In today’s Daily Influence episode, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Gallup-certified strengths coach and founder of Sparkitect Coaching Studio, Jenny Henderson. Jenny shares her transformative journey—from high-pressure sales to impactful nonprofit work, and finally to a fulfilling career in coaching.

Discover how understanding your core strengths, like positivity and connectedness, can unlock authentic leadership and empower you to overcome career crossroads. Through engaging stories, including a powerful account of helping a client escape a toxic environment, Jenny reveals practical strategies for reframing challenges and sparking positive change in your personal and professional life.

Tune in for your daily dose of inspiration and learn how small, intentional actions can create a ripple effect of lasting influence.

Connect with Jenny at:

https://www.sparkitectcoaching.com/

jenny@sparkitectcoaching.com

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Eric Cohen, a CrossFit CFL2 coach and two-time CrossFit Games athlete, to discuss the transformative power of strength training—especially for individuals in their 50s and 60s. Eric shares inspiring stories of clients who have gained confidence and independence through fitness, debunks common myths about aging and exercise, and emphasizes the mental and physical benefits of consistent strength training. His approach to coaching goes beyond lifting weights—it’s about building a mindset of resilience, discipline, and growth. Tune in for actionable insights on how to stay strong, healthy, and motivated at any stage of life.

Connect with Eric Cohen: Instagram @EricRCohen https://www.instagram.com/ericrcohen/

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Kristin Wollam, a dynamic leader whose career spans from the glitz of Hollywood to the precision of financial planning. Kristin shares her transformative journey from working as a music supervisor on major projects like The Blind Side and Sex and the City 2 to building an all-female financial advisory practice at Morgan Stanley.

She opens up about her passion for mentorship, community building, and giving back, from teaching aspiring music professionals to empowering business owners and entertainers through strategic financial planning. As the founder of Women of Strategic Introductions League (WSILA) and a board member at Music Will, she champions meaningful networking and music education for underserved schools.

Kristin’s story is a testament to the power of embracing change, taking risks, and fostering deep connections. Tune in as she shares invaluable advice on leadership, reinvention, and making a lasting impact—whether in business, the arts, or personal growth.

Connect with Kristin at:

https://www.instagram.com/kristinnoellewollam/

Kristin.Wollam@morganstanley.com 

🎧 Listen now and be inspired to step outside your comfort zone and create the life you truly want!

In this uplifting episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Megan O’Brien, Event Coordinator at the Special Leisure Services Foundation (SLSF) and the Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA). Megan shares her inspiring journey from aspiring wedding planner to community leader, driven by her passion for creating inclusive events for individuals with disabilities.

Discover how Megan’s dedication to fostering kindness, teamwork, and creativity has shaped the events she organizes, bringing joy to participants, volunteers, and attendees alike. She offers heartfelt advice on stepping out of your comfort zone, maintaining motivation through challenges, and the importance of small actions in creating lasting impact. Tune in to hear how a love for baking, a sense of purpose, and a commitment to inclusion help Megan and her team transform lives through meaningful events.

Whether you're passionate about community service or simply seeking inspiration, Megan’s story will leave you motivated to take that first step toward making a difference. Don’t miss her tips for staying positive and creating joy, one small act at a time.

Contact Megan: 

MOBrien@nwsra.org 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-o-brien42/ 

Learn more about SLSF & NWSRA:

https://www.slsf.me/ 

https://www.nwsra.org/ 

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Lori Dan, founder of the President's Leadership Council (PLC), a peer advisory group for small business leaders. Lori shares her journey of building PLC and the critical role it plays in fostering open, supportive, and responsible communication among small business presidents.

Lori delves into the importance of creating a confidential space where leaders can openly discuss their challenges, overcome isolation, and benefit from diverse perspectives across industries. She explains how vulnerability, humility, and mutual respect form the foundation of PLC's thriving community, helping leaders build confidence and stronger organizations. Lori also shares insights on balancing work and life while promoting personal responsibility.

Join us for this insightful discussion as Lori shares her words of encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs and reminds us all to embrace kindness in our journey to make a positive difference.

Don’t miss this episode full of wisdom on leadership, community, and growth!

Contact Lori at: ldann@myplc.co 

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno welcomes John Fela, Ministry Relations Manager at Joni and Friends Chicago. John shares his personal journey as a father of a child with autism and how it shaped his approach to building meaningful relationships. With nearly 20 years in education and extensive community involvement, John discusses the importance of empathy, teamwork, and intentional action in supporting individuals with disabilities. He also offers practical advice on fostering community and starting small to make a lasting impact. Tune in for inspiring insights on faith, resilience, and the power of connection.

Connect with John on his website: www.johnfela.com 

In today’s episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg Koleno chats with Maggie Swift, CEO and Co-Founder of Unframed Digital, a leading SEO agency. Maggie shares her journey from Syracuse, NY to Los Angeles, leading a dynamic digital marketing company. Listen as Maggie talks about how small moments, like an elevator ride, have shaped her outlook on leadership and life. She dives into how fostering a positive work environment, leading by example, and surrounding yourself with a strong team can drive success in the fast-paced digital world. Learn about the importance of accountability, mentorship, and sharing knowledge to build a culture where collaboration and personal growth go hand-in-hand. This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to balance leadership, teamwork, and personal motivation. Tune in to be inspired and reminded that, sometimes, it’s all about taking life one floor at a time!

Contact Maggie at: maggie@unframeddigital.com or https://www.linkedin.com/in/magsswift/ 

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno sits down with Katie Van Gheem to explore her inspiring journey through challenges, career pivots, and mentorship. Katie shares how she navigated male-dominated industries, re-entered the workforce after a decade away, and fostered meaningful relationships that shaped her success. From running community programs to mentoring sales teams, Katie offers actionable advice for leaders and individuals seeking to make a positive difference. Tune in for heartfelt stories, leadership lessons, and encouragement to embrace challenges with kindness and perseverance.

Katie’s Blog: https://gheemers.blogspot.com/ 

Contact Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinevangheem/

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno interviews Candance Chow, co-founder of NextGroup, a company dedicated to helping women re-enter the workforce and guiding organizations toward inclusive hiring. Candance shares her journey from public service to entrepreneurship, the importance of collaboration in career transitions, and how NextGroup bridges the gap between talented women and businesses in need of skilled professionals. Tune in for practical advice on navigating career pivots, building meaningful connections, and making a positive impact one small step at a time.

Contact Candance: 

candance@nextgroupus.com or https://nextgroupus.com

In today’s episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Susie Rateike, an inspiring individual whose story embodies resilience, community, and the power of positivity. Susie shares how her involvement with NWSRA and the Pursuit Adult Day Program has transformed her life, providing independence, new friendships, and opportunities to learn and grow. 

From performing in a talent show to living by the motto “Disability does not mean inability,” Susie opens up about how she spreads kindness in her daily life—reminding us that even small actions, like a smile or opening a door, can make a big impact. Tune in for Susie's uplifting insights on staying motivated, fostering community, and living without limitations.  

Join us for this heartwarming conversation that will leave you inspired to make a positive difference in the world around you. And don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode to spread Susie’s message of empowerment and kindness!

Contact Susie: susanr320@hotmail.com 

In today’s episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Liz Thomas, nominee for Volunteer of the Year at the Schaumburg Business Association and a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities. Liz shares how her sister's medical challenges shaped her career in nonprofit work with the Special Leisure Services Foundation (SLSF). Tune in to hear inspiring stories about resilience, teamwork, and Liz's philosophy of "doing something about it" to make a difference in her community.

Contact Liz: lthomas@nwsra.org or https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-thomas-cprp-qidp-279a21a2/

In this episode of  Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno sits down with Courtney Burton, Director of Development at Fellowship Housing. Courtney shares her journey from growing up in a compassionate household to advocating for at-risk single mothers through her work. She discusses the importance of teamwork, the power of small acts of kindness, and offers heartfelt advice on how anyone can make a positive impact in their community. Tune in to be inspired by Courtney’s stories of transformation and learn how to be the good in the world, one small step at a time.

Learn more about Fellowship Husing

https://www.fhcmoms.org/ 

Contact Courtney:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-burton-3023a6133/ 

courtney@fhcmoms.org 

In today's episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno sits down with Gini Shahzada, VP of Business Development at Apex3 Security Systems. Gini shares her journey of cultivating long-lasting relationships both personally and professionally. She discusses how she fosters a family culture within her organization and among her clients, emphasizing trust and authenticity. Gini also dives into the importance of being proactive in the security industry, educating clients on the latest technology to create safer communities. Tune in to hear Gini’s insights on leadership, balancing business growth with team motivation, and how her personal values shape her approach to making a positive impact. This episode is filled with practical advice for those looking to make a difference in the world while staying grounded in their values. 

Email Gini at: gshahzada@apex3systems.com 

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Ted Rubin, thought leader, speaker, and author, to explore the profound impact of relationships on both personal and professional success. Ted shares his philosophy of Return on Relationship—emphasizing the value of authenticity, trust, and connection in building lasting influence.

From life lessons instilled by his father to the unexpected opportunities that have shaped his career, Ted offers invaluable insights on fostering meaningful relationships in today's digital age. He shares real-world stories of how small, intentional actions—whether a simple introduction, a thoughtful follow-up, or a genuine investment in others—can lead to powerful ripple effects.

If you’ve ever struggled with networking, making connections, or building a strong personal brand, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom. Ted’s advice on engagement, community-building, and showing up for others will leave you inspired to nurture your own relationships with intention.

LinkedIn.com/in/tedrubin

Facebook.com/tedrubin

Tedrubin.com

ReturnOnRelationship.com

Tune in and learn how to start your own ripple effect of positivity and influence!

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian S. Smith sits down with Spencer McLean from Forbes Books to dive into the art of public relations and how it plays a critical role in shaping narratives for individuals and brands. Spencer shares her journey into PR, offers actionable strategies for building positive influence during disruptive times, and discusses the importance of authenticity when balancing personal and professional identities. If you're looking to elevate your influence and sharpen your messaging, this episode is packed with valuable insights for leaders and individuals alike.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Carmen Londono, founder of Insurance Pros. Carmen shares her personal journey from growing up in Chicago and Honduras to becoming a mother, grandmother, and successful business leader. She opens up about the challenges of balancing personal and professional roles, adapting leadership styles to inspire her team, and her passion for educating clients on accessible, transparent insurance solutions. Tune in to hear Carmen’s advice on leadership, the power of authenticity, and how even small, consistent acts of kindness can make a lasting impact.

Email Carmen at: carmen@insurepros.net 

Website: https://www.insurepros.net/ 

In Episode 328 of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores how practicing media literacy can help reduce the stress surrounding election cycles. In today's hyper-connected world, where media bias is prevalent, it's important to be intentional in how we consume information. Brian provides practical tips on questioning media sources, identifying biases, and creating a more balanced perspective. By applying a S.M.A.R.T. approach and fostering empathy, we can better navigate the flood of election-based content and reduce emotional division. Tune in to learn how to stay informed while minimizing stress during this contentious time.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno sits down with Jenny Lundquist of Jen Rose Media to explore the power of authentic video storytelling for businesses. Jenny shares how she helps clients create engaging video content by focusing on human connections and relatable stories that resonate with their audience. Tune in to discover Jenny's strategies for fostering creativity, staying true to your brand, and using visual storytelling to maximize impact. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply looking to share your message more effectively, this episode offers practical advice on connecting with your audience through the art of video.

https://www.jenrosemedia.com/ 

In today’s episode of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into the challenge of finding common ground during these highly divisive times, especially as we are in election season. With emotions running high across social media, at work, and in public spaces, it's crucial to take a step back and approach these conversations with empathy and understanding. Brian shares actionable tips on how to lead by example, emphasizing the importance of listening, asking intentional questions, and creating a positive ripple effect in your own areas of influence. Whether or not we ultimately agree with others, we can still foster more meaningful, respectful conversations.

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian S. Smith welcomes Dan Dominguez, founder of Why Not Leadership. Together, they explore the power of challenging the status quo and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. Dan shares insights from his journey, emphasizing how understanding your "why" can help you lead with purpose, empower teams, and create lasting impact. Whether you're an experienced leader or someone stepping into leadership for the first time, this episode offers valuable tools to help you lead differently and authentically.

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith delves into the increasingly emotional and complex nature of political conversations. He discusses the importance of maintaining empathy and respect while navigating these challenging discussions. With a focus on core values, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness, Brian shares practical strategies to foster meaningful dialogue, even when disagreements arise. He also emphasizes the power of listening, seeking common ground, and building bridges to create positive influence in today’s divisive political climate. Tune in to explore how we can foster constructive conversations and promote responsible influence, both online and in person.

In today's episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno sits down with Jasmine Menser-Lust, LCPC, founder of Catalyst Counseling Group, to discuss her work empowering overworked women and their families to lead healthier, more balanced lives. Jasmine shares her approach to helping clients take personal responsibility for their well-being, navigate career transitions, and avoid burnout. Discover how Jasmine helps women identify patterns in their personal and professional lives, fostering accountability and self-awareness. Tune in for insights on building self-confidence, embracing collaboration, and making a positive difference, one step at a time.

https://catalystcounselinggroup.com/ 

In this episode of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith tackles the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the workforce. He provides insights on how to prepare yourself and your team to embrace AI as a tool for enhancing human skills and creativity. Discover how to leverage AI for deeper critical thinking and innovation while avoiding the pitfalls of technology integration. Brian also shares the importance of using the S.M.A.R.T. management principles to ensure a smooth and strategic adoption of AI in your business processes. Tune in to learn how AI can be a partner in achieving your business goals and driving continuous improvement.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno sits down with Monsurat Yusuf, a dedicated IT professional at the American Medical Association and event coordinator. Monsurat shares her inspiring journey as a first-generation Nigerian-American who turned personal adversity, including childhood bullying, into a lifelong commitment to spreading positivity and empathy.

From her experiences in IT compliance to managing events, Monsurat discusses the power of responsible influence and the importance of creating inclusive, supportive environments at work and beyond. She also offers valuable insights on how leaders can foster collaboration and navigate uncertainty, all while emphasizing the need for empathy and open communication.

Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, practical advice, and the reminder that positivity can emerge from even the most challenging experiences.

Tune in now to hear Monsurat's story and her thoughts on transforming adversity into personal and professional growth!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/monsuratyusuf/

In this episode of Daily Influence, we explore the transformative power of nature with Gayle Byck, a certified forest therapy guide and founder of In Tune with Nature. Gayle shares how forest bathing—a practice rooted in mindfulness and sensory immersion—can enhance well-being, foster self-awareness, and create deep connections with ourselves and others. From guiding individuals through emotional breakthroughs to helping professionals integrate nature into their daily routines, Gayle’s work is a testament to the healing influence of the natural world.

Tune in to discover how even a few moments outdoors can rejuvenate your mind, boost creativity, and bring clarity to your leadership and personal growth. 🌿✨

🔗 Learn more about Gayle at intunenature.com or reach her via email at naturewalkswithgayle@gmail.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe and share to spread positivity! 🌍💚

In this episode of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into the challenges leaders face during times of uncertainty and disruption. He shares three key strategies to navigate these turbulent times, emphasizing the importance of understanding each team member's unique contributions, aligning those talents with a shared vision, and embracing the S.M.A.R.T. management model to maintain focus. Brian also highlights the value of transparent communication and empathetic leadership in building trust and resilience within your team. Tune in to learn how to turn disruption into an opportunity for growth and improvement.

In this episode of Daily Influence, we sit down with Daneya Jacobs, co-founder of Candy Connections, a cotton candy company that’s spreading joy beyond just sweet treats. Daneya shares how she and her family have integrated social entrepreneurship into their business through initiatives like the Future Founders Program, which supports youth development. We discuss the balance of family and business, their rapid growth—including appearances on QVC and NBC—and how they maintain their brand’s mission while expanding through franchising. Tune in to hear Daneya’s inspiring journey and her advice on leading with purpose, all while making life a little sweeter.

Sweetlife@candyconnectionsinc.com

rerun of EP 227

In this heartwarming episode of the Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Sue Beninati, a dedicated professional from RM Services. Sue shares her insights on the transformative power of kindness, mentorship, and leadership in building positive and supportive communities and workplaces. From her personal experiences to practical advice, Sue discusses how small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, fostering a culture of empathy and support. She also opens up about her own methods of maintaining positivity during challenging times and offers inspiring words of encouragement for those aspiring to make a difference in the world. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that will leave you motivated to spread kindness in your own life.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Kelsey Hill, founder of Beyond Beauty for Survivors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and children affected by human trafficking, exploitation, and trauma. Kelsey, a military wife and small business owner, shares her personal journey, the power of positivity, and how her diverse experiences have shaped her mission to create a self-sustainable future for vulnerable survivors in Uganda and beyond. 

Kelsey discusses how accountability, leadership, and collaboration are crucial in helping survivors reclaim their confidence and rebuild their lives. With heartfelt stories and practical advice, Kelsey emphasizes the importance of using your unique skills to make a difference, whether big or small. Tune in to hear Kelsey’s inspiring perspective on teamwork, community support, and making a lasting impact. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with Kelsey and learn how you, too, can help create positive change in the world.

Links to Kelsey's social media and organization can be found in the show notes!

Email: beyondbeautyforsurvivors@gmail.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeyondBeautyforSurvivors 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondbeautyforsurvivors/ 

Website: https://beyondbeautyforsurvivors.org/ 

rerun of ep 148

What is the difference between Leadership and Leadershit? Listen to the author of the book Leadership or LeaderShit and hear.  

"In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Autumn Green, founder of My Stewardship Journey, to explore how aligning thoughts, beliefs, and actions around money can transform individual lives and teams. Drawing inspiration from her grandmother’s legacy of financial independence, Autumn shares her personal story of overcoming scarcity mindsets, building wealth, and empowering others to do the same. Together, they discuss the importance of personal responsibility, positive influence, and how fostering financial stewardship can create lasting impact in both personal and collaborative settings. Tune in to learn how Autumn’s approach to financial coaching and leadership can help you shape your own journey to success.

autumn@thestewardshipjourney.com"

rerun of EP 270

"In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Amanda Decker, an associate attorney at Bruning and Associates. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from overcoming academic challenges to becoming a successful attorney leading an office in Schaumburg. She discusses the pivotal role mentorship played in her life, the importance of community involvement, and how small acts of kindness can create a more positive environment. Amanda also provides valuable advice for those looking to make a difference and emphasizes the power of volunteering. Tune in to hear her insightful perspectives and stories that remind us of the impact we can have on others.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-decker-72307795/

https://bruninglaw.com/"

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Edan Gelt, a seasoned marketing strategist and fractional CMO, to explore how small actions can make a big impact. Edan shares her journey as a boutique marketing agency owner and business strategist and the ways she integrates positivity both personally and professionally. Tune in as Edan discusses the importance of uplifting others, the value of a gratitude journal, and her involvement in pediatric cancer charities. Learn how starting small can create lasting change and hear Edan’s advice on maintaining positivity through challenging times. 

Whether you're looking to inspire others or seeking personal growth, this episode is filled with insights on how to make a difference in everyday life.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/edangelt/

In this episode of The Daily Influence, host Brian Smith sits down with Sean Wilcoxen, COO of Performance Industrial and co-owner of Tinney's Tavern, to discuss his extraordinary journey from the restaurant and catering industry to leading an industrial cleaning company.

Sean shares his story of growing up in the restaurant business, how his passion for hospitality shaped him, and how he made the dramatic shift to his current career path. 

They also explore the balance between family, business, and community involvement through his work with organizations like the American Cancer Society and Folds of Honor. 

Sean offers valuable insights on leadership, delegation, and the pursuit of excellence, reminding us that success is not about perfection, but about empowering others along the way.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno sits down with Misti Burmeister —author, speaker, and coach—to discuss the power of personal growth, leadership, and intentional kindness. Misty shares her inspiring journey, from unexpected career shifts to becoming an accidental entrepreneur, and how embracing difficult conversations and setting daily intentions have shaped her success. Tune in to hear Misti’s actionable advice on fostering positivity, overcoming challenges, and finding your true potential by starting with self-reflection. This is an episode full of insight, motivation, and heartfelt encouragement!

misti@mistiburmeister.com

In Episode 427 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into the concept of Invisible Leadership—the ability to influence without authority. In a world where social media personalities, athletes, and entertainers wield significant influence, how do we distinguish between credible, responsible leadership and mere opinion-driven persuasion? Brian challenges us to apply the S.M.A.R.T. framework to the information we consume, ensuring we seek truth, context, and integrity in influence. Whether you're a leader, an influencer, or simply someone navigating today’s information overload, this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in and learn how to cultivate positive and responsible influence—without falling into the traps of misinformation and emotional bias.

rerun of EP 193:

Discover Jason's journey from Corporate America to purpose-driven entrepreneurship, fueled by faith and perseverance. Learn about his passion for community, kindness, and servant leadership, and how he rallied local businesses during the pandemic. Tune in for insights on embracing the journey, finding joy, and nurturing meaningful relationships.

In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg Koleno welcomes Monica LaRocco-McVay from American Family Insurance to discuss the transformative power of positivity and intentionality. Monica shares her journey from being a special education teacher to her current role in insurance, highlighting how a positive mindset and intentional acts of kindness can make a lasting impact in both personal and professional circles. Monica also offers advice on starting small, maintaining persistence, and the importance of connecting with others. Tune in to discover how setting positive intentions can shape your success and influence those around you.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-larocco-mcvay/

rerun of EP 185:

Join us on the Daily Influence Podcast, where positivity reigns supreme! In this episode, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno welcomes Julie Frederickson, a beacon of light and positivity. Julie shares her journey from a place of self-doubt and struggle to becoming a transformative force in the lives of others. As a teacher and health coach, Julie's story of personal growth and resilience will inspire you to embrace positivity and make a difference in your own life and the lives of those around you.

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg Koleno sits down with MZ, a seasoned entrepreneur and business coach from Rocket Business Accelerator, to discuss the profound effects of intentional kindness and leadership. MZ shares personal insights from over 40 years of experience, highlighting how simple, mindful actions can make a huge difference in creating positive influence in our communities and workplaces. Through stories, advice, and inspiring anecdotes, MZ encourages listeners to start small, be intentional, and overcome self-imposed limitations to make a lasting impact. Tune in to learn how even the smallest acts can contribute to a better world.

mz@rockitbusinessaccelerator.com

In this episode, Brian S. Smith welcomes communication expert and bestselling author Debra Fine to discuss the enduring power of small talk in leadership, trust-building, and team dynamics. 

Debra, known for her book The Fine Art of Small Talk, shares strategies on how to cultivate meaningful connections through conversation, foster transparency, and elevate your influence as a leader. 

Tune in for practical insights on how small talk can help you master the art of building trust within your areas of influence—one conversation at a time.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno interviews Char Padovani, a seasoned health educator, wellness coach, and dedicated community volunteer. Char shares her journey of over 30 years in health and wellness, offering wisdom on how helping others achieve their best health is inherently a path to spreading positivity. From personal stories of coaching transformations to practical advice on self-compassion and creating lasting impact, Char reminds us that even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through our communities. Tune in for valuable insights on making a difference through wellness, both for yourself and others.

Contact Char: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/char-padovani-ma-mches-cic-nbc-hwc-ab50a711/

In this insightful episode of The Daily Influence, host Brian Smith sits down with Dr. Kelvin McCree, a strategic leadership expert and prolific speaker on organizational culture. Together, they explore how individual influence shapes workplace culture, the impact of empathy on leadership, and strategies for navigating rapid change in today's evolving workforce. 

Dr. McCree delves into the stages of cultural development, how organizations can foster innovation while maintaining stability, and the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. Tune in for practical advice on building a culture that thrives through empathy, adaptability, and responsible influence.

In this episode of the Daily Influence podcast, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Daphne Paras, the founder of Sacred Seeker. Daphne shares her inspiring journey from creating life-changing experiences through women's empowerment workshops, firewalking sessions, and sacred journeys, to inventing tools for self-discovery and healing.

Join us as Daphne discusses the profound impact of leadership, mentorship, and the importance of self-care in fostering positivity and making a meaningful difference in the world. Discover her practical tips for staying grounded and centered, even in the face of life's challenges, and learn how small acts of organization can bring peace and clarity in chaotic moments.

Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, encouragement, and actionable advice on living authentically and spreading positivity in your personal and professional life. Don’t miss Daphne’s insights on how to start making a difference right where you are.

https://sacredseeker.com/ 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088544882628

In this special episode of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith interviews Rusty Komori, the celebrated former tennis coach of Punahou School, who led his team to 22 consecutive state championships.

Rusty shares insights from his latest book, Superior, focusing on how leaders can foster a superior culture of excellence in teams, organizations, and communities. From the Three Cs of Leadership—Choices, Communication, and Culture—to the Six Keys of Peak Performance, Rusty reveals actionable steps to help leaders unlock their true potential and influence positive change. 

Discover how you can lead with a superior mindset and inspire success, not only in yourself but also in those around you.

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Stephen Bart, a man who wears many hats—Operations Specialist at Blue Rock Financial Group, Delaware Army National Guard member, CrossFit gym owner, and founder of the nonprofit Redefining Work Culture. 

Stephen shares his inspiring journey of creating positive change through his nonprofit work, supporting veterans and first responders, and his personal strategies for maintaining positivity and motivation. 

Tune in to discover the power of resilience, community, and the importance of mental and physical well-being in making a lasting impact.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-bart-0277b3b8/

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Leemor Ellman, a certified intuitive eating counselor and founder of Family Food Freedom. Leemor shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming decades of diet culture, weight cycling, and body image struggles to find true food freedom and self-acceptance.

Through her work, she helps moms break generational cycles of restrictive eating, guiding them toward a healthier, more intuitive relationship with food—so they can raise children who trust their bodies without guilt or fear. Leemor discusses the power of modeling self-compassion at home, debunking myths around intuitive eating, and the small mindset shifts that create lasting change.

If you've ever struggled with food guilt, body image, or passing down diet culture to the next generation, this conversation is a must-listen.

📌 Connect with Leemor Ellman:

🔗 Website: www.family-food-freedom.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leemor_ellman/

Make The Daily Influence part of your routine—subscribe on your favorite platform and share this episode with those who could use a dose of positivity and empowerment!

In this special 300th episode of The Daily Influence, host Brian Smith sits down with Ray Stout, the Director of the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, to explore how the craft beer industry in Illinois has flourished through collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. Ray shares insights into the Guild’s role in promoting, advocating, and educating breweries across the state. They discuss how craft breweries influence local economies, advocate for legislative changes, and create strong, community-driven businesses. From Beer Under Glass to the Festival of Barrel-Aged Beers, tune in to hear how the Guild fosters a culture of positive influence within the craft beer industry.

In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Mark Cohen, Director of Sales and Chief Growth Officer at Payroll Processors, to explore how his upbringing and family values have shaped his approach to business and life. 

Mark shares heartwarming stories of how small acts of kindness led to significant positive impacts on others' lives, from helping a woman return to the workforce to supporting a friend in their charitable endeavors. Mark also offers valuable insights on maintaining positivity, the power of genuine connections, and the importance of putting good energy into the world. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will leave you motivated to make a difference in your own community.

mcohen@payprohcm.com 

I in Team Book Series: https://www.theiinteamseries.com/personal-development-books 

Individual Influence: Find the I in Team: https://www.amazon.com/Individual-Influence-Find-Team/dp/1641467207/ 

Positive Influence: Be the "I" in Team: https://www.amazon.com/Positive-Influence-Mary-Griffin/dp/1641467622 

Responsible Influence: Build the "I" in Team: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1641468416

In this episode of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into one of the most significant challenges facing modern teams: how to bridge the generational gap using technology. As organizations grow increasingly diverse in age, older generations may feel left behind by the tech-savvy younger workforce. Brian explores how leveraging collaboration tools like Slack, project management platforms, and reverse mentorship programs can turn these differences into strengths. He offers practical tips for leaders to foster mutual learning, create stronger bonds between generations, and build a culture that thrives on knowledge sharing and collective growth.