Leadovation

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341 episodes · showing the newest 200

Luke Mickelson: When Your Organization Outgrows You: The Founder’s Syndrome Nobody Warns You About

Nov 10, 2026 49 min

A successful organization can outgrow its founder, making it difficult to separate personal identity from the mission. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Luke Mickelson explore how to avoid mission creep, build structures that support growth, and redefine a founder’s role as an organization matures. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Luke Mickelson discuss: Why a focused mission helps nonprofits grow and attract supportFounder syndrome and the challenge of becoming less neededBalancing visionary leadership with operational structureEvolving from founder to ambassador and mentor Key Takeaways: A clear mission helps nonprofits avoid mission creep and attract support by giving donors a specific purpose and a clear understanding of how their contributions will be used.Founders can become bottlenecks when they hold on to decisions and responsibilities instead of allowing others to lead.Sustainable growth requires both a visionary who develops ideas and an executive leader who manages people, systems, and execution.Founders should identify and communicate their changing role, plan for succession, and recognize that contributing differently does not mean becoming less valuable. "Success doesn't always equate to fulfillment.” — Luke Mickelson About Luke Mickelson: Luke Mickelson grew up in Kimberly, Idaho, where community, character, and service were a way of life. In 2012, he founded Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a nonprofit with the mission: “No kid sleeps on the floor in our town.” Today, SHP has over 400 chapters across 47 U.S. states and 4 countries, delivering over 370,000 beds to children in need. Recognized by CNN Heroes, NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, Good Morning America, and The Today Show, Luke travels the country as a keynote speaker, inspiring audiences to serve others in their communities. Connect with Luke Mickelson: Website: https://shpbeds.org/ Show: The Leadership Evolution Podcast: https://lukemickelson.com/podcast YouTube: https://www.youtu...

Steve Brown: The AI-First Company: How Artificial Intelligence Will Redefine Leadership and Work

Nov 3, 2026 50 min

AI can do more than improve efficiency. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Steve Brown explore how leaders can amplify human capabilities, integrate digital workers, and strengthen human judgment and accountability. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Steve Brown discuss: Rethinking AI beyond productivity and cost reductionThree stages of AI transformation, from tools to digital workers and AI-first businessesLeadership responsibilities in teams of people and AI agentsData readiness, business strategy, and preparing for AI adoptionAI’s impact on human identity, scientific breakthroughs, and society Key Takeaways: Leaders should ask how AI can amplify their organization’s purpose and human capabilities, rather than focusing only on efficiency and cost savings.AI can progress from a tool that assists employees to digital workers that perform tasks independently and eventually become the operating system of a business.Leaders need to define goals, set standards, delegate authority, and establish accountability as humans and digital employees work together.Businesses can prepare for AI disruption by assessing their current capabilities, imagining what an AI-first competitor could do, and identifying the gaps they need to close. "In a world of abundant intelligence, judgment becomes more important than ever.” — Steve Brown About Steve Brown: Steve is a leading thinker on AI, digital transformation, and how AI will shape business, education, and society. During his 25-year career, Steve served as senior director and in-house futurist at Google DeepMind in London as well as Intel’s futurist. Today Steve works with global brands, Fortune 100 companies, startups, and government agencies to guide them in maximizing AI in their operations. Connect with Steve Brown: Website: https://www.stevebrown.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futuresteve/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/aitransformation/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIfutureboy AI Resources: https:...

Mike Krupit: From Founder to CEO: The Leadership Shift That Makes or Breaks Growth

Oct 27, 2026 40 min

A founder can delegate the work and still become the biggest obstacle to business growth. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Mike Krupit explore the shift from doing everything to leading others, the challenges of accountability in family businesses, and how clearer boundaries and greater curiosity can help leaders move forward. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Mike Krupit discuss: The transition from hands-on founder to effective leaderRecognizing when leadership habits begin limiting business growthFamily dynamics, accountability, and generational successionSetting boundaries between professional responsibilities and personal relationshipsCuriosity as a way to approach conflict, change, and new possibilities Key Takeaways: Leaders can recognize when they are holding a business back by examining growth, performance, retention, and their own leadership habits.Effective delegation means giving people authority to achieve results, not just assigning tasks and prescribing how to do them.Family businesses can preserve stability and institutional knowledge, but clear roles and genuine authority for the next generation help prevent family dynamics from hindering progress.Leaders can strengthen relationships by giving positive feedback before difficult conversations and applying the same care, boundaries, and communication skills at home. "Cracks just shouldn't be filled. That contributes to the instability. I see cracks as an opportunity to evolve something to another to be something else.” — Mike Krupit About Mike Krupit: Mike Krupit is the founder and CEO of Trajectify, where he helps growth-stage technology, professional service, and family businesses bridge the gap between early success and scalable leadership. With more than 30 years of experience as a CTO, COO, and CEO, Mike has led organizations through rapid growth, IPOs, and M&As, giving him rare, real-world insight into what actually works when the stakes are high. Known for his practical, candid approach...

Jonathan Lewis: Why Companies Stop Growing: The Hidden Identity Crisis Most Leaders Never See

Oct 20, 2026 55 min

Companies do not always stall because they have a strategy problem. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Jonathan Lewis explore how identity shapes growth, culture, succession, and the way leaders respond to a changing workforce. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Jonathan Lewis discuss: Identity as a driver of business growthThe five phases of the disruption cycleCulture and the idea behind the leaderSuccession and generational leadershipRebuilding work through relationships and purpose Key Takeaways: Identity acts as a form of leverage because who you are determines which strategies and opportunities you are willing to consider.Organizations can respond to saturation by returning to the growth cycle, defining a new market, and finding new ways to bring life into the company.Strong cultures are built around an enduring idea that new leaders can embody in their own way rather than depending entirely on one individual.Leaders can better understand their identity by looking at the people they serve, the responsibilities they carry, and the relationships around them.Leaders can become rebuilders by taking responsibility for their community, company, or department and creating a more relational, purposeful story of work. "People are culture, people are identity, and so if you change people, you are changing your identity and your culture.” — Jonathan Lewis About Jonathan Lewis: Jonathan David Lewis is the owner and president of McKee Wallwork, a nationally recognized brand strategy firm that helps CEOs and leadership teams through pivotal moments. A sought-after speaker, Forbes contributor, and author of three books, including Brand vs. Wild: Building Resilient Brands for Harsh Business Environments and The Rebuilders: Daily Foundations for the Leaders We Need, Jonathan draws on more than a decade of proprietary research and hard-won experience to help audiences restore decisiveness in the face of disruption, stalled growth, and organizational change. He is based in...

Gary Chupik: What Elite Athletes Know About Performance That Most Leaders Never Learn

Oct 13, 2026 44 min

What separates elite performers may have less to do with talent and more to do with mindset, daily rituals, and sustainability. Dean Newlund and Gary Chupik explore what business leaders can learn from elite athletes about performance, recovery, decision-making, and lasting change. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Gary Chupik discuss: Mental performance across sports and businessDaily rituals and recoverySustainability, ambition, and personal capacityDecision-making and limiting choicesQuestions, ownership, and organizational change Key Takeaways: Create a personal daily regimen of five or seven things that put you in the best position to succeed, such as getting enough sleep, hydrating, or making time for future-focused thinking.Protect periods of rest and reduce reactionary inputs by creating space away from phones, email, and social media so you can approach the day more intentionally.Sustainable growth may require choosing opportunities based on what feels manageable and enjoyable rather than automatically pursuing everything that appears lucrative or beneficial for your career.Excellence often requires limiting choices and closing doors that do not align with the direction, purpose, or level of performance you want to achieve.Change is more likely to take hold when people are actively involved in figuring out the next steps, with a designated change champion helping keep the process moving. “Don’t trust the process. Attack the process.” — Gary Chupik About Gary Chupik: Gary Chupik is internationally recognized as one of the top mental performance coaches in the world, helping professional teams, athletes, and business professionals find their next level in performance. He is an international speaker, writer, and certified leadership coach, with clients including the Houston Texans, Seattle Mariners, Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing. With over 30 years of leadership experience, Gary has inspired over 25,000 high-performers and coached over 600 athletes and b...

Gal Borenstein: Can You Trust AI? A CEO's Guide to Leadership, Innovation, and Digital Trust

Oct 6, 2026 45 min

AI is changing how businesses communicate, work, and make decisions, but it also raises new questions about trust, authenticity, and original thinking. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Gal Borenstein explore hybrid work, digital trust, responsible AI adoption, and why innovation still depends on human judgment and creativity. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Gal Borenstein discuss: How hybrid work is reshaping business and workplace cultureBuilding authenticity into digital communicationAI's impact on attention, creativity, and original thinkingQuestions leaders should ask before adopting AIWhy disruptive innovation requires CEO backing Key Takeaways: Hybrid work can give employees more flexibility while helping companies reduce real estate and other overhead costs.Digital trust requires recognizing that what people see online may not be authentic and creating clear signals of human involvement.AI can improve productivity, but relying on it without your own intellect, knowledge, values, and judgment can weaken original thinking.Businesses should identify a real, validated problem before adopting AI rather than using it simply because competitors are doing so.Real innovation requires creating something that challenges existing thinking and has an actual impact. "Trust no one, verify, and create opportunities to build trust through innovation.” — Gal Borenstein About Gal Borenstein: Gal S. Borenstein is the Founder and CEO of The Borenstein Group, a nationally recognized B2B and B2G branding, marketing, and public relations agency serving defense, aerospace, cybersecurity, and technology companies for over three decades. With more than 30 years of experience advising CEOs, CMOs, and founders, he specializes in brand transformation, strategic messaging, digital trust, and go-to-market positioning. He is also the author of Don’t Believe the Hype. When Trust Is on the Line and Beating Goliath with AI: The Small Business Playbook to Outsmart Your Biggest Competito...

Carol Schultz: People Problem or Systems Problem? The Leadership Question That Changes Everything

Sep 29, 2026 45 min

What happens when a growing organization’s systems can no longer support its vision? Dean Newlund and Carol Schultz discuss chief of staff roles, CEO accountability, communication, competency models, feedback culture, and organizational structures that help teams grow. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Carol Schultz discuss: Telling clients the truth and leading with integrityWhat a chief of staff really doesRecognizing when people problems are systems problemsBuilding competency models around organizational needsCreating stronger communication, feedback, and leadership accountability Key Takeaways: Tell clients the truth, even when doing so creates a risk of losing the business.Look at the systems behind recurring people problems before assuming another person is the solution.Use competency models to make hiring and performance reviews more objective and clarify what employees are expected to do.Build a culture of feedback by modeling effective communication and teaching people how to use language well.Give teams room to make mistakes, learn, and become more independent instead of solving every problem for them. "An effective CEO is one that is self-aware. An effective CEO is one that, I believe, is vulnerable and authentic. An effective CEO is not afraid of looking bad, and I don't mean physically.” — Carol Schultz About Carol Schultz: Carol Schultz, CEO of Vertical Elevation and Inc. Magazine columnist, is an outspoken entrepreneur who helps CEOs stop running their companies and start leading them. She draws on decades of experience as a recruiter and executive coach to deliver The Chief of Staff Scaffold System, a 9-step program that teaches founders to restructure their time, delegate effectively, and refocus on growth. Known for her no-BS honesty and willingness to ruffle feathers, Carol combines bold truth-telling with lessons learned from her own early leadership missteps. Connect with Carol Schultz: Website: https://verticalelevation.com Email: ca...

Wendy Valentine: How to Reinvent Yourself After Rock Bottom: A Midlife Transformation Story

Sep 22, 2026 58 min

What happens when the life you built no longer feels like your own? Dean Newlund talks with Wendy Valentine about self-awareness, rebuilding after rock bottom, changing the thoughts and behaviors that keep us stuck, and finding the courage to become the person we want to be. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Wendy Valentine discuss: Awakening through breakdowns and major life transitionsLetting go of beliefs and behaviors that no longer fitRebuilding your life through intentional personal growthSelf-awareness in a world full of distractionsEmbracing discomfort, change, and new possibilities Key Takeaways: When staying stuck and starting over both require effort, choose where you want that energy to take you.Focus on who you want to become, not only the goals, plans, and tasks you want to accomplish.Experiment with different practices, such as journaling, hiking, meditation, or therapy, to build a personal toolbox that works for you.Negative emotions and difficult experiences do not automatically mean you are doing something wrong; they are part of being human.Ask what your 90-year-old self would thank you for, then use that perspective to make choices with fewer regrets. "You've got to get your toolbox. Get your toolbox of things that you know that will work for you.” — Wendy Valentine About Wendy Valentine: Wendy Valentine is the author of Women Waking Up: The Midlife Manifesto for Passion, Purpose, and Play, a #1 Amazon New Release, and host of The Midlife Makeover Show. After navigating divorce, menopause, job loss, debt, and an empty nest all at once, Wendy stopped living on autopilot and started designing a life that felt like her own. Today, she empowers women to reconnect with their purpose and create bold, joy-fueled lives. Splitting her time between Portugal and traveling the USA in her RV, Wendy is living proof that life gets better, not smaller, with age. Connect with Wendy Valentine: Website: https://wendyvalentine.com/ Book: Women Waking Up:...

Nick Avaria: Leadership Isn't Enough: Why Great Management Is Making a Comeback

Sep 15, 2026 36 min

What if strategy isn’t the biggest barrier to business growth? Dean Newlund talks with Nick Avaria, founder of Agency Acquisitions, about founder bottlenecks, organizational blind spots, management, leadership, growth, and AI. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Nick Avaria discuss: Systems and structures that support business growthBlind spots that can quietly limit growthChallenges in making the jump from $2M to $8MWhy management matters alongside strong leadershipAI, talent, and changing approaches to workplace surveillance Key Takeaways: Examine whether your systems reinforce the behaviors you need, rather than assuming a stronger strategy will solve operational problems.Treat problems as part of growth and use them to identify where your systems, culture, or communication need to become more sophisticated.Build a function to a reasonably working level before handing it off, so a new leader can improve an existing foundation instead of starting from scratch.Give management its proper place alongside leadership, with clear systems and direction underneath the energy and vision leaders provide.Spend time experimenting with AI before delegating it entirely, so you understand its capabilities well enough to make informed decisions and hold others accountable. "When you have rock-solid management, and then you come and sprinkle some leadership on top, magic happens.” — Nick Avaria About Nick Avaria: Nick has spent over a decade as an agency owner, scaling multiple agencies past 7 and 8-figures per year. He has bought and sold 7 agencies and specializes in scaling, leadership, systems, and company culture. His philosophy is simple: Make more profit, reinvest in training, pay staff more, hire top performers, and repeat. After seeing agency owners burn out working 60+ hours per week, Nick began consulting to help them build profitable workplaces where employees and clients can thrive while spending less time behind their desk. He still owns agencies and has found a...

Travis Hahler: The Brain Science of Change: Why Employees Resist and What Leaders Can Do About It

Sep 8, 2026 44 min

Change is part of every leader’s job, but resistance is not always a communication problem. In this episode, Dean Newlund talks with Travis Hahler about the neuroscience behind resistance and how leaders can help people move forward through change. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Travis Hahler discuss: The brain’s response to uncertainty and why change can trigger resistanceNeurological barriers that shape transitions and influence responsesLoss, ambiguity, and emotional reactions during changeLeadership approaches to resistance and creating room for adaptationStaying curious as new technologies reshape how we work Key Takeaways: Resistance is often neurological rather than willful refusal; think in terms of routine, threat bias, and ambiguity aversion.Diagnose perceived loss by naming what people may fear losing, such as control, competence, relationships, or comfort.Create space and structure for adaptation with pacing, repetition, and safe opportunities to practice and fail.Use curiosity to surface root causes by asking what people need and what information or support is missing.Balance learning with delivery by protecting time for training and experimentation while keeping essential work moving. "Every change equals loss. And so it just naturally is something that our brain kind of pushes against.” — Travis Hahler About Travis Hahler: Travis D. Hahler transforms how Fortune 500 companies navigate change by revealing a startling truth: Resistance isn't rebellion—it’s biology. As Senior Director of Global Strategy and Transformation at Salesforce and Founder of The Neurological Nomad, Hahler brings neuroscience and business acumen to organizational transformation. Over fifteen years, Hahler has guided more than one hundred companies through successful transformations. Rethink Resistance represents Hahler’s mission to democratize neuroscience for business leaders. Connect with Travis Hahler: Website: https://www.theneurologicalnomad.com/ Book: RETHINK R...

Ryan Berman: Why Courage Is the Missing Leadership Skill

Sep 1, 2026 45 min

Courage can show up in telling the truth, making difficult decisions, and acting without having all the answers. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ryan Berman explore what courage looks like in leadership, how fear shapes our choices, and how we can build the courage to move forward. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ryan Berman discuss: Why telling the truth and staying authentic takes courage How fear shapes leadership and workplace culture Building courage through curiosity and experimentation Using knowledge, belief, and action to make decisions Managing loneliness and perspective in leadership Key Takeaways: Create more alignment between your personal and professional self by examining whether your work reflects the values that give you energy. Make courageous conversations safer by checking impact and asking what the other person heard instead of assuming your intent was clear. Treat mistakes as part of experimentation, creating space to test ideas, learn from what happens, and keep moving. Use knowledge, faith, and action together to avoid paralysis from overthinking or recklessness from acting without enough understanding. Pay attention to relationships that may shift as you grow in leadership, and make connection and shared purpose part of how you lead. "Knowledge plus faith plus action equals courage.” — Ryan Berman About Ryan Berman: Ryan Berman is a corporate fear fighter, founder of Courageous, author of Return On Courage, and host of The Courageous Podcast. For 25+ years, Ryan has helped companies operationalize courage where they need it most, counseling organizations including Google, Procter & Gamble, Kellogg’s, Kraft Heinz, Bausch & Lomb, Tropicana, the Atlanta Falcons, and Snapchat. His consulting firm, Courageous, guides clients through courageous conversations, decisions, ideas, and transformation. Ryan believes that change is hard, but the hardships of not changing are far harder. Connect with Ryan Berman: W...

Nadav Wilf: How CEOs Should Build an AI Strategy: The 3-Step Framework Every Business Needs

Aug 25, 2026 40 min

AI is reshaping jobs, workflows, and the way organizations operate. In this episode, Dean Newlund talks with Nadav Wilf, founder of ZeremAI, about how CEOs can build an AI strategy that drives business results. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Nadav Wilf discuss: Where AI is changing jobs and responsibilities The three stages of AI use inside a business Turning AI productivity into deeper operational automation How different approaches to AI regulation affect innovation What AI companions could mean for human connection Key Takeaways: Start with business needs and workflows when deciding where AI can create the most value. Move beyond basic prompting by progressing toward automated and AI native systems as your organization develops its capabilities. Look for entire responsibilities AI can take over rather than using it only to make existing tasks faster. Understand the tradeoffs behind AI regulation and how approaches in the United States, European Union, and China shape innovation, risk, and control. Be intentional about human relationships as AI companions become more common and consider how technology can support rather than replace human connection. "AI is incredibly exciting. There's so much opportunity and things you can do, and there's a lot [you] can't do still, and it's about creating that relationship and finding that balance.” — Nadav Wilf About Nadav Wilf: Nadav Wilf is an entrepreneur, investor, and the CEO of ZeremAI, a company at the forefront of AI implementation and systems automation. With a career spanning over two decades, Nadav is a three-time founder with multiple successful exits who has dedicated his life to understanding how technology can unlock human potential. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for human talent, Nadav approaches it as a catalyst for a high-performance culture, helping organizations restructure their workflows to reclaim massive amounts of productive time. A dynamic speaker and strategi...

Mitch Matthews: How to Build Authority Without Being Authoritarian

Aug 18, 2026 47 min

Authority isn't about having the loudest voice or the biggest title. It's about consistently creating value that earns trust over time. In this episode, Dean Newlund sits down with Mitch Matthews to discuss building authentic authority, creating career options, communicating with authenticity, and leading with curiosity. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Mitch Matthews discuss: Why authority is earned instead of borrowed The lighthouse post approach to building influence Creating more career options before you need them Showing up authentically instead of performing Leading with curiosity in difficult conversations Key Takeaways: Borrowed authority may open doors, but lasting influence comes from consistently sharing your own experience and expertise. You don't need to quit your job to build something meaningful; small, consistent investments of time can create future opportunities. The most effective communication feels natural because people connect with authenticity more than a carefully crafted persona. Boredom often signals a need for growth, and introducing something new can restore energy and momentum. Curiosity creates space for understanding and makes difficult conversations more productive than trying to prove someone else wrong. "When we talk about authority and impact, it's being able to say, 'How do we have a positive impact on the people we feel called to help?'” — Mitch Matthews About Mitch Matthews: Mitch Matthews is a success coach, speaker, and creator of the top 1% podcast DREAM THINK DO - where he helps high-achieving leaders and entrepreneurs dream bigger, think better, and do more of what they were put on the planet to do. He’s worked with organizations like Nike, NASA, and Disney, and he’s the creator of The Authority Bridge™ - a proven process that helps professionals turn their experience into a coaching and speaking business they love. Connect with Mitch Matthews: Website: https://mitchmatthews.com/ Sh...

Danny Bobrow: The Science of Persuasion: Why People Don't Need to Be Convinced—They Need to Feel Understood

Aug 11, 2026 42 min

Strong leaders know that facts alone rarely change minds. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Danny Bobrow explore why authentic connection comes before persuasion and how leaders can communicate in ways that earn trust, strengthen relationships, and inspire action. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Danny Bobrow discuss: Lessons from endurance sports and teamwork The Persuasion Blueprint framework Persuasion in digital and AI-assisted communication Building stronger relationships through emotional awareness Leadership communication during difficult conversations Key Takeaways: Begin difficult conversations by helping people feel understood before trying to convince them. Care and emotional attunement create the foundation for collaboration. Let enthusiasm grow by discovering what already motivates the other person instead of overwhelming them with your own excitement. In digital communication, take time to write thoughtful, respectful messages that provide context and show consideration. Before debating emotional issues, understand where someone is coming from instead of leading with facts alone. Use AI to support your thinking, but preserve authentic judgment and relationships where trust depends on your own words. "What people are really craving is to be understood, not to be impressed.” — Danny Bobrow About Danny Bobrow: Daniel A. “Danny” Bobrow is the creator of The Art of First Impressions™ and The Persuasion Blueprint™, communication mastery programs that help businesses build trust and drive ethical conversion. He is President of AIM Dental Marketing, which has helped grow dental practices since 1989, and serves as Executive Director of Climb for a Cause™ and The Smile Tree™. Danny is the Founding Executive Committee Chair of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health and holds two MBAs from the University of Chicago and K.U.L. Belgium. A Distinguished Toastmaster, mediator, mountaineer, and endurance athlete, Danny champions pa...

Artem Koren: How AI Will Soon Do More Than Take Notes—It Will Build Your Business

Aug 4, 2026 37 min

AI can now do far more than summarize meetings. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Artem Koren explore how meeting intelligence is evolving into AI that helps leaders execute business goals, improve collaboration, and rethink the future of work. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Artem Koren discuss: The evolution of AI-powered meeting intelligence Connecting everyday work to organizational goals Practical AI applications for business workflows Leadership behaviors in times of uncertainty Balancing automation with human judgment Key Takeaways: AI can remove repetitive work, but leaders should continue reviewing its output to ensure it reflects their own thinking, judgment, and communication style. Custom AI workflows can help organizations evaluate meetings against their own standards, making it easier to reinforce desired behaviors and improve consistency. Rather than focusing only on individual tasks, AI can help employees connect their daily work to broader business goals and organizational priorities. When problems arise, leaders build stronger teams by staying calm, assessing the situation, addressing the immediate issue, and learning from what happened instead of reacting emotionally. Use AI to support decisions and execution, but preserve the human moments that strengthen relationships, trust, and personal connection. "Assess the situation, stop the bleed, figure out what you do to prevent this thing from happening in the future, and implement those changes.” — Artem Koren About Artem Koren: Artem is the Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder of Semby AI. Artem has 16+ years of product management experience and has applied AI learning to his work since 2009. Artem is passionate about using AI to enrich humanity and create positive change. Connect with Artem Koren: Website: https://www.sembly.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akoren/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.c...

Glenn Poulos: Why Most Salespeople Fail Before the Conversation Even Begins

Jul 28, 2026 50 min

Strong sales conversations are built long before the pitch begins. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Glenn Poulos explore practical strategies for building trust, strengthening customer relationships, and creating memorable buying experiences in both in-person and virtual sales environments. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Glenn Poulos discuss: Relationship-driven approaches to professional selling Adapting traditional sales practices for virtual environments Communication techniques that strengthen customer trust Career decisions, entrepreneurship, and business growth Lessons learned from decades of sales and leadership experience Key Takeaways: Listening carefully, remembering people, and learning about their environment creates stronger trust than leading with product features. Instead of covering everything you offer, identify the customer's primary problem and build your presentation around solving it. Whether meeting in person or virtually, thoughtful preparation, genuine rapport, and attention to detail leave a stronger impression than a polished sales pitch. Working for strong, market-leading organizations can create greater career growth and reduce the effort spent defending your value. Recognizing what you do well, letting go of poor-fit pursuits, and building on your strengths leads to greater confidence and effectiveness. "You only have one life to live, so you should always work for the best possible company.” — Glenn Poulos About Glenn Poulos: Glenn Poulos is a three-time entrepreneur and seasoned strategist leading ProgUSA, a long-standing power industry supplier focused on equipment and tools supporting today’s grid and tomorrow’s data center power needs. He previously built and exited two successful companies, including Gap Wireless, which grew to more than $80 million in sales before its eight-figure exit. He is the multiple international award-winning author of Never Sit in the Lobby and is known for blending sharp...

Ashley Jablow: Why the Best Leaders Design Culture Instead of Managing It

Jul 21, 2026 48 min

Great leadership doesn't begin with better answers—it begins with asking better questions. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ashley Jablow explore how design thinking can help leaders create intentional cultures, embrace uncertainty, and make better decisions through empathy, experimentation, and purposeful action. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ashley Jablow discuss: Applying design thinking beyond product development Why organizational culture should be intentionally designed Innovation, leadership, and navigating uncertainty Creativity within organizational and personal constraints Designing meaningful careers and life transitions Key Takeaways: Start every challenge by understanding the people involved before jumping to solutions. Ashley explains that designing with empathy leads to more effective decisions for employees, customers, and leaders alike. Favor small, fast experiments over waiting for perfect plans. Ashley encourages leaders to learn from each attempt, iterate, and build confidence through continuous experimentation. Building innovative teams requires creating enough trust and psychological safety for people to contribute ideas, take healthy risks, and learn from failures without fear. Constraints such as limited time, resources, or existing commitments can become productive design tools by narrowing focus and encouraging more creative problem-solving. When facing uncertainty, Ashley recommends asking, “What is the smallest, fastest, cheapest thing that I could do or try today to learn the most?” to identify low-risk actions that generate valuable learning and momentum. "You kind of have to build the plane while you're flying it.” — Ashley Jablow About Ashley Jablow: Ashley Jablow (Jab-lo, pronouns: she/her) is the founder of Wayfinders Collective and creator of Life Design School, a creative studio for people in career and life transition. A seasoned facilitator, speaker, coach, and design strategist, Ashley blends d...

Ryan Englin: The Hidden Cost of Employee Disengagement: What Leaders Are Missing

Jul 14, 2026 45 min

High-performing organizations don't improve engagement by chance. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ryan Englin explore why employee engagement is ultimately a leadership responsibility and how small, consistent actions can strengthen retention, trust, and business performance. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ryan Englin discuss: The relationship between leadership and employee engagement Recruiting as part of an organization's marketing strategy Building workplace cultures that improve retention Practical approaches to gathering employee feedback The business impact of disengagement on organizational performance Key Takeaways: Leaders should regularly measure engagement through short quarterly pulse surveys and communicate what actions will be taken, helping employees see that their feedback leads to meaningful change. Frequent feedback conversations are more effective than relying solely on annual performance reviews because employees need ongoing clarity about expectations and opportunities for growth. According to Ryan, organizations attract stronger candidates when they become workplaces people genuinely want to join rather than relying primarily on recruiting tactics. Ryan argues that engagement grows when employees feel cared for, develop trusted workplace relationships, and have opportunities to build meaningful connections with colleagues. Disengagement can create measurable business costs through turnover, rework, overtime, and lower productivity, making employee engagement a leadership and financial priority. "When you have an engaged workforce, they want to work for you, and they want to continue working for you.” — Ryan Englin About Ryan Englin: Ryan Englin is passionate about helping growing businesses, particularly in blue-collar industries, build productive companies by hiring the right people. Growing up, he watched his father work long hours as an owner/operator and witnessed firsthand the challenges of hiring and ret...

Ty Givens: Will AI Replace Customer Service? The Surprising Truth About What Customers Really Want

Jul 7, 2026 35 min

AI is rapidly changing how organizations serve customers, but the most important business decisions still require human judgment. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ty Givens explore the evolving relationship between automation, customer experience, and leadership. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ty Givens discuss: The evolving relationship between technology and customer experience How organizations are adapting to rapid changes in AI Challenges and opportunities emerging in today's workforce The realities behind automation, efficiency, and business performance Skills and mindsets that remain valuable in a changing environment Key Takeaways: AI works best when it handles routine questions quickly while still providing clear paths to human support when customers need it. Customer experience remains a competitive advantage, and companies that ignore the human side of service risk damaging loyalty and trust. The role of customer service professionals is evolving from handling transactions to managing, training, and improving AI-driven systems. Many organizations may be moving too quickly with AI implementation, often attempting to automate complex processes before the technology is ready. As automation expands, critical thinking, judgment, empathy, and complex problem-solving become even more valuable human skills. "Happy employees create happy customers, and the opposite of that is also true.” — Ty Givens About Ty Givens: Ty Givens is the Founder and CEO of CX Collective and CX Collective Advantage, bringing over 25 years of hands-on experience helping companies transform chaotic customer support teams into strategic growth engines. She has optimized operations and driven customer retention for major brands like Thrive Market, ShoeDazzle, See's Candies, and Intuit. People often call her the most relatable voice in CX because she’s lived the work and knows what it feels like to inherit big expectations with limited support. Known for blen...

Stephanie Trager: The Rise of the Conscious Futurist: Are We Predicting the Future Wrong?

Jun 30, 2026 43 min

What if the future can't be understood through data, strategy, and forecasts alone? In this episode, Dean Newlund and Stephanie Trager explore how intuition, consciousness, self-awareness, and expanded perception may help leaders navigate uncertainty in entirely new ways. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Stephanie Trager discuss: What it means to become a “conscious futurist” The limitations of purely linear thinking when navigating uncertainty How stories, beliefs, and worldviews shape the futures we create Intuition, consciousness, non-linear perception, and expanded awareness Indigenous wisdom, nature connection, and the inner work of leadership Key Takeaways: The future is shaped not only by trends and data but also by the stories and assumptions people collectively believe. Leaders may benefit from balancing analytical thinking with intuition, reflection, and broader forms of awareness. Identity shifts and personal transformation often create opportunities to see new possibilities and futures. Expanding perception beyond conventional ways of thinking can open new approaches to leadership and decision-making. Greater connection to self, others, and the natural world can help leaders navigate uncertainty with more clarity and intention. "The conscious futurist is able to have the intellectual [and] analytical capacity to discern... and also to sort of expand perception about reality.” — Stephanie Trager About Stephanie Trager: Stephanie Trager is a conscious futurist, systems thinker, and strategic advisor with more than 30 years of multidisciplinary experience working at the intersection of ancient and future intelligence. An attorney with a background in human rights, environmental justice, and corporate litigation, she brings analytical depth to questions of ethics, governance, leadership, and human potential. Her counsel spans Fortune 100 leaders, impact investors, family offices, founders, and next-generation inheritors navigati...

Randy Lyman: The Physicist Who Says Your Emotions Shape Reality

Jun 23, 2026 49 min

What if the reason success still feels incomplete has less to do with achievement and more to do with emotions you've never fully processed? In this episode, Dean Newlund and Randy Lyman explore how emotional healing, consciousness, and self-awareness can transform both leadership and life. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Randy Lyman discuss: The connection between emotional healing, personal growth, and business success How unresolved emotional experiences influence behavior, relationships, and leadership Randy's perspectives on consciousness, spirituality, and the nature of reality The relationship between thoughts, emotions, and the law of attraction Practical approaches for processing emotional pain and developing greater self-awareness Key Takeaways: Emotional awareness and healing can unlock personal growth and leadership effectiveness that achievement alone may not provide. Unprocessed emotional experiences often continue influencing decisions, relationships, and behavior long after the original event. Randy believes that developing greater emotional awareness helped him become a more effective leader and contributed to significant business growth. Practical tools such as EFT tapping, breathwork, journaling, and intention-setting can help people process emotions and develop greater self-awareness. Personal transformation does not require perfection; growth happens through intention, self-reflection, and a willingness to learn through mistakes. "Once I became more balanced, my life became better, my businesses grew, and my entire strategy about life changed.” — Randy Lyman About Randy Lyman: Randy Lyman is a physicist, entrepreneur, and emotional‑intelligence expert who blends science, spirituality, and human transformation. After building multiple eight‑figure companies, he discovered emotional awareness as the key to fulfillment and leadership. In his book, The Third Element, he teaches individuals and teams to release emotiona...

Steve Jaffe: The Layoff Journey: How to Turn Job Loss Into Reinvention

Jun 16, 2026 41 min

What if losing your job isn’t the end of your career story, but the beginning of a more intentional one? In this episode, Dean Newlund and Steve Jaffe explore how layoffs can become powerful opportunities for resilience, self-discovery, and reinvention. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Steve Jaffe discuss: Why layoffs often mirror the stages of grief and emotional recovery The myth of meritocracy and why high performers can still lose their jobs How job loss challenges identity, purpose, and self-worth Building resilience through adversity, failure, and life transitions How to approach career pivots, transferable skills, and industry disruption Key Takeaways: Layoffs often trigger a grief process that includes denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance, reconstruction, and renewal. Losing a job can force valuable self-reflection about identity, values, priorities, and long-term career direction. Resilience is built through adversity, and setbacks often create the coping skills needed for future success. Letting go of shame and self-blame allows people to move forward more effectively after job loss. Professionals can reduce future career risk by developing transferable skills, adapting to industry shifts, and staying aware of emerging trends. "Instead of looking backwards, you look forward.” — Steve Jaffe About Steve Jaffe: Steve Jaffe is the author of The Layoff Journey From Dismissal to Discovery: Navigating the Stages of Grief After Job Loss and a four-time layoff survivor. Drawing on his own experiences and a 25-year career in advertising and marketing, including work on the iconic “What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas” campaign, he helps readers navigate job loss through the stages of grief, rebuild confidence, and move forward with clarity and resilience. He holds a degree in journalism and communication from San Diego State University. Connect with Steve Jaffe: Website: https://thestevejaffe.com/ Substack: https://...

Mitch McDermott: The Future of Hiring: Why Companies Using Too Much AI Will Lose Great Talent

Jun 9, 2026 46 min

What happens when hiring becomes almost entirely automated? In this episode, Dean Newlund and Mitch McDermott explore why the companies that preserve human connection may outperform those that turn recruiting into a purely transactional process. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Mitch McDermott discuss: How AI is transforming recruiting, hiring, and talent acquisition The risks of removing the human element from the hiring process Why have workplaces become increasingly transactional in recent years Practical strategies for standing out in a competitive job market The leadership and relationship skills that will matter most in the future of work Key Takeaways: AI can improve recruiting efficiency, but organizations still need human judgment to identify culture fit, potential, and long-term success. The best candidates are not always the ones with the most optimized resumes, which creates risks when hiring relies too heavily on automated screening. Job seekers can improve their chances by bypassing crowded application systems and building direct relationships with decision-makers. Organizations that create meaningful employee connections may gain a competitive advantage as work becomes increasingly automated. High-quality effort, authentic communication, and relationship-building remain powerful differentiators in both hiring and leadership. "High-quality effort gets high-quality results. Everyone is doing low effort, and most people in their job search are seeing low results.” — Mitch McDermott About Mitch McDermott: Mitch McDermott is an entrepreneur, talent advisor, and Founder & CEO of Talent Ascension Group, where he is advancing how companies evaluate, hire, and build mid-level leadership teams. He is recognized for challenging how the recruitment industry is structured and for pioneering a modern approach to mid-level leadership hiring by applying executive search standards to Manager, Director, and VP-level roles. Beyond his work,...

Celeste Warren: Why Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Isn’t Going Away — And What Leaders Still Get Wrong

Jun 2, 2026 45 min

What if much of the backlash around diversity, equity, and inclusion comes from misunderstanding what those ideas were actually meant to be? In this episode, Dean Newlund and Celeste Warren unpack the leadership, hiring, and workplace realities behind one of the most emotionally charged conversations in business today. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Celeste Warren discuss: What diversity, equity, and inclusion actually mean inside organizations Why equity is often misunderstood as lowering standards or giving preferential treatment How hiring practices, bias, and talent pipelines shape workplace representation The role of leadership, culture, and belonging in organizational performance Why do many companies quietly continue this work even as public language around DEI changes Key Takeaways: Diversity simply reflects differences in people, experiences, identities, and perspectives that exist within organizations and customer groups. Inclusion is about creating a culture where people feel valued, supported, and connected to a shared organizational purpose. Equity is not about lowering standards; it is about recognizing different starting points and creating fair access to opportunities. Organizations often limit talent pools by repeatedly recruiting from the same places instead of broadening where they search for qualified candidates. Strong leadership requires reducing bias in hiring and management processes while still selecting people based on skills, capability, and experience. "The most qualified person that has those skills, capabilities, and all of those experiences and characteristics can be embodied in a multitude of different identities.” — Celeste Warren About Celeste Warren: Celeste Warren is a visionary leader who spent 28 years at a global Fortune 100 company, rising to Vice President and Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer. After retiring, she founded Celeste Warren Consulting, LLC, where she helps organizations create fa...

Lisa Riegel: Why Your Brain Resists Change—and How to Rewire It for Growth

May 26, 2026 42 min

What if the reason leaders stay stuck in stress, overwork, or emotional reactivity has less to do with discipline—and more to do with unconscious survival patterns? In this episode, Dean Newlund and Lisa Riegel explore how hidden conditioning shapes leadership behavior, decision-making, and the ability to stay calm and present under pressure. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Lisa Riegel discuss: How the brain and nervous system influence stress and leadership behavior Why do people naturally resist change and uncertainty The role past experiences play in emotional reactions and decision-making How technology and constant stimulation affect focus and regulation Ways leaders can create cultures built on trust and psychological safety Key Takeaways: The brain prioritizes safety over growth, so uncertainty and change can trigger fear, anxiety, and resistance even when the change is positive. Stress, sedentary lifestyles, and constant digital stimulation can dysregulate the nervous system and reduce emotional resilience and self-awareness. Leaders often underestimate how deeply identity, past experiences, and unconscious associations shape employees’ reactions to change. Strong workplace cultures are built through consistent human connection and shared belonging—not slogans, posters, or surface-level initiatives. Excessive dependence on social media, AI, and digital stimulation may weaken emotional regulation, cognitive engagement, and authentic human connection. "You construct your own identity, and you construct your own reality, and you have a lot of control over how you do that.” — Lisa Riegel About Lisa Riegel: Over the past twenty years, Dr. Lisa Riegel has worked with organizations to leverage their human systems as a key driver for organizational climate, productivity, and engagement. She facilitates strategic planning and is sought for her ability to operationalize vision and lead transformation that sticks. She partners with leade...

Scott Proposki: Reinvention Story — From Photographing Michael Jackson to Losing Everything in COVID

May 19, 2026 52 min

What happens when a multimillion-dollar photography business goes to near-zero almost overnight during the pandemic? In this episode, Dean Newlund and Scott Proposki unpack the hard reset that forced a shift from chasing revenue to building a truly profitable, scalable business. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Scott Proposki discuss: Scott’s journey from photographer to entrepreneur and business advisor What it’s like to lose a successful business overnight during the pandemic The difference between chasing revenue and building a profitable company Why do many entrepreneurs ignore financial leaks in their business How mindset shifts and coaching help you rebuild and refocus Key Takeaways: Revenue growth alone doesn’t equal success; profitability is what sustains a business. The pandemic exposed weaknesses in many business models, forcing leaders to rethink scalability and resilience. Entrepreneurs often overlook hidden financial leaks that quietly erode profitability. A shift in mindset, from operator to strategic business owner, is critical for long-term growth. Coaching and outside perspective can accelerate clarity and help leaders pivot more effectively. "We’re all looking for revenue, revenue generating, getting leads and getting customers and funnels and getting—but what about the cash in your business that’s probably going out the door that you don’t even know?” — Scott Proposki About Scott Proposki: Scott Proposki is a photographer, entrepreneur, and author with 27 years behind the camera, capturing stories for National Geographic, the White House, Microsoft, HBO, and top global brands. In 2019, he released Camera Focus to help creatives with ADHD harness their strengths. He never expected the book to save him when the pandemic wiped out his business in a week. After three years of silence, depression, and rebuilding, its principles helped him reinvent himself and create the Camera Focus Method™, a system empowering photograp...

Kendra Dahlstrom: Why High Achievers Get Triggered at Work and How Great Leaders Regulate

May 12, 2026 42 min

What if brilliant leaders stumble not from lack of skill but from hidden, childhood‑wired patterns and chronic stress? In this episode, Dean Newlund interviews Kendra Dahlstrom to reveal how cultivating self‑awareness and emotional regulation can restore presence, decision quality, and leadership freedom. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Kendra Dahlstrom discuss: Why high-achieving leaders sometimes react in ways they later regret The concept of the “window of tolerance” and how stress impacts behavior How digital habits and modern work environments increase reactivity The influence of childhood experiences on leadership patterns and coping mechanisms Practical approaches to building self-awareness and improving emotional regulation Key Takeaways: Emotional intelligence, especially self-awareness and self-regulation, is essential for sound decision-making and leadership under pressure. Chronic stress and constant digital stimulation push leaders outside their window of tolerance, increasing reactivity. Early life experiences often shape coping patterns like workaholism or overcontrol that show up in leadership behavior. Evaluating the real costs of behaviors helps leaders distinguish productive habits from harmful ones. Improving emotional regulation strengthens presence, clarity, and overall leadership effectiveness. "Errors are expensive, and the higher you are up in the hierarchy, the more expensive an error will be.” — Kendra Dahlstrom About Kendra Dahlstrom: Kendra is an executive coach and senior advisor to high-achieving leaders operating in complex, high-stakes environments. She specializes in emotional intelligence, intuition-informed decision making, executive presence, and leadership under pressure. Her work helps CEOs, founders, and senior executives resolve internal misalignment, regulate nervous system responses, and lead with clarity, authority, and integrity. Drawing on decades of experience advising Fortune 50 companies...

Santosh Kumar: Calm Leaders Make Better Decisions: Using Wearables to Track Stress in Real Time

May 5, 2026 46 min

What if your stress isn’t just affecting your mood—but quietly shortening your life and weakening your decisions? In this episode, Santosh Kumar reveals how managing your heart rate and releasing stress can unlock clearer thinking, better leadership, and a longer life. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Santosh Kumar discuss: The concept of a lifetime “heart rate budget” and how it affects longevity The difference between physical stress and emotional stress How calmness directly impacts decision-making and leadership effectiveness The role of wearable technology in tracking stress and improving self-awareness Practical ways to release stress and prevent long-term health and performance decline Key Takeaways: Leaders can improve both longevity and performance by managing how they “spend” their heart rate budget and investing in habits like exercise. Unreleased emotional stress is more harmful than physical exertion because the body generates energy that isn’t used. Calmness improves decision-making, while stress narrows thinking and drives short-term, reactive choices. Simple actions like movement or breathing can release stress in real time and restore clarity. Wearable tools can build awareness of stress patterns today, while team-level stress visibility is feasible but not yet released. "You don't get to control what is your budget, but you get to control how you spend that budget.” — Santosh Kumar About Santosh Kumar: Santosh Kumar is the Lillian & Morrie Moss Chair of Excellence Professor in Computer Science at the University of Memphis and CEO & Cofounder of CuesHub. He is also Director of NIH-funded national research centers in Wearable AI called the mDOT Center and the MD2K Center of Excellence. He has been recognized as America's Ten Most Brilliant Scientists by Popular Science magazine, has been invited to give a talk on the Future of Biosensors at the White House, and has received the Distinguished Alumni Award from The Ohio St...

Kris Land: The Spiritual Side of Leadership: Purpose, Consciousness, and Business Success

Apr 28, 2026 40 min

Do we really have a soul, and does believing in it change anything? Kris Land joins Dean Newlund to unpack four powerful questions that reveal why your deepest growth, purpose, and leadership may depend on how you answer. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Kris Land discuss: The emptiness that can follow early success without a sense of purpose The concept of soul consciousness and the human experience as a “game of life” How leaders can integrate spirituality and business in meaningful ways The idea of co-creation, karma, and personal responsibility in life outcomes Why forgetting and rediscovering purpose is part of growth and leadership Key Takeaways: Success without purpose can lead to emptiness, making deeper self-exploration essential. View life and leadership as a co-creative process shaped by choices, awareness, and responsibility. Embrace both the emotional and spiritual dimensions of the human experience to grow as a leader. Recognize that losing and rediscovering purpose is part of the journey toward clarity and fulfillment. "There's a lot more going on than we're told, and that we're told to believe.” — Kris Land About Kris Land: Kris Land is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and transformational thought leader specializing in leadership development, conscious entrepreneurship, emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven innovation. He has founded and successfully exited multiple high-tech companies and now helps leaders and creators align strategy with authenticity and human-centered growth. Kris is the author of The Infinity Within, an award-winning spiritual and personal development book exploring fear transformation, inner alignment, and self-leadership. His work bridges business, mindset transformation, and spiritual awakening, helping individuals and organizations create sustainable success, authentic brands, and meaningful impact. Connect with Kris Land: Website: https://krisland.com/ Book: https://theinfinityw...

Amy Bouque: The Future of Work 2026: Why Skills Matter More Than Degrees (and How AI Changes Hiring)

Apr 21, 2026 46 min

Why are top performers saying “no thanks” to leadership roles? Discover how shifting expectations, AI, and new career paths are reshaping what ambition looks like in today’s workforce. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Amy Bouque discuss: The shift from traditional hiring to managing full workforce ecosystems Rethinking degree requirements and prioritizing demonstrated skills and experience The growing importance of critical thinking in an AI-driven workplace How organizations can develop talent through alternative career paths and training The evolving role of leadership in building adaptable, future-ready workforces Key Takeaways: Move beyond degree requirements and focus on demonstrated skills, learning agility, and real-world experience when hiring. Develop workforce ecosystems that integrate full-time, contract, and alternative talent to stay adaptable. Prioritize critical thinking and discernment as essential skills in an AI-augmented workplace. Invest in employee development and alternative career pathways to build a more resilient and inclusive workforce. "We need leaders who understand how AI can and will disrupt work, the workforce, and keep a steady hand at the wheel, helping it make sense and helping people.” — Amy Bouque About Amy Bouque: Amy Bouque has a passion for empowering people to thrive at work and in life. As Chief People Officer for Kelly, a global leader in providing strategic workforce solutions and connecting talented people to great companies, she does exactly that. Amy leads the human resources practices for the more than 5,000 internal full-time Kelly employees around the world. She views their dedication to connecting people of all backgrounds with work that enriches their lives as a truly noble cause. Connect with Amy Bouque: Website: https://www.kellyservices.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybouque/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/kellyservices/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Busine...

Andrea Wanerstrand: Why Being Nice at Work Breaks Trust

Apr 14, 2026 39 min

Is “being nice” quietly damaging your culture? Discover why kindness, not niceness, is the real superpower of modern leadership, and how it transforms trust, accountability, and performance. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Andrea Wanerstrand discuss: The critical difference between being nice and being kind in leadership How “nice” cultures create false harmony, passive-aggressive behavior, and broken trust The importance of authenticity, autonomy, and accountability in building high-performing teams Belonging vs. fitting in and how it impacts trust, engagement, and connection The shift toward human-centric leadership and its impact on engagement and workplace expectations Key Takeaways: Prioritize kindness over niceness by having honest, constructive conversations that support growth and build trust. Foster authenticity, autonomy, and accountability to create consistent leadership and stronger team performance. Focus on belonging rather than fitting in to build genuine connections and reduce isolation within teams. Design team structures are intentionally created with clear roles, responsibilities, and collaboration models to avoid dysfunction and repeated reorg cycles. "Nice is like icing on the top, whereas you can get the depth with true kindness.” — Andrea Wanerstrand About Andrea Wanerstrand: Andrea Wanerstrand is a seasoned leadership strategist, executive coach, and founder of A3 Culture Lab, with over 25 years of experience inside global giants like Microsoft, Meta, T-Mobile, and Hitachi. She helps leaders shift from burnout to bold influence through her Mindset Maven Method and A3 philosophy: Authentic, Autonomous, and Accountable. Andrea has designed programs that have impacted leaders from more than 100 countries. She blends neuroscience, behavioral strategy, and sharp business insight to drive powerful cultural change. Her work enables organizations to build high-performing, human-centric workplaces where people truly thriv...

Jarrod Lopiccolo: Why Everything Is Turning Gray—and What It’s Doing to Your Brain and Brand

Apr 7, 2026 53 min

In the absence of a story, people make one up. Learn how to use color, environment, and clear narrative to guide behavior, lead change, and align your team around a shared “why.” In this episode, Dean Newlund and Jarrod Lopiccolo discuss: The role of brand, color, and design in shaping perception and business impact Authenticity in leadership and how it connects to brand credibility Brand architecture and the importance of clarity across offerings and messaging Aligning marketing and sales through consistent storytelling and positioning Treating your organization as its own client to drive culture, consistency, and growth Key Takeaways: Audit your brand for consistency across visuals, messaging, and customer experience to ensure alignment with your intended identity. Define clear brand architecture so your offerings are easy to understand and communicate internally and externally. Align marketing and sales teams around a shared narrative to eliminate disconnects and improve effectiveness. Apply the same strategic rigor to your own organization as you would for a client, including storytelling, positioning, and change management. "[Marketing and sales] need to come together…..because people that are on the front line doing the sales, they know what their competitors are doing.” — Jarrod Lopiccolo About Jarrod Lopiccolo: Jarrod Lopiccolo transforms brands through creative digital performance marketing with a strong architectural background. A veteran of 40+ podcasts and 100+ speaking engagements across North America and Europe, he delivers actionable insights for audiences to implement immediately. As CoFounder and CEO of Noble Studios, Jarrod has built an international agency serving Adobe, Google, and Disney while being recognized by Inc. Magazine and Ad Age. His expertise in digital marketing strategy, leadership development, and sustainable tourism makes him ideal for shows targeting CMOs, leaders, and founders. Audiences appreciate hi...

Justine Froelker: Courage at Work: How to Lead with Empathy and Accountability (Without Burnout)

Mar 31, 2026 38 min

About Justine Froelker: A Licensed Professional Counselor, Justine Froelker has over 25 years of experience in mental health, personal growth, and professional development, and was certified for eleven years in Dr. Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability, courage, and empathy. She now shares her own curriculum, Courage is Built Here™, empowering individuals to live and lead with self-awareness, authenticity, and resilience. An accomplished author of twelve books—including five Amazon bestsellers—and a TEDx speaker, she presents globally on leadership, resilience, mental health, burnout, and fostering cultures of inclusion and belonging. Justine lives in St. Louis with her husband Chad and volunteers at Wild Bird Rehabilitation while raising monarch and swallowtail butterflies. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Justine Froelker discuss: The hidden emotional cost of high performance, burnout, and declining engagement How unresolved grief and trauma show up in leadership Empathy and accountability as complementary leadership traits The role of self-awareness and vulnerability in breaking destructive patterns and building trust Rewriting internal narratives and the organizational impact of investing in people development on engagement and retention Key Takeaways: Identify recurring emotional triggers in your behavior and seek feedback from trusted listeners, coaches, or therapists to uncover unresolved grief or trauma driving your reactions. Practice intentional vulnerability while maintaining accountability to build trust, connection, and stronger team dynamics. Rewrite limiting internal stories through consistent practice, questioning their truth, and reinforcing new narratives with support. Create space for self-reflection and implement regular peer and leader-led check-ins to strengthen awareness, emotional regulation, and team-wide adoption. "You have to let someone in, in order for them to meet you with empathy, because at the root of all of th...

Torrie Taj: Leading with Abundance: How Innovation Is Transforming Child & Family Wellness

Mar 24, 2026 40 min

About Torrie Taj: Torrie Taj is a nonprofit leader with more than 30 years of experience in philanthropy and human services. As CEO of Child Crisis Arizona, she leads efforts to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect after beginning her career as a volunteer in 1991 and rising through multiple leadership roles. For nearly five decades, Child Crisis Arizona has been a trusted partner to children and families across our state, stepping in during moments of crisis and working year-round to prevent them. Our mission is simple and urgent: to provide children and youth in Arizona a safe environment free from abuse and neglect by creating strong, successful families. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Torrie Taj discuss: Leading nonprofits with both heart and financial discipline The long-term impact that foster care support can have on a child’s life Why nonprofits must create a financial margin to sustain their mission Reframing fear and scarcity into hope and abundance in leadership Collaboration across organizations to serve communities more effectively Key Takeaways: Balance compassion with operational discipline by ensuring a financial margin exists to sustain the mission long term. Reframe fear and scarcity conversations into opportunity and abundance to keep teams motivated during uncertainty. Hire employees and recruit board members who are genuinely aligned with the organization’s mission and values. Actively pursue collaboration with other organizations instead of competition to expand community impact. "If you truly believe in what you're doing, you're going to attract that money and be able to do the work you want to do.” — Torrie Taj Connect with Torrie Taj: Website: https://www.childcrisisaz.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildCrisisAZ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childcrisisaz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/child-crisis-arizona/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdjlPRLivViekIenh5vi...

Whitney Faires: The Hidden Cost of Promoting High Performers: When Leadership Isn’t What They Think

Mar 17, 2026 44 min

About Whitney Faires: Whitney Faires is an internationally recognized executive coach, keynote speaker, and leadership advisor with 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Formerly Chief of Staff to the CFO at Intuitive Surgical, she led high-impact organizational health initiatives, launched global leadership development programs, and coached rising professionals into senior roles. Her multifaceted career spans sales, finance, and commercial operations, where she spearheaded the creation of a $2 billion international leasing portfolio. As the founder of Whitney Faires Coaching, she developed the Courageous Leader Roadmap—a practical approach for leaders to show up authentically, navigate adversity, and drive meaningful results. She is an ICF-accredited PCC coach and is passionate about helping leaders elevate their influence and build high-performing teams. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Whitney Faires discuss: Leading from default instead of intention Defining a leadership identity before leading others Connection as a competitive advantage Why tough conversations separate great leaders Preparing people for leadership before promotion Key Takeaways: Define your leadership identity by committing to six or eight specific principles you will share with your team about what they can expect from you. Ask yourself where you want to be in five or ten years, what work you enjoy most, and what skill gaps you want to develop before pursuing a leadership role. Call two or three trusted colleagues and ask about their transition into leadership, the skills they had to learn, and the hardest parts of the job. Assume the best intent and seek to understand before reacting when frustration rises in a leadership moment. "I think leaders are oftentimes going so fast that they're leading from default, a bit lost, a bit uncertain about who they need to be right now.” — Whitney Faires Connect with Whitney Faires: Website: https://whitneyfai...

Keren Eldad: When Hard Work Stops Working: Redefining Success, Drive, and Fulfillment

Mar 10, 2026 33 min

About Keren Eldad: A thought leader in the coaching world, Keren Eldad (“Coach Keren”) specializes in taking high achievers out of the futility of constant pursuit and into greater success and fulfillment. Her clients include Olympic athletes, politicians, Hollywood stars, Special Forces operatives, serial entrepreneurs, and global organizations such as Estée Lauder, J.P. Morgan, and Nike. She is the founder of THE CLUB, a community of leaders, entrepreneurs, and coaches who support each other to reach their fullest potential and make their greatest contribution. Recognized as a Top Ten Executive Coach by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), Real Leaders Magazine, and Goop, Keren holds gold-standard coaching credentials and advanced degrees from The London School of Economics and the University of Jerusalem. A former C-suite executive who has lived and worked in 17 countries, she now coaches leaders globally in four languages. With half a million views on her TEDx talks and speaking worldwide, her message transcends borders. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Keren Eldad discuss: Healthy drive versus overachievement Recognizing early warning signs before burnout Rewiring reactive conflict patterns Climbing down the wrong ladder Choosing coaching before trauma Key Takeaways: Use the Pause Principle by asking whether your reaction is the bigger problem, what else might be going on, and what the opportunity is. Apply the Work of Byron Katie by using the four questions in moments of conflict to inject mindfulness. Take 17 seconds in conflict to broaden your perspective before responding. Address behavioral change by intentionally changing elements of your environment, including the people you spend time with. "There's no behavioral change without addressing the environment.” — Keren Eldad Connect with Keren Eldad: Website: https://kereneldad.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgGViwGVn_yrHkq3PQ9R_-Q LinkedIn: https://...

Dr. John Oberg: Why Change Fails at Work—and the 3 Causes of Conflict You Can Fix

Mar 3, 2026 38 min

About Dr. John Oberg: Dr. John Oberg is a Founder, CEO, Board Director, Advisor, Professor, and Investor trusted by organizations to navigate growth, conflict, and change. He founded two Austin-based healthcare innovators: Sedera, a community-based medical cost-sharing organization (#193 on Inc 500, #26 in Financial Times Western Hemisphere), and Precina Health, a first-of-its-kind chronic care virtual medical practice and thought leader in AI deployment. He has served on the boards of OnlineMedEd and Health Admins and advises institutions, healthcare leaders, professional services firms, and nonprofits through John Oberg Advisory. John received his doctorate from the University of Southern California and his MBA from the University of New Mexico. He is an adjunct professor at USC and sits on the Board of Governors. Over three decades, he has authored patents, started companies, managed teams larger than 1,000 people, and studied the behavior of individuals, communities, and systems to catalyze improved behaviors and create best-in-class outcomes — and happier people. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Dr. John Oberg discuss: The distinction between eustress (healthy, muscle-building stress) and distress (harmful, breaking stress) Mental fatigue and the limits of cognitive processing The concept of an “emotional gas tank” and emotional capacity Radically incremental steps as a method for sustainable behavior change The role of community in motivating difficult but healthy actions Key Takeaways: Differentiate between eustress and distress and aim for muscle-building stress instead of broken-bone stress. Recognize that the brain can only process so much information and account for mental fatigue in how you work and lead. Take radically incremental steps toward change rather than attempting dramatic overhauls. Use the community as a tool to help yourself do difficult things you might avoid alone. "Community matters, I think, in the world, in wa...

Margaret Graziano: How to Measure Company Culture (and Prove ROI) Without Guesswork

Feb 24, 2026 45 min

About Margaret Graziano: Magi has spent her life reinventing herself. From a single mother at 19 working at the first Cable TV company, to leading one of the fastest-growing consultancies and becoming a best-selling author in her field of expertise, Magi has continually taken challenges and failure as lessons, and learned to move beyond her limits (both real and perceived) to live a life that inspires and contributes. Using a unique combination of experiential coaching, science-backed development tools, and actionable strategies, Magi empowers leaders to evolve themselves and their organizational culture to meet the moment. Whether it’s change initiatives, new leadership, or cultural transformation, she partners with teams to catalyze positive change. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Margaret Graziano discuss: Defining organizational culture as the ecosystem that turns vision into reality The measurable financial impact of culture on engagement, productivity, and EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) How stress, distraction, and insecurity since COVID have eroded workplace performance Why outdated post-World War II workplace architecture blocks innovation and trust The real cost of meetings and how they either drain energy or inspire change Key Takeaways: Explicitly teach self-regulation skills so employees can manage stress, fear, and emotional reactivity instead of letting it silently undermine performance. Audit meetings for cost, purpose, and energy impact, and redesign them to inspire change rather than search for blame or status updates. Hire and develop people based on competency, commitment to mission, and accountability rather than relying on goodwill or passion alone. Connect each role to a noble cause that matters beyond compensation, so employees operate from courage and belief in a positive future. "It is the ecosystem that turns the organization’s vision into reality.” — Margaret Graziano ...

Manny Fiteni: Why Smart Teams Still Underperform: The Subconscious Patterns Leaders Ignore

Feb 17, 2026 45 min

About Manny Fiteni: Manny Fiteni, CEO of My Growth Corporation, is a pioneering leadership strategist with 30+ years of corporate experience specializing in transformative personal development. Manny’s breakthrough “Mind Congruency” approach aligns conscious and subconscious minds, enabling individuals to overcome self-limiting beliefs and unlock peak performance, drawing insights from real-world, uncontrolled environments. Founder of Mind Growth 360 and Creators Agency, Manny’s work spans personal development networks and brand elevation platforms. His training programs enhance leadership skills, build organizational resilience, and drive high-performance team dynamics. As an author and international speaker, Manny provides actionable strategies for personal transformation, equipping individuals with practical tools to thrive personally and professionally. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Manny Fiteni discuss: Why information alone rarely produces lasting behavior changeMind congruency as a driver of performance and self-sabotageUsing stories and metaphors to communicate directly with the subconscious mindLeadership conditions for change, including rapport, safety, clear expectations, and leading by exampleReplacing habits through awareness, repetition, and a supportive environment Key Takeaways: Listen for repeated language patterns in yourself and your team over time to identify subconscious beliefs that may be shaping behavior and results.Use real stories when possible, and well-crafted fictional metaphors when needed, to bypass resistance and reach the subconscious, which does not distinguish between them.Practice “catch and replace” by interrupting unhelpful habits in real time, installing a better response, and intentionally tracking repetitions as you rehearse the replacement.Build a “focus ensemble” of people who reinforce your new autopilot settings rather than unconsciously pulling you back into old patterns. "We are the sum of our histories, and our...

Christine Blosdale: How to Build a Brand That Actually Connects in a Noisy Digital World

Feb 10, 2026 44 min

About Christine Blosdale: Christine Blosdale is 'The Expert Authority Coach', with over 25 years of experience helping entrepreneurs stop playing small and start owning their spotlight. She’s a five-time #1 bestselling author, an internationally recognized media personality, and a powerhouse content creator for brands like America Online and Microsoft. Christine’s superpower? Helping you become unforgettable through magnetic branding, smart marketing, and podcasting strategies that turn visibility into true authority. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Christine Blosdale discuss: Discovering purpose and voice through radio, storytelling, and mediaTransforming fear and imposter syndrome into creative expressionBuilding authentic connections with audiences through vulnerabilityUsing media platforms to educate, empower, and influence cultureIntegrating technology and AI as tools for amplifying human presence Key Takeaways: Use curiosity to follow the signal of what feels meaningful rather than chasing trends or validation.Treat vulnerability as a bridge for audience trust and emotional resonance in any format: radio, video, speaking, or writing.Convert fear into preparation by practicing your voice out loud and refining how you want to be heard.Leverage storytelling techniques and media tools (including AI) to expand your reach without compromising authenticity. "If you're not seen and you're not heard, you're not hired. It's simple, because nobody knows you exist.” — Christine Blosdale Connect with Christine Blosdale: Website: http://www.ExpertAuthorityCoach.com Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Christine-Blosdale/author/B088C19Y6K Show: The Expert Authority Coach Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-expert-authority-coach-podcast/id1073309606 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-blosdale-579697168/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christine.blosdale/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@christineblosdale.com See Dean’s TedTalk “Wh...

Oscar Trimboli: Deep Listening: The Leadership Skill That Transforms Teams and Results

Feb 3, 2026 44 min

About Oscar Trimboli: Oscar Trimboli is an award-winning author, host of the Apple award-winning podcast Deep Listening, and a sought-after keynote speaker. His third book is How to Listen – Discover the Hidden Key to Better Communication, a comprehensive book about listening in the workplace. Along with the Deep Listening Ambassador Community, he is on a quest to create 100 million deep listeners in the workplace. Through his work with chairs, boards of directors, and executive teams, Oscar has experienced first-hand the transformational impact leaders can have when they listen beyond words. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Oscar Trimboli discuss: The organizational cost of incomplete listening and misaligned understandingHearing versus listening and why action is the differentiatorHow role-based seniority correlates with roughly 2.5x more interruptions in meetingsThe cognitive delta between speaking, thinking, and listener processingPractical tools for improving meeting outcomes, collaboration, and decision-making Key Takeaways: Begin meetings by asking “What would make this a good meeting?” to align shared outcomes and reduce unspoken assumptions.Surface communication and listening preferences early to remove ambiguity and improve contribution equity.Write questions down first, shorten them to eight words or fewer, and verify that they serve the shared outcome rather than personal validation.Shift default meeting norms: avoid top-of-hour starts and shorten durations to reduce cognitive switching costs and increase presence. "I think a lot of leaders listen to what's said, and great leaders listen to what's not said.” — Oscar Trimboli Connect with Oscar Trimboli: Website: https://www.oscartrimboli.com Books: https://www.oscartrimboli.com/shop/ & https://www.amazon.com/stores/Oscar-Trimboli/author/B07R9RP1XZ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscartrimboli/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9...

Rasmus Holst: From Human Resources to Human Success: How HR Is Being Rewritten in the Age of AI

Jan 27, 2026 47 min

About Rasmus Holst: Rasmus Holst is the CEO of Zensai (formerly LMS365), where he built a learning management business from $0–30M ARR, bootstrapped, completed three acquisitions, and pioneered the “Human Success” category as a replacement for Human Resources. He has been part of management teams delivering exits just shy of $1bn, raised +$50m for companies like Wire and Huddle, and worked across PE-backed (Carlyle, Warburg Pincus) and VC-funded (General Atlantic, Index, Vertex, Morpheus, Iconical) environments. His experience spans scaling start-ups from zero revenue, operating +$300M Lines of Business at Syniverse, and leading branding and B2B storytelling efforts, including Zensai’s Red Dot Award and Great Place to Work recognition. Rasmus has managed global teams across 14 countries, traveled to +100 nations, and lived in Denmark, Luxembourg, and San Francisco, making him a leader with a uniquely international view on culture, growth, and balance. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Rasmus Holst discuss: Turning HR into Human Success and redefining what organizations measureLinking performance, learning, and engagement into one real-time scoreFeedback rituals and kudos culture as engines of team identityMeasuring soft skills through sentiment and peer behaviorAI as a teammate that amplifies human contribution instead of replacing it Key Takeaways: Replace annual HR lag metrics with weekly human success check-ins tied to learning, performance, and engagement.Institutionalize positive feedback (e.g., weekly kudos) to normalize critique, build confidence, and surface soft-skill leaders.Track soft skills through peer sentiment and recognition patterns rather than relying solely on manager evaluations.Use generationally agnostic baselines (showing up as a good human and delivering success) to align multicultural/global teams. "There’s a high correlation between people who get a lot of kudos and those who are really good at a lot of soft skills.” — Rasmus Holst Co...

Dr. Mary Donohue: The Dopamine Trap: How Tech Is Hijacking Human Focus and What to Do About It

Jan 20, 2026 37 min

About Dr. Mary Donohue: Dr. Mary Donohue is the CEO of the Digital Wellness Center, a three-time entrepreneur, Columbia Business School Lang Center Innovation Fellow, and Fortune Top 100 Businesswoman to Watch. She is the creator of Clean Mental Health™, a science-backed system that delivers instant relief from digital stress—through email, games, and tools that work faster than meditation—and a pioneer in the neuroscience of trust and digital behavior who has helped global brands like Microsoft and Casino.NL build emotionally intelligent platforms that protect users. Called a “modern McLuhan” for her work in media and meaning, her book Message Received is often referred to as the digital communication bible. She has taught burnout recovery to thousands, designed mood-regulating tools for Gen Z, and is currently working with Simon Sinek’s team on a new leadership course for the hybrid era. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Dr. Mary Donohue discuss: Digital overload and dopamine-driven behaviorsResetting the brain with playful emotional regulationGenerational differences in processing technologyDesigning proactive mental health tools for real environmentsPreventing addiction via behavior modification and breaks Key Takeaways: Introduce micro brain-breaks (short, no-signup playful exercises) to reduce stress and improve decision-making while keeping people on their devices.Tailor messaging and leadership communication to each generation’s preferred medium and processing style to increase engagement and psychological safety.Measure mood shifts before and after interventions to track changes in stress, focus, and emotional regulation using short self-report mood metrics.Deploy proactive mental-health micro-interventions in high-stress environments (airports, casinos, transportation, retail) and track uptake rates and mood impact. "My goal is to move them to happy in less than three minutes, because then we know research tells us you're making better decisions.” — Dr...

Donna Dupont: How Future-Ready Leaders Think: Turning Weak Signals into Strategy Before Disruption Hits

Jan 13, 2026 44 min

About Donna Dupont: Donna Dupont, Founder and Chief Strategist of Purple Compass, is an award-winning designer and futurist with over 25 years of experience collaborating with leaders. She helps organizations build future literacy, navigate uncertainty, and drive impactful change. Combining systems thinking with strategic foresight, she empowers leaders to mitigate risks, enhance preparedness, and seize opportunities for innovation, transformation, and resilience. Recognized with seven government awards, Donna’s work spans critical areas like climate change, health security, and emergency management, with her futures research earning accolades from the Canadian Defence and Security Network and the Association of Professional Futurists. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Donna Dupont discuss: Short-term problem solving versus long-term foresightWeak signals and emerging issues before disruption hitsAmbidextrous leadership balancing now and nextUsing disruption as fuel for innovationMental models shaping how leaders respond to uncertainty Key Takeaways: Schedule recurring leadership conversations that explore five- to ten-year future scenarios alongside quarterly planning.Actively identify weak signals by asking teams what new patterns they are seeing that they have never seen before.Create ambidextrous structures that protect business as usual while allowing innovation to be tested safely.Build psychological safety so teams feel comfortable sharing unconventional ideas and intuitive hunches. "When you are working with a future-oriented mindset, you're usually starting not from a management mindset, but more of an innovator or visionary.” — Donna Dupont Connect with Donna Dupont: Website: https://www.purplecompass.ca/ Email: donna@purplecompass.ca LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/donna-dupont FutureMinds Coaching Collective (free/monthly) - https://www.purplecompass.ca/coaching/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/w...

John Dwyer: From Seinfeld to $15 Billion: How Direct Response Marketing Beats Branding

Jan 6, 2026 39 min

About John Dwyer: John is a marketing enigma, a “direct response customer attraction expert” who thinks way outside the box, and his marketing consultancy business is called The Institute Of Wow, with John’s mantra being that one’s marketing needs to “wow” prospects. He’s also the guy who shocked the marketing world some years back when he convinced Jerry Seinfeld to come out of retirement to be the spokesman for an Australian banking institution, The Greater Building Society, heading up a “free vacation campaign” which broke home loan lending records and remains folklore in the global banking industry. This was probably one of the most successful “incentive-promotions” in the world, resulting in many billions of dollars in extra home loans. John helps business owners understand how to exploit platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn by implementing “incentive-based marketing offers” that can be targeted specifically to certain audiences. His client list reads like a Who’s Who of business and includes the likes of Rupert Murdoch’s News Ltd, 7-Eleven, Westfield Shopping Centres, Walt Disney, KFC, and BP, because they acknowledge he is “the master of creating incentives that work.” In this episode, Dean Newlund and John Dwyer discuss: Why most marketing efforts fail to prove real ROIHow direct response marketing builds brands and drives sales simultaneouslyThe role of incentives and sampling in moving customers off the fenceUsing data and statistics to earn credibility with executivesTranslating creative ideas into measurable business outcomes Key Takeaways: Track cost per lead and conversion rates daily so you can identify ad fatigue early and change creative before performance drops.Design marketing offers that distract attention from price by using incentives, sampling, or bonuses instead of discounts.Present marketing results to executives using statistics and ROI metrics rather than ideas, branding language, or vanity metrics.Turn your expert...

Luis Garcia: How AI Is Transforming Employee Training for Small and Mid-Sized Businesses

Dec 30, 2025 29 min

About Luis Garcia: Luis Garcia is a seasoned international executive with over 25 years of experience in technology, digital media, and education, specializing in driving new ventures and products to rapid growth by building effective teams that harness innovation, technology, and creativity. He is the president of PETE, an Orlando-based tech startup that enables organizations to deliver personalized workforce learning at scale using AI. Before joining PETE, Luis spent nearly twenty years at Full Sail University, where, as VP of Full Sail Online and VP of Emerging Technologies, he helped establish the institution as a pioneer in online education. Earlier in his career, he served as Vice President of Product Development at quepasa.com and holds an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Luis Garcia discuss: Scalable training challenges in small and mid-sized organizationsInstructional design versus training delivery rolesAI-powered learning and simulation technologyTeaching soft skills through self-paced educationBalancing technology and human interaction at work Key Takeaways: Replace shadowing-based onboarding with self-paced courses that can stand alone without relying on expert trainers.Separate instructional design from subject matter expertise to create training that scales without pulling leaders away from their jobs.Use AI-driven simulations to allow employees to practice real conversations like de-escalation and customer objections before facing them in real life.Design training around clear learning outcomes so employees can demonstrate applied behavior, not just memorized information. "AI is an enabler to supercharge the human, and not to replace it.” — Luis Garcia Connect with Luis Garcia: Website: https://www.pete.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisegarcia/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: Yo...

Ingrid Dahl: The Rebellious Leader: How Boldness, Vulnerability, and Connection Transform Teams

Dec 23, 2025 34 min

About Ingrid Dahl: Ingrid Hu Dahl is an author, speaker, and leadership coach, and the founder of her own coaching and consulting business dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders. With over two decades of experience in learning and development, she specializes in leadership, inclusion, and belonging across corporate, media, nonprofit, and social justice sectors. A TEDx speaker and founding member of the Willie Mae Rock Camp in Brooklyn, Ingrid has a lifelong passion for amplifying underrepresented voices and has written, filmed, and directed two short films exploring identity, representation, and the mixed-race experience. She is certified by the International Coaching Federation and the Center for Creative Leadership and lives in California with her wife, Courtney, and their dog, Palo Santo. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ingrid Dahl discuss: Blind spots that influence how leaders show upThe ego’s role in shaping team dynamicsEmotional patterns that affect leadership presenceChallenges of connection in virtual environmentsRebelliousness as a form of authentic leadership Key Takeaways: Create a practice of noticing ego-driven behaviors—in real time—and redirecting your focus back to purpose, connection, and the team’s shared outcome.Reduce trigger-based conflict by acknowledging your emotional reactions, identifying the belief underneath them, and choosing a different behavioral response that aligns with your values.Make virtual meetings more engaging by defining a clear purpose, rotating leadership, and setting explicit expectations for camera-on participation and shared contribution.Strengthen psychological safety by proactively asking team members about their fears, hopes, and needs, and modeling vulnerability without letting emotions dominate the environment. "The mundane allows the opportunity to disengage.” — Ingrid Dahl Connect with Ingrid Dahl: Website: https://www.ingridhudahl.com/ Book: Sun Shining on Morning Snow: https://www.sun...

Jason Hreha: Stop Forcing Change: What Behavioral Science Really Says About Leadership Growth

Dec 16, 2025 42 min

About Jason Hreha: Jason Hreha is a behavioral scientist and entrepreneur specializing in applying behavioral science to solve business challenges. After studying neuroscience at Stanford and conducting research in BJ Fogg's Persuasive Technology Lab, Jason has spent 15 years developing Behavioral Strategy, a methodical approach for turning research into actionable business solutions. As Global Head of Behavioral Science at Walmart, he established and led the company's first behavioral science team, and he also founded Dopamine and co-founded Kite.io, later acquired by Quixey. As CEO of Persona, Jason transforms talent assessment through research-backed psychometric tools that predict employee performance and fit, and his book Real Change challenges conventional approaches to habits through science-based frameworks. Jason's work has been cited in Atomic Habits and featured in Inc.com, Knowledge at Wharton, and BigThink, and he continues to advise organizations on applying behavioral science for innovation and growth. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Jason Hreha discuss: Understanding how core personality traits drive leadership effectivenessExploring why emotional stability underpins real emotional intelligenceExamining the limits of adult personality change and what that means for teamsRecognizing how interpersonal friction often comes from mismatched stylesConsidering how AI models express measurable personalities that shape user behavior Key Takeaways: Identify your own trait profile using a validated Big Five assessment so you can play the leadership “hand” you actually have instead of chasing traits you do not possess.Reduce conflict by assuming others cannot easily change their styles and instead adapt your expectations so collaboration becomes easier and less personal.Strengthen your culture by clarifying norms, incentives, and strategic consistency so the environment aligns behavior without needing personality change.Use AI tools more effectively by unde...

Jenn Cohen: Don’t Poo-Poo the Woo-Woo: How to Lead and Live Through Intuition

Dec 9, 2025 39 min

About Jenn Cohen: Jenn Cohen has always been captivated by the power of intuition. After a life-changing experience in her 20s, she explored how intuition could shape her life and career. During her 27 years in the entertainment industry, Jenn found that intuitive decisions often led to success. Now an intuitive consultant, she helps individuals and organizations unlock potential, gain clarity, and achieve their goals through practical, intuition-based strategies. Jenn’s work fosters growth, creativity, and purpose in both personal and professional realms. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Jenn Cohen discuss: How intuition functions as our original sense before logic takes overWhy does fear appear when intuition guides major life decisionsWhat it means to balance the left and right brain in leadershipHow spiritual practices help reconnect us to intuitive awarenessHow intuition can operate inside corporate and creative environments Key Takeaways: Build daily awareness by noticing your emotional cues in real time and using them as signals to pause rather than react.Strengthen intuitive decision-making by pairing logical analysis with moments of quiet presence where insight can surface.Use the I.A.M. method—Identify, Ask, Mend—to interrupt mental spirals and bring your nervous system back into balance.Practice meditation, nature immersion, or automatic writing consistently to keep your intuitive “channel” clear and accessible. "When we are able to connect with our intuition, with that spiritual side, what it does is allow us the opportunity to appreciate what is around us on this journey here on this physical Earth; it's not separate.” — Jenn Cohen Connect with Jenn Cohen: Website: https://www.jenncohenintuitive.com/ Email: jenn@jenncohenintuitive.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-cohen-intuitive-consultant/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https...

Brad Englert: How to Build Authentic Connections in a Transactional World

Dec 2, 2025 29 min

About Brad Englert: Brad Englert is the founder of Brad Englert Advisory and an author, advisor, career coach, and technologist. Brad worked for Accenture for 22 years, including 10 years as a partner. He then served the University of Texas at Austin for eight years, including seven years as the Chief Information Officer. Prior to Accenture, Brad held managerial positions in payroll/human resources and labor relations at the Internal Revenue Service, and was a high school teacher in Maitland, New South Wales, Australia. Brad earned a Master of Public Affairs degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor of Arts degree in social sciences with honors and distinction from Shimer College, which is now the Shimer Great Books School at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Brad Englert discuss: The difference between real relationships and surface-level networkingHow internal and external influences shape career growthBuilding trust with bosses, peers, and customersCreating meaningful connections in virtual work environmentsWhy authenticity and consistency drive long-term partnerships Key Takeaways: Focus your relationship building by clearly identifying your internal and external spheres of influence and then intentionally nurturing only the relationships that matter most to your goals.Strengthen your standing with your boss by consistently asking what they are trying to achieve, how you can support their success, and what expectations need to be clarified or reset.Build trust across teams by scheduling intentional one-to-one conversations—virtually or in person—where you learn what people value, what they struggle with, and how you can help.Create stronger long-term partnerships by showing up consistently, being transparent, and prioritizing proactive collaboration instead of only stepping in when problems arise. "You don’t have to build relationships with everyone—you need to be strategic and intentional.” —...