Explore every episode of the podcast The Leader I Needed with James (Trig) Rosseau, Sr. | Emotional Intelligence, Imposter Syndrome, Mentoring, Servant Leader, New Promoted Manager

There is someone on your team you need to talk to. They've been showing up late. Dropping the ball. Bringing an attitude everyone can feel. You know the conversation needs to happen. And you've been putting it off for weeks. Here is the truth. Issues don't age well. They rot. And when you finally do have the conversation, if it comes out as "because I'm the boss, that's why," you just made it worse. In this episode, James Rosseau Sr. shares the working relationship that went sideways for over a year before he figured out what he was doing wrong. He walks you through the three-question filter you can use before you open your mouth, the four moves that let you be direct without being destructive, and the short list of do's and don'ts that can keep any hard conversation from going off the rails. James also shares the story of a head of strategy at Allstate who stopped him cold one day. He never once said the words "because I said so." But he was living in "because I said so" mode. And it was costing him exactly the expertise he had hired her for. You'll learn why most workplace blowups have nothing to do with the actual issue, why your office is the worst place to have a hard conversation, and why the sandwich method is quietly making your feedback forgettable. By the end of this episode, you'll have a script you can actually use for the conversation you've been avoiding. Feedback private. Celebration public. Never flip those two.

You just got promoted. Or you just walked across the stage. Or you're staring at an offer that looks perfect on paper. The phone is blowing up. The congratulations are pouring in. And underneath all of it, the pressure to make the next move is already loud. You start wondering if you're falling behind. You start scanning for the next thing. You start telling yourself the clock is ticking, when honestly, the only clock is the one in your own head. That is the urgency trap. And it is where a lot of newly promoted leaders make decisions they end up regretting. In this episode, James Rosseau Sr. shares the C-suite offer he almost took. Big role. Real budget. A team he could point to. On paper, it was the obvious next move. What stopped him wasn't a better offer. It was getting still long enough to see what was really pulling him toward it. You'll learn why urgency clouds your judgment, why stillness after a big moment isn't laziness but strategic clarity work, and how to tell the difference between visible progress (what other people can see) and real progress (who you're becoming). James also walks through a 20-minute exercise you can do this week, three questions to answer honestly, and a two-column list that will show you where to actually move next. By the end of this episode, you'll have permission to slow down long enough to make the right call instead of the fast one. Your next move is not your last move. Choose progress over perfection.

You got promoted because you're sharp. Now you're snapping in meetings, shutting down under pressure, and going home drained. Here's the truth: that's not a character flaw, it's biology. In this episode, James breaks down why your brain reacts before you can think, the P.A.U.S.E. framework that interrupts it, and how the best leaders learn to pause inside the surge. Anyone can react. Leaders respond on purpose. That's where your leadership lives.

In this episode I explore the crucial role of soft skills in today's job market. I'm sharing why communication, teamwork, and adaptability is necessary for career progression. Drawing from personal experiences and data, I illustrate how soft skills influence workplace dynamics, culture, and the sustainability of a career, underscoring their growing importance for professional success.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution podcast, I have the pleasure of speaking with Mike Mack, a renowned figure in the Christian hip hop community, about his extensive background as a booking agent and artist development guru. We dive into the path to becoming a successful artist, the importance of harnessing both creative and analytical thinking, and the ups and downs of a 15-year tenure in the music business.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution Show, I'm offering some practical advice for job seekers. I discuss the critical role of networking, the value of work experience, and the benefit of job hunting while still employed. I also took time to appreciate the vital role of teachers in society and in our personal lives.

In this episode, I discuss the critical need for financial literacy, especially among the youth. Reflecting on my own upbringing, I share the lack of financial education I received and the valuable lessons my mother taught me about investing in oneself. I also share the benefits of financial literacy, like improved financial decision-making and long-term economic well-being. Lastly, I share actionable advice for parents to foster financial understanding in their children and its broader positive impact on society.

In this episode, I interview Nancy Goebel, the CEO of Digital Workplace Group. We explore Nancy's path to leadership, her experiences as a multiracial woman at the helm, and her strategies for tackling challenges and seizing opportunities. Nancy imparts wisdom on personal growth and the significance of storytelling in the corporate realm, providing a glimpse into her leadership philosophy and the journey that led her to the top of her field.

In this episode, I speak with Ryan Bomberger, an Emmy award-winning creative professional and activist, about the detrimental effects of fatherlessness on children and society. Ryan, who grew up with an adoptive father who was a positive role model, shares his insights on the importance of fatherhood and the work his organization, Radiance Foundation, does to promote the value of every human life.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution I talk with David Myles about combating youth hopelessness. David, who has a multifaceted career and serves on the board of TreeHouse, shares his insights on the factors contributing to teen despair and the importance of providing a supportive environment. They explore TreeHouse's methods, such as mentoring and support groups, and stress the need for open, nonjudgmental dialogue.

In this episode of the Calling Solution podcast, I interview Elise Awaad, President and CEO of DeVry University. We explore Elise's rise from an admissions representative to the first female President and CEO of DeVry, her commitment to education, and her efforts to close the tech opportunity gap. We discuss the importance of blooming where planted and Elise's transformative career moment in 2013, where she took on a challenging role that others avoided, leading to significant organizational transformation. The episode also touches on the value of formal education, the role of suffering in life, and strategies to prevent learning loss during summer.

We cannot deny social media’s pervasiveness, but do you properly leverage it for career growth? Let’s cover some of the platforms, techniques, and practices that might help! I also discuss the topic of “Ghosting” and share some leadership development opportunities on the horizon. For the written article on social media for Career Growth, visit https://thecorelinksolution.com/how-to-use-social-media-to-grow-your-career-in-2024/ To listen to more episodes about Career Growth with James Rosseau, Sr. (aka Trig), go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-corelink-solution-with-james-rosseau-sr/id1428240712

In this episode of The Corelink Solution Show, I sit down with Anthony Flynn, author of "Zero to Seven Figures." Anthony discusses his journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He shares his insights on the power of focus, practice, and the concept of "unfair advantage," which stems from his tough upbringing. The episode is jam packed with valuable lessons on using your unique experiences to achieve success in your career.

You got the title. You got the team. You're putting in the hours. So why does it feel like you're running hard and getting nowhere? Here's what nobody told you when they handed you that promotion: your success as a leader isn't about what you know or what you can do anymore. It's about who's in your corner. And if you're like most new managers, you've been so focused on proving yourself that you've left every relationship around you on the table. In this episode, James Rosseau Sr. walks you through the Evolve Your Ecosystem framework — the same tool he's used with leaders across healthcare, financial services, and tech to help them stop navigating blind. You'll learn: Why the listening tour you skipped in your first 90 days is costing you more than you realize How to map every key relationship in your professional world and rate it red, amber, or green The three questions to bring into every stakeholder conversation Why a thin relationship cannot carry the weight of your work, even when you're delivering The exact move James used at LegalShield before announcing a single strategic decision — the one that helped drive years of double-digit growth and contributed to a $1.2 billion private equity sale If you've ever felt like you're babysitting, firefighting, and faking your way through your first year of leadership, this episode gives you something to actually do this week. Draw the map. Rate the relationships. Pick one red conversation to schedule. That's where the work begins. Because the leader you wish you always had didn't just do great work. They built great relationships. And that's the leader you're becoming.

On this episode of The Corelink Solution, I've got the top 10 skills needed for future success amid a changing work environment, including communication and project management. Leaders, I encourage you to research and create the right organizational culture, instead of blindly following trends. Lastly, I'm sharing how you can develop your skills to stay competitive in the evolving professional world.

Are you in a leadership position? If you answered yes, then this episode is for you. Navigating a career in this post-pandemic economy, is difficult and layoffs are on the rise again. I discuss the crucial role of leadership during such times and share the lessons I've learned during my tenor as a leader in corporate America. From direct and compassionate communication to supporting our colleagues, I underscore the value of learning from both positive and negative examples of leadership. I also discuss the benefits of STEM education and the growth of the job market. So hit play and remember to leave a comment and share your thoughts on the show and your experience with "layoffs" or STEM.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution Show, I explore the significance of leadership and culture in the workplace, and how individuals can transition their skills for a greater purpose. I also discuss the role of leaders in shaping culture, the success of Christian hip-hop at the Grammys, and the effects of the TikTok-Universal breakup on music creators.

In this episode of the Corelink Solution show, my guest actor, Cameron Arnett and I discuss the significance of living under the lordship of Jesus Christ, the concept of being a bond servant to Christ, and the importance of understanding biblical context. Arnett shares his personal experiences in the entertainment industry, emphasizing trust in God and the wisdom of saying no to worldly options in ones career. The episode also features a segment with Loree Jones-Brown, CEO of Philabundance, addressing food insecurity and the "Spread the Love" campaign to support those in need beyond the holiday season.

In this episode, I aim to empower you with strategies for faith-sharing and building meaningful professional relationships. I share four tips from an article written by Holy Culture Radio's Jananya Harrington, on how to share faith in 2024: focusing on prayer, contextualization, trusting the Holy Spirit, and taking action. In the career clinic, I offer networking advice, highlighting the importance of genuine connections, active listening, and consistent engagement.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution, I am diving into the realm of online education. Listen as I share insights from my own experiences, highlighting the importance and benefits of online learning. I also offer practical advice for those engaged in virtual courses to help you navigate and succeed in the increasingly prevalent world of digital academia.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution, I reflect on the lessons learned in 2023 and encourage you to look forward to 2024 with intention and focus. I challenge you to consider your biggest takeaways from the past year and what you are most excited about in the year ahead, whether professionally or personally. I also share practical advice for crafting a strong resume, emphasizing the importance of ditching the objective statement, including relevant keywords, and being concise.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution I interview war veteran and author Erika Archer about her children's book "Allison, You Are Beautiful." We discuss the importance of instilling self-esteem in children and Erica's personal experiences with bullying and self-image. The conversation covers the challenges of writing, finding the right illustrator, and publishing, as well as the book's themes of confidence, courage, and self-acceptance. Erica's story is one of perseverance and the power of embracing one's unique qualities, aiming to empower young readers to find joy in themselves rather than through comparison.

In this episode, I discuss the importance of planning for transitions, particularly during the Christmas season. I encourage listeners to reflect on their goals and demonstrate how to use thought-provoking questions and the regret minimization framework in order to reach them. I use Jeff Bezos's Amazon journey as an example and emphasize the need for careful planning when considering a career or life transition. So, grab and pen and pad and press play for another empowering conversation.

In this episode of the Corelink Solution Show, I have an inspiring conversation with guest Pastor Tommy "Urban D" Kyllonen. We explore the importance of adapting to change, the rise of mental health issues during the pandemic, and the concept of rewiring the brain. We also delve into self-care for leaders and the role of dopamine in the pursuit of more. The conversation then shifts to Pastor Tommy's book "Gotta Be the Shoes" and the idea of soul restoration. The episode concludes with a segment on addressing mid-career crises, emphasizing the importance of taking time off, exploring job options, and seeking mentorship.

Covering themes of resilience, personal growth, and spirituality, Don Ready highlights his journey through music and life. He shares his experiences with cancer, emphasizing the importance of faith and perseverance. Don also touches on leadership, therapy, and the significance of maintaining joy and authenticity. His upcoming album, "It Must Be God," reflects his personal transformation and commitment to authenticity.

In this episode I discuss the concerning mental health statistics among students, introduce a new radio voting show, and share ways to help others during the holiday season. I also recommend a book and invites listeners to share their reading choices. In the Career Clinic segment, I talk about preparing for 2024 using the Lean Canvas tool. I conclude by encouraging listeners to perform random acts of kindness and be a light this holiday season.

Welcome to another episode of The Corelink Solution Show. In this episode, I discuss the importance of embracing technological innovations and AI, particularly in education, and the role of office culture in job satisfaction. I also talk about the potential benefits of a more collaborative work environment and the importance of positioning oneself in one's career.

In this episode, I discuss the importance of recognizing and documenting achievements, both personal and professional. I also talk about the significance of giving thanks during difficult times and the constant changes in business, particularly SEO updates for 2024. I also discuss the value of lifelong learning and setting goals for the upcoming year as we close out 2023.

In this episode, I discuss faith, the music industry, and the need for more representation of gritty Christian hip hop. I also talk about an article by Janaya Harrington on maintaining faith during difficult times and Music Industry professional, Dan Runcie's analysis of hip hop. In my career clinic, I share seven pieces of career advice for young professionals to help you navigate your professional journey.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution I interview Shepherd, a Cuban Costa Rican American artist, and Fern, a member of the Christian hip hop group Social Club Misfits. They discuss their creative processes, the importance of faith and family, and the changing landscape of the music industry. They also share personal anecdotes and advice for aspiring artists on their journey to success. I wrap up the episode with a Career Clinic, sponsored by AARP, where I discuss the importance of performance reviews and effective communication.

In this episode I interview award-winning actor Cameron Arnett. We discuss Cameron's career, faith, and the challenges he has faced. Cameron shares his journey from humble beginnings in Haiti to his success in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of faith in his life. He discusses his decision to prioritize his Christian values over a lucrative acting role, leading to the founding of his initiative, Christ Over Careers. The episode also includes a segment on career decisions, where I discuss the concept of running from or running towards something in one's career.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution I talk with Xavier McNiel, an experienced tax professional. We discuss the importance of proactive money protection and the tax challenges faced by self-employed individuals, particularly influencers and entertainers. Xavier shares insights from his time at the IRS and emphasizes the importance of reporting all income, no matter how small. In the career clinic, I discuss time management and the importance of avoiding distractions to achieve career goals.

In this podcast episode, I interview Ayanna Khan, the founder, president, and CEO of the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce. Ayanna discusses the challenges faced by black businesses and the importance of education and training to navigate the changing requirements of running a business. She highlights the resources and support provided by the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce, including funding, networking, and education. In my career clinic, I talk about the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from experienced individuals.

On this episode of The Corelink Solution, I welcome Loree Jones Brown, CEO of Philabundance, to discuss Hunger Action Month and the organization's efforts to end hunger in the United States. Loree shares her personal spiritual journey and her commitment to public service. We discuss the distribution network of Philabundance and how they work with partners to provide food to those in need. We also talk about the importance of reducing food waste and sourcing food equitably. In my career clinic I discuss workplace reassignments and the potential implications for employees. If you haven't already subscibed, please take the time to do so now. Thank you for tuning in and until next time, be informed, be empowered and be accountable.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution I examine the pros and cons of working from home. Remote work has become more prevalent during the pandemic, but many employers still struggle with it. I want to highlight four key challenges employers face with remote work: its impact on new hires, maintaining productivity, fostering team cohesion, and managing work-life balance. I also discuss the importance of storytelling in art and the value of education.

Recalling his experiences of street culture, and personal transformation, Sevin covers topics such as the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the impact of faith and ministry, and the journey from gang life to becoming a leader in the Christian community. He shares his struggles with identity, the importance of accountability, and the role of love and protection within the church. Sevin, and host of The Corelink Solution Show, Trig, also touch on the use of social media, the significance of genuine ministry work, and the need for authenticity in spreading the gospel. Throughout the interview, Sevin emphasizes the power of redemption and the ongoing process of personal and spiritual growth.

In this episode of The Corelink Solution, I discuss the importance of creating an environment for change and high performance. We'll explore how faith, arts, and education play a crucial role in fostering personal growth and rejuvenation. By embracing faith, supporting artists, and prioritizing education, we can create a positive and energized environment for growth and success. If you haven't already subscribed, please do and leave a comment to let us know what you thought of the show. Until next time, be informed, be empowered and be accountable.

In this podcast episode, I had the opportunity to interview hip hop artist KB. We delved into various aspects of his career, including his music, book, and the impact he has on his audience. KB shared his thoughts on the significance of recognizing Jesus as portrayed in the Bible and the need to address the misinterpretations of Jesus within modern Christianity. We also touched on the subject of nationalism and how it influences the practice of Christianity. Throughout our conversation, KB shared personal anecdotes and used analogies to underscore the importance of taking ownership of one's own journey and maintaining perseverance in the pursuit of goals. If you haven't already subscribed, please do and leave a comment to let us know what you thought of KB's book Dangerous Jesus and the show. Until next time, be informed, be empowered and be accountable.

In this episode of the Corelink Solution I interview gospel hip hop artist Just Cordell. We discuss Cordell's music career, personal journey, and overcoming challenges. Jess shares his experiences growing up in the church, serving in the military, and dealing with PTSD. We also talk about Cordell's latest project, "Just in Time," which carries a message of trusting in God's timing. The episode highlights the themes of faith, trust, and finding one's identity in God. In our career clinic, Carly Roszkowski, Vice President of Financial Resilience Programming at AARP, and I talk about advocating for older adults in the workforce. With resources catering to different stages of career, they're pioneering new ways to empower individuals in the job market, that's definitely worth a listen!

Heather Tinsley-Fix, AARP's Senior Advisor of Employer Engagement and I discuss the value of older workers in the workforce. We address the issue of ageism and the importance of age diversity.

Tiffany Coleman McGee, an internationally known recording artist, actress, author, and host, graced the airwaves as my special guest on the Corelink Solution. With a captivating presence and a voice that resonated with millions, Tiffany shared her inspiring journey in the entertainment industry. If you enjoyed our discussion, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a comment. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the show.

On this episode of The Corelink Solution, why people are not returning to church, women in hip hop and the 5 stages of a career journey. Not only do I continue the discussion on women in the music industry, I explore the reasons why people leaving the church in droves and how to reignite your confidence in Jesus in the midst of a crisis of faith.  Lastly, I share the importance of understanding the 5 stages of one's career journey and how to recognize what stage you are in.

No matter where you turn, AI is now an unavoidable topic. Nearly any organization I am a part of has a dedicated meeting at some point focused on this topic. Further, with companies now saying everything is “AI-enabled,” you can’t get away from it.Let’s not run from it; let’s better understand it. In this episode, I dive into context, the good, the challenging, and business application. It is a tool that we must learn to wield.Additionally, if you’ve been considering how to fund your business start-up or expansion, I share some new developments at the SBA you should be aware of. Lastly, I talk about the Power of Surrender, which I am summarizing from a great clip from Pastor Scott Free.

On this episode of The Corelink Solution, Paul Hawkinson, a former Wall Street career person turned impact-driven entrepreneur, shares his insights on financial planning and finding purpose. We discuss the importance of aligning one's giftedness with service to others and encourage listeners to find their own path towards purposeful work.  If you find this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a comment. Let us know your thoughts on the show. Until next time, be inspired, be empowered and be accountable.

In this episode of the Corelink Solution Show, we discuss the results of our survey about women in Christian hip-hop, the barriers and the trends. We also address the concept of marginalization more broadly and dive into a number of recommendations. Thank you for tuning in. Remember to subscribe to the podcast, and please leave a comment and let us know what you think of the show. Until next time, be empowered, inspired, and be accountable.

On this episode of The Corelink Solution we're going to delve into the world of apprenticeships. I recently had the pleasure of hosting a podcast with Phyllis Higgins from Zurich Insurance, North America.  Also joining us are Aaron Henry, Tatiana Jackson, and Lydia Authors, all of whom are part of Zurich's apprenticeship program. We discussed the importance of apprenticeships, the challenges, and the growth experienced by the apprentices. In our AARP Career Clinic, we are discussing the benefits of the RACI methodology in your career development. Thank you for listening. Please leave a comment and let me know what you thought of the show. Until next time be empowered, be inspired and be accountable.

Focusing on the challenges and opportunities within the podcasting and church communities, Pastor Eric Mason, discussing the crowded podcast space and the potential for growth, particularly in niche areas like the Christian space. Dr. Mason shares insights on the importance of having an existing audience and the challenges of starting a podcast from scratch. Dr. Mason and Trig, host of The Corelink Solution Show, also delve into the history and branding of Holy Culture Radio, emphasizing the significance of having a strong brand presence.

In this episode of the Corelink Solution, I interview Dr. David Anderson, founder and president of Gracism Global, about the concept of extending grace. We discuss the importance of empathy, understanding, and building unity across racial, cultural, and socioeconomic divides. Dr. Anderson shares insights from his book on racism and highlights the need to address divisions and support weaker or minority groups. In our AARP Career Clinic, we explore the significance of mentorship and sponsorship in career development, emphasizing the importance of diverse sponsors and the role individuals can play in mentoring and advocating for others. Thank you for listening. Until next time, be empowered, be inspired, and be accountable.

On this episode of the Corelink Solution I interview Legin, a rapper, speaker, and advocate. We discuss Legin's personal journey, including his struggles with insecurities and fears, as well as his decision to pursue his passion full-time. We also talk about Legin's experiences with fatherlessness and his message of forgiveness and reconciliation. The conversation covers topics such as mental health, career, education, attitude, and service. I encourage listeners to pursue their passion and purpose, even if it means starting small or taking unconventional paths. Until next time be inspired, be empowered and be accountable.

Starting a small business after 50? Felicia Brown, Senior Advisor at AARP, shared valuable insights on how to and the resources available through AARP. Further, I talk about Hard Skills Versus Soft Skills and dive into the Top 20 soft skills employers seek.