Explore every episode of the podcast Mission First People Always's podcast
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| 76. Hope in a Cup: How One Woman Is Using Coffee to Combat Human Trafficking—The Story of Talitha Coffee and Jenny Barber | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:36:15 | |
What if your morning cup of coffee could help transform someone's life? In this unforgettable episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Jenny Barber—survivor, leader, and co-founder of Talitha Coffee—for a conversation that will change the way you think about business, leadership, and human dignity. Jenny's personal journey from surviving child exploitation to founding a thriving, purpose-driven company is nothing short of extraordinary. With over 140 employees and 9 coffee shops, Talitha Coffee is more than a business—it's a movement of healing, hope, and tangible restoration for survivors of trafficking. In this episode, Jenny opens up about the meaning behind the name "Talitha," how her personal pain fuels her mission, and how she's built a people-first company that integrates business with deep compassion and purpose. Whether you're a business leader, social advocate, or someone looking to live with more intention—this episode will inspire you to lead with courage and heart. This episode is a reminder that one person's story—when paired with vision and bold leadership—can change countless lives. Hit play now to hear Jenny's powerful journey and discover how your leadership can be a vehicle for healing, justice, and lasting impact. What You'll Learn:
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| 75. Why Choosing Joy is the Secret to Resilient Leadership with Ricardo Viso | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:39:41 | |
Have you ever noticed that stress, anxiety, and burnout feel more common than joy these days? What if you could embrace simple habits that make your days lighter, more meaningful, and yes — even more joyful? In this heartfelt and practical conversation, Dr. Mike Patterson talks with Ricardo Viso, a global entrepreneur who's survived cancer, loss, and hardship and emerged with one clear mission: to help people infuse joy into everyday life — at work and at home. In this episode, Ricardo Viso — speaker, entrepreneur, and founder of the Joyful Living Lounge — shares his story of resilience and reinvention. Despite losing his mother at a young age, battling cancer, and overcoming some of life's toughest challenges, Viso has learned that choosing joy is one of the most powerful decisions you can make. He walks us through why joy is different from happiness and why focusing on daily joyful habits can radically shift your outlook. Ricardo also introduces his RIC method — Recognize, Identify, Consciously shift — a simple, powerful tool to make joy a part of your everyday experience. Together, they explore:
Whether you lead a team or simply want to bring more light into your own life, this episode is filled with practical strategies and encouragement. Key Takeaways:✅ Joy is a Choice: Focus on small, meaningful habits — like listening to uplifting music or laughing with a friend — to infuse your day with joy. Ricardo Viso reminds us that joy isn't something we wait for — it's something we practice every single day. With practical advice like his RIC method and his encouragement to embrace fun at any age, this conversation will inspire you to look at your habits, mindset, and work culture in a whole new light. 🎧 Hit play to discover these powerful insights, and then take action — choose one joyful habit to practice today. Ready for more encouragement? Join Viso's Joyful Living Lounge on Facebook and connect with a community that celebrates joy every day! (Links below!) Links for This Episode:
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| 67. How to Become Triggerproof: Managing Emotional Triggers in the Workplace with Jeff Gaines | 08 Oct 2024 | 00:34:06 | |
In today's fast-paced world, it seems like everyone is talking about being "triggered." But what does it really mean, and how can leaders and employees manage their triggers to stay focused and productive? In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson and Jeff Gaines dive into how to become "triggerproof," offering practical strategies to overcome workplace stress and emotional reactions. Dr. Mike welcomes Jeff Gaines, a personal development expert with over 30 years of experience working with leaders across industries. Jeff introduces his latest offering, Triggerproof, a program designed to help leaders and teams manage their emotional responses in high-stress environments. Jeff breaks down human motivation into two drives: the urge to create and the urge to protect. When we're triggered, we move into protection mode, often subconsciously. Jeff explains how triggers aren't always obvious—most people don't look visibly upset or angry. Instead, they quietly disengage, reduce productivity, or withhold valuable feedback that could improve decision-making. Throughout the conversation, Jeff discusses his Three Drivers model, which explains how our thoughts and emotions are shaped by a "screen" of unconscious processing. This screen often distorts reality, leading to emotional responses that seem disproportionate to the situation. Jeff's program teaches leaders how to recognize these distortions and manage them effectively. He also emphasizes the importance of emotional resilience and collaboration in the workplace. Whether you're a leader looking to encourage honest feedback or a team member trying to overcome stress, understanding and managing triggers is key to thriving in today's work environment. Key Takeaways:
Jeff Gaines' approach offers practical, real-world strategies for managing emotional responses in the workplace. By understanding how our brains process information and learning to manage our reactions, we can foster healthier, more productive work environments. Call to Action: Hit play to hear the full episode and learn how you can become Triggerproof and foster resilience in your leadership style!
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| 66. Simple Health Tips: How CEOs Can Stay Fit with Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann's FitCEO | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:34:15 | |
In today's fast-paced corporate world, balancing leadership with personal health is key to long-term success. Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann to explore the strategies leaders can use to enhance both their personal vitality and professional performance. About the Episode:Dr. Mike welcomes Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann, former Fortune 50 Global Executive and founder of RMK Group, who shares her insights from years of leading successful business turnarounds and advising CEOs. As the co-author of FitCEO: Be the Leader of Your Life, Rebecca combines her experience in business leadership with a passion for holistic health. In this episode, they discuss the importance of fitness, healthy eating, and small daily habits that can improve energy and well-being. Rebecca emphasizes that fitness is more than just staying in shape; it's about maintaining vitality and energy in daily life. For busy professionals, small, simple actions like morning exercises in a hotel room or making healthier food choices while traveling can have a significant impact on well-being. She also touches on the business case for promoting health and fitness within companies, explaining that healthier employees are more productive and focused. Additionally, Rebecca shares how she manages stress and fosters productivity by taking small breaks to refresh throughout the day. From light stretching to stepping outside for fresh air, she believes leaders should prioritize both their mental and physical health to perform at their best. Key Takeaways:
Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann shares practical and accessible strategies for staying healthy and energized, especially for leaders managing demanding careers. Her advice reminds us that small, daily habits can lead to big improvements in personal and professional well-being. Hit play to hear the full episode and start implementing these simple tips to improve your health and leadership skills!
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| 65. The Art of Leadership in the AI Age with Wendy Gonzalez | 03 Sep 2024 | 00:31:04 | |
In a world where AI is rapidly reshaping the business landscape, what does it take to lead highly intelligent teams on the cutting edge of technology? Join Dr. Mike Patterson and Wendy Gonzalez, CEO of Sama, as they dive into the complexities of leadership in the tech space, offering valuable insights and actionable advice for leaders at all levels. In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson welcomes Wendy Gonzalez, the dynamic CEO of Sama, a company known for providing accurate AI data to 25% of Fortune 50 companies. Wendy's journey from auditor to tech CEO is nothing short of inspiring, and her commitment to ethical AI development sets her apart as a leader in the industry. Wendy shares her experiences and strategies for leading teams of brilliant minds in Silicon Valley, focusing on how to foster creativity, encourage innovation, and ensure that AI is developed responsibly and without bias. Wendy discusses her unique leadership practice of "firing" herself annually to evaluate if she is still the right leader for her company's evolving needs. This introspective approach keeps her focused on future challenges and the skills required to meet them. She also emphasizes the importance of bringing your authentic self to work, creating an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their honest opinions, even when they differ from the boss. Wendy and Dr. Mike explore the ethical considerations surrounding AI, particularly the dangers of bias in machine learning algorithms. Wendy explains how Sama addresses these issues by focusing on responsible AI development, which includes rigorous data governance, continuous model performance evaluation, and ensuring that AI systems are explainable and trustworthy. The conversation also touches on the importance of building trust within teams, facilitating healthy conflict, and recognizing and addressing blind spots as a leader. Wendy shares practical tips for leaders at all levels on how to adapt to the future needs of their organizations and harness the full potential of their teams. Key Takeaways:
Wendy Gonzalez provides a masterclass in modern leadership, blending her passion for technology with a commitment to ethical practices and team empowerment. Her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to lead effectively in today's rapidly evolving tech landscape. Hit play to hear the full episode and learn how you can apply these leadership lessons to your own journey, whether you're leading a cutting-edge tech team or managing a small business this episode is for you!
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| 64. Practical Storytelling Techniques for Leaders: Insights from Josh Webb | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:30:28 | |
Ever wondered why some stories stick with you while others fade away? Join Dr. Mike Patterson and storytelling master Josh Webb as they unravel the secrets behind compelling narratives that inspire and move audiences to action! About the Episode:Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Josh Webb, a creative leader with an impressive resume—agency co-founder, SaaS design leader, web3 artist, and documentary director. They delve into the power of storytelling, exploring why stories resonate deeply with us and how leaders can leverage this ancient art to drive change and foster strong team connections. Josh shares his belief that great ideas can change the world, people do their best work when they are seen, heard, and valued, and that teams with strong relationships shape the future. These principles guide his approach to storytelling and leadership. They discuss the emotional connection that stories create, tracing this back through human history from cave paintings to modern-day brands like Nike. Josh explains how stories, when well-told, engage emotions and drive people to action. He emphasizes the importance of making the audience the hero of the story, a strategy that has made brands like Nike successful. The conversation then turns to the application of the hero's journey in business. Josh outlines how companies can use this framework to position their customers as the hero, with the company serving as the guide. He shares practical tips for leaders on using storytelling in their daily work to inspire and motivate their teams. Josh also shares his experience directing "Shadow of the Valley," a feature documentary about a missionary and orphanage in Mexico facing cartel violence. He describes the challenges and dedication required to bring such a powerful story to life, drawing parallels between filmmaking and business storytelling. Dr. Mike and Josh explore the ethics of storytelling, discussing the fine line between emotional engagement and manipulation. Josh stresses the importance of authenticity and genuinely aiming to solve problems rather than just selling products. Key Takeaways:
Josh Webb's insights into storytelling provide practical advice for leaders looking to inspire and engage their teams. His emphasis on authenticity and emotional connection offers a blueprint for using stories to drive meaningful change. Call to Action: Hit play to hear the full episode and discover how you can harness the power of storytelling in your leadership journey.
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| 63. Radical Resilience with Dr. Andy Garrett | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:40:41 | |
How do you navigate the difficult things in life and keep going? Better yet, how do you navigate the tough stuff, take a few gut punches, deal with setbacks, and come back even better? That takes a radical form of resilience and that's what we discuss in this episode with clinical psychologist, Dr. Andy Garrett. Guest Bio Dr. Andy is the world's leading authority on Radical Resilience. He's a clinical psychologist with over two decades of experience working with executive clients at his Newport Beach practice. In addition to growing a thriving in-person clinical practice, Dr. Andy is a prolific course creator, author, and keynote speaker teaching corporate radical resilience to top companies around the country. Using contemporary research and psychological best practices Dr. Andy has created a framework to replicate the Radical Resilience he directly learned from his grandfather, Carl Karcher, founder of Carl's Jr. This framework helps individuals and corporate teams cultivate a culture of Radical Resilience to thrive during seasons of adversity, and flourish regardless of the environmental context. With decades of clinical research, private practice, and business consulting under his belt, Dr. Andy is guiding companies in Radical Resilience - providing organizations with an antidote to corporate fragility - thereby enabling them to grow and thrive through today's uncertain economic times. Dr. Andy has been featured on NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox News, Sports Illustrated, ISI, the Institute for Educational Advancement among other national publications and news outlets.
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| 62. Building an Elite Sales Team with Dan Fantasia | 28 May 2024 | 00:38:16 | |
Introduction Revenue is the lifeblood of any business and it's one of the factors that determines success or failure. As a result, one could rationally argue that the revenue generators are the most important people in any for profit business. But finding high-quality, committed sales professionals isn't easy. And keeping your top performers can be equally challenging. There's no worse day for a sales manager than when one of his top producers calls to say that she's leaving to pursue another opportunity.
That's why I think my conversation with Dan Fantasia, founder of Treeline, one of the world's premier sales recruiting agencies, will be so important for you to hear. And even if you're not responsible for leading sales teams or recruiting sales people, please continue to listen because we're also going to talk about building teams that excel and have great cultures–topics that apply to every leader.
About the Guest Dan Fantasia has been in the field of sales recruiting since 1997 and founded Treeline in 2001. His exclusive focus on helping companies build world-class, elite sales teams has helped to change the lives of over 3,300 sales professionals. Dan has built a deep knowledge of what it takes to build and grow a top-producing business. As a proven sales leader and innovator, Fantasia has created a positively charged culture that promotes the good in every person, resulting in a team that has developed best-in-practice methodologies and technology that continues to revolutionize the industry.
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| 61. Leadership and Customer Success with Jess Osborn | 14 May 2024 | 00:31:56 | |
Introduction: Over the past decade, the role of customer success has gained importance and prestige. On this episode of the podcast, we have an industry veteran and thought leader who is going to tell us not only why customer success is critical, but how to build high-performing customer success teams and develop leaders from within those teams. So, whether you're interested in the customer success function or you're not even sure what customer success means, there will be value for you in this episode because we're talking about leadership, developing people, and accomplishing an important mission. About the Guest Jess Osborn is the Vice President of Customer Success at GoCardless where she leads a team that is revolutionizing customer experiences worldwide. Her achievements include steering multi-million dollar portfolios to unprecedented success, all while cultivating a culture of excellence recognized for its impact on company retention and growth. Jess has leveraged her experience and passion for human-centric leadership to become a sought after speaker on the customer success circuit. Connect with Jessica via her LinkedIn account. Social Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicareserosborn
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| 60. Never Say "Calm Down": How People Unintentionally Escalate Conflict on Your Team with Carol Bowser | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:35:47 | |
Carol Bowser, J.D is a workplace conflict expert. After practicing Employment Law for several years, Carol founded Conflict Management Strategies when she realized a lawsuit can't deliver the level of resolution and satisfaction that is gained when people are actively involved in creating solutions to their workplace conflict. Carol's clients come with a wide range of employers because conflict is universal across all industries and types of organizations. Where there are people, there is conflict. The key is to help people recognize and address conflict before it damages working relationships and creates organizational drag. In her over 20 years of experience, she has discovered some universal themes about workplace conflict and loves to share how people at all levels can strengthen their conflict resolution muscles Contact Carol at CB@managingconflict.com Links http://www.managingconflict.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-bowser-2a65691 https://www.instagram.com/carol.bowser What You'll Learn
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| 59. A California Love Story with John Thill | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:35:41 | |
History provides the opportunity to study the past through the lens of the present, but what makes history so exciting for many of us is those moments when we truly feel transported back to those earlier days to see the world through the eyes of our predecessors–pioneers who laid the foundation for the lives we experience now. And the stories of the past become even more rich and vivid when they involve our own ancestors. I'm excited to share my conversation with an author who transports us back nearly 100 years–to a time when the promise of southern California was just beginning. It was a time when the California coastline was still wild and uncharted, the beaches were pristine, and there was no traffic! And my guest allows us to experience the remarkable sights and sounds of these different times through a beautiful love story. Whether you're interested in the history of California, romance, or how individuals can shape the course of history, you're going to enjoy my conversation with author John Thill. About the Guest John Wilcox Thill is the author of A California Love Story. It's the romantic story of Ray and Dora, John's grandparents recreated through a series of forgotten love letters from his grandparents' courtship. Within their worn folds, John found a story that was both timeless and filled with emotion, all happening in an era in American history when the future of California was still taking shape. John is a graduate of San Diego State University and spent much of his career in managing and producing video content for large organizations. Later, he transitioned to corporate learning and development, and became a partner in a global talent development company. What You'll Learn
Social Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-thill-6718b48
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| 58. Promotions are So Yesterday with Julie Winkle Giulioni | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:36:45 | |
Introduction The time-honored tradition of defining career development exclusively in terms of promotions, moves, and title changes is dead. Beyond, between, and besides the climb up the positional ladder, there are many other ways that employees can—and want to—grow. This episode explores some of those alternative ways to grow, the important role managers play in guiding that growth, and organizational executives should think differently about career and talent development. About our Guest Julie Winkle Giulioni is a champion for workplace growth and development and helps executives and leaders optimize talent and potential within their organizations. One of Inc. Magazine's Top 100 speakers, she's the author of Promotions Are So Yesterday: Redefine Career Development, Help Employees Thrive and the co-author of the international bestseller, Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go: Career Conversations Organizations Need and Employees Want, translated into seven languages. Julie is a regular columnist for Training Industry Magazine and SmartBrief and contributes articles on leadership, career development, and workplace trends to numerous publications including The Economist. You can keep up with Julie through her blog, LinkedIn and Twitter.
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Free Resource Mentioned in Episode https://www.juliewinklegiulioni.com/book/promotions/assessment/ Contact Information / Social Links Website: http://JulieWinkleGiulioni.com Buy the Book: Amazon
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| 74. From Missed Opportunities to Measurable Growth: Why A Follow-Up System Is the Key to Great Leadership (Not Just Sales) with Doug Brown | 13 May 2025 | 00:45:47 | |
Why Follow-Up Is a Leadership Practice with Doug C. Brown Let's face it—"follow-up" doesn't always have the best reputation. It can feel pushy, annoying, or just like one more thing on your to-do list. But what if follow-up wasn't about pestering people… and instead became one of the most powerful tools you have to show care, build trust, and lead with integrity? In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with renowned sales expert Doug C. Brown to reframe everything you think you know about follow-up. Doug shares why this essential practice is about more than just closing a deal—it's about strengthening relationships, delivering value, and showing others that they matter. About the Episode:Doug C. Brown, CEO of CEO Sales Strategies, brings over 40 years of sales leadership to the table. He's worked with brands like Tony Robbins, CBS, and Procter & Gamble, built 35 businesses, and helped generate over $900 million in sales. But at the heart of his success is a simple principle: effective, personalized follow-up builds relationships—and relationships drive results. In this conversation, Doug explains why follow-up should be part of every leader's toolkit. Whether you're managing a team, building a business, or simply aiming to serve others better, consistent and thoughtful follow-up creates connection, increases retention, and unlocks new opportunities. You'll hear real-world stories about how follow-up has led to massive referrals, strengthened loyalty, and even closed six-figure deals. Doug also shares how poor follow-up costs companies thousands (if not millions) and reveals how you can avoid those losses with just a few intentional habits. Key Takeaways:
Whether you're a business leader, a coach, or a team builder—this episode will challenge you to rethink how you engage the people around you. If you want to build stronger relationships, increase trust, and lead with more integrity, it starts with simple, consistent follow-up. Hit play now to learn how to put Doug's "3-a-day" method into practice and start seeing results in your business and your life.
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| 57. Everyone Benefits when Women of Color Feel Belonging at Work with Dr. Christine Coleman | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:51:32 | |
It's March and Women's History Month, so what better way to celebrate than to speak with someone who leads an organization dedicated to helping women overcome societal barriers by providing educational and empowering experiences that promote sisterhood and community. Sol Sisters, the organization we're highlighting today believes, as I do, that all women deserve to feel safe, supported, and celebrated. And since we talk about leadership and teamwork in the workplace on the Mission First People Always Podcast, we're going to hone in on how everyone benefits when women of color feel belonging in the workplace. Unfortunately, that's not always the case, but we're here to learn how to change that, so settle in for an informative and empowering conversation. About our Guest Dr. Christine Coleman, LMFT, is a licensed therapist, executive coach, and the founder of Sol Sisters, a Bay area nonprofit that empowers women of color to overcome societal barriers. She has trained leading companies like Pinterest, Business Wire, Coursera, Udemy, Salesforce, and the Major League Baseball Network in mental health, inclusivity, and belonging initiatives. Dr. Coleman has been in Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, Vogue, MSN, and Huffington Post, and has spoken at Yale's Mental Health Conference, UC Berkeley's Women of Color Conference, the American College Health Association (ACHA), and more. Dr. Coleman received the University of San Francisco's "Living the Mission" award for her dedication to serving women and girls. About Sol Sisters Founded in 2013 by Dr. Christine Coleman, Sol Sisters' mission is to help women overcome societal barriers by providing educational and empowering experiences that promote sisterhood and community across the Bay Area. It brings events and services to women that are focused on four areas of health that enrich, empower and evolve women of all backgrounds and financial situations. Based in Oakland, Sol Sisters is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit. For more information and to contribute to its mission, please visit solsisters.org. Social Links What You'll Learn
Opportunity Later this spring Sol Sisters will be unveiling its free Enrich membership, which aims to be an educational and empowering platform that provides under-resourced women with the tools they need to further their professional, mental, physical, and creative development. The first session will focus on financial literacy, and the new membership will also receive access to Sol Sisters' Empower Retreats, where they can enjoy wellness, educational and professional opportunities all in one day.
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| 56. The Lobiko Initiative with Wilita Sanguma | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:45:43 | |
Introduction Globally, 700 million people live below the poverty line–surviving on less than $2 per day. In Africa as a whole, 4 in 10 people live in poverty and in Congo, at least 7 in 10 people live below the poverty line. So, what are we going to do about it? In this episode, hear what one young leader and the organization he founded is doing to make a lasting difference through identifying and empowering local leaders in some of the world's most impoverished communities. The Lobiko Initiative is an organization committed to creating a world where every child has a safe place to call home, where every family has access to quality healthcare, wherever every individual has opportunities for meaningful employment, and where every community has access to basic resources to thrive.
What You'll Learn Globally, 700 million people live below the poverty line–surviving on less than $2 per day. In Africa as a whole, 4 in 10 people live in poverty and in Congo, at least 7 in 10 people live below the poverty line. The Lobiko Initiative is an organization committed to creating a world where every child has a safe place to call home, where every family has access to quality healthcare, wherever every individual has opportunities for meaningful employment, and where every community has access to basic resources to thrive. The best way to create lasting change in communities is to equip those intimately familiar with the pressing needs to lead the way. How local leaders can be supported and empowered to craft solutions.
Guest's Bio As the founder and Executive Director of the Lobiko Initiative, Wilita Sanguma's career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of people furthest from opportunity. His story began in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where his childhood was overshadowed by one of the deadliest conflicts since World War II. The harrowing experience of fleeing his homeland amidst chaos and violence instilled in him a profound understanding of the complexity of injustice and the importance of peace. This early exposure to conflict and his subsequent journey to safety laid the foundation for his later pursuits in political science at Fresno State University and a master's in International Studies at the University of San Francisco, where he specialized in peace and conflict resolution. Wilita's professional path reflects these early experiences and is marked by significant milestones. His personal trials have deeply influenced his work, especially his commitment to marginalized communities both in the U.S. and globally. His experiences of navigating systemic injustices and overcoming obstacles have fueled his passion for holistic education and youth development, reflected in his active participation on numerous nonprofit boards.
Social Media: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lobikoinitiative LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lobikoinitiative Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lobikoinitiative YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@LobikoInitiative
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| 55. Performance Freedom with Tom Hanson, Ph.D. | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:47:14 | |
On this Episode In this episode you'll hear a conversation with sports psychologist, Dr. Tom Hanson. While Tom has worked with some of the biggest names in professional baseball, he is also a prolific author, coach, and sought after speaker in the corporate world. Today, we'll explore what it takes to be a top performer in any field of endeavor. We'll discuss mental toughness, performance inhibitors and so much more. This is a great episode for anyone who wants to elevate their performance. What You'll Learn
About my Guest Dr. Tom Hanson frees athletes and coaches, executives and work teams to consistently perform at or near their best. His Performance Freedom and Confidence and Consistency coaching programs in both sport and business train people to "Excel, Enjoy, and Evolve." Formerly the Director of Performance Enhancement for the New York Yankees, Dr. Hanson also consulted with the Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels, and Minnesota Twins organizations. He helps individuals and teams in all sports and regularly coaches in major university athletic programs such as Harvard University Baseball and Florida State Softball. His business client list ranges from giants like Microsoft, Verizon and Pepperidge Farm to small businesses like Public Trust Advisors and insurance adjusters Johns Eastern. He co-authored both Heads-Up Baseball: Playing the Game One Pitch at a Time and Heads-Up Baseball 2.0: 5 Skills for Competing One Pitch at a Time with Dr. Ken Ravizza. The books have combined to sell over 200,000 copies, been adopted by many major college and professional teams, used as a college textbook, and been called "the bible for developing mental toughness," by Collegiate Baseball. Dr. Hanson also wrote the award-winning PLAY BIG: Mental Toughness Skills that Take Baseball Players to the Next Level, and the best-selling business fable, Who Will Do What by When? -- How to Improve Performance, Accountability and Trust with Integrity, which has sold over 30,000 copies to individuals and organizations, including the United States Government. Dr. Hanson graduated from Luther College (IA) in 1985, earned his Master's degree at the University of Illinois (Champaign), and his Ph.D. specializing in sport psychology from the University of Virginia (1991). He served as UVA's hitting coach for three seasons, and his dissertation research, The Mental Aspects of Hitting, featured interviews with Hank Aaron, Stan Musial, Carl Yastrzemski, Tony Oliva, and Rod Carew. He has made a career of studying greatness and creating technologies that liberate performers from the fears and doubts that too often rob them of the joy and satisfaction they seek, and is a leader in overcoming the "yips" in baseball, golf, tennis and other activities.
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Email: DrTomHanson@gmail.com Phone (1) 813-453-3467
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| 54. Why Fewer Meetings Lead to Stronger Teams with Yari Ising | 28 Nov 2023 | 00:36:21 | |
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the number of meetings you attend and wonder whether your time could be better used elsewhere? According to research referenced in Harvard Business Review, executives now spend an average of 23 hours per week in meetings--up from about 10 hours in the 1960s. Are the extra hours spent in meetings making us more or less productive? That's the question we're going to tackle in today's episode. More importantly, we're going to find out how we can do fewer meetings and make the meetings we do have more productive. About our Guest Yari (pronounced Jah-Dee) Ising is the founder of The Ising Agency, a firm offering operations, recruiting, and admin support for stretched-thin in-house teams. Before launching her agency, she was the director of client operations for a staffing agency where she built teams that thrived together. She has a background in Television Production, Media & Communications and has managed live events and built in-house creative teams for Fortune 500 Companies. For the last decade, she helped get the right people in place to build the most efficient and productive workflows. What You'll Learn Why doing "less" creates "more" output and satisfaction How to professionally excuse yourself from meetings you don't need to be in Why an agenda (that actually gets followed!) is a non-negotiable for every meeting How tools like Loom can replace some of your meetings
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| 53. Next Level Nonprofits with Dr. Chris Lambert | 17 Oct 2023 | 00:41:17 | |
Introduction When nonprofits--or any organization for that matter--are poorly run, it inhibits their ability to deliver value for their customers and communities. Because nonprofits often deliver vital services to our most vulnerable citizens, we need systems in place that make them more efficient, more focused, and more productive. On today's episode, we talk with the leader of Life Remodeled, a community-based organization in Detroit, MI that is transforming communities and providing opportunities for many people experiencing life-controlling challenges. But this episode is not just for those involved in the nonprofit world. It's about organizational leadership at its finest, and what it takes to be a great leader and build a great team. About our Guest Dr. Chris Lambert is the author of Next Level Nonprofit and Founder/CEO of Life Remodeled. Chris originally pursued a degree in marketing at Indiana University with the hope of attending law school and launching a career as a real estate developer. A spiritual awakening during his junior year led to a passion to follow Jesus, and Chris eventually followed a call to Fuller and Gordon-Conwell seminaries, where he earned his MDiv and doctorate in preaching. Moving to Liberia in 2007, he and his wife helped a village raise the necessary resources for a well, farm animals, and a new school building. Upon returning to the U.S., Chris founded a church called Ekklesia. In 2010 he started Life Remodeled, which repurposes vacant school buildings into one-stop hubs of opportunities and helps create neighborhood revitalization that lasts. Additionally, he and his dream team built and launched the Next Level Nonprofit organizational operating system. From the TEDx stage to lists like Crain's 40 Under 40, Building Design + Construction 40 Under 40, and SMART BUSINESS Dealmaker of the Year, Chris' reputation precedes him. But it's the journey ahead—and the people he's asked to help lead the way—that excites him most.
Social Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lambertliferemodeled/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LambertRemodeled Life Remodeled Website: https://www.nlncoaching.org/ Next Level Nonprofit Website: https://www.nlncoaching.org/
What You'll Learn The mission of Life Remodeled and its role in urban neighborhood revitalization. Chris' failures, learnings, and inspiring stories. Key insights from his recently published book, Next Level Nonprofit, which provides an easy-to-implement, practical, and proven system to do more good by operating at the highest levels of organizational excellence.
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| 52. Lead like a Mother with Dr. Anne Welsh | 19 Sep 2023 | 00:34:19 | |
Introduction: Moms are the hardest working people we know. They juggle demanding careers and family responsibilities in ways that make us wonder just how they do it. In truth, though, some are wondering how long they can keep doing it. It's tough to always be "on." With endless work, far-reaching responsibilities, and never enough time, they wonder how they are going to survive, much less thrive. If this is you or you know someone who might relate to this story, then this episode is for you. About the Guest: Dr. Anne Welsh is a clinical psychologist, executive coach, and consultant. Dr. Welsh began her career at Harvard University before opening her own practice with a focus on supporting women in STEM, healthcare and law, and working parents across career sectors. Her coaching brings together research and real life experiences to hone leadership skills, improve emotional intelligence and create work-life integration. What You'll Learn:
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| 51. Retaining Gen Z and Young Millennials with Haydn Shaw | 05 Sep 2023 | 00:56:37 | |
Introduction In this episode we focus on how to retain and engage Gen Z and younger Millennials, while also discussing general practices for working better with all of the generational cohorts actively in the workplace. Our guest is an expert on generational differences and how to overcome the sticking points that work to tear us apart. Guest's Bio Haydn Shaw has researched and helped clients regarding generational differences for over twenty years. He is the author of Sticking Points: How to Get 4 Generations Working Together in the 12 Places They Come Apart and FranklinCovey's bestselling workshops Leading Across Generations and Working Across Generations. He has spoken to over 100,000 people and worked with more than 1,500 businesses (from Fortune 500 companies to start ups), not-for-profit organizations, and governmental agencies. Haydn speaks and consults on generations, leadership, management, trust, productivity and change management. The results from his long term organizational development and change projects have been written up in case studies. Hailed as a "leadership guru" by the Washington Post, Haydn speaks and consults in excess of 160 days each year to clients who consistently invite him back. For 21-years, he was a senior consultant with FranklinCovey, and is one of a handful of consultants in FranklinCovey to win the Chairman's Award. Haydn Shaw has delivered hundreds of convention keynotes or small, off-site workshops. Known for taking groups from hilarity to deep reflection, he combines rich content with use-tomorrow tools. His work makes an impact because he does his homework, customizing each speech so that they drive results. Haydn lives in a multi-generational household in a suburb of Chicago. Haydn, his wife Laurie, and her disabled brother are Boomer/Gen Xer Cuspers. Their four teenagers are Millennials. His mother-in-law is a Traditionalist. Social Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/haydnshaw/ What You'll Learn
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| 50. How Successful Leaders do Business with their World with Stephen Barden | 22 Aug 2023 | 00:39:16 | |
Introduction Have you ever wondered why some people tend to climb the career ladder effortlessly, while others get stuck a few rungs from the bottom? How do successful people harness power and authority for their purposes, while others seem to be crushed under the weight of others' power and authority? Whether it's business, government, or nonprofits, some leaders simply do better? Is there an explanation for the success of some and the mediocrity of others? Today's guest has researched questions like this in his exploration of how successful leaders productively engage power and authority in their environments. In our conversation, he reveals what he's learned and written about in a new book. About our Guest Stephen Barden, Ph.D. had a long and successful career in media, technology, and communications, serving at the CEO or executive board level for much of his career. Later in life, he trained as an executive coach, mediator, and eventually earned a doctorate in leadership education. He has been in private practice since 2001, working across Europe and in the USA. He is the author of the rigorously researched book, How Leaders do Business with their World, part of the Emerging Conversations in Leadership series by Routledge (2020). Social Links https://www.stephenbarden.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenbarden/ How Successful Leaders do Business with their World: https://a.co/d/hEp7KMr
What You'll Learn Sound working definitions of key terms like "power" and "success" in the context of organizational leadership and learning What a navigational stance and compass are in the context of organizational leadership and learning, and how to use both in the real world. Practical ways for implementing the Navigational Model in key areas like parenting, and developing existing and aspiring leaders. How to work with power and authority, rather than struggle against it.
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| 49. Stop Being Nice with Jim Uhl | 01 Aug 2023 | 00:40:04 | |
Introduction Have you run into people who seem just a bit too nice? They are so accommodating and non-confrontational that you're not sure exactly what they think? There's a lot of smiling and nodding, but little healthy opposition, so there isn't much in the way of innovation and meaningful improvements. Nobody wants to rock the boat, so it becomes a go-along-to-get-along situation. There really aren't any moments of excitement or exhilaration in these nice, plain vanilla worlds. Some organizations have a nice culture–and my guest today is going to argue that nice is unhealthy and weak. Instead, he calls for leaders to build teams that are cohesive, courageous, and kind. Guest Bio Jim Uhl has 27-years of public safety leadership experience with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Lakewood Police Department, and Upland Police Department in California. He is the author of the new book, Stop Being Nice! A Call for Leaders to Build Teams that are Cohesive, Courageous, and Kind, and the founder of Breaking the Chain Consulting. He is also the author of The Arch: A Framework for Leadership and Life. Jim holds a masters degree in organizational leadership and is a California Police Officer Standards and Training Master Instructor. He also teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in leadership at Woodbury University, and is certified in a number of commercial training programs.
What You'll Learn from this Episode Why our organizations are unhealthy and sick Simple strategies to build cohesive and high-performing teams Actions of kind and courageous teams The real meaning of kind and how it can transform an organization
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| 48. Delegation, Decision Making, and Dreaming with Drew Jackson | 18 Jul 2023 | 00:38:41 | |
Introduction In this episode we explore three D's of leadership: delegation, decision making, and dreaming. Two of the three are often top-of-mind for managers, but dreaming with your team is a new idea that gets everyone thinking bigger. We dig into these topics with a coach who works with leaders in the trenches every day. Guest Bio Drew Jackson believes that anyone can become a leader if they have the proper motivation and a clear plan for development. He communicates this message new book, The Executive Leader's Handbook, and in his role as an executive coach and a leadership trainer for a wide array of organizations including Chick-fil-A, Lennox and Habitat for Humanity. Drew has been married to his wife Heather for 20 years, they have five kids and three dogs, and reside in Fort Worth, Texas. What You'll Learn Why it's difficult for some leaders to delegate How situational delegation serves leaders well How to become more confident in your decision making Why "dreaming" is a big part of leader and team development
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| 73. Fighting for Greatness: Leadership Lessons from the Cage with Clifford Starks | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:41:15 | |
What if leadership was less about the boardroom and more about the octagon? In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson welcomes Clifford Starks—former UFC fighter turned performance coach—for a knockout conversation on mastering mindset, resilience, and leadership under pressure. From climbing into the cage to helping business leaders find their flow, Clifford shares hard-won wisdom that will challenge and inspire you. Clifford Starks knows what it means to face fear head-on—literally. With a 14-5 professional fighting record and a relentless drive for excellence, Clifford has transitioned from mixed martial arts to leadership coaching with one mission: to help others unlock their fullest potential. In this conversation, Clifford walks us through his incredible journey from collegiate wrestler to UFC fighter and now to trusted business consultant. He introduces the Fighter's Formula—a 6-step framework for leadership and performance—and explains how aligning the mind, heart, and skill is the true key to flow and fulfillment. Cliff dives deep into mental toughness, sharing how he reframed fear, transformed losses (including a high-profile knockout on live TV), and now teaches others to do the same in boardrooms and businesses. Leaders will walk away from this episode with practical tools for building confidence, asking better questions, recovering from setbacks, and creating lasting impact—not just success. Key Takeaways:
Ready to lead like a fighter—with clarity, confidence, and resilience? Don't miss this powerful conversation with Clifford Starks. Whether you're facing business setbacks or simply want to unlock your full potential, this episode is packed with mindset shifts and practical tools to help you perform at your best. Hit play now to hear how a former UFC fighter turned leadership coach is helping high-performers win in business and life—and how you can too. 🥊🔥
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| 47. Managing with Empathy with Debi Yadegari | 04 Jul 2023 | 00:41:03 | |
Introduction I'm sure you've heard the expression, "life happens." It suggests the idea that despite our enthusiastic, gung-ho plans and best efforts, certain life events distract us and attempt to pull us off course. In some cases, these so-called distractions are positive life events like the birth of a child or a tremendous professional opportunity for one's spouse that requires relocation, but there are also hard things in life that make it difficult to focus on work or maintain the same routines. For example, an elderly parent can no longer care for herself, you or a family member need to fight a chronic illness, children require care, someone in your household is struggling with addiction, you lose a loved one unexpectedly–and the list goes on and on. In some cases, we can foresee these challenges, but other times, we're caught by surprise and completely unprepared. Each day becomes more challenging and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. If you haven't personally experienced one of these life challenges yet, hold on, because you probably will at some point in your career. If you're a manager, someone on your team is probably struggling with something now–or they will be in the next year. When that happens, you need to respond appropriately and with empathy. Unfortunately, managers generally aren't trained in empathy. It's often hard to know what to say or do when one of your team members shares a concern like this with you. Or maybe you notice one of your A-players is starting to slip a bit; they're missing deadlines, and contributing less in meetings. They seem distracted. How do you address it? Nevertheless, how managers respond to those distractions is the most determinative factor of employee outcomes. And because it is impossible for any manager, regardless of intention or EQ, to know how to support all of their employees through all of their various circumstances, and that's where today's guest comes in. Using AI, she and her team provide the "just in time" guidance managers need to lead empathically throughout their employees' Life Events, while driving productivity forward. Our Guest Debi Yadegari is the Founder and CEO of Villyge, a manager enablement platform that helps managers support and respond to their employees' personal "Life Events" (things like burnout, miscarriage, leave, divorce, elder care, loss, coming out, and more) in an appropriate, timely and productive manner to drive culture, boost productivity and improve belonging. She is obsessed with bringing humanity into the workplace so EVERYONE can show up as their most authentic self regardless of how they identify and/or what may be unfolding in the background of their Zoom. Debi is a graduate of Barnard College of Columbia University and the George Washington University School of Law. Before her entrepreneurial journey, she had a demanding career as an investment banker on Wall Street. Debi is also the mom of five children ranging in age from 6 to 17 and this allows her to preside over what she describes as "delicious chaos" every day. What You'll Learn
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| 46. A Serial Entrepreneur's Next Great Idea with Michael Van Erdewyk | 27 Jun 2023 | 00:35:37 | |
If you like the origin stories of great business ideas--especially great ideas that involve financial technology--that promise to do good in the world, then this episode is for you. We talking to Michael Van Erdewyk, a serial entrepreneur who has started a number of new technology based businesses, about how he is creating opportunity for influencers and non-profits to communicate with their audiences through a new app and make money for their causes in the process. About the Guest My guest today is Michael VanErdwyk is an entrepreneur and seasoned executive with extensive experience building and directing high-performance teams in leadership, financing, talent and culture, management, operations, marketing and sales. With over 25 years in fin-tech, insurance, securities and lending industries, he has significant strategic business experience. He founded Bright Bucks in 2019 to help clients (non-profits, social media influencers and more) increase revenue by better engaging, communicating and giving back to their members and allowing them to earn additional income. Michael was previously founder/CEO of a company engaged in servicing and insuring over $4 billion in private student loans. He successfully founded and built three Workers' Compensation companies and was the founder/CEO of biotech companies with multiple patents. What You'll Learn
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| 45. The Entrepreneurial Journey of a Pharma Quitter with Jennifer Jones | 13 Jun 2023 | 00:45:54 | |
Have you ever dreamed about what it would be like to be your own boss? To become an entrepreneur with the freedom to choose how and when you're going to work? Perhaps at the end of a bad day or bad week, you've wanted to say, like the old country song, "Take this job and shove…I ain't working here no more." But then you think about all of those great benefits from your corporate job–the health, dental, and vision insurance, the 401K match, and guaranteed paycheck every 2-weeks that comes in rain-or-shine…and you say to yourself, I'm going to suck it up and keep plodding along. My guest today actually broke free of the corporate handcuffs and transitioned away from a great job into what she would describe as a great, entrepreneurial business that gives her the freedom to live the life she wants to live. And she tells everyone who will listen that life is better without the corporate handcuffs. While her message is compelling, it's probably not for everyone. But what I believe my listeners deserve is the opportunity to make fully informed decisions–and you have the right to know what's possible–what's out there if you want to bet on yourself and go for it. About the Guest Jennifer Jones describes herself as a quitter. She quit what most would consider a great corporate job where she was successful, made a good living, and had all the associated perks in abundance in order to begin a journey into the world of network marketing and entrepreneurialism. She is now a zealous advocate for this kind of transition that brings freedom, choice, more time with family, and wealth. What You'll Learn
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| 44. What a Life in Football Teaches us about Leadership with DeChon Burns | 30 May 2023 | 00:45:10 | |
Have you ever wanted to have an intimate conversation with someone who has played in a Rose Ball and coached in the National Football League with the likes of Marv Lewis and Steve Spurrier –and hear what it takes to be successful–as a leader–with some of the most elite athletes and largest humans on the planet? If that's you, then you're going to love this episode and my conversation with Dechon Burns. Of course, it's fun to hear the stories about the big games and the big names in football, but the real reason I wanted to have Coach Burns on the show is because I thought that some of the lessons he learned on the football field were transferable to the conference room, the shop floor, or wherever you need to accomplish your mission. And I was right. Here's the bottom line: You have to take care of your people off the field if you want to win on the field. In other words, people and performance go hand in hand. But you're going to want to listen to the entire conversation. It's just too good to miss. About the Guest DeChon lives football--first as a high school standout, then for the USC Trojans, where he played in the Rose Bowl, and later as a coach at the high school, college, and professional levels–including stints at the University of Florida, the Washington Redskins, where he worked with Marv Lewis and Steve Spurrier. As a high school and college coach, he has had literally helped hundreds of players advance to Division 1 programs and the National Football League. Since 2013, DeChon has been at the helm of Linfield Christian High football program and invests in the lives of young people. What You'll Learn:
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| 43. Why the Best Leaders are Mindful Leaders with Outi Hilgert, MD | 16 May 2023 | 00:41:42 | |
Introduction If you are stressed out, feel like you always have too much to do and too little time to do it, find yourself to be irritable and tired, and you feel a bit disconnected from your work and the people around you, this episode is for you! Today, we hear from a medical doctor who trains her patients–and organizational leaders–on mindfulness practices and compassion skills. We're going to talk about being more human and compassionate in the workplace, and introduce the powerful practices of mindfulness. This episode could be the wake-up call you need to make some changes–changes that you can learn and practice in as little as 5-minutes per day. Listen, learn, calm down, and become a better leader. Guest Bio Outi Hilgert is a Finnish Medical Doctor with 25 years of experience in holistic (integrative) medicine and international background working in Finland, Germany, France, and the US. Dr. Hilgert is a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy trainer. She teaches The Mindful Leader course at Workplace Peace Institute Leadership Academy. Her core competence is developing trauma-informed mindfulness and compassion-based interventions in medicine and society. Her particular interest is in promoting mindfulness, meditation, stress management, emotional intelligence, and self-regulation skills in preventing and treating mental and physical diseases. Dr. Hilgert is a pioneer in developing mindfulness-based digital therapeutics for mental and physical health conditions. She believes in a world where everyone has access to unique healing modalities and can find health, balance, and happiness in their life. What You'll Learn
Resources · Daily mindfulness practices in the workplace can support leaders in unlocking their employees' intrinsic motivation, and supporting them in feeling happy, healthier, safer, more cared for, and more connected to their work and to their colleagues. Mindfulness at Work: Create Calm & Focus in the Workplace · Cultivate Mindfulness in the Workplace · Wise mindful and compassionate leadership leads to employees' better job satisfaction, organizational satisfaction, job performance, job engagement, better leader satisfaction, and decreased burnout compared to the more prevalent "uncaring execution" (putting results before people's wellbeing) leadership style. Compassionate Leadership: How to Do Hard Things in a Human Way · The Mindful Leader Course Welcome Video The Mindful Leader Welcome Video Social Link https://www.linkedin.com/company/65553248
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| 42. Creating a Conflict Competent Workplace with Dr. Robyn Short | 02 May 2023 | 00:49:26 | |
Many people will quickly say that they want to avoid conflict in the workplace. That's not surprising because anyone who has experienced conflict know that it is usually very unpleasant. It usually throws us off our game, becomes an enormous waste of time, and has the potential to create long-lasting strife if not handled well. In some cases, it causes us to lose sleep, perhaps feel ill, and elevates stress levels far beyond what we normally experience. Needless to say, conflict is no fun. But guest will make the case for more productive and meaningful conflicts through the creation of conflict competent workplaces. She takes a systems approach to conflict management and offers online training to develop skills that are immediately useful in the workplace. If you want to make conflict more productive, please listen. About Our GuestDr. Robyn Short is the founder and CEO of Workplace Peace Institute, a consulting and research firm that brings peace and dignity to the workplace. She works as an organization development consultant, peace-building trainer, mediator, racial equity coach, and restorative justice facilitator. She is also an instructor for the Workplace Peace Institute Leadership Academy. Robyn has served as an adjunct professor at Southern Methodist University in the Master of Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution program and Master of Leadership and Negotiation at Bay Path University. She has guest lectured at Pepperdine University Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution and Creighton University's Master of Negotiation and Conflict Resolution program. She has authored four books on peace building. What You'll Learn:
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| 41. Desperately Seeking Emotional Intelligence with Dara Rossi, Ph.D. | 18 Apr 2023 | 00:36:48 | |
Emotional Intelligence could be the reason you're getting ahead in your career or could explain why you're stuck. If you have it in abundance, there's a good chance that you are finding fulfillment in your work and relationships, you're able to communicate and collaborate with a wide array of people, and you're getting stuff done. If you find yourself unable to understand or explain what you're feeling, you find it difficult to connect with coworkers, and your team's engagement is tanking, then you would almost certainly benefit from boosting your EQ score. But how? That's what today's episode is all about. About the Guest Dara Rossi, Ph.D. is a Workplace Peace Institute Leadership Academy instructor, facilitator, and ICF-credentialed coach. She holds master's degrees in business administration and dispute resolution. She is passionate about the personal and professional development of others and helps clients cultivate skills and behaviors that support their success, impact, and fulfillment. She has coached both established and emerging leaders across many industries. She currently serves on the Board for the International Coaching Federation-North Texas. In addition to her coaching and consulting work, Dara teaches graduate leadership university courses and enjoys facilitating training and development programs for a wide range of clients. What You'll Learn
Helpful Links and Resources Related to this Episode https://www.linkedin.com/company/65553248 Leadership Intelligences — Why They Matter Leadership Intelligence Webinar with Presentation Deck Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in the Workplace
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| 40. Leadership in Practice with Colonel George Reynolds (US Army Retired) and Colleen Mizuki Part 2 | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:25:30 | |
On this Episode On this special two-part episode, you'll hear from two seasoned leadership consulting professionals who come from very different backgrounds, but work incredibly well together. One is a retired US Army Infantry Officer who has served in and prepared others to serve in combat zones for a number of years, while his colleague is an expert on the practice of mindfulness techniques; brain-mind-body-optimization, and self-regulation techniques for for greater wellbeing and improved performance. It's a wide ranging conversation about leadership and teamwork, and how to do both in incredibly challenging situations. About Our Guests Colleen Mizuki has a deep passion for helping people be at their best, to engage with the world in a way that fits their values, and strives to always provide the most up-to-date information and research-based techniques to optimize the brain-mind-body system. She has 20-years of experience in coaching and designing/delivering performance-enhancement, learning and development, and resilience programs. Her expertise and passion centers around programs based in the science and practice of mindfulness techniques; brain-mind-body optimization; and self-regulation for greater wellbeing and improved performance. She brings a unique background in psychotherapy and body-based therapy, coaching, training mindfulness/yoga practice and hard science. She has experience working a very diverse client base, including corporate, military, academic, diplomatic, social services, cyber (hackers), information technology R&D, and non-profit organizations with clients from over 25 countries. Colleen has a B.A. in French/Chinese/Economics, an A.A. in Laser Electro-optics Technology, and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology. Her certifications include the Hudson Institute of Coaching; Cultural Intelligence Center (CQ® and Unconscious Bias); Myers-Briggs (MBTI®); MHS (EQi/EQ360); HeartMath® Institute; Institute for Social and Emotional Intelligence (ISEI®); Mindfulness-based Mind Fitness Training (MMFT®); Somatic Experiencing® International (body-based trauma resolution); and, Idea Connection System, Inc. (ISPI®). She speaks fluent French and gets by in Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. Colonel (Retired) George Reynolds has accumulated over 43-years of combined experience within the Department of Defense (DoD) in uniform – U.S. Army – and as a federal employee, both civil service and contractor. During his Army career spanning thirty-one years – 28 as an officer –his key military areas of expertise included leadership development; force management and development; and tactical, operational, and strategic planning and execution in peacetime and combat. Throughout this entire period, George was a change manager, mentor, and developer of leaders. As a Department of Defense civil servant, George supported the NATO-led military operations in Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Resolute Support) as a senior advisor. In this capacity, he provided critical guidance, advice, and mentorship in the areas of good governance and sustainable institutional capacity building to key leaders within the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan security ministries. As with his time in uniform, these missions called on his skills in change management and leadership development, and leveraged his emotional and cultural intelligence. Since 2015, George has served as program and course manager of the Defense Security Cooperation University's (DSCU) Ministry of Defense Advisors (MoDA) and Defense Advisors Program (DAP) training endeavors. During this time, he has planned, managed, and executed the training of over 400 career Department of Defense career employees and United States military service members enabling them to effectively serve globally with strategic partner countries at the ministerial/cabinet level. George Reynolds has a B.A. in Business Management, M.S. in Strategic Studies, and an M.A. in Military Studies. He is also a graduate of both the US Army War College and the US Army Command and General Staff College as well as the US Army Force Management School. Colleen and George are co-founders of Trellis Life Management, LLC., a leadership consultancy that teaches science-based techniques and use highly researched tools to bridge the gap from desiring improvement, increasing self-awareness, setting concrete goals, and, ultimately, to attaining sustained, meaningful change. They split their time helping people through Trellis Life Management and full-time jobs managing an intense 7-week program preparing senior DoD employees to work as advisors to ministers of defense across the globe. For a period of time, Colleen moved to another project under a different manager, in that case a 2-Star Marine General (Retired). What a lesson that was for Colleen in the impact of vastly different leadership capacities. The retired 2-Star created a hostile, toxic work environment, in sharp contrast with the leadership abilities and style of George. It's a great illustration of how we can all learn to become more effective relational leaders--no matter where we are in our careers. Connect with my Guests: george@trellislm.com colleen@trellislm.com On this Episode You'll Learn:
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| 39. Leadership in Practice with Colonel George Reynolds (US Army Retired) and Colleen Mizuki Part 1 | 28 Mar 2023 | 00:37:54 | |
On this special two-part episode, you'll hear from two seasoned leadership consulting professionals who come from very different backgrounds, but work incredibly well together. One is a retired US Army Infantry Officer who has served in and prepared others to serve in combat zones for a number of years, while his colleague is an expert on the practice of mindfulness techniques; brain-mind-body-optimization, and self-regulation techniques for for greater wellbeing and improved performance. It's a wide ranging conversation about leadership and teamwork, and how to do both in incredibly challenging situations. About Our Guests Colleen Mizuki has a deep passion for helping people be at their best, to engage with the world in a way that fits their values, and strives to always provide the most up-to-date information and research-based techniques to optimize the brain-mind-body system. She has 20-years of experience in coaching and designing/delivering performance-enhancement, learning and development, and resilience programs. Her expertise and passion centers around programs based in the science and practice of mindfulness techniques; brain-mind-body optimization; and self-regulation for greater wellbeing and improved performance. She brings a unique background in psychotherapy and body-based therapy, coaching, training mindfulness/yoga practice and hard science. She has experience working a very diverse client base, including corporate, military, academic, diplomatic, social services, cyber (hackers), information technology R&D, and non-profit organizations with clients from over 25 countries. Colleen has a B.A. in French/Chinese/Economics, an A.A. in Laser Electro-optics Technology, and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology. Her certifications include the Hudson Institute of Coaching; Cultural Intelligence Center (CQ® and Unconscious Bias); Myers-Briggs (MBTI®); MHS (EQi/EQ360); HeartMath® Institute; Institute for Social and Emotional Intelligence (ISEI®); Mindfulness-based Mind Fitness Training (MMFT®); Somatic Experiencing® International (body-based trauma resolution); and, Idea Connection System, Inc. (ISPI®). She speaks fluent French and gets by in Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. Colonel (Retired) George Reynolds has accumulated over 43-years of combined experience within the Department of Defense (DoD) in uniform – U.S. Army – and as a federal employee, both civil service and contractor. During his Army career spanning thirty-one years – 28 as an officer –his key military areas of expertise included leadership development; force management and development; and tactical, operational, and strategic planning and execution in peacetime and combat. Throughout this entire period, George was a change manager, mentor, and developer of leaders. As a Department of Defense civil servant, George supported the NATO-led military operations in Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Resolute Support) as a senior advisor. In this capacity, he provided critical guidance, advice, and mentorship in the areas of good governance and sustainable institutional capacity building to key leaders within the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan security ministries. As with his time in uniform, these missions called on his skills in change management and leadership development, and leveraged his emotional and cultural intelligence. Since 2015, George has served as program and course manager of the Defense Security Cooperation University's (DSCU) Ministry of Defense Advisors (MoDA) and Defense Advisors Program (DAP) training endeavors. During this time, he has planned, managed, and executed the training of over 400 career Department of Defense career employees and United States military service members enabling them to effectively serve globally with strategic partner countries at the ministerial/cabinet level. George Reynolds has a B.A. in Business Management, M.S. in Strategic Studies, and an M.A. in Military Studies. He is also a graduate of both the US Army War College and the US Army Command and General Staff College as well as the US Army Force Management School. Colleen and George are co-founders of Trellis Life Management, LLC., a leadership consultancy that teaches science-based techniques and use highly researched tools to bridge the gap from desiring improvement, increasing self-awareness, setting concrete goals, and, ultimately, to attaining sustained, meaningful change. They split their time helping people through Trellis Life Management and full-time jobs managing an intense 7-week program preparing senior DoD employees to work as advisors to ministers of defense across the globe. For a period of time, Colleen moved to another project under a different manager, in that case a 2-Star Marine General (Retired). What a lesson that was for Colleen in the impact of vastly different leadership capacities. The retired 2-Star created a hostile, toxic work environment, in sharp contrast with the leadership abilities and style of George. It's a great illustration of how we can all learn to become more effective relational leaders--no matter where we are in our careers. Connect with my Guests: george@trellislm.com colleen@trellislm.com On this Episode You'll Learn:
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| 38. Authentic Collaboration: Practical Tips to Lead and Energize Your Team with Edward van Luinen and Tricia Cerrone | 07 Mar 2023 | 00:45:52 | |
My guests on this episode believe that they have cracked the code on improved collaboration and creating healthy organizational culture. It's an issue that most companies need to address--especially since a recent Salesforce Survey found that 85% of respondents said that the primary reason for failed projects and workplace failures is "poor communication and an overall lack of collaboration." Few people would disagree; however, most people don't know how to fix it. Our guests believe the answer is authentic collaboration. About the Guests Tricia Cerrone Courage and collaboration are hallmarks of Tricia's global leadership experience, whether it is leading a project, innovating new designs, or overseeing a portfolio of work. With a keen eye for talent and more than 20 years on the business and production side of designing and delivering technically challenging projects at Disney and other Fortune 500 companies, Tricia is adept at inspiring and motivating teams toward successful outcomes while advancing careers and developing new leaders. She is also an award winning author and screenwriter, as well as co-CEO of Authentic Collaboration. Edward van Luinen Edward is CEO and Board Advisor of Global Talent Builders, LLC, a worldwide recruiting, change, DE&I, and workforce development company in Pasadena, California, as well as co-CEO of Authentic Collaboration. His corporate talent and change experience features Walt Disney Imagineering, Sony, Heineken, and Avon Products, Inc. Edward's collaboration motto is "advance a team member when you advance yourself." He has worked in Africa, Europe, and North America. Edward collaborates in both French and English.
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| 72. Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast: How to Build a Thriving Workplace with Andrea Wanerstrand (Culture Lab) | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:33:16 | |
We've all heard Peter Drucker's famous quote, "Culture eats strategy for breakfast." But what does it really take to build a workplace culture that drives both people and performance? In this episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with culture expert Andrea Wanerstrand to uncover the key elements of creating a thriving, human-centric workplace. Dr. Mike welcomes Andrea Wanerstrand, Founder & CEO of A3 CultureLab, a leadership speaker, coach, and consultant who helps organizations—from startups to Fortune 500 companies—design extraordinary workplace cultures. With a background in global performance management at companies like Microsoft and T-Mobile, Andrea shares insights on fostering a workplace where people feel valued, autonomous, and accountable. Andrea breaks down what it means to have a human-centric workplace, emphasizing the importance of how work gets done, how leaders make others feel, and how trust is built. She explains that culture isn't just about perks or policies—it's about how people interact, communicate, and show up every day. Throughout the conversation, Andrea offers practical advice for leaders, including how to balance empathy with authority, create autonomous teams, and encourage a culture of accountability without fear. She also shares details about her upcoming coaching program, Mindset Maven, designed to help high-achievers develop mental and physical resilience. Key Takeaways:
Andrea Wanerstrand's insights remind us that leadership is about creating environments where people can thrive. Whether you're a new manager or a seasoned executive, understanding and shaping culture is key to long-term success. Links for This Episode:
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| 37. Team Effectiveness Around the World with Pete Baker | 21 Feb 2023 | 00:48:34 | |
On this episode, you'll meet Pete Baker, a senior leader in Human Resources for a variety of organizations, who has worked in nine countries of the course of his 30-year career. During that time, he has learned a great deal about what makes teams successful and the kind of interaction that ignites innovation and energized collaboration. He shares some of what he has learned from his journey in a fun, upbeat conversation. We talk about what defines a highly effective teams, what it takes to build them, and how trust is the foundation of every highly effective team. You'll also hear how cultural differences may impact team effectiveness and the creation of trust. My guest brings tremendous wisdom and practical experience from which you will most certainly benefit.
About the Guest Pete Baker is Vice President of Human Resources for Amcor Rigid Packaging, a world leader in the manufacturing of rigid packaging for the food, beverage, spirits, personal care, home care and healthcare industries with 61 facilities in 12 countries. Pete previously held senior HR roles at First Abu Dhabi Bank, AP Moller Maersk and Procter & Gamble. A native of Australia, Pete has lived in nine countries throughout his career. Pete's passion within business is driving team effectiveness and leadership transformation. He currently lives with his wife in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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| 36. Reflections of a Learning Leader with Dr. Kevin Claypool | 07 Feb 2023 | 00:35:19 | |
Have you ever wondered how learning leaders think about delivering leadership and employee development across a large enterprise? On this episode we climb inside the brain of the Head of Learning and Development for an iconic American company and the world's largest beer company, Anheuser-Busch. Home to brands like Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, Stella Artois, and too many others to name, Anheuser-Busch is committed to developing people and elevating its performance to create a future with more cheers.
About our Guest Dr. Kevin Claypool is the North American Head of Learning and Development for Anheuser-Busch, the world's top brewer, based in St. Louis, Missouri. He is a graduate of York University in Nebraska, and Abilene Christian University, and he earned his doctorate at Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology. Strap in because his passion for people and elevating performance is contagious!
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| 35. Lead Deeper with Coaching with Jeremiah Shaw | 24 Jan 2023 | 00:35:52 | |
Coaching is an approach to learning and personal and professional growth that creates self--awareness, drives transformational change, and provides much needed support and an appropriate level of challenge. Some executives have the opportunity to engage professional coaches who are outside of their organization and chain-of-command, and have no loyalties beyond their professional commitment to their clients. Unfortunately, the services of these professional coaches are often expensive and available only to senior executives or high-potential leaders being groomed for the top ranks of an organization. Today we're talking about how managers can be coaches and bring that benefits of coaching to their team members. We're also talking about how it's a great way build a deeper relationship with the folks on our team and truly get to know them as people–not just a means of production. And there are all sorts of benefits when that happens. In fact, everyone benefits from coaching when managers become coaches. On this Episode You'll Learn
Guest's Bio Jeremiah Shaw, the President of Strata Consulting, has a genuine desire to understand others' stories, explore their challenges, and connect them with the resources that support their vision. With the power of positivity and a joyfully mischievous spirit, Jeremiah enjoys helping his clients clarify and enact a full, purposeful life by defining their value-driven vision, professionally, organizationally, and personally. Along with a deep passion for both nonprofits and sales, Jeremiah also possesses a master's degree in Organizational and Global Leadership from York University and a B.S. in Industrial Safety from the University of Central Oklahoma. As an ACC Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation and a Co-Active trained coach, he can't help but push those around him to maximize their potential. As a coach, Jeremiah believes that you need to know yourself, accept yourself, and define yourself! Purpose. Values. Direction. Action. Jeremiah lives a very full life with his wife and three children in the quiet town of Clark, Colorado, where the population sign reads with a bold "?." When not serving clients or spending time with family, Jeremiah will be found wandering the wilderness with his two golden retrievers, Birdie, and Trout, fly-fishing, hunting, mountain biking, skiing, or writing. If it has to do with adventure or family, he is there.
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| 34. The Solution is in the Dialogue with Peter Andrew Nixon | 17 Jan 2023 | 00:43:43 | |
The world is in dire need of better, more productive conversations. To support that assertion, all you have to do is turn on the news to witness people talking at each other, making accusations, and interacting in ways that, in some cases, are disrespectful and in no way honor the human dignity of the people involved. My guest today contends that we would all be better off if we had better dialogue–a statement with which most of us would agree. About Today's Guest Today's guest is Peter Andrew Nixon, a Canadian by birth, who has spent much of his professional life in Hong Kong. He is a prolific author, consultant, coach, and trainer who focuses on better communication and collaboration to address organizational challenges and differences. He advises mainly inside organizations, but also teaches public courses at management institutes, chambers of commerce, universities, schools, and colleges around the world, including: CUHK (MBA), HKPolyU, McGill University, SFU, & Bishop's, and HKICPA's Financial Controllers' Program. Peter has also appeared on TEDx, CNBC, Discovery Channel, TV5, TVB, Media Corp., YPO and EO. He is the author of the following titles, all available on Amazon: Dialogue Gap (Wiley) Negotiation: Mastering Business in Asia (Wiley) The Business Developer's Playbook: Relationship Selling Principles and the DNA of Dialogue Selling (Taylor Francis) We're F*cked: But We can Change and Here's How (Kindle) The Change Manager's Casebook (Kindle) What You'll Learn
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| 33. Lead like a Navy Seal with Dr. David Livingston | 10 Jan 2023 | 00:46:57 | |
We all admire at the courage, commitment, and success of the US Navy SEAL Teams. These warriors are often thought of as supermen, but in reality, they are just highly trained professionals who work very effectively as a team--even in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments. This does not happen by accident. It is part of their training and their culture--and something other teams can learn from and aspire to become. Our guest on today's episode has studied what gives the SEAL teams the ability to adapt as a collective unit in the most dynamic circumstances, and shares his findings on the factors that affect the success of these particular action teams. Using data gathered from official documents and interviews with retired Navy SEALs, he has greatly expanded the understanding of dynamic instability as it relates to team adaption in uncertain environments. He shares these lessons learned in practical ways that will be useful to leaders and teams in a variety of industries and settings. Today's Guest Today's guest is Dr. David Livingston. David is the Managing Partner of the McChrystal Academy, part of the McChrystal Group in Alexandria, Virginia. The McChrystal Group was founded by retired 4-star Army General Stanley McChrystal, most famous for his command of the Joint Special Operations Command during the Global War on Terror. At the McChrystal Group, Dr. David Livingston leads a team of subject matter experts, learning designers, and dynamic facilitators who develop and deliver custom learning courses and programs that leverage a variety of experiential learning methods–including some really effective simulations–to drive individual growth and higher performance for teams and organizations. Prior to joining McChrystal Group, David worked at the Corporate Executive Board as a Senior Learning Designer, responsible for developing classroom and e-learning programs on best practices of leadership. He also held positions as a Learning and Organizational Development Consultant and a Project Manager at a global engineering firm, charged with leading an accelerated development program targeting high-potential managers. David earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Messiah College, Master of Arts degree in Practical Theology from Regent University, and a Doctorate of Education in Human and Organizational Learning from the George Washington University. His doctoral research focused on team adaptation in uncertain environments.
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| 32. The Value of Emotional Intelligence with Phil Johnson | 03 Jan 2023 | 00:37:39 | |
According to the The World Economic Forum, Emotional Intelligence is one of the top-ten, must-have job skills of the twenty-first century. And that doesn't surprise me in the least. Here's why…because the difference between success and failure as a leader often comes down to one's ability to relate to people. It's all about relationships. The lack of emotional intelligence is usually pretty easy to recognize. It's the manager that throws a tantrum when things don't go his way or is quick to throw one of his people under the bus in a meeting. It's the coworker who shares way too much at the wrong time, it's the leader who lacks empathy–asking you to sacrifice your family time, while he leaves early, and then claims the credit for your hard work. It's anyone who lacks the ability to control their emotions and have empathy for others. You will recognize it pretty quickly with most people–and let's hope that that person isn't a key stakeholder in your life or work. Most people readily recognize people who have emotional intelligence in abundance. They are authentic, they are usually good listeners, and they attract people to them–you just want to be around them because they bring out the best in others. They're safe. Our Guest To unpack the value of emotional intelligence, our guest today is Phil Johnson. Phil is an author and the creator of the Master of Business Leadership program which focuses on emotional intelligence. For the past 22 years, Phil has been an executive coach assisting executives and organizations to bet on themselves by developing better leaders and stronger teams with EQ. What You'll Learn On today's episode, we talk about
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| 31. An OD Leader's Expat Journey with Berry Lumpkins | 06 Dec 2022 | 00:44:01 | |
What's it like for a native of Tennessee to build a successful in learning, leadership development, and organizational development in Europe and the Middle East? Today, we find out because we're talking to Berry Lumpkins. Berry has followed a very non-traditional career path that took him from the home of country music to exotic, far away places in Europe and the Middle East. Berry Lumpkins is currently the Global Director of Organizational Development at NKT Group based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Prior to joining the NKT Group, Berry held a number of global and regional roles with DP World, FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank), Zurich Insurance Group, A.P. Moller-Maersk and Siemens focusing in the areas of learning, leadership development, talent and culture, based in the US, Europe and the Middle East. He holds an MA in Ethics from the University of Wales, UK, and a BA in Philosophy from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN. Berry is a dual national (Sweden & USA), currently living in Sweden with his wife, two children, and a cat. On today's episode you'll learn:
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| 30. Turning "Doers" into Leaders with Vanessa Judelman | 29 Nov 2022 | 00:36:45 | |
The transition from being a doer to a leader can be a difficult one for many people. Doers are outstanding individual contributors who, based on their performance in their current role, are promoted with the assumption that they will also be a good manager. In reality, some doers never become leaders. Instead, they become "super-doers" who micromanage the work of their team members with a running commentary on how they would perform particular tasks. Both the new manager and people on the team become frustrated. On today's episode, we hear from Vanessa Judelman, an author and consultant who helps people make this transition from doer to leader. Vanessa is the President of Mosaic People Development, a company that develops leaders who inspire great results. Over the last 20 years, she has coached and developed thousands of people across the globe who want to be strong leaders. In her book, Mastering Leadership: What it Takes to Lead in Today's Fast Paced World, Vanessa identifies the key problems facing leaders today and provides compelling solutions for the most common leadership challenges. Her goal, through the book, is to create confident, self-aware, and strategic leaders. Vanessa who works with a wide-array of world-class organizations, is often quoted in the media on issues related to leadership, and lectures in the Ted Rogers School of Management. In short, Vanessa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our conversation today. On this episode you'll learn:
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| 29. Building Your Professional Network Authentically with Racquel Cagurangan | 01 Nov 2022 | 00:34:35 | |
Many years ago, I had a professor in grad school who often said, "Your success will almost always be based on the people you know and the stories they tell about you." I have found his assessment to be absolutely true as I progressed through my career and now serve clients as a speaker, consultant, and coach. In fact, virtually all of my recent client engagements have resulted from a previous student, colleague, or client who knew and respected me, and recognized that I could add value to their current organization. In short, it really is all about relationships. But how does one build a professional network organically and authentically in 2022? In a post-Covid world where more and more people work remotely, there seem to be fewer mixers or conferences to attend, and people tend to rely on social media more and more for information and sense of connection, how do we build meaningful relationships? Where do you find people that you would feel comfortable asking for assistance, a referral, or seeking their opinion on a pressing matter that has caused you some sleepless nights? To some, networking has uninviting connotations. If working the room, handing out business cards, and inviting new acquaintances to coffee doesn't feel natural, then this episode just might be for you. Today, we're going all the way to Manila, in the Philippines, to talk with someone who has built a powerful network in natural, authentic ways–because she cares deeply about the causes and people with whom she is involved. As a result, some call her the most well connected woman in the Philippines. In this episode, you'll learn:
Guest's Bio Racquel Cagurangan is currently the GM for International SOS operations in the Philippines. Until recently, she was Head of Ambulatory Care of Metro Pacific Health, the largest hospital group in the country prior to joining her new post. She also led a chain of medical clinics, mobile xray business and managed over 200 company clinics with over 300% revenue growth in 5 years. She used to be the general manager of a well-known mall-based clinics and was COO of the largest HMO in the Philippines. She served as Treasurer of the Philippine Ambulatory Surgical Center Association and Chairman of the Management Association of the Philippines' Health and Wellness Committee this year. Racquel has been very visible in the healthcare industry for the past decade however; she started in the telecom industry and served 11 years in AT&T and 6 years in the biggest mobile company in the country, Globe Telecom where she was one of the youngest Vice Presidents. She was also Chief Administrative Officer in Globe's wireline subsidiary, Innove. She moved on to the online digital industry in 2009 as GM of 88DB handling 5 web portals in Asia Pacific most notably politicalarena.com, the only web partner of Philippines' first automated election At one point in her career, she was GM of a call center with 800 agents and called herself "Chief Maven". She continues to advocate for the contact center industry to date. She is now an Institute of Corporate Directors' Fellow promoting corporate governance and sustainability, a case discussion Leader for Harvard Business, president of Reef Check Philippines and an active member of the Filipina CEO Advisors. In her spare time, she plays badminton, golf, poker or sing karaoke and ballroom dancing.
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| 28. Doing DEI with Cultural Intelligence with Dr. Kristal Walker | 25 Oct 2022 | 00:42:41 | |
According to Diversity Wins, the third in a series of reports from famed management consulting firm, McKinsey and Company, the business case for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) is stronger than ever. In their research, McKinsey followed the trajectories of 1,000 companies in 15 countries using a very sophisticated methodology called "social listening" to determine what actually drives success. They've followed these companies since 2014, so this is not simply a snapshot; instead it's a true look, with the perspective of time, on what's happening. The reality is that many, if not most companies, made little progress during a 5-year period. Some even regressed. However, the diversity winners are adopting systematic, business-led approaches to inclusion and diversity (I&D). McKinsey's latest analysis reaffirms the strong business case for both gender diversity and ethnic and cultural diversity in corporate leadership—and shows that this business case continues to strengthen. The most diverse companies are now more likely than ever to outperform less diverse peers on profitability. Moreover, Mckinsey found that the greater the representation, the higher the likelihood of outperformance. In the case of ethnic and cultural diversity, their business-case findings are equally compelling. While these data points are persuasive, getting there is not easy and it doesn't happen overnight. On this episode, you'll hear from a leader in this space who is doing the hard work–on a daily basis–of creating more diverse, equitable, and inclusive organizations. You'll discover what goes into making this happen and hear some ideas on how you can make it happen for your team or organization. You'll learn:
Dr. Kristal Walker, CPTM Vice President of Employee Wellbeing, Sweetwater Dr. Kristal Walker, CPTM, has worked in the learning, leadership, and organizational development space for over 15 years helping clients engage people, apply processes, and implement technology to improve human and organizational performance. She currently serves as the vice president of employee well-being at Sweetwater Sound, where she is responsible for crafting and leading wellness, diversity and inclusion (D&I), and training initiatives. She is also a Training Industry Courses instructor, where she teaches the CPTM designation, as well as a few additional courses, including new D&I Inclusion workshop for which she authored. She is now in the process of launching oa new online institution called Proverbs University, which offers professional certifications in Corporate Training, DEI, High-Impact Leadership, and Talent Management Strategy. Dr. Walker's education prepared her well for her current and future endeavors. Though she earned an undergraduate degree in human services, a graduate degree in management and organizational leadership, and a doctorate of management degree in organizational leadership, she is committed to forever being a student of her craft. She holds the Certified Professional in Training Management as a true testament of "practicing what she preaches". She is also certified in analyzing Caliper Essentials and PDP ProScan, TeamScan, and JobScan Assessment data, which allows her to provide expert coaching and strategy in building talent from selection through succession. According to Kristal, she takes greatest pleasure in being the wife to her loving and supportive husband, and the mother to her amazing children Links for This Episode:
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| 71. Story to Strategy: Should You Write a Book In 2025? Using Your Book to Build Multiple Income Streams | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:30:59 | |
Ever dreamed of writing a book but felt overwhelmed by the process? In this episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Danielle Hutchinson, Chief Creative Officer at Authors on a Mission, to uncover the secrets to writing a book that not only connects with readers but also elevates your brand, grows your business, and creates multiple income streams. Dr. Mike welcomes Danielle Hutchinson, a master storyteller and ghostwriter of over 150 books, who shares her expertise on crafting compelling narratives. From her experiences as an English teacher to her current role at Authors on a Mission, Danielle has helped countless clients bring their stories to life. She breaks down the book-writing process into actionable steps that even the busiest professionals can follow. Danielle tackles some of the most common challenges for aspiring authors, including overcoming writer's block, writing a book in just 90 days, and finding the time to write—even without prior writing skills. She also discusses the incredible business opportunities that can come from publishing a book, such as creating additional income streams, securing speaking engagements, and building authority in your field. With a wealth of experience and a unique perspective as a digital nomad, Danielle emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or someone with a message to share, this episode will inspire you to finally put pen to paper and bring your story to life. Key Takeaways:
Danielle Hutchinson proves that writing a book isn't just a dream—it's a practical and achievable goal that can transform your life and career. Whether you're aiming to grow your business, establish authority, or simply share your story, her advice provides the roadmap you need to succeed. Call to Action: Links for This Episode:
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| 27. Developing Young Hispanic Leaders with Eric Rodriguez | 27 Sep 2022 | 00:37:57 | |
According to the 2020 census, there are 62.1 million Hispanics in the United States or 18.7 percent of the population. It's also the fastest growing ethnic group in the country. Yet even with the strength in numbers these data may suggest, many young Hispanics are still struggling to find success in higher education and the workplace. This episode is dedicated to better understanding how one university professor and the non-profit Hispanic 100 Educational Foundation is making a difference in the lives of young people who will someday be our leaders. Guest Bio Dr. Eric Rodriguez eaches a variety of business, management, and I/O psychology courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels at California State University–Fullerton, as well as Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, California. He is also a principal and founder of Focused Leader Consulting Group, a boutique consulting firm centered on people and organizational development. In that practice, Eric and his colleagues leverage a variety of learning tools and interventions to improve relationships and drive organizational performance. Eric earned his doctoral degree from Pepperdine University and a MBA from Azusa Pacific University, as well as a wide array of certifications in a variety of assessments and learning programs. Eric is also dedicated to giving back to the community as reflected in his work with the Hispanic 100's Mentorship Program where he serves as co-chair. About the Hispanic 100 Foundation The Hispanic 100 organization is established to develop and promote leadership from within and from the Hispanic community and to advance free enterprise principles through advocacy and educational activities that impact the Hispanic population as it relates to the overall social and economic good.
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| 26. Navigating Enterprise Politics with Dr. Jawn Lam | 20 Sep 2022 | 00:40:47 | |
You've heard it a thousand times: "I hate all of the politics at work." You may have even said it a few times or at least carried the sentiment. And since it's such a ubiquitous topic of conversation, more than a few of us have likely commiserated with colleagues about office politics over drinks at a happy hour or a plate of food in the company cafeteria (just for clarification, that's a place where people gathered to eat when we went to the office), but odds are you didn't leave that gathering with a plan for navigating those political tides. Today's guest, Dr. Jawn Lam, has done scholarly research on how people gain, hold, and exercise power in organizations, and has built a business based on helping people win that political game at work. And if we think of organizational politics as a game that can be won or lost, we want you to gain some insights that will help you win.
Guest Bio Dr. Jawn Lam, is a scholar-practitioner who is obsessed with how people gain and wield power in the workplace. He is the founder of Durable Leadership, an organizational consulting firm that helps executives win at enterprise politics. Jawn is a graduate of Pepperdine University at the undergraduate, MBA, and doctoral levels.
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| 25. How to Build a Great Leadership Team with Jack McGuinness | 12 Sep 2022 | 00:33:03 | |
You have likely been on some really good teams where everyone enjoyed working together and together, you accomplished some pretty exciting things. And…you had fun doing it. And on the rough days, you picked each other up and addressed the challenges together. Like me, you've probably also been on some teams where everyone seemed to be pulling in opposite directions, where no one seemed to want to be there, and where results were mediocre at best. It wasn't a good experience, so you're in no hurry to go back. You might even be on that kind of team now. Since both scenarios are common, how do we intentionally build great teams? What's the secret sauce that allows leaders to attract and retain great people, exceed performance goals, have everyone get along, and create a truly enjoyable experience for all involved? That's exactly what we're going to talk about in today's episode--but with a particular focus on leadership teams--where the stakes are often much higher. In fact, the future of an entire enterprise is often determined by how well a small group of people can work together to guide the organization.
Guest Bio: My guest today is Jack McGuinness. Jack is an executive coach, author, and co-founder of Relationship Impact, a consulting firm focused on helping organizations build great leadership teams. Jack is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and served with the Army's famed 10th Mountain Division. Since leaving active duty, Jack has also been the Chief Operating Officer of a boutique management consulting firm, and the CEO of a contract managing company, as well as an adjunct professor at the John Hopkins Carey School of Business. Jack's new book, _Building Great Leadership Teams: A Practical Approach for Unleashing the Full Potential of your Leadership Team,_ is the focus of our conversation.
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| 24. Creating a Retirement Filled with Meaning and Purpose with Sheryl Roy | 16 Aug 2022 | 00:35:48 | |
On today's episode, we're talking about what it takes to lead yourself well into retirement–and how to make that season of life filled with meaning and purpose. We've also included several great resources to consider here in the show notes, so take a look!
Guest Bio My guest today is Sheryl Roy, a Leadership and Transition Coach, an expert in Organizational Effectiveness and has a passion for Diversity & Inclusion. She recently retired from ExxonMobil with over 31 years in Engineering, Project Management and Human Resources. She spent her last 10+ years as a Global Organizational Effectiveness (OE) Consultant, including developing and mentoring hundreds in OE across the globe. In her final few years, she helped drive ExxonMobil's D&I Strategy across businesses and ERGs. Sheryl graduated from UT Austin in Mechanical Engineering, then later attained her HR Certification from Cornell University. She also completed the Rice University CoachRice Leadership Coaching Program and achieved her coaching certification from the ICF (International Coaching Federation), coaching many leaders inside and outside of ExxonMobil over the years. She is certified in many psychometric tools such as Core Strengths, Team Management Profile and more. As you can see, she has a passion for continued learning and development. Sheryl resides in Houston, Texas. In retirement, she plans to continue her leadership and transition coaching practice, consult in OE areas, and dive deeper into her Artwork with hopes to one day have her own art exhibit.
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Links for This Episode: Social Links
Additional Resources Michael Bungay Stander (How to Begin, Start Doing Something That Matters)
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Retirement Wheel of Life: How would you assess where you are in each area….choose a value between 1 (very dissatisfied) and 10 (fully satisfied):
Self-esteem
Contribution to society
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