turner, CEO at Xperigo

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 37:59


What if the only thing standing between where you are… and where you want to be… is one bold decision you haven't made yet?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Dan Turner, CEO at Xperigo, to unpack a career built not on perfect timing or traditional paths, but on courage, persistence, and the willingness to step through doors before they fully open.Dan's journey starts far from the boardroom, as an 18-year-old tow truck driver with no clear direction. But one moment, one story, one decision to believe something bigger was possible, set him on a path that would eventually lead him to the CEO seat.This conversation dives deep into what it really takes to grow into leadership, how calculated risks can redefine your career, and why the leaders who win today are the ones who lead with trust, vulnerability, and genuine care.From spotting opportunity before it's obvious, to building a culture that fuels performance, to redefining what great leadership actually looks like, this episode is a powerful reminder that success is not a straight line, it's a series of brave choices made consistently over time.If you've ever questioned whether you're capable of more, or felt the pull toward something bigger but hesitated to act, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what's possible.You'll hear about:Why one moment of belief can completely change the trajectory of your lifeHow Dan Turner turned a bold hunch into a multi-million dollar opportunityThe real reason most people stay stuck in their comfort zoneWhy risk is required if you want to reach your full potentialHow confidence is built through action, not certaintyThe mindset shift that turns “failure” into growthWhy opportunity rarely announces itself, and how to spot it earlyHow proactive thinking separates top performers from everyone elseThe role persistence plays in long-term successWhy stepping outside your comfort zone is non-negotiable for growthWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to Dan Turner and Xperigo02:30 From tow truck driver to CEO, the origin story05:00 The moment that sparked a bold, long-term vision08:00 Why big goals feel overwhelming, and how to start anyway11:00 Comfort zones vs. growth, why staying safe keeps you stuck14:00 The Apple iPhone story, spotting opportunity before the world sees it17:30 Turning a bold idea into a multi-million dollar deal20:00 Risk, doubt, and why the upside is always worth it23:00 The mindset that separates leaders from followers25:30 Culture vs performance, why they fuel each other28:00 Building trust, transparency, and high-performing teams31:00 Leadership today, why vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness34:00 The future of leadership and building a legacy that lastsConnect with DanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnerdan/ Website: https://www.xperigo.com/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Make Your Big Impact
Success Leaves Clues | Gloria "Grace" Rand, Anthony Dahla, Nancy Harrington & Amy Harrington

Make Your Big Impact

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 21:40


This episode explores how success is rarely accidental. It's often modeled, observed, and intentionally repeated. Success leaves clues… and today's guests tapped into their experiences to create an extraordinary journey. Our GuestsGloria “Grace” Rand, the founder of Radiant On Purpose, guides mission-driven women over 50 to live life on their terms. A bestselling author, certified high-performance speaker, and podcaster, she combines her signature L.O.V.E. Method with energy healing and intuitive coaching to rebuild confidence and reignite purpose from within. www.GloriaRand.comAnthony Dahya is the founder of The Champion Mindset Collective and AI Workflows Agency. He is a passionate advocate for personal growth, resilience, and helping people unlock their inner champion. www.ChampionMindsetCollective.comAmy Harrington and Nancy Harrington, Sisters and Co-Founders of The Passionistas Project. www.ThePassionistasProject.comYour Host Angel Tuccy, We are building the leading visibility ecosystem that transforms experts into recognized authorities—through podcasting, publishing, and speaking. Visibility Blueprint at www.VisibilityBeforeBreakfast.com

Modern Soccer Coach Podcast
Aaron Danks - From FA to Bayern Munich: Success Leaves Clues

Modern Soccer Coach Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 40:09


This week on the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, we revisit a 2019 conversation with Aaron Danks — now an assistant coach at Bayern Munich. This episode was recorded years ago, but when you listen back, what stands out is how early these ideas were being discussed. We get into specialist coaching, collaboration across staff, and how top environments are designed to develop players — not just run sessions. Aaron also breaks down his thinking around clarity vs chaos in training, and why the best players thrive when they're given both structure and freedom. There's also a strong focus on coach development — challenging norms, thinking differently, and being willing to step outside traditional methods to move forward in the game. This isn't just about tactics. It's about how elite coaches think. Inside the episode: – The rise of specialist coaching and why roles matter – How top environments break down silos between staff – Clarity vs chaos: finding the right balance in training – Why enjoyment and environment still drive elite performance – Talent needs perspective: managing modern players – Using analysis and data to challenge coaching ideas If you're serious about developing as a coach, this is a conversation that will make you think. Make sure to subscribe for more weekly coaching content from Modern Soccer Coach.

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 291 - Stop Hiring for Resume. Start Hiring for Impact with Alison Kaizer, Partner at Golden Ventures

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 32:12


What if the reason your company isn't scaling… has nothing to do with your product, and everything to do with who you hire?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Alison Kaizer, Partner of Talent at Golden Ventures, to break down the real mechanics behind building high-performing teams inside early-stage startups.Alison has helped scale companies from dozens to hundreds of employees, and now supports founders across an entire portfolio, shaping the people decisions that determine whether a company grows or stalls.This conversation pulls back the curtain on what actually makes a great hire, why most founders get it wrong, and how to build a hiring system that works before your company even knows what it needs.From ditching resume bias to hiring for aptitude, from building structured interview systems to creating transparency in compensation, this episode is a masterclass in hiring as a strategic advantage.If you're building a team, scaling a company, or making critical early hires, this episode will completely shift how you think about talent.You'll hear about:Why resume-driven hiring is one of the biggest mistakes founders make The difference between hiring for experience vs. hiring for aptitude How to identify high-impact talent before it's obvious on paper Why past success doesn't guarantee future performance The role of structured interviews in eliminating hiring bias How to build a repeatable hiring system that scales with your company The hidden cost of hiring “safe” candidates instead of adaptable ones Why early-stage companies should prioritize learning ability over playbooks How transparency in compensation builds trust and closes top candidates The real reason culture fit is often misunderstood and misused How to assess values in a short interview process without guesswork What founders need to understand about motivation, ambition, and timingWe talk about:00:00 Introduction to Alison Kaizer and Golden Ventures02:00 From consulting to recruiting, the unexpected career path05:30 Scaling talent functions inside high-growth startups08:30 The moment pattern recognition becomes a superpower11:00 The biggest hiring mistake founders make (resume bias)14:00 Why aptitude beats experience in early-stage companies17:30 How to build structured interviews that actually predict success20:30 The truth about “culture fit” and how to assess values properly23:30 Scaling hiring without lowering the bar26:00 Compensation transparency and building trust with candidates29:00 Hiring in startups vs. enterprise environments31:30 How AI is reshaping hiring and talent evaluation33:30 The future of work and why adaptability winsConnect with AlisonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonkaizer/ Website: https://www.golden.ventures/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Fran Sweeney

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 19:02


In this inspiring episode, Sarah Short sits down with Fran McSweeney, a veteran of the UK charity sector who transformed her career at age 60. Fran shares her unique journey of navigating leadership with hidden disabilities and her passionate mission to bring the next generation of disabled leaders into senior rolesAbout the Guest: Fran McSweeneyFran has dedicated over 30 years to major UK charities, including Citizens Advice, Shelter, and the RNIB, specialising in service delivery and management. Despite being born with visual impairments and later discovering a benign brain tumour that affected her vocal cords, Fran successfully navigated a high-level career in leadership, often without even realising she was officially "disabled" until her mid-30s. Today, she combines her Master's degree in Coaching and Mentoring from Oxford Brookes University with her lived experience to coach emerging leaders with disabilities.About the EpisodeSarah and Fran discuss the intersection of professional coaching, personal identity, and the commercial realities of building a business. Key highlights include:The "Hidden" Disability: Fran shares the astonishing story of how she "winged it" through school and the first decade of her career as a legally blind person without a formal diagnosis until age 36. Breaking the Leadership Glass Ceiling: Why there is a lack of representation for disabled people in senior leadership and how Fran is working to change the internal narrative that keeps talented individuals from stepping up. The "Nail Your Niche" Game Changer: How a five-day challenge helped Fran realise that coaching expertise and marketing expertise are two entirely different scales—and why clarity is the ultimate confidence booster. The Pro Bono Trap: A candid discussion on the value of professional coaching and why "getting over ourselves" regarding money is essential to building a sustainable business. Communicating Value: Why most coaches struggle to articulate what they do in a way that non-coaches can understand, and how Fran finally "found her voice" to explain her worth. Ready to find your own focus?Join our next free Nail Your Niche challenge. You can register at ⁠thecoachingrevolution.com/nailyourniche⁠Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues Ep. 290 - The Leadership Shift That Builds Companies That Last with Sarah O'Brien, Chief Operating Officer at SMS Security

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 28:54


What happens when you inherit a legacy… but need to evolve it to survive?In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Sarah O'Brien, Chief Operating Officer at SMS Security, to explore the real leadership transformation required to grow a family business into a scalable, modern organization.Sarah shares what it actually feels like stepping into a second-generation leadership role, navigating expectations, earning trust, and redefining what leadership looks like in a company built on legacy relationships.From letting go of being the problem-solver, to building systems that don't rely on one person, to leading in a 24/7 high-stakes industry, this conversation unpacks the mindset and operational shifts required to build a company that lasts.If you're leading a team, scaling a business, or transitioning leadership in any capacity, this episode will challenge how you think about control, trust, and long-term success.You'll hear about:What it really means to step into leadership in a family business Why second-generation leaders are natural disruptors The hidden challenge of earning trust inside your own company How to shift from reactive problem-solving to scalable systems Why leadership can feel lonely and how to build external support The difference between technical competence and true trust-building How listening, not solving, creates stronger teams and clients Why consistency and communication define leadership credibility How to lead in a 24/7, high-pressure industry without burning out your team The mindset shift from being needed… to building something that doesn't need youWe talk about: 00:00 Introduction to Sarah O'Brien and SMS Security02:00 Transitioning from corporate to a family business04:30 The reality of stepping into leadership and earning trust07:00 Navigating legacy, expectations, and comparison to previous leadership10:00 Resistance, accountability, and evolving company culture13:00 Building support systems as a leader and overcoming isolation16:00 Leading in a high-stakes, reactive industry19:00 Customer trust, vulnerability, and service under pressure22:00 The power of listening and creating space in leadership25:00 Developing people and leading in a 24/7 environment28:00 Preventing burnout while maintaining high performance30:00 The shift from problem-solver to system builder33:00 Building a company that scales beyond any one personConnect with SarahLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-o-brien/ Website: https://www.smssecurity.ca/ Connect with UsLinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Susanne Muller-Hubsh

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 23:36


In this eye-opening episode of The Business of Coaching, Sarah speaks with Susanne Muller-Hubsh, a former mayor in Brussels whose journey into coaching began under the most extreme of circumstances. Susanne shares her transition from the high-stakes, often dangerous world of politics to becoming a specialist coach for leaders navigating intense public pressure.About the Guest:Susanne is a German-born lawyer and former politician who has lived in Brussels for nearly 20 years. After years serving as a political advisor, she was elected as a local councillor and eventually served six years as a Mayor, managing major urban development and public space projects. Seeking to balance the negativity of political life, she pursued a Master's in Positive Psychology and Coaching at the University of East London, which ultimately provided her with a new career path.About the Episode:Sarah and Susanne discuss the unique challenges of coaching individuals in roles where personal safety and public reputation are constantly at risk.Key highlights include:Life Under Protection: Susanne recounts the harrowing period when she was under police protection and had to move her family due to death threats and harassment sparked by her political work.The Gap in Support: Why standard coaching or therapy often falls short for politicians, who need someone who understands the "normal" (yet shocking) realities of political life without being overwhelmed by them.Transitioning the Message: How Susanne navigated the difficulty of returning to social media after experiencing intense online hate, and how she cleaned her digital presence to build a new, supportive platform.The "Men in Politics" Surprise: Susanne discusses why her coaching practice, initially intended for women, has seen a rapid uptake from male politicians who recognise their needs in her specific marketing message.Language is No Barrier: Working across French, Dutch, English, and German, Susanne shares how the fundamental pressures of political life are universal across Europe.Ready to find your own focus?Join our next free Nail Your Niche challenge. You can register at thecoachingrevolution.com/nailyournicheHave you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠⁠⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues Ep. 289 - The Employee Experience Strategy with Alisha Patel, VP People & Culture at CanadaHelps

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 28:13


What if your employee experience strategy is the reason your business is either scaling… or stalling? In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Alisha Patel, VP People & Culture at CanadaHelps, to unpack what it really means to design a workplace where people, performance, and business outcomes actually align. Alisha brings a rare combination of people leadership and financial expertise, offering a perspective most organizations are missing. She breaks down why employee experience is not an HR function, but a business strategy, and how leaders can finally connect culture, retention, and performance in a way that drives real results. From listening tours and multi-generational workforce design to global cultural nuance and flexible benefits, this conversation challenges the “one-size-fits-all” approach most companies are still relying on. If you're leading a team, building culture, or trying to retain great people in a rapidly changing workforce, this episode will shift how you think about leadership, investment, and what actually creates sustainable growth. You'll hear about: Why employee experience strategy is a business function, not an HR initiative How combining finance and people strategy changes leadership decisions The real reason “people are our greatest asset” often falls flat What listening tours are and how they shape high-impact people programs Why one-size-fits-all benefits and policies are failing modern teams How to design for five generations in today's workforce The connection between flexibility, retention, and productivity Why culture must evolve across global teams and local contexts How to build trust through clarity, not just perks or programs The leadership shift from process-driven HR to experience design Why humility, curiosity, and listening are the most underrated leadership skills How mentorship and inclusive leadership shape future organizations We talk about: 00:00 Introduction to Alisha Patel and her leadership background 02:00 How finance + people strategy creates better business decisions 04:00 Why employee experience is tied to business outcomes 06:30 What “people are our greatest asset” actually means in practice 09:00 Why most HR functions are too transactional 11:00 What a “listening tour” is and how to run one effectively 14:00 Designing benefits and programs based on real employee needs 17:00 Global workforce insights across Canada, US, Europe, and beyond 20:00 Why culture cannot be one-size-fits-all 22:30 The biggest missed opportunity in how companies invest in people 24:00 Flexibility as a low-cost, high-impact benefit strategy 26:00 Measuring success beyond usage, focusing on engagement and retention 28:00 Leadership legacy, mentorship, and building inclusive systems 30:00 Why listening is the most important leadership skill moving forward Connect with Alisha LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alishapatel/ Website: https://www.canadahelps.org/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Janet Davies

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 36:05


About the GuestJanet Davis began her professional journey at the age of 15, driven by a motivation to become a pharmacist. After studying at Nottingham University and completing clinical training in the NHS, she transitioned into the pharmaceutical industry, where she spent the majority of her career. Janet climbed the corporate ladder to reach global leadership levels, managing teams and navigating complex organisational cultures. After nearly four decades of full-time employment, the disruption of the pandemic led her to a period of deep reflection, ultimately resulting in her retirement at the end of 2022 to "find the shape of herself". Today, she is a qualified coach, credentialed through the International Coaching Federation (ICF), specialising in guiding others through the emotional and psychological transitions of retirement.About the EpisodeIn this episode, Janet and Sarah explore the "insidious" nature of corporate culture and the long road to reclaiming one's true identity after decades of "fitting in". Janet shares the "six-month advice" that actually took 16 months to fulfil—the time it truly took to "detox" from work and feel like herself again.Key discussion points include:The Goldfish in the Pond: How corporate values and unspoken rules shape us so subtly that we often don't realise we've been "chiselling bits of ourselves off" to fit the mould.The Weight of Identity: Janet discusses her personal journey with body image and mindset, and how shedding physical weight became a metaphor for moving closer to her "real self". Professionalising Coaching: Why Janet sought out high-standard training involving psychology and neuroscience rather than just relying on her previous management experience.The Reality of Marketing: Janet's transition from a highly regulated industry where social media was a "legal risk" to finding her authentic voice on LinkedIn and even TikTok.The Magic of Validation: The experience of signing her first paying clients and seeing them validate the "ideal client" profile she developed during her training.Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep288 - Why Culture Is Your Only Real Competitive Advantage with Ashlea Desroches, People & Culture Leader at Elastic Path

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 36:54


What if employee experience isn't an HR initiative… but the system your entire business runs on? In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Ashlea Desroches, People & Culture Leader at Elastic Path, to unpack a powerful shift in how organizations think about culture, performance, and leadership. Ashlea challenges the idea that employee experience is a “nice to have,” and reframes it as the true competitive advantage driving engagement, retention, customer experience, and ultimately, business results. From psychological safety and leadership behavior to pay transparency and growth-driven management, this conversation goes deep into what actually creates high-performing teams… and why most organizations are still getting it wrong. If you're leading a team, scaling a company, or trying to build a culture people don't want to leave, this episode will change how you think about performance, trust, and what it really takes to win. You'll hear about: Why employee experience is the operating system of your business The link between culture, customer experience, and profitability Why high performance does not always equal high engagement How employee referrals reveal your true internal culture The role of psychological safety in innovation and team performance Why great cultures are built on clarity, safety, and recognition The difference between comfort and true psychological safety How avoiding difficult conversations destroys team trust Why growth conversations outperform performance reviews The one question every leader should be asking their team How leaders create conditions where performance becomes inevitable Why pay transparency is becoming a leadership imperative The hidden trust gap created by compensation secrecy How to implement pay transparency without exposing salaries Why compliance is the floor, not the strategy The long-term impact of developing first-time leaders We talk about: 00:00 Introduction to Ashlea Desroches and her approach to people & culture 02:00 Why employee experience is a true competitive advantage 04:30 The connection between employee satisfaction and business performance 06:00 How culture shows up in customer interactions and reputation 08:00 Why retention is built when hiring is easy, not hard 10:00 What actually shapes the employee experience end-to-end 12:00 Common traits of high-performing cultures across industries 14:00 Psychological safety vs comfort, and why it matters 17:00 The danger of avoiding difficult conversations as a leader 19:00 How to create safe, open dialogue within teams 21:00 The leadership shift from performance to growth conversation 23:00 The question that transforms employee development 25:00 Where growth conversations should actually happen 27:00 The biggest people-related challenge leaders face today 29:00 Pay transparency, trust, and the future of compensation 32:00 Why most organizations misunderstand transparency 34:00 Building trust through clarity, not secrecy 36:00 Leadership legacy and developing future leaders Connect with Ashlea LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleadesroches/ Website: https://www.elasticpath.com/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Fitness Business School with Pat Rigsby
Fitness Business School - 665 - Success Leaves Clues

The Fitness Business School with Pat Rigsby

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 8:59


Ready to grow your clientele & revenue? Download "The 20 Client Generators" PDF now and get instant access to strategies that will fill your calendar with potential clients. No complicated tech, no lengthy processes—just real strategies that work. https://info.patrigsby.com/20-client-generators Do you want to stop chasing leads and start attracting them instead? Get Instant Access To The Weekly Client Machine For Just $5.00! https://patrigsby.com/weeklyclientmachine Get Your FREE Copy of Pat's Fitness Entrepreneur Handbook! https://patrigsby.com/feh --- Success Leaves Clues: Do What High Performers Do  Pat reflects on a hometown mental health event for athletes featuring high-profile speakers, noting that the only teams who attended were historically successful programs, including a championship coach taking notes after decades of winning. He argues this pattern shows up everywhere: top performers keep learning, show up, and do the work others avoid. While people admire or envy visible outcomes like titles, scholarships, revenue, or lifestyle upgrades, underperformers often aren't willing to be "jealous" of the consistent behaviors that create those results—extra Saturday work, systems, perseverance, and daily discipline. The takeaway is to focus less on outcomes and more on adopting the proven habits and consistency of those who've already achieved what you want, because those behaviors are what separate you from average. 00:00 Success Leaves Clues 00:11 Mental Health Event Story 01:11 Winners Show Up 02:41 High Performers Keep Learning 03:30 Envy the Process 05:32 Consistency Beats Wishes 06:02 Do What Works 07:00 Closing Reminder

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Beverley McCluskey

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 20:29


In this episode of The Business of Coaching, we sit down with Beverley (Bea) McCloskey, a former corporate pharmaceutical professional turned successful coach. Bea shares her powerful journey from the high-stakes world of big pharma to a catastrophic burnout that eventually became the "gift" that launched her business.If you've ever felt like you're spinning 25 plates at once—or keeping 25 browser tabs open in your brain—this conversation is for you.About the Guest:Beverley (Bea) McCloskey is a specialist coach and mentor with a deep-rooted background in the corporate pharmaceutical industry. Having spent much of her career in field-based roles for global giants like AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, and Novo Nordisk, she experienced firsthand the transition from high-performance sales to leadership and dedicated coaching roles.Bea's professional journey took a pivotal turn following a catastrophic burnout and a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome, triggered by a combination of high-pressure work and challenging personal circumstances. After a two-year recovery period, she transformed this lived experience into a successful business.Today, Bea focuses her expertise on helping women in the pharma sector—her "ideal client" who mirrors her own experiences from 15 years ago. She works with high-achievers to help them navigate the pressures of corporate life, avoid burnout, and rediscover joy in their careers by balancing soft and hard power.Key Takeaways:The "Tell-as-Coach" Trap: In many corporate environments, coaching is often mistakenly used interchangeably with "training" or simply telling people how to do their jobs.The Cost of Perfectionism: Bea reflects on how her perfectionism wasn't about excellence, but rather an "away motivation" fueled by a terror of making mistakes.The Reality of Burnout: Burnout isn't just about working too hard; it's a multifactorial collapse of resilience often triggered by a combination of personal and professional challenges.The "Niche" vs. The "Chasm": Having a broad niche like "women in danger of burning out" can feel like a chasm where no one can hear you. Success comes from a "tight focus" on people who share your specific lived experience.Employee vs. Business Owner: Transitioning from an employee mindset to a business owner mindset requires a "different manual". Simply replicating corporate structures (like expensive websites and VAT registration) doesn't equate to having a business if you don't have clients."I thought I had a niche, but it was a chasm and no wonder no one could hear me... My words were just words. They were not targeted." — Beverley McCloskeyHave you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues Ep. 287 - Redefining Leadership, Operations, and Culture with Michelle Brooks, Chief People Officer & Head of Operations at Security Compass

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 30:33


What if the Chief People Officer is no longer just responsible for people… but for how the entire business operates? In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al welcome back Michelle Brooks, Chief People Officer & Head of Operations at Security Compass, to explore one of the most important shifts happening inside modern organizations. The role of HR is evolving fast. What was once seen as a support function is now becoming central to how businesses scale, operate, and perform. Michelle shares how the CPO role is expanding into operations and even technology, why organizations are moving from departments to workflows, and how leaders can rethink structure, decision-making, and culture in a rapidly changing environment. The conversation also dives into a surprising redefinition of burnout, why it's no longer about working too much, but about working inefficiently, and how removing friction inside organizations can unlock both performance and engagement. If you are a CEO, founder, HR leader, or operator navigating growth, complexity, and change, this episode offers a clear lens on where leadership and organizational design are heading next. You'll hear about: Why the Chief People Officer role is expanding into operations and technology How organizations are shifting from departments to workflow-based thinking The concept of the CPO as an “organizational architect” Why HR and operations are no longer separate functions How COVID accelerated the strategic importance of people leadership The real reason burnout is rising, and why it's not about hours worked How inefficient processes and bottlenecks create modern burnout Why removing friction is the fastest path to productivity and performance The balance between empowerment and structure inside organizations How clarity of mission drives better decision-making across teams Why decision-making should live closest to the information How strong leadership creates ripple effects across entire organizations Why the future of business is less about hierarchy and more about flow We talk about: 00:00 Introduction to Michelle Brooks and her evolving leadership role 02:00 Why the CPO role is expanding into operations and technology 04:00 The shift toward organizational design and workflow thinking 05:30 How COVID accelerated the evolution of HR leadership 07:00 Breaking down silos and creating more efficient workflows 08:30 Benefits and challenges of blending people and operations roles 10:00 Reframing HR and operations as business enablers, not cost centers 12:30 When companies should bring in HR and operational leadership 14:00 How burnout has changed, from overwork to inefficiency 16:00 The impact of processes, bottlenecks, and friction on teams 19:30 Why clarity of mission is foundational to performance 23:00 Connecting individual work to company-wide impact 24:30 Why siloed organizations are becoming outdated 25:30 The shift toward workflow-based operating systems 27:00 Adapting organizational design to a rapidly changing environment 30:00 The ripple effect of strong leadership across teams and organizations Connect with Michelle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-brooks-1747b924 Website: https://www.securitycompass.com/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Aligned Mama
Fact or Crap : How to Have It All ❓

The Aligned Mama

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 21:44


This may be an unpopular opinion, but the "American Dream" was never designed for a modern Money Making Mom.  Most ambitious women are exhausting themselves trying to jump through hoops that don't even exist to try to live up to some impossible standard. But it's never too late to rewrite the script. We're breaking down WHY we've been conditioned to pile provider roles on top of housewife expectations... and how shifting your internal lens can finally make your external reality feel as good as it looks.  No more chasing the "highlight reel." Just reverse engineering a life that actually aligns with your highest self.    PS. Let's define what 'having it all" looks and feels like for you

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues Ep. 286 - Inclusive Leadership Isn't What You Think with Stewart Whittingham, Director of Culture and Belonging at Miller Thomson

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 29:15


In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Stewart Whittingham, Director of Culture and Belonging at Miller Thomson, to explore one of the most overlooked challenges in leadership today: the gap between the culture leaders believe they are creating and what employees actually experience. With nearly 30 years of experience in leadership, talent strategy, and inclusion, Stewart brings a thoughtful and practical perspective to the conversation, grounded in both strategy and lived experience. The discussion reveals a critical truth: many organizations are committed to inclusion, yet struggle to translate that commitment into consistent, everyday experiences for their people. Stewart explains how gaps in awareness, psychological safety, and leadership behavior can quietly undermine culture, even in organizations with strong values and clear intentions. He also highlights how belonging drives engagement, performance, and better decision-making across teams. If you are a CEO, HR leader, executive, or business owner responsible for culture and performance, this episode offers a clear and practical lens on what it takes to build environments where people and organizations can truly thrive. You'll hear about: Why inclusive leadership directly impacts business performance, not just people strategy The real cost of exclusion, including missed ideas, turnover, and stalled innovation How belonging drives engagement, retention, productivity, and results The hidden gap between the culture leaders think they create and what employees actually experience Why silence in organizations often signals fear, not agreement How cognitive overload and complexity prevent leaders from making intentional decisions The role of bias awareness and how it shapes everyday leadership decisions Why psychological safety is the foundation of high-performing teams The difference between inclusive intentions and inclusive conditions How leaders can identify whose voices are missing and why it matters We talk about: 00:00 Introduction to Stewart Whittingham and his leadership background 02:00 How lived experiences shape leadership and inclusion 04:00 Why inclusion improves decision-making and innovation 06:00 The cost of exclusion in organizations 08:00 Belonging as a driver of performance and retention 10:00 Bias awareness and the “who comes to mind” exercise 12:30 Identifying who is missing from the table 14:00 Why inclusion is an awareness game, not a blame game 16:00 The gap between leadership intention and employee experience 18:00 Psychological safety and speaking up at work 20:00 The danger of silence and misinterpreted feedback 22:00 Inclusive intentions vs inclusive conditions 24:00 Leadership barriers, clarity, mindset, and competing commitments 26:00 Cognitive overload and why leaders struggle to pause 27:30 The power of “Stop, Pause, Reflect” in leadership 28:30 The legacy leaders create through culture and people Connect with Stewart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewart-whittingham-43bb5612/ Website: https://www.stewartwhittingham.com/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Business of Coaching - Success Leaves Clues with Dorothée Dorsch.

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 24:14


In this episode of The Business of Coaching, Sarah Short is joined in the studio by Dorothée Dorsch, a high-level communications specialist turned executive coach. Doro shares her powerful story of how a high-stakes corporate career led to a dramatic physical wake-up call and how she used that experience to build a professional coaching practice that resonates with senior leaders.About the Guest: Doro DorschDoro spent nearly 30 years climbing the career ladder to reach the highest levels of business area responsibility in the marketing and communications sector. Her daily life involved managing global teams, navigating complex internal office politics, and making high-stakes decisions for major companies. After a stress-related health crisis, Doro discovered the transformative power of coaching and now specialises in helping senior marketing and communication leaders navigate the same pressures she once faced.About the EpisodeDorothée and Sarah discuss the transition from "hiding behind a corporate logo" to building a personal brand with precision and courage.Key highlights include:The Body's Warning: Doro recounts the frightening moment her body stopped "politely telling" her it was too much and began "screaming" via a stress-related hearing loss.The Loneliness of Leadership: A deep dive into the "3 a.m. worries" and the "is this it?" feeling that plagues many successful senior leaders who have ticked every societal box but lack happiness.Marketing with a "Long Breath": Why even a marketing expert needs a structured process and a supportive community to maintain the persistence and consistency required for business growth.Early Success: Doro shares the "German realistic" approach to her business and the joy of signing her first corporate client much earlier than expected.Professional Credibility: How following a clear process led a client to choose Doro over other coaches, specifically because of her professional materials and consistent messaging.Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues Ep. 285 - Fixing Access, Awareness, and Benefits Plan Design with Vincent Ng, Director of Group Health Solutions at RBC Insurance

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 30:16


In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Vincent Ng, Director of Group Health Solutions at RBC Insurance, to explore one of the most misunderstood challenges in employee benefits today: why employees often don't use the benefits available to them. With more than 25 years of experience across healthcare, pharmacy, and insurance, Vincent brings a rare perspective to the conversation. As a licensed pharmacist and health benefits leader, he sits at the intersection of clinical care, digital transformation, and employer-sponsored health strategy. The discussion reveals a surprising truth: many benefit plans look rich on paper, yet employees struggle to access them in practice. Vincent explains why awareness gaps, fragmented platforms, and overly complex plan designs often prevent employees from engaging with their benefits until a crisis occurs. The conversation explores how employers and advisors can rethink plan communication, simplify access, and organize benefits around real human problems instead of administrative categories. If you are a CEO, HR leader, benefits advisor, or business owner responsible for employee wellbeing, this episode offers a strategic look at how benefits plans are evolving and what organizations can do today to ensure employees actually use the support available to them. You'll hear about: Why many employees don't understand the benefits available to them The concept of “cognitive overload” in complex benefit plans Why rich benefit plans often remain underutilized How multiple platforms and logins create friction for employees Why benefits should be organized around problems, not providers How employers can increase awareness and engagement with benefit plans The growing normalization of mental health support in the workplace How digital mental health tools are expanding access to care Why chronic condition management will shape future benefit plans The role of navigation and care pathways in modern healthcare How new medications and treatments are changing health outcomes Why access to care remains the biggest challenge in the Canadian system We talk about: 00:00 Introduction and Vincent Ng's background in healthcare and benefits 02:30 Why rich benefit plans are often underutilized 04:00 Cognitive overload and lack of awareness among employees 05:30 Decision paralysis created by complex benefit ecosystems 07:00 Why employees often engage with benefits only during crises 08:30 The importance of ongoing communication with employees 10:30 Reducing friction through better technology and integrated platforms 12:30 Designing benefits around employee problems and needs 14:00 Using industry data to better understand employee expectations 15:00 Mental health benefits and proactive wellbeing support 17:00 Integrating mental health into broader health management 19:00 The growing normalization of therapy and mental health care 21:00 The evolution of digital mental health tools and support 23:00 Future trends in group benefits and personalized care pathways 24:30 Chronic condition management and integrated care models 26:00 The strategic role of health and wellness spending accounts 28:00 The importance of medications in improving health outcomes 30:00 Balancing innovation and sustainability in drug coverage 31:30 Fixing healthcare access in Canada's fragmented system 34:00 Vincent's mission to make healthy choices easier for Canadians Connect with Vincent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincentng5/ Website: Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Angelina Blackwood Hernandez

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 26:06


In this episode of The Business of Coaching, Sarah sits down with the inspiring Angelina Blackwood Hernandez to discuss her remarkable journey from a 20-year career in Higher Education HR to running a thriving coaching and yoga business.About the Guest: Angelina Blackwood HernandezAngelina spent two decades navigating the complexities of HR within the university sector. Despite reaching a managerial level, she found herself facing burnout and a sense of "is this it?" within the repetitive academic cycle. As a Black woman in those environments, she often dealt with unprofessionalism and microaggressions that she initially internalised before finding the clarity to step away. Today, she is a qualified health coach and yoga teacher who has successfully replaced her full-time income by serving a highly specific niche.About the Episode:Sarah and Angelina pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a successful coaching business while balancing a full-time job and a household of four children.Key highlights include:The "False Start": Angelina shares her experience of spending money on Facebook ads and running hundreds of free discovery calls that led nowhere because she lacked a proper marketing strategy.The Power of a Specific Niche: How Angelina moved from a broad "weight loss" focus to helping "fed-up Black women in HR in Higher Education" figure out their next move.Doing the "Scary Things": From overcoming the fear of posting daily on LinkedIn to attending industry conferences, where she was surprised to find people already knew her from her content.The ROI of Commitment: Angelina reveals that in her first year with The Coaching Revolution, she made back eight times her initial investment.Living the Dream: A look at Angelina's "dream life"—working in her hoodie, teaching yoga, and coaching clients she truly cares about."Stop ignoring it or putting it off until next time. Get on the challenge, commit to it, and just see what it feels like." — Angelina Blackwood Hernandez Ready to find your own focus?Join our next free Nail Your Niche challenge. You can register at thecoachingrevolution.com/nailyourniche.

Good Game with Sarah Spain
Success Leaves Clues with Cori Close and Angela Dugalić

Good Game with Sarah Spain

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 37:37 Transcription Available


UCLA women’s basketball head coach Cori Close and Bruins super senior Angela Dugalić join Sarah to talk about the upcoming one-hour documentary about their team, You See L.A. They talk about what it’s like to have cameras capturing tough moments, how the NIL windfall of the project helped build this year’s squad, the impact of sharing your whole self, and Coach Close’s Ted Lasso-like aphorisms. Plus, Little Citrus shares their NWSL kit wins and losses, merch for the moment, and WeBelieve, YouBelieve, SheBelieves – the SheBelieves Cup is back! The PWHL schedule can be found here The 2026 SheBelieves Cup schedule is here Snag merch from the NWSL and the Black Women’s Player Collective’s Black History Month capsule collection here Check out all the new NWSL kits for yourself here Leave us a voicemail at 872-204-5070 or send us a note at goodgame@wondermedianetwork.com Follow Sarah on social! Bluesky: @sarahspain.com Instagram: @Spain2323 Follow producer Alex Azzi! Bluesky: @byalexazzi.bsky.social Instagram: @AzziArtwork Follow producer Bianca Hillier! Bluesky:@biancahillier.bsky.social See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues Ep. 284 - Special Roundtable - Trust, Flexibility, and Performance: The Real Return to Work Conversation

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2026 66:13


In this special roundtable episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al bring together three experienced leaders for a candid, practitioner-level conversation on one of the most emotionally charged leadership topics today: return to work vs remote work. Featuring: Amanda Small, Head of People & Culture; Cerys Goodall, Operations Leader; and Elizabeth Lynch, HR Consultant and Culture Advisor, this discussion moves beyond headlines and into real-world leadership tension. Is return to office about location? Or is it about trust, accountability, and clarity of outcomes? If you are a CEO, founder, HR leader, executive, or manager navigating return to office mandates, hybrid models, or remote work performance, this episode offers grounded insight from leaders living this reality every day. The panel explores: Why “bums in seats” does not equal performance The difference between visibility and accountability How unclear outcomes create disengagement Why intentional workplace design matters more than policy Generational shifts in how trust is built The role of flexibility in retention and employee wellbeing Why leaders must be considerate without catering How culture either lives in daily behavior or dies in policy You'll hear about: Is return to work a trust issue or a management capability issue? Why accountability must be tied to outcomes, not visibility The difference between listening to employees and catering to them “Considerate without catering” as a leadership philosophy Why the office should function as a teammate, not just a location How poor policy design creates disengagement Coffee badging and what it signals about culture The loneliness epidemic and the hidden cost of remote work Why clarity of outcomes drives performance more than presence How intentional design improves culture and business results We talk about: 00:00 Introduction to the Return to Work Roundtable 01:00 Panelist introductions and leadership lenses 04:30 Is return to work about trust or accountability? 07:00 Visibility vs measurable outcomes 10:00 Real estate pressure and office utilization 14:00 How much flexibility should employees realistically have? 17:00 Listening vs catering to employees 21:00 “Considerate without catering” leadership 26:00 When employees should choose to leave 30:00 Operational rigor and remote performance success 37:00 Why clarity of outcomes drives engagement 44:00 Does autonomy improve performance? 52:00 What actually drives performance? Visibility or outcomes? 59:00 The office as a teammate 1:07:00 Loneliness, culture, and human connection 1:11:00 Designing work intentionally Connect with LinkedIn: Amanda Small LinkedIn: Cerys GoodallLinkedIn: Elizabeth Lynch Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep283 - The Truth About “People First” Leadership with guest HR and People & Culture Leader Dunja Vujovic

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 30:07


In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with senior HR and People & Culture leader Dunja Vujovic for a candid conversation about what “people first leadership” actually means, and why most organizations get it wrong. Dunja shares why simply declaring your company “people first” is not enough, and how values must show up in real decisions, especially when budgets tighten and pressure rises. She explains why her team shifted from saying “people first” to “do right by people,” and how that subtle change drives clearer accountability, stronger performance conversations, and healthier cultures. The conversation explores vulnerable leadership, why leaders do not need to have all the answers, and how raising your hand first to admit mistakes builds real trust. Dunja challenges traditional leadership models that reward ego and certainty, and instead advocates for hiring people smarter than you, investing in middle management, and normalizing hard conversations early. Robin and Al also unpack how leadership expectations have evolved, why assumption is the enemy of communication, and how culture either lives in daily behavior or dies on the office wall. This episode is a practical and grounded guide to culture transformation, accountability, and building a workplace where people thrive without lowering performance standards. You'll hear about: What “people first leadership” really means in practice Why cutting benefits first is a cultural red flag The difference between “people first” and “do right by people” Why accountability and hard conversations are part of empowerment Vulnerable leadership and admitting mistakes as a strength Hiring people smarter than you and overcoming leadership ego Why middle management is where strategy lives or dies How values must be operationalized, not just displayed Assumption as the biggest communication breakdown in leadership Creating psychological safety without lowering standards We talk about: 00:00 Introduction and welcome 01:00 What “thought leadership” really means in practice 03:00 Vulnerability versus traditional leadership models 05:00 Testing whether a company is truly people first 06:30 What happens when budgets tighten 08:30 Why benefits matter to employee performance and focus 11:00 Accountability inside people first cultures 12:30 Why values often fail in organizations 14:00 The values bootcamp and operationalizing culture 17:00 Assumptions as the enemy of leadership clarity 18:00 Generational shifts and communication challenges 20:00 Redefining leadership expectations 23:00 Admitting mistakes and building trust 26:00 Hiring people smarter than you 28:00 Why middle management is critical to culture 30:00 Planting trees for future generations of leaders Connect with Dunja LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dvujovic/ Website: https://dunjavujovic.com/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Julija Martinkeviciute

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 30:33


In this "Success Leaves Clues" episode, Sarah sits down with Julija Martinkeviciute, a structural engineer turned coach who is already making massive strides just a few months into her journey with The Coaching Revolution.Julija shares her major "penny-drop" moment about the power of marketing and why stripping away coaching jargon is the ultimate key to connecting with your ideal clients. If you've ever struggled to articulate what you do, felt intimidated by competition in your niche, or wondered why your audience isn't connecting with terms like "limiting beliefs" or "burnout," this episode is packed with actionable insights just for you.Key Takeaways:Finding the Right Niche: Julija shares her transition from structural engineering to coaching engineers who are struggling to navigate high-stress environments and the transition into people management.The Power of Pre-Qualification: Effective marketing acts as a natural pre-qualification process. By the time a prospect reaches a discovery or sales call, they already know who you are and that you understand their problem, eliminating the need to "prove" the value of coaching.Ditching the Jargon: Translating "coach-speak" into "client-speak" is the defining skill that separates thriving coaching businesses from those that struggle.Abundance in Your Niche: Finding another coach in your specific niche should feel exciting rather than threatening, as your approaches can complement each other perfectly.Defining the Undefined: It is vital to break down broad buzzwords like "burnout" and "stress" into relatable, everyday client experiences and warning signs.Want vs. Need: People will only buy what they want. As business owners, we must understand what our clients actively desire and thoughtfully wrap the coaching they actually need around that want.The Ideal Client Avatar (ICA): Getting ultra-specific about your ICA ensures your marketing feels like a conversation with a real person. This hyper-focus allows you to ignore the rest of the world and direct your message entirely to the people you are meant to serve.Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep282 with executive leadership coach Christine Farrugia

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 35:14


In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosts Robin and Al sit down with executive leadership coach and strategic advisor Christine Farrugia for a deeply grounded conversation about success, fulfillment, and decision-making in complex leadership roles. Christine shares why so many high performers feel empty despite doing “everything right” on paper, and how chasing inherited definitions of success quietly erodes energy, confidence, and clarity. The conversation explores the powerful concept of “the gap versus the gain,” why comparison steals momentum, and how leaders can reconnect with progress by recognizing daily wins instead of endlessly moving goalposts. Robin, Al, and Christine also unpack how leaders make decisions when data is incomplete, stakes feel high, and ambiguity is unavoidable. Christine offers practical insight into trusting intuition, distinguishing reversible versus irreversible decisions, and stepping out of fear-based paralysis. The episode weaves together leadership, values, customer-centricity, and personal growth, emphasizing that clarity comes from alignment, not achievement alone. Christine also shares how leaders can identify misalignment between personal values and organizational culture, and why many perceived conflicts are stories worth examining more closely. You'll hear about: Why high performers often feel unfulfilled despite outward success The difference between chasing success and defining it for yourself The “gap versus the gain” framework and how it changes motivation How comparison quietly drains confidence and joy Daily wins as a leadership discipline, not a productivity trick Making decisions when data is incomplete and pressure is high Reversible versus irreversible leadership decisions Trusting intuition without abandoning logic What customer-centricity really looks like beyond metrics Values alignment, culture, and leadership integrity Navigating perceived misalignment between personal and company values Strategic influence as a leadership superpower We talk about: 00:00 Introduction and welcome 01:00 Christine's leadership background and coaching work 02:30 Why success often feels empty for high performers 04:30 Defining success for yourself at different life stages 06:30 The gap versus the gain and how comparison steals momentum 09:00 Recognizing progress and celebrating daily wins 11:30 Gratitude, habits, and leadership energy 14:00 Decision-making in ambiguity and high-stakes environments 17:00 Reversible versus irreversible leadership decisions 20:00 Trusting intuition when data is incomplete 23:00 Customer-centricity beyond dashboards and metrics 26:00 Values, culture, and perceived misalignment at work 29:00 Strategic influence and getting things done through others 32:00 Leadership growth through self-awareness and inner work 35:00 The signature question, planting trees for the future Connect with Christine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinefarrugia/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachwithchristine/ Website: https://www.christinefarrugia.com/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep281 with guest Stephanie Hollingshead, CEO of TAP Network

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 32:34


In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, host Robin Bailey and Al McDonald sit down with Stephanie Hollingshead, CEO of TAP Network, for a candid conversation about leadership, burnout, and the power of collaboration in Canada's tech sector. Stephanie shares how TAP Network has evolved from a small group of competing tech companies into a national community and infrastructure for people and culture leaders. What began as a conversation about competing for scarce talent has become a model for how collaboration, trust, and shared learning can strengthen an entire industry. The conversation dives into the often-unspoken reality of leadership roles, particularly for people and culture professionals who sit in the uncomfortable middle of organizations. Stephanie speaks openly about burnout, isolation, and the emotional weight of roles that require balancing advocacy, execution, and trust from all sides. Robin, Al, and Stephanie explore why collaboration works even among direct competitors, how trust is built over time, and why peer communities provide critical support when leaders are navigating layoffs, uncertainty, and rapid change. Stephanie also reflects on stepping into the CEO role, what surprised her about the broader leadership ecosystem, and why support and mentorship are far more available than many leaders realize. The episode closes with a reflection on long-term impact, leadership responsibility, and the importance of building systems and communities that future leaders can rely on when navigating pressure, change, and complexity. You'll hear about: Why TAP Network is more than a professional network, it's industry infrastructure Collaboration versus competition in the tech sector How trust is built among peers and direct competitors Burnout and isolation in people and culture leadership roles Sitting in the uncomfortable middle of organizations Why peer community matters during layoffs and organizational change What surprised Stephanie most after becoming a CEO Leadership support systems many people overlook Where Canadian tech does people and culture well Where equity, diversity, and inclusion still need bold change Why small efforts aren't moving the needle Building leadership systems that outlast individuals We talk about: 00:00 Introduction and welcome 01:00 Stephanie's background and leadership journey 03:00 What TAP Network is and why it exists 05:00 Collaboration as the foundation of the community 07:00 Choosing leaders and facilitators who energize the sector 09:00 Collaboration versus competition in tech 11:00 Building trust among peers and competitors 13:00 Burnout and the emotional weight of people and culture roles 15:00 Sitting in the uncomfortable middle of leadership 18:00 Community as protection against isolation and disengagement 20:00 Stepping into the CEO role and seeing the ecosystem differently 23:00 Mentorship, generosity, and leadership support 25:00 What tech companies get right about people and culture 27:00 Where equity, diversity, and inclusion still fall short 30:00 Why bold change is required to move the needle 33:00 Staying anchored through listening and connection 35:00 The signature question, planting trees for the future 37:00 How to connect with Stephanie and TAP Network Connect with Stephanie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniehollingshead Website: https://tapnetwork.ca/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The Business Of Coaching
Success Leaves Clues with Kirsty Fitzscott

The Business Of Coaching

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 4:30


There are plenty of people in your LinkedIn DMs promising "six figures in 90 days," but what does the reality of building a coaching business actually look like? In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Sarah sits down with Kirsty Fitzscott, a former head teacher now 15 months into her coaching journey. They strip away the hype to discuss the practical, pragmatic, and sometimes messy work of establishing a sustainable practice.Kirsty Fitzscott is a coach for head teachers and the host of the new podcast, The Intentional Head. She helps educational leaders move past the daily grind to focus on strategic leadership.Key Takeaways1. The "90-Day" Myth vs. Reality Kirsty debunks the "get rich quick" marketing that targets new coaches. The reality is that building a viable business takes time:The Timeline: It typically takes two to three years to build a business, not three months.The Portfolio Approach: Most coaches won't make their money solely from 1:1 coaching immediately; building a "portfolio business" is often necessary.The Digital Footprint: It can feel like "screaming into the void," but every podcast, video, and article lays a path for clients to find you later.2. Networking: Connection Over Sales Like many coaches, Kirsty initially hated networking because it felt like "selling". She reframed it successfully by realising:You aren't there to sell to the person in front of you; you are there to get to know them.Opportunities often come through "a link and a link and a link"—friends of friends or colleagues of the people you meet.3. The Power of the "Golden Sentence " One of the most critical assets for a coach is their "Golden Sentence"—a single statement that explains exactly what they do.The Formula: "I work with [Client] to help them [Action/Stop Problem] so that they can [Result]".Kirsty's Example: "I help time-poor head teachers to stop the firefighting so they can actually get on with the strategic".Why It Works: It makes your work instantly accessible. Even if the person you are talking to isn't a head teacher, they might know one who is "firefighting" and make the connection.4. Finding the Sweet Spot Kirsty discovered her niche was specifically Primary Head Teachers.The Logic: Unlike secondary schools, which have HR and IT departments, primary heads are often the sole decision-maker for over a thousand stakeholders.The "Shame" Factor: Many potential clients feel shame about their struggles. They need a safe, confidential space to ask questions they can't ask their governors or teams.Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠⁠

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald
Success Leaves Clues: Ep 280 - Power, Trust, and Leadership with Dean Benard, Founder and CEO of Benard & Associates

Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 30:00


In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, host Robin Bailey and co-host Al McDonald welcome back returning guest Dean Benard, Founder and CEO of Benard & Associates, for an in-depth conversation on workplace investigations, leadership accountability, and organizational culture. With more than 30 years of experience in regulatory and workplace investigations, mediation, and conflict resolution, Dean offers a rare inside look at how investigations really work, and why independence, fairness, and process matter more than speed or optics. He explains how power dynamics show up in investigations, from titles and tenure to fear of retaliation, and why investigations can act as a great equalizer when handled correctly. The conversation explores what trauma-informed investigations actually mean, why they should apply to every participant, and how dignity and psychological safety improve accuracy rather than dilute outcomes. Dean also shares where leaders unintentionally undermine investigations, how rushing the process creates long-term risk, and why one complaint is often a signal of deeper cultural issues beneath the surface. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on legacy, building systems that outlast us, and Dean's vision for creating safer, fairer workplaces through education, innovation, and leadership responsibility. You'll hear about: What workplace investigations really involve, beyond the stereotypes How power dynamics influence truth-seeking and trust Why investigator independence is non-negotiable Trauma-informed investigations and why they apply to everyone Common leadership mistakes that undermine investigations Speed versus quality and the hidden cost of rushing What makes a strong investigator, skill sets over credentials When one complaint reveals broader cultural problems Using investigations as an opportunity for organizational learning Building systems that create long-term workplace fairness We talk about: 00:00 Introduction and returning to the conversation 01:00 Dean's background and the work of Benard & Associates 03:00 Power dynamics and the role of independence in investigations 06:00 Treating everyone with dignity and respect in the process 08:00 Trauma-informed investigations and psychological safety 11:00 How leaders unintentionally interfere or undermine trust 14:00 Speed versus quality and why rushing creates risk 17:00 The skill sets that make a great investigator 20:00 When investigations reveal deeper cultural issues 22:00 Management insights and learning beyond the complaint 25:00 What's next for Benard & Associates and the Bernard Group 28:00 Working with a spouse and building a business together 30:00 The signature question, planting trees for the future 33:00 How to connect with Dean Connect with Dean Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanbenard/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/benard-associates/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenardInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benardinc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/BenardAssociates Website: https://www.benardinc.com/ Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Healthy Habits 4 Life with Dr. Carol Perlman
141 Success Leaves Clues-How to Uncoevr YOUR Keys to Success

Healthy Habits 4 Life with Dr. Carol Perlman

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 26:36


If you are struggling in one area of your life, it's likely that you are doing GREAT in others. While it can be frustrating to not be where you'd like to be, you have a great opportunity to look at your successes and uncover the clues. What are they telling you works for YOU and how can you apply these patterns to other areas of your life?Carol walks you through 3 strategies that are working for her to demonstrate how to detect clues, and suggest key techniques that may work for you as well.Tune in today!Connect with Carol Perlman:Website: http://www.carolperlman.com/ http://healthy4lifebycarolperlman.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/carol.w.perlmanInstagram: @carolperlmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-perlman-8a735513/Email: carolperlman@carolperlman.comMorning Momentum Mini Course FREE Download!https://courses.itsabouttimemanagement.com/morning-momentum

The Aligned Mama
The 2026 "No" List: What to Stop Doing Immediately

The Aligned Mama

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 16:12


Everyone is telling you what to start for 2026, but I'm telling you what to quit today. We are building your "No List..." The ultimate subtraction strategy for growth that frees you from the false productivity draining your spirit and your bank account. If you've been piling your plate so high that success feels like a heavy burden, it's time to learn how to prioritize the moves that actually make you money. Press play to identify the energy leaks and "Who Not How" opportunities so you can stop falling off the unicorn and start leading with clarity.  PS. Book your 1:1 ALIGNMENT CALL to map out your best year yet. 

Her Restored Spirit-Restoration, Living with Purpose and Joy, Hope after Trauma, and Healing after Loss  for the Broken-Spiri

Today we are diving into part 2, but first… In Part 1, we talked about why your goals keep slipping and why you feel exhausted even when you think you're “resting.” Today we're going deeper — into the leadership patterns, clarity gaps, and subtle habits you don't always notice… but absolutely shape everything about how you lead. These are the lessons that shifted my clients out of anxiety, out of reaction mode, and back into aligned leadership. And I can't wait to share them with you.

Champions Adjust
Success Leaves Clues

Champions Adjust

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2025 1:00


Top 10 Mental Skills Every Athlete Needs to Master Grab the list here: https://t.co/yoaXVzPw9H-This Episode is Brought to you by:Champions Adjust Use code CAPod10 for 10% OFF

The 5 Minute Basketball Coaching Podcast
Ep 1226 Yes Success Leaves Clues

The 5 Minute Basketball Coaching Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 8:33


Teachhoops.com⁠ ⁠Coach Collins Coaching Store⁠ ⁠https://forms.gle/kQ8zyxgfqwUA3ChU7⁠ Check out.  [Teachhoops.com](⁠https://teachhoops.com/⁠) 14 day Free Trial Youth Basketball Coaches Podcast Apple link: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/coaching-youth-hoops/id1619185302⁠ Spotify link: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0g8yYhAfztndxT1FZ4OI3A⁠ ⁠Funnel Down Defense Podcast⁠ ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/funnel-down-defense/id1593734011⁠ Want More ⁠Funnel Down Defense⁠ ⁠https://coachcollins.podia.com/funnel-down-defense⁠ [Facebook Group . Basketball Coaches](⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/basketballcoaches/)⁠ [Facebook Group . Basketball Drills](⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/321590381624013/)⁠ Want to Get a Question Answered? [ Leave a Question here](⁠https://www.speakpipe.com/Teachhoops⁠) Check out our other podcast [High School Hoops ](⁠https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/high-school-hoops-coaching-high-school-basketball/id1441192866⁠) Check out our Sponsors [HERE](https://drdishbasketball.com/) Mention Coach Unplugged and get 450 dollars off your next purchase basketball resources free basketball resources Coach Unplugged Basketball drills, basketball coach, basketball workouts, basketball dribbling drills,  ball handling drills, passing drills, shooting drills, basketball training equipment, basketball conditioning, fun basketball games, basketball jerseys, basketball shooting machine, basketball shot, basketball ball, basketball training, basketball camps, youth basketball, youth basketball leagues, basketball recruiting, basketball coaching jobs, basketball tryouts, basketball coach, youth basketball drills, The Basketball Podcast, How to Coach Basketball, Funnel Down Defense FDD Win the season Rule of 3 Offense Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Real Unicorns Don't Wear Pants
Million Dollar Run Rate : How to Go From 6 to 7 Figures

Real Unicorns Don't Wear Pants

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 22:15


Everybody loves a gold star... but do you know what entrepreneurs love even more? Going from 6 to 7 figures at lightning speed. It's no secret that Nicole hit $1M in the first year of her business... but success leaves MF clues and now she has TWO clients who have activated their million dollar run rate, at the SAME TIME, just seven months after VIP days with her. So what IS the secret to slipping into that attractive AF seven figure frequency? If you're willing to pull on your big girl panties, channel your best Elle Woods and say "What? Like it's hard?" - this is for YOU. Press play to get the shifts and clarity to create rapid results and activate YOUR million dollar run rate.  PS. Leverage the power of proximity and amplify your energy to become that seven figure version of you

Selling on Amazon with Andy Isom
#459 - Success Leaves Clues. Are You Even Looking?

Selling on Amazon with Andy Isom

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 7:19


You don't need to reinvent the wheel on Amazon. You just need to study the winners. In this episode of Built by Business, Andy Isom walks you through how to reverse-engineer high-performing competitors, spot market patterns, and use them to improve your own product listings, offers, and strategy—without copying.   From title structure and image strategy to pricing, reviews, and keyword data, this episode is a blueprint for becoming a sharper operator in your niche.   Need help finding what your competitors are doing right?   Get a Free Amazon Brand Audit at www.weavos.io