The Ryan Leak Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Success comes with a price—and most people don’t realize what they’re signing up for when they say, “I want to build a business,” “I want to be a leader,” or “I want to make an impact.” In this episode, we unpack the good problems that come with chasing greatness—the late nights, the tough decisions, the criticism, the pressure. Inspired by a powerful moment from Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, we’re flipping the script on struggle and embracing the fine print of ambition. Because when you declare, “I want to be great,” you’re also saying, “Bring me the weight that comes with it.”You asked for this—and trust me, you’re going to be just fine.

Valentine’s Day has a way of making us reflect on our relationships—whether you’re happily married, single, divorced, or somewhere in between (hello, situationships). But no matter your relationship status, today’s episode is all about how we can grow together instead of growing apart.

I’ve been married for 12 years this June, and one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from my wife is this: relationships thrive when we stay in tune with what the other person needs in every season. What I needed in 2008 is completely different from what I need now—and the same is true for the people in your life.

So, when was the last time you checked in on your spouse, your friends, your colleagues, or even yourself? Today, I’m sharing the power of asking the right question and how it can transform the way you connect with the people who matter most.

In this episode, Ryan dives into the topic of overcoming personal challenges, emphasizing the belief that everyone can achieve seemingly difficult tasks. He speaks with guest "G" about personal experiences, leadership, and strategies for pushing past adversity. **Key Takeaways:** 1. **Mental Strength**: The conversation starts with the importance of mental strength and determination in facing challenges. 2. **Starting Point**: G shares a personal story about witnessing a man swimming 60 laps in a pool, emphasizing the significance of each individual's unique starting point and the journey to improvement. 3. **Consistency Over Time**: G advises listeners to give themselves time to develop and grow, likening business ideas to scribbles on a napkin that eventually turn into something significant. 4. **Mindset**: Ryan introduces the issue of facing change and the difference between saying "I can't" versus actually not wanting to. G suggests that with determination, grit, and willpower, we can achieve things we once thought were impossible. 5. **Visualizing Success**: G shares his motivation for pushing through tough times by visualizing the finish line and the accolades waiting for him. 6. **Taking The First Step**: The most challenging part of any task, according to G, is the initial step into the unknown. 7. **Championing Ideas and Vision**: G cites a book by Adam Grant called "Give and Take" and discusses the concept of "disagreeable givers". He emphasizes the importance of championing someone else's vision with full sincerity, leaving disagreements behind. 8. **Non-Verbal Communication**: Ryan and G highlight the importance of body language in meetings and the messages it can convey. 9. **Balancing Multiple Challenges**: Ryan praises G's ability to balance multiple responsibilities, such as leading a growing church, running a business, and managing a family. G stresses the importance of being present wherever he is and strategically planning his week to allocate time for various tasks. 10. **Systematic Thinking**: One of G's strategies is understanding when he does his best work and dedicating those times to important tasks. This engaging discussion not only provides listeners with insights into handling individual challenges but also offers strategies for juggling multiple tasks effectively. The recurring theme is the power of mental fortitude and the belief that with determination and proper planning, one can overcome any challenge.

In this episode, Ryan Leak interviews Dr. Julia Wiener, a leadership and organizational development expert. They discuss topics related to culture, leadership, followership, and navigating challenges within the workplace. Dr. Wiener shares insights on how to create a positive impact on culture while working from home, the concept of intelligent disobedience, and the dynamics between leaders and followers. If you're looking for a culture coach, there's no one better than Dr. Julia. You can connect with her at ryanleak.com/coaching.

In this episode, Ryan Leak engages in a conversation with Vasti Cruz, a coach and founder of Healthy Heart Talks. They delve into the concept of wholehearted living, discussing how to move on from challenging situations, make authentic decisions, and bring your best energy to work and life. Vasti shares insights on the importance of aligning head and heart, letting go of past hurts, and embracing vulnerability to lead a fulfilling life.

You can connect Vasti Cruz at her website: https://www.healthofyourheart.com/

She's also available for coaching at: ryanleak.com/coaching

After a 6-month hiatus, Ryan Leak is back with Followership guests and this episode does not disappoint. Joining Ryan on today's episode is Jordan Montgomery who is an entrepreneur, speaker, author, and executive coach. Jordan and Ryan reflect on their personal journeys and how faith has played a pivotal role in shaping their careers and relationships. Jordan shares his transformative experience of humility and redemption at the age of 27, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's values alongside pursuing goals. Ryan echoes this sentiment, highlighting the significance of humility, curiosity, and honor in leadership.

They explore the challenges many individuals face in today's fast-paced world, such as the relentless pace and the destructive habit of comparison. Jordan and Ryan provide valuable strategies for overcoming these hurdles, including being mindful of your environment, practicing gratitude, and seeking authenticity.

Throughout the episode, their unwavering faith shines through as they acknowledge the role of God in their lives and the incredible impact it has had on their journey. They invite listeners, regardless of their faith background, to join in the conversation about faith, leadership, and personal growth.

Tune in to this episode for engaging discussions, practical advice, and inspiring stories that will empower you to lead with authenticity, humility, and purpose. You can learn more about Ryan at ryanleak.com. And you can learn more about Jordan Montgomery at montgomerycompanies.com.

This season we are interviewing people we think are next-level in light of Ryan's new book called Leveling Up: 12 Questions to Elevate your Personal and Professional Development. Today's guest is social media expert and speaker, Giselle Ugarte. In this episode, we explore the topic of maintaining a healthy relationship with social media. We delve into the importance of being mindful of the amount of time spent on these platforms and how it can impact our daily lives. We also discuss the significance of being selective about who we follow and who we unfollow, and how this can affect our overall well-being and mental health. Join us as we offer practical tips and insights on how to cultivate a positive and balanced relationship with social media.

This season we are interviewing people we think are next-level in light of Ryan's new book called Leveling Up: 12 Questions to Elevate your Personal and Professional Development. Today's guest is Jonathan Angulo. He represents one of the top mortgage lenders in the country and helps people navigate recessions personally and organizationally. In this episode, we will explore the concept of having a recession growth mindset and how it can help individuals and businesses navigate uncertain times. We will discuss strategies for developing a positive outlook and fostering resilience in the face of economic challenges. We will also examine the importance of financial planning, pivoting and embracing change, and learning new skills to remain competitive in a shifting job market. 

This season we are interviewing people we think are next-level in light of Ryan's new book called Leveling Up: 12 Questions to Elevate your Personal and Professional Development. Today's guest is Dr. Rebecca Heiss who has her PhD in Stress. In this episode of "The Adventures of Stress with PHD," Dr. Rebecca Heiss takes us on a journey of understanding the complex nature of stress. With her extensive knowledge and expertise, she sheds light on the importance of stress and how it can actually help us thrive when managed correctly. You'll get an education on the differences between positive and negative stress and why it's crucial to be aware of both. Join Ryan Leak & Dr. Heiss as they explore the benefits and challenges of stress, and provides practical tips for recognizing and harnessing it in our daily lives. This episode promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening journey through the world of stress.

This season we are interviewing people we think are next-level in light of Ryan's new book called Leveling Up: 12 Questions to Elevate your Personal and Professional Development. Today's guest is Nona Jones who has written an incredible book entitled Killing Comparison. This episode explores the negative effects of comparison and competition in our daily lives while shedding light on the damaging impact of comparing ourselves to others on our mental and emotional well-being. In Nona's book, she dives into various aspects of comparison, from social media to workplace competition. She tackles tough questions, such as how to break free from the cycle of comparison and find happiness within ourselves. Whether you're struggling with comparison yourself or just looking to gain a better understanding of its effects, today's episode is a must-listen.