The Book Leads - Episode 69: & The Gift 12 Lessons to Save Your Life by Dr. Edith Eger In this episode, Corinne, shares both insights from Dr. Eger's book and how those insights have benefitted her in her own life -- one of traumatic experience, forgiveness, and growth. Having experienced that journey herself, she brings her energy for life and wisdom through experience and learning to her coaching clients and retreat guests to help them heal from their own adversity. Like Dr. Eger conveyed to her patients and implored in her book, Corinne also wants those she's helping to recognize the light that exists beyond hopelessness. We all need to heal in some way, shape, or form. It may not be apparent, obvious, and evident on the surface, so it may take some reflection to explore and understand the deep-rooted reasons why we feel -- or react to the world -- in a certain way. The takeaway from this conversation that resonates with me most is that of intentional evolution through victimhood -- and the ability and need to get beyond that vulnerable state. Don't get us wrong. As we state in the episode, it's important we feel those sensations. So, after we have fully experienced and felt what that source of pain has left behind, we must do the work to step beyond it and build from that remaining rubble and ash. CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS Healing is body-based. It has to be. Victimhood is a mental prison. Dr. Dan Siegel's Hand odel of the Brain No one at the end of their life has the regret that they laughed or loved too much. What the acronym R.A.I.N. stands for when it comes to self-compassion. MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS The Body Keeps The Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. The Book of Forgiving: The Fourfold Path for Healing Ourselves and Our World by Desmond Tutu The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life by Shawn Achor The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward by Daniel H. Pink Man's Search for Meaning by Victor E. Frankl The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Corinne is, When you feel like a victim and you feel hopeless, what do (can) you see BEYOND those sensations? ABOUT CORINNE Corinne is a transformation expert serving women who experience challenging transitions – divorce, career change, empty nest, family estrangement, addiction and loss of a loved one. Through her uplifting energy, soothing demeanor, and extensive training in a mosaic of modalities – Internal Family Systems, Respectful Confrontation and Compassion-based therapies – Corinne guides women on a path of joy, connection and love, overcoming the pain of invisible loss. Because Corinne has experienced firsthand invisible loss and the power of healing in community, she leads intimate, small group retreat experiences in beautiful places all over the world as a foundation in creating the Healing the Heart Sisterhood. These intentional communities are comprised of women who are willing to do the deep soul work of Healing the Heart with vulnerability, compassion, and love. In addition to her coaching and retreats, Corinne has launched a weekly Mindfulness Class called Wisdom Wednesdays: Cultivating Calm for the Hurried Human, and that class began on September 20th. I was introduced to Corinne by Erin Harrigan, who I had as a guest in Episode 55 of the series in which we covered her book, Pursuing Success God’s Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle With Heart. LEARN MORE ABOUT CORINNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinne-coppola/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corinnecoppola16/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corinnecoppola16/ Website: www.corinnecoppola.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

In this episode, Pete, an entrepreneur, angel investor, and podcast host, whose superpower is storytelling and branding, walks me through how creativity has impacted his life and businesses. He and I both agree that Rick Rubin's book will become a seminal book of knowledge and wisdom -- a book of evergreen creativity -- and that its relevance will still be remain strong a hundred years from now. We both agree with the foundational tenet of the book: We are all creators. Creativity is in our DNA as humans, and it's at our fingertips -- and within our birthright -- to find out what it is, how to tap into it, and share it as best we can. Creativity should not only be left to the traditional creative professions -- the musicians, artists, sculptors, photographers, etc. There is so much we can create in our everyday work and lives, no matter who we are. We can create ideas, discussions, questions, moments, emotions, solutions, etc. Pete shares his evolution from his initial start as a technical creator to how creativity skills help him cast a ripple effect of awareness and creation, as a leader, throughout his team and businesses today. Without curiosity, you can't learn about yourself, others, or your industry, tribe, or group. The same way curiosity aims to seek what's out there, creativity seeks to channel what we can design and provide for others from ourselves. It doesn't matter what you do in work, business, or life, creativity is a part of you. It's a birthright, as Rick Rubin writes and Pete shares in this episode. We are all capable of something unique. It's on each of us to find out what it is we're here to provide to others -- for them and for ourselves. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS What drove his evolution from shy and introverted kid to stepping out from and into the light as a leader. Why, if you think you have something to say, and you think no one wants to hear it, you're wrong. The power of the Scientific Method -- for life. The lesson -- and growth -- in his apology to others for how he has shown up in the past. BOOKS MENTIONED Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert The Net and the Butterfly: The Art and Practice of Breakthrough Thinking by Olivia Fox Cabane The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Pete is, Do you realize everyone has the power of creativity at their fingertips? What are you doing with yours? ABOUT PETE Pete Sena, a pioneering entrepreneur, co-founded Digital Surgeons, building his career on developing cross-functional teams for Fortune 50 companies and startups alike. He's a forward-thinking thought leader with expertise spanning from branding to Web3 technologies, attracting 33k Twitter followers and 4.2k on Medium. Dedicated to academia, Pete mentors at Yale and acts as an entrepreneur-in-residence at the University of Connecticut. He hosts the podcast "Forward Obsessed", exploring business and tech insights. Originating from a dorm-room startup, he built District, a CT-based tech campus, and guided startups to success. Now, Pete focuses on AI's societal impact, inspiring future entrepreneurs. David Salinas, Pete's co-host on Forward Obsessed and co-author with me on a chapter in the book Ten Secrets to Success After Graduation, introduced me to Pete. Nick Wagner Sr. was lead author on that book. LEARN MORE ABOUT PETE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petersena/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/petesena  Medium: https://medium.com/@petesena  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peteslense/ Website: https://www.petesena.com/ Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 67: Holly Jackson & Her Book, Inspiration Contagion: Health Secrets For Raving Success In this episode, Holly, a Revenue Maximizer, Bestselling Author, and Podcast Host, walks me through her life's challenges and lessons that have lead her into the work she's doing now, the book she's written (with more to come), and the movement she's created. She's another great example of an author who is putting to the page the lessons that have helped them to help others streamline their own journey and life pain points. And we can use Holly's lessons to tackle most of the challenges in life, including overcoming fear. And she's practicing what she preaches. (I mean, how often has anyone had to give their Tedx Talk twice because the first one wasn't recorded?) This episode is another great reminder for all of us to share the lessons we've learned in life while sharing our own story. Sure, they may not resonate with everyone who hears them. But there will be someone who needs to hear pieces of what we have to share -- especially when it comes to minimizing their pain (whatever form it might take). It's also a great reminder of how often we need to take our own advice and medicine, remembering the lessons we've learned along the way -- even us coaches. We often aren't cognizant of how much is in our control and all the various pieces that go into building a sound life. I love how well-rounded Holly's book is, covering such things as sleep, self care, self-talk, chronic pain, among many others, and all shared with a the foundation of inspiration underneath them to guide us toward respecting our lives by using the tools we've been gifted for it. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS “… any time you try to force something, have you not learned to let go and trust?”     How the book is "...authentic, vulnerable, real, and raw so others who are suffering realize they’re not alone." The difference between being a "How are you?" person and one who wants to ask, "What is new in your world?" Stopping a charging bear. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Holly is, Are we taking a holistic approach when we step back, assess, and manage the challenges in our life? ABOUT HOLLY Holly Jean Jackson is a Revenue and Performance Consultant, International & TEDx Speaker, Podcast Host of Inspiration Contagion, Best Selling Author, and founder of Business Builder Throw Down. Her career spans from technology to communications as well as organizational change, public relations and content strategy. In her Peak Performance Blueprint, she looks at a holistic and logistical approach to success. Business owners hire her to master the art and science of real success because most lack direction, action, and results. So, she helps define and design a business roadmap for impactful visibility, intentional profitability, and endless sustainability. I met Holly through publisher and business strategist Laura Di Franco , whom I met while contributing my own chapter to the book The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies for Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business, a book for which Laura was the publisher and Camille L. Miller, MBA, Ph.D. ABD, the lead author. I had a conversation with Camille in Episode 58 of this series. LEARN MORE ABOUT HOLLY Holly's Book: Inspiration Contagion: Health Secrets for Raving Success - Kindle edition by Jackson, Holly Jean. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyjjackson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CoachHollyJeanJackson/ Website: https://hollyjeanjackson.com/ Tedx Talk: https://video.search.yahoo.com/search/video?fr=mcafee&ei=UTF-8&p=tedx+holly+jean+jackson&type=E211US714G0#id=1&vid=81fcac3261ad796d87ab070ed9caa8fb&action=click Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 66 – Heidi Metro & The Energy of Money: A Spiritual Guide to Financial and Personal Fulfillment by Maria Nemeth I recently sat down with Heidi, a visionary and CEO of When You Lead: Coaching & Consulting, to discuss the book and how important it is to lead in a new, updated way that goes beyond the old-fashioned and outdated take on leadership. That’s what Heidi and her team are all about, in both how they lead themselves and coach their clients. And what’s great about the book is that, although it covers money, the lessons extend well beyond that to a way of being and living. Leadership – what it is and what is means – is evolving rapidly, especially with the changes in the world resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Heidi and her team are ensuring those lessons are not lost but instead amplified with priority and awareness. The Midwest, anxiety and depression, philosophy, seasons, empowered women, and sensitive men are all part of this discussion and mixed in. Heidi and I left no stone unturned – for the time we had here. We jump from topic to topic. Everything is applicable and these mindsets are transferrable across experiences and environments. Most of all, though, the importance of listening to our bodies and our deeper selves is mentioned throughout the conversation. That idea has come up many times in this series – listening to ourselves. But Heidi takes it a step deeper to discuss the physiology at work and how we can tap into the feelings we have to discover what’s driving us forward or holding us back. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Whenever "something doesn't feel right" shows up, there's an opportunity for a system update within you Leaders need to know how their bodies work Anxiety & Depression -- barometers to measure going toward or away from her inner knowing Tools, if you don't have any of the physiology and philosophy, are just more information. The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Heidi is, How (and how well) are you listening to your body to determine what it is you need for yourself? ABOUT HEIDI Heidi is the visionary and CEO of When You Lead: Coaching & Consulting. With an infectious passion for empowering leaders and professionals, she's a driving force, redefining the landscape of leadership from the inside out! When You Lead isn't just your run-of-the-mill company; it's a transformative experience that unlocks each individual's natural and unique potential, allowing them to become the unrivaled gurus of their own lives. Heidi firmly believes that when high achievers and passionate souls possess the mindset, toolset, and skillset of strengths-based leadership, the ripple effect is felt throughout their lives, careers, and communities. Nestled in a cozy Midwestern town, Heidi lives with her partner, their three children, and two pooches. When she’s not creating from her home studio, you might find her browsing a nearby indie bookstore, dreaming over a backyard bonfire, or participating in local community-building events. As a life-long learner, you never know what Heidi is brewing up next! Heidi is a coauthor of mine on the book The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies for Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business. I got to know her a little better when she and I appeared on a podcast with the publisher of the book, Laura Di Franco, to promote the book. Check out that episode HERE! LEARN ABOUT HEIDI Website: https://www.whenyoulead.com/ Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 65: Dale Wilsher & her book, What’s Your Mom Type: Discovering God’s Design for You I recently sat down with executive leadership coach and personal development expert Dale Wilsher to discuss her book, What’s Your Mom Type: Discovering God’s Design for You. Dale’s another unique story about overcoming adversity, understanding your calling, and putting in the work to make a difference. Admittedly, it’s very cliché to hear about someone being forged in the fire, but if there’s anyone who has been, having come out the other end ready to empower other women to neutralize their own difficult odds, it’s Dale. In hearing about Dale's story and her work, you'll see that just because others don't understand the pieces of who we are, doesn't mean we can put them all together to create a deep, meaningful, and impactful purpose for ourselves and others. It's incredible -- and sometimes unfortunate -- when we underestimate our own gifts because we don't understand them yet. But, from what I've learned in this series, it doesn't matter if you're a late bloomer. Because by the time you get to the point where you make that realization, your heart is set on that purpose and works harder and more efficiently to make up for that "lost" time. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Responsibility is one of Dale's highest values, in which we steward what we've been given Knowing who you are isn't enough. You have to like who you are. The power of Personality Pride How our personalities are suitcases packed long before we were born for the journey of life. The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Dale is, Are you aware of your full worth and potential, no matter what others may believe they see (and misunderstand)? ABOUT DALE Dale is an executive leadership coach and personal development expert who helps individuals and organizations turn their purpose into full potential. She is the author of an award-winning personality book, creator of several online courses on personality, career reentry, and boundaries, as well as a faculty member for the US Chamber of Commerce’s Institute of Organizational Management. She is ICF accredited as a Professional Certified Coach and holds certifications as a Certified Professional Life Coach, Certified Career Services Provider, and Gallup Strengths Finder Champion Coach. Dale is a Certified Behavioral Consultant in DISC Personality Profiles and an inspirational keynote speaker. Her background in sales and science, makes her uniquely qualified to provide high-level insights into the hidden strengths, beliefs, and calling of her audiences using the latest findings in positive psychology, leadership, and neuroscience. Once bound by the expectations of others, Dale is now on a mission to help women rise into their fullest lives and truest work. LEARN MORE ABOUT DALE Dale’s Speaker Demo Video: https://www.yourauthenticpersonality.com/2020-speaking-schedule Website: https://www.yourauthenticpersonality.com/ Career Pivot Program: https://www.yourauthenticpersonality.com/careerpivot I was introduced to Dale by Patricia Ortega, MS. Patricia is a Career Transition Coach and host of the podcast The Uncommon Career, and I had Patricia on Episode 60 of The Book Leads where we covered the book Building A Story Brandy: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller. Patricia’s Episode. Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 64: Misty Compton & her book, Escapegoat Daughter: A Memoir Of One Woman’s Decision To Go No Contact With Her Family. What Misty, an international bestselling author and co-author, and founder and CEO of CoreCavity LLC, shares with me is an open, raw, and emotional journey that’s led to now, to her mission to help others grow through recognizing their value and sharing their own story. What I was reminded of while listening to Misty's story is that, by default, we may believe our story may not matter, but in the end, there are lessons others can take from our path. And you might not know the value of your story until you put it out there, share it with others, and hear what it means to them. Thank you, Misty, for sharing so much of your story with me and this audience. There’s so much I learned about the human spirit, understanding one’s own value, and living one’s best life, no matter what or who we're faced with. Episode Highlights "This is your life. It's time to choose." What it really means to "not be a victim" Following your ethical compass How your story can help others The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Misty is, How do you prioritize your mental health and psychological safety around those in you environments, including your family? About Misty Misty is an international bestselling author, co-author, and founder and CEO of CoreCavity LLC, a writing and editing service. Her first book Escapegoat Daughter was published in July 2022 and has inspired many daughters raised by toxic mothers to heal from past traumas and pursue a healthy lifestyle. In March 2023, she coauthored, Her Badass Story 3, a book series where brave women share their traumas and challenges to give women strength to conquer their personal battles. Through her writing, she helps women grow, heal, and flourish after a difficult childhood and into the person they were meant to be! Misty is currently in the process of writing her first fiction novel series and can’t wait to share it with the world. Learn More About Misty LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mistycomptonauthor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Authormistyc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormistycompton TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mistycomptonauthor Website: https://www.mistycomptonauthor.com/ Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 63: Nancy Burger & Tracking Wonder: Reclaiming A Life Of Meaning And Possibility In A World Obsessed With Productivity I recently sat down with, Nancy, a speaker, workplace communications strategist, and executive coach to discuss a book written by her friend and mentor Jeffrey Davis, whose guidance and insights have been a major influence in her professional journey. As mentioned in previous episodes, but through her own unique words, insights, and experiences, Nancy talks about the foundation of our childhood as it applies to our adulthood, and the programming and reprogramming that needs to take place to live and do our best, most fruitful life and work. The key to working through the lasting impact of childhood trauma also exists in those formative years. We need to look to the playfulness, the wonder, and the curiosity of our younger years. In utilizing that same lens as an adult lies the freedom to truly explore life and break free of our self-imposed limiting beliefs. And it's never too late to pursue the passions we always had when we were younger -- as evidenced by Nancy's joining, singing, and performing in bands beginning at 40, satisfying that creative hunger she had for the performative arts. Episode Highlights How childhood is a double-edged sword Overcoming the fear of trying something new vs. the regret of not trying it -- the choice is yours Dorothy, the Wizard of Oz, and knowing the power you already have "People think wonder is kids stuff, but it's radical grown-up stuff." Jeffrey Davis The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Nancy is, For all the limiting beliefs created in childhood, can YOU find the wonder in childhood you can use to offset them? About Nancy Nancy Burger is a speaker, workplace communications strategist, and coach who guides leaders and teams to foster emotionally healthy cultures. A Marshall Goldsmith-certified leadership coach, author, and seasoned researcher, Nancy weaves together 10+ years in communications expertise and research in psychology and neuroscience to elevate workplace connections. She works with C-suite executives, heads of HR & training/recruiting, managers, business owners, and team leaders across many industries. Nancy also delivers workshops and talks to universities, leadership organizations, and networking groups, all with the aim of cultivating clear, effective, and productive communication dynamics. Learn More About Nancy Website: www.nancyrburger.com Instagram: https://lnkd.in/eScUNy2G Facebook: https://lnkd.in/eJFKsbKQ LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/ekTYU6_e Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 62 – Atlas Aultman & his book, Rule of 3: How Elite Leaders Win Joshua “Atlas” Aultman has had a career steeped in leadership lessons. Coming from a family lineage that’s traversed both law enforcement and the military, the family code is one of serving others. From those family lessons to his 27 years of military experience (in over 30 countries) in the most elite teams -- from communities such as Special Operations, conflict zones, and the Obama White House -- through his speaking, writing, and coaching, we get to learn from Atlas’s takeaways. Rule of 3 is a book Atlas began years ago, with its lessons seeding the children’s books he’s written since then, for which his son served as illustrator. Any time a guest can simplify the lessons of leadership to expose our youth to those virtues and prepare them with tools to live and serve with their best life, I’m all for it! Any time we can learn the lessons of leadership streamlined to the most elite foundation, I'm here for that as well! What I took away from this conversation is the urgency that exists in leadership. Most leadership positions will not carry the same life-or-death consequences as leadership positions in the military, but each will carry deep importance and significance in the life of the leader and those in their charge. We often think of the military as being all business, stoic, hard-charging, and ready for action. But Atlas’s work serves through compassion, service, and honesty to impact everyone – even if they’re not the right person for the job. Episode Highlights What to learn from the biggest corporation in the world, the United States military How leadership is a voice. If you can tell a story to a child, that’s what everyone’s going to listen to. The power and respect in honest candor with others regarding their performance “The world is a stage, and your kids are watching you as the main character. So, if you spend time with them and take them to your stage and provide them the lessons you’re learning, that’s better than anything you can do.” The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Atlas is, How much do you understand (and provide to) the role of each person in the mission of your work? Mentioned Or Applicable Books Games People Play: The Psychology of Human Relationships by Eric Berne Oh, The Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss The World Encyclopedia of Flags and Heraldry by Alfred Znamierowski About Atlas Atlas is a 4X bestselling author, former United States Air Force senior officer with experiences in communities like the White House, Conflict zones, and Special Operations. Atlas was recently voted as one of the nation’s top 150 unknown speakers. He is currently the CEO of Leaders-KIT, an organization that helps proven leaders. He resides in Phoenix, Arizona with his family. Learn more about Atlas Website - www.Leaders-KIT.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/atlas_aultman/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@atlas_aultman TikTok - @atlas_aultman Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/josh.aultman.351 Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads - Episode 61: Hesha Abrams & her book, Holding The Calm: The Secret To Resolving Conflict And Defusing Tension Hesha, an internationally acclaimed master attorney mediator, has a storied career in corporate and international mediation, shifting from a practicing litigator before that. Walking me through her career and book, we talk about the power and role of connection when it comes to mediation and understanding each other. She gets conflict. She gets what mediation is and what it can do. She's a glass-full kind of mediator but without any Pollyannish Toxic Positivity getting in the way. She sees the possibilities but calls it like she sees it. That balance contributes to her success. Even though Hesha’s work is in mediation, resolving conflict after it’s start, what this conversation with Hesha reinforced in me is the power of service, of giving back just as much as, if not more than, we take. So much of what we talk about here is avoiding getting to that point of contention in the first place by serving and being there for each other. There’s a way we can help stop the constant toxicity enveloping the world. And it begins with us. Little acts of impact we can carry out, which set a ripple effect in motion. The power of Micro-Interactions also came up in my conversation with Jim Frawley in Episode 45 of The Book Leads. Episode Highlights She’s a self-described laboratory of human conflict. She’s seen every variety and level of conflict in her work around the world. The impact having a give-a-darn meter can have on a leader’s followers. Why validation is the WD-40 of the universe Albert Einstein: “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Hesha is, For all the rights given to you in this world, do you understand your responsibility to give back? About Hesha Hesha is an internationally acclaimed master attorney mediator, with a unique talent to manage big egos and strong personalities and a keen ability to create synergy amongst the most diverse personality types, driving them toward agreement. By Holding the Calm, she uses innovative approaches to deal making, specializing in crafting solutions for complex or difficult matters. During her 30+ year career, Hesha has resolved thousands of cases, both large and small, in every conceivable area, creating settlements worth billions of dollars, saving clients billions more, including a dispute over the secret recipe for Pepsi. Holding the Calm is her insightful, practical, easy to use tool kit, forged in the trenches of resolving human conflict. Its secrets will enable you to know how to approach every situation to prevent explosions, disarm conflicts, and reduce drama. Holding the Calm is Hesha’s contribution to help make our world, businesses, and relationships less acrimonious and more harmonious Learn more about Hesha Hesha's Website: https://lnkd.in/etiuiJZt The Book: https://lnkd.in/ehgNTDQJ ⁠Watch the episode on YouTube⁠ ⁠Learn more about The Book Leads⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 60 – Patricia Ortega & Building A Story Brand Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller The tough challenges Patricia, a Career Transition Coach and host of the podcast The Uncommon Career, had to overcome early in her life set the stage and lay the foundation for the work she’s doing today helping people recognize their value and tell that story to the world. This was the perfect book for Patricia to discuss with me. In general, people are horrible at telling our stories – our REAL stories – and using them to reflect who we really are. So, we need to dial it in and tune it up. And that’s exactly the work Patricia does to help others. What I took away from this conversation is the reinforcement of what coaches preach, namely that value is already inside who we’re working with. It’s a matter of realizing it, refining it, and presenting it that makes up the journey forward. Patricia understands that process based on her own experience growing up and into her own career. It’s a reminder to both her and I, as well. All the pieces we discuss in the episode are the building blocks of our own commitments to our craft, namely building up our brand before an audience is there by knowing our story, recognizing our own value, and delivering it for others. It keeps us showing up – especially as podcast creators, episode after episode. We all need that constant reminder. It was great to share this exact conversation with a fellow coach and podcaster. Episode Highlights Breaking out and building up from the belief she was only ever meant to be at the bottom of the food chain, scraping up what no one else wanted. The tight parallels between entrepreneurship and being career savvy. The power of confirmation and validation for others. A conversation of what Artificial Intelligence (AI) can and cannot provide in the career coaching space. Confidence doesn’t come from success but from the endless hours -- sometimes of blood, sweat, and tears -- practicing and refining our craft. The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Patricia is, How much do we understand our story to then communicate our value to others? About Patricia Patricia is a master's level career counselor & coach with a decade of professional experience. Her mission is to use everything she’s learned to help career seekers overcome mindset challenges and walk out their career goals. She helps people explore options and strategically navigate their career journey. Through the power of coaching, she also helps candidates develop a professional brand and communicate signature strengths so they can become confident, sought-after professionals. She is also a Christian, wife, dog mom, and of course, host of The Uncommon Career Podcast. I was introduced to Patricia by Erin Harrigan, my guest in Episode 55, in which Erin covered her book, Pursuing Success God's Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart. Learn more about Patricia Website: theuncommoncareer.com Podcast: theuncommoncareer.com/sub-podcast Watch the episode on YouTube Learn more about The Book Leads

The Book Leads – Episode 59: Danielle Perlin-Good and her chapter in the book, GODDESS: 22 Spiritual Women Share Their Stories of Healing, Growth & Transformation Danielle is a Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter and an award-winning best-selling author. Even though some people know what they want to do from an insanely young age, it doesn’t mean the journey to make it happen is either straightforward or easy. Danielle is another example of that kind of path, with major lessons learned along the way. She talks about being a recovering people pleaser, being intentional about who you surround yourself with, and the power of fulfillment in one’s life (especially as a parent). What I take away from my conversation with Danielle is the importance of being true to yourself. Yes, this may seem cliché, but rarely does it happen, where people are living the life or doing the work they themselves want to do. We stop operating with the mindset that “I should” and begin living with the “I want to” and “I desire to” foundation of thought. The funny thing about being a reformed people pleaser is that sometimes the outcomes don’t change. Things still get done and people are still better off for it, but the driver behind the actions changes. You ensure your values, needs, and desires are represented, and the ripple effect to others is bigger, stronger, longer-lasting, and more fulfilling. Episode Highlights The self-limiting beliefs and fears that keep us from sharing our stories. Vulnerability vs. the myth and false reality of balance. Business networking vs. networking for changing the f’ing world. Re-writing the book on what parenting looks like. The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Danielle is, What could you accomplish if you started thinking about your own needs, wants, and desires? About Danielle Danielle is The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter and an award-winning best-selling author. She helps company founders and leaders share their powerful legacies by unleashing their memoirs, self-help, personal growth, and leadership books so they can create massive impact and transform lives. Since 2008, Danielle has written and edited hundreds of articles, books, social media content, e-newsletters, and more. She went from working overnight shifts at the Tribune Company to corporate digital marketing gigs, one of which was at Albert Whitman & Co., an esteemed children’s publishing house. Danielle uses mindset techniques, exceptional editing and interviewing skills, as well as quantum healing modalities to ensure her clients develop a beautifully crafted and publishable book that they will forever cherish. In her free time, Danielle enjoys swimming, practicing yoga, spinning, cycling, being outside, and spending time with her husband and their two children. Learn more about Danielle Website: https://thesoulalignedghostwriter.com/ The Book: https://www.amazon.com/GODDESS-SPIRITUAL-STORIES-HEALING-TRANSFORMATION-ebook/dp/B0BB84LJ36/ref=sr_1_1?crid=311H5RFPBOCJE&keywords=GODDESS+book+danielle+perlin-good&qid=1684349895&sprefix=goddess+book+danielle+perlin-good%2Caps%2C104&sr=8-1 Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 58: Camille L. Miller, MBA, Ph.D. ABD and her book, The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul-Aligned Business: 25 Practical Strategies From The Experts Combining her various educational degrees and her work in the non-profit sector, Camille is working, through her Soul Professional Movement, to help others maximize their business reach while making a difference in their communities in the process. In this episode, she and I cover her first book of a trilogy that parallels the tenets of her organization. The first book is about launching one’s business. The upcoming second book is about reaching the next level of success. Finally, the third book will cover leadership and leaving your legacy. In addition to talking about her career journey, Camille and I also talk about and compare notes on being introverts fascinated by network-building. In the end, whether its about networking or building up our communities through our work, we stress the importance of changing the world by going for what we want – and we don’t take it lightly. What I take away from my conversation with Camille is the realization that we shouldn’t forfeit who we are when it comes to our work and business. Some of us want to shake the world up and make a difference, doing what we can proactively instead of sitting out on the sidelines. Her organization helps business owners, new and established, do just that without losing their souls, instead achieving the alignment between making money and doing the work that feels right for you. This is yet another conversation that amplifies the power of networking and realizing what we need and who we want to surround ourselves with. Don’t compromise. Don’t forfeit who you are. Get out there and find what’s for you. Too many of us are waiting, tolerating the cards we’re dealt. There is more out there for you – should you want it and if you feel called to do so. You just to be curious, explore, and experiment. Episode Highlights Porshe vs. Honda: It’s experiences and people that change the world. When you don’t control things, sometimes you control more. The A-Ha moment presented by Superstorm Sandy The power of leading from behind. Mentioned / Applicable Books The Ultimate Guide To Becoming A Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies For Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business (July 2023) The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Camille is, How do you align your business and/or work with who you are at your core and in your heart? About Camille Recognized as the pioneer of the Soul Professional Movement, Camille is on a quest to assist entrepreneurs in building authentic businesses that impact the world. She founded the first global professional organization celebrating the evolution of soul-aligned entrepreneurs who are ready to awaken their financial and spiritual potential. Camille is a transformational leader and celebrated influencer in the field of entrepreneurship. Her debut book, The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul-Aligned Business hit Amazon Bestseller status in six categories including Starting a Business and ranked #3 behind Joe Dispenza and Brene Brown in Personal Transformation & Spirituality. She is currently working on her second book which will be released July 2023, The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Strategies to Grow Your Soul Aligned Business. Learn more about Camille and the Soul Professional Movement • Discover the Soul Professional Movement: https://lnkd.in/dwcVQ8HK • Website: https://CamilleLMiller.com • Blog: https://lnkd.in/dCJdy6_E • YouTube Channel: https://NLBP.tv • FREE Global Collaborative on Facebook: https://lnkd.in/d_eXG27C Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 57: Karen Brown, & Adam Grant’s book, Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know In my conversation with Karen, we talk about her career, from her beginnings in real estate to her role today as an Executive Coach, and Founder and CEO of Exponential Results, as well as her passion for competing in ultra-marathon and triathlon events. Her education, research, and work in neuroscience and human behavior guide and are the foundation of her team's work at Exponential Results. It’s amazing what the mind can do. Even though it’s a simplistic machine, it can either hold us back from or propel us forward to our greatest dreams. Its strength lies in its programming – something we need to pay attention to and reassess regularly. We have to INTENTIONALLY re-evaluate it because so much of how it controls us takes place subconsciously without our awareness of what’s happening. We just go through the motions if we let ourselves. Is it programmed to limit our beliefs or to achieve what’s possible? It's up to us to review and decide. In covering Grant’s book, Karen and I give so many examples from the book and our own lives of the powers of mindset, learning and relearning, and remaining mentally pliable. Episode Highlights We’re all unique individuals, like different puzzles, but our brains all work the same way. Definition of Trauma: ANY experience we have that triggers a significant emotional response. How constantly questioning your value and having to prove your worth, although limiting, can make you a good rethinker. “The world will be a changed place when we can all enter into one-on-one and collective conversations like this.” The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Karen is, What are you holding yourself back from based on your lifelong and programmed limiting beliefs? About Karen Karen is the Founder and CEO of Exponential Results. She draws on 30 years of success as a corporate executive with over 20,000 hours of senior executive coaching experience. She’s also a focused and fearless athlete, having completed, as an amateur, the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii and competing in numerous ultra-marathon and triathlon events around the world. It was during her Ironman training that Karen discovered the key to greater performance and effectiveness: identifying and addressing blind spots – the repeated thinking patterns that impede success. Using a professional coach and science-based methodologies of how our minds work, she busted through her own blind spots to achieve astounding results. Her discovery led to the creation of Exponential Results’ proprietary Power Pathways™ methodology, stemming from neuroscience. Karen is the author of Unlimiting Your Beliefs: 7 Keys to Greater Success in Your Personal and Professional Life (Morgan James Publish, 2018). The book is available on Amazon and other online outlets. Learn More About Karen LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/e_cXtfmn Website: https://lnkd.in/egBfQE2w Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 56: Connor DeLaney and I Hear You: The Surprisingly Simple Skill Behind Extraordinary Relationships by Michael Sorenson Connor’s the exact person and leader you want in your business, especially in its founding and building. As Director of Membership at IMPACT, he’s helping create the customer and client experience. He’s understood that power from an early age, working in the restaurant business before working in the office environment. Because of that early experience, he knows the power of relationships and communication. He’s continued to refine – and improve – his approach to relationships as a result of having read this book. Connor’s approach is a lesson across the values of curiosity, empathy, and work ethic. Through the stories and examples we both share here, he facilitates how the lessons of this book apply to our everyday work and personal lives. That there’s too much we’re leaving on the table if we don’t learn about and listen to each other. Even if we have the best of intentions in everything we do, it doesn’t mean we’re demonstrating that in our actions. There’s always room for improvement and refining. Connor and I met when I joined the board of the American Marketing Association – Connecticut Chapter. We only had one brief conversation at that time since our times on the board did not overlap. Nevertheless, we’ve stayed in touch. I appreciate what Connor brings to the LinkedIn community, always sharing and engaging to create value to his team, colleagues, and network. Connor’s my first repeat guest on the show. All the way back in Episode 12 we covered the book They Ask, You Answer: A Revolutionary Approach to Inbound Sales, Content Marketing, and Today's Digital Consumer by Marcus Sheridan. Episode Highlights The power of the early work and doing the reps, and what that does for your relationship building and networking. The power of exploration and discovering new things to keep your energy high, even in new and unexpected areas of life and work. The power of trust, honesty, and candor: “Take the thing that’s in the back of your head and put it in your mouth and spit it out.” The power of validation in seeing others and building relationships The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Connor this time around is, How do you take the time to learn to listen, to hear and see others and improve relationships? Learn more about Connor & IMPACT Connor’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-delaney/ Website: app.impactplus.com LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eFSvVBUR Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 55: Erin Harrigan & Her Book, Pursuing Success God's Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart In this conversation, Erin, a Christian business coach, shares how she was called to the work she's doing now, trading in the traditional definition of success for doing God's work while making an impact in the lives of others. The driving need for success in our culture can do us in -- as evidenced by so many stories in previous episodes of The Book Leads. Erin's story presents another lesson in reinvention as a result of burnout, coming out the other end of those challenges by finding God later in her career. Erin seemed to find her faith at the precise moment she needed it, then sharing those lessons with other women seeking to elevate their business and their faith simultaneously. Whatever your faith may be, most of us have something that is calling to us, whether it be that faith, goals, tradition, or legacy. Our unique desires don't match up to society's definitions and stories of success. It's hard to step away from that when it's all we've known. But it is possible. The best part about those stories of people finding their calling mid-career is that when they do find what they're meant for, they hit it with everything they've got and make the greatest impact. It reinforces the idea that all those struggles and all that suffering weren't in vain. Episode Highlights The evolving definition of success and what it means to us. The power of Yielding Your Fruit -- one of the 5 principles she outlines in her book for pursuing success God's way. You have something you can share that is unique to you. How are you sharing it? Erin works in the space where business and faith don't understand each other, where one feels there's no place for the other. To demonstrate that they can coexist is her calling. The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Erin is, Whether for yourself, others, or a higher power, what is the driver behind your wanting to achieve “success”? About Erin Erin Harrigan is a Christian wife, empty nest mom, speaker, author and business coach on a mission to help high-achieving Christian women level up their businesses without compromising their faith. Bringing to bear her 30+ years of corporate work and 10+ years of network marketing, she helps women be more focused and fruitful by aligning business strategy and goals to God's truth through her customized business coaching, speaking and award-winning podcast, Redefining Hustle: Pursuing Success as a Christian Woman. Erin is the author of Pursuing Success God's Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart. Learn more about Erin FB: https://lnkd.in/e3nt2ySD IG: https://lnkd.in/eucZYzD5 LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/e_WHe24E YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eJcyw43G Free download: https://lnkd.in/ewPBCZY2 Email: [email protected] I was introduced to Erin by Laura Di Franco, who is a book publishing business strategist who’s coordinating the release of an anthology I’ll be a part of in July 2023 – The Ultimate Guide to Becoming A Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies For Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business. In my chapter, I break down what inspired my signature talk, Platinum Networking: Designing A Unique Experience For Others In A World Of Disconnection, digging into my story -- and that of and with my parents -- to understand what's behind the way I interact with those in my network, serving them as if they were my clients. Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 54: Moshe Goldstein & his book, STARTERMINDSET In STARTERMINDSET, Moshe interviews fourteen young (17-25 year old) professionals, each coming from unique and diverse backgrounds, who tell their stories and share their motivations to succeed. These stories range across all industries showing that, with the right mindset and motivation, prosperity is within reach. In this book you will discover where to go with your concept and the steps needed to create a lifelong career. Moshe has a background that spans work as a high school teacher and studies in computer science, mathematics, cybersecurity, patent prosecution, and Talmudic law. With that connection of teaching young students and his own experience across so many fields, Moshe became curious about how it is young people can tap into their best skills and abilities to achieve groundbreaking work in their fields. My curiosity on learning and development in youth has led many of podcast episodes to become two-pronged – one to glean knowledge from my guests for professionals while a second is to ask, from time to time, how we can provide those tools for younger generations. It’s not that we need to make things easy and safe for them. But if we can provide them tools early, we can empower them sooner to begin making a difference through their own ability and passions Episode Highlights Appreciating and tapping into one’s own unique vision and way of thinking. The Starter Mindset can exist in any field and industry. The power of people sharing their knowledge and paying it forward. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Moshe is, Regardless of age, what ideas have you had for the world, and how have you gone about executing on them? Moshe’s Bio Moshe Goldstein is a high school teacher and has studied computer science, mathematics, cybersecurity, patent prosecution, and Talmudic law. He also is a community service volunteer with Kids of Courage (K.O.C.) and is an emergency medical technician…so he’s always seeking to help others while expanding his own knowledge. Moshe recognized the lack of advice for young people getting their footing in the “real world;” making it his goal to encourage the next generation to forge their own path. Drawing from his own experience, his debut book STARTERMINDSET, sets out to inspire people to get started and find their passion. Instead of settling for good enough, Moshe strives to draw out the very best in himself and those around him. Learn more about Moshe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moshe-goldstein/ Twitter: @startermindset Instagram: startermindset1 Website: startermindset.com Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

Episode 53: Laura Darrell & Wooden on Leadership by John Wooden In this episode you'll find two leadership coaches geeking out on all-things-leadership, exchanging notes, experiences, and insights on what we hope leadership can become. Laura’s journey begins with the immigrant story of her parents and the mindset they brought with them in their migration to Canada. She shares with me here the stories behind the mindset triad that has lead to the hard work and determination she’s lived in her career: (1) Be positive; (2) Have incredible work ethic; and (3) Understand the power of freedom to create what it is you want. You can tell Laura lives the lessons she learned from her parents, picked up along the way in her career, and gleaned from Coach Wooden’s book. The book itself is one with transformative lessons, setting the example for what we all can do for others in their lives and work. A ripple effect of humanity. We can make a difference and change their lives. We typically underestimate that power. In addition to covering Coach Wooden’s book, in which he lays out his approach to and vision for leading others – which helped his UCLA team win a total of 10 NCAA championships in 12 seasons – we cover Laura’s own journey of leadership and the lessons from Coach Wooden’s book she’s infused into her approach to life and leadership. Episode Highlights “You want to make the world a better place, let’s focus on the caliber of leadership that exists in the world today.” The Magic of Leadership: Creating space for amazing things to happen. It’s your job to believe the people you’re leading are capable of greatness.” The power of detachment: If you give it all in the practice, you don’t have to worry about the outcome of the game. If you’re not prepared to love your people, leadership is not for you. Coach Wooden: “Make each day your masterpiece.” The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Laura is, How does your leadership make a lasting impact well past those moments of leadership Laura’s Bio Laura is a top-selling leadership author and guest speaker passionate about franchisee/franchisor success, organizational health, and leadership development. She has twenty-five years of people, team, and departmental leadership experience with some of Canada and the world's most iconic brands. She holds a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership from Royal Roads University with thesis research focused on how enhanced collaboration between multidisciplinary key stakeholders can lead to better business outcomes for both. Learn more about Laura: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauravik/ Website: www.lauradarrellleadership.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083941399388 Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 52: Chris Felton & Think & Grow You: How To Get Out Of Your Own Way And Level Up Your Life I recently sat down with Amazon bestselling author, 7-figure entrepreneur, and speaker Chris Felton to cover his book. Like so many authors I’ve interviewed, Chris’s story is rooted in the life challenges he overcame himself. At the brink of financial ruin, he turned it around with the help of his wife. They did the work, got things done, and want to help others through their story, which they infused into a book. The book we cover in this episode is Chris’s own. As Chris shares – and I’m sure you can attest to it -- people get stuck and they stay stuck. Chris wants to help 10’s of millions get unstuck and get back on the path of life they deserve. That’s what his purpose is in everything he does. I enjoyed Chris’s honesty and no-punches-pulled style of expression. You can hear the urgency in his voice for others, and he’s full of perfect sound bites of one-liners. He calls himself both a miracle and a mess. Aren’t we all, though? We all have our “stuff,” bullshit we’re going through in our lives of every look, size, and feel. It’s how we deal with and navigate through it that establishes the measure of our character, humanity, and resilience. I hope it gets you as fired up as it got me. Some Episode Highlights Chris shares he quite living in Hopium -- Hoping the outside world changes while he fiercely insisted on staying the same Chris admits he wanted to avoid the prices others had to pay for him wanting to stay a "dumbass." How always not making time for others and responding "I'm busy" can send out a signal that you can't handle the blessings coming your way. He recommends, whether you're an author or not, that you write your personal history to understand yourself more fully and deeply. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Chris is, Do you understand what the difference is between interest and commitment when it comes to changing your ways? Chris's Bio Chris Felton is an Amazon bestselling author, 7-figure entrepreneur, and owner of a financial services firm which he started in 1999.Chris leads and trains 200 agents across the US as they have helped over 17,000 clients, and he’s achieved Top 1% status in a company of 60,000+ agents. He’s been featured in US News & World Report, Market Watch, Yahoo Finance, and Nasdaq to name a few. As an international speaker and bestselling author, Chris is committed to sharing his story and lessons learned from being on the brink of financial ruin and divorce to building one of the most successful financial services firms in the country. He speaks on stages to audiences of over 20,000 and appears on top podcasts, such as the Ed Mylett show, reaching millions of listeners around the world. Learn more about Chris: https://chrisfelton.me/  Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 51: ⁠Matt Thieleman⁠ & his book, This Is Coaching: How to Transform a Client’s Performance, Life, and Business as a Master Coach & Warrior of Love My discussion with Matt is yet another open and vulnerable conversation in which we cover my guest’s life and path that led to their work today. Specifically for Matt, that means helping clients today “who are missing something and don’t quite know what it is.” The conversation covers so many areas – childhood trauma, how we can be drawn toward chaos, and the power of healing in both living our best life and doing the best work we can. Drawing from the career lessons and experience of his own journey as a human and his own work as a coach, Matt has published This Is Coaching to provide more insight into what coaching can become. Episode Highlights Marketing’s applicability to leadership A question that has driven Matt throughout his work and career: How do I put myself in another person’s perspective and get curious about what would actually be useful for them? Why looking back at our childhood can feel “icky.” Growing as a leader means to be able to grow our capacity to play on the full spectrum of life, however that looks. How fear shows up whenever possibility shows up The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Matt is, How do you step into what it is you need to do to get to where you want to go and who you want to be? Matt’s Bio Matt works with leaders and change-makers to help them live into their purpose more fully and bring their masterpieces to the world. He educates and trains coaches to be world-class in their field and help their clients reach their full potential . Prior to becoming a coach, Matt was in the marketing world, working with clients in practically every industry imaginable., having worked with companies such as Michigan Ross School of Business, Gannett, Parthenon Publishing , and others, Through that work, Matt had a good look at how well-intentioned leadership not getting out of their own way was causing businesses harm. Matt has been a leadership coach since 2016 and spent 2021 as CEO of Pilea, a coaching organization for venture-backed founders. After a year of intense growth and hard work, Matt turned his focus back to coaching and other soul-work he’s called to bring to the world. It’s simply a continuation of a lifelong mission to heal himself, help others heal, and lead others with authenticity. Matt is the founder of Golden Bristle, a TEDx Speaker on Mindful Leadership, “Why The World Needs Mindful Leaders,” and Co-Sensei of Samurai Coaching Dojo Learn more about Matt: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattthieleman/ Website: https://goldenbristle.com/ Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 50:  Sean Glaze & STAYING COACHABLE: A Story With 4 Questions to Help You Thrive in Change and Enjoy Relentless Improvement I recently sat down with author and leadership expert Sean Glaze to cover his book STAYING COACHABLE: A Story With 4 Questions to Help You Thrive in Change and Enjoy Relentless Improvement. Sean is someone who worked as an English Teacher and coached 4 sports before his current work in the leadership field. And it makes sense to me that that’s the path he’s taken to his leadership and teambuilding practice. Experiencing his demeanor in our conversation, while understanding the power of communication from his 30 years of teaching literature and the lessons a coach puts into play with students – especially across four different sports -- I see the tremendous value that confluence of attributes and skills creates for his clients and audience. I believe our great teachers were our first leadership coaches, whether we know it or not. And here’s a teacher who learned his lessons while coaching, shifting from directing and instructing to asking and learning. Episode Highlights The idea of being coached and being coachable are two very different things. What are the questions that lead people down the path where they make a commitment instead of remaining complacent? “We can only give people what's already in our backpack.” Experience vs. Awareness in Leadership – Which makes great leaders? The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Sean is, How do you stay coachable, remaining open to learning and getting better in your development? Seans's Bio Sean is an author and leadership expert who has worked with clients like the CDC, John Deere, Coca-Cola, and Emory University to increase collaboration, boost productivity, and build exceptional workplace cultures. Sean’s engaging conference keynotes and interactive team building events help accelerate the growth of more effective leaders. As a successful basketball coach and educator for over 20 years, Sean gained valuable insights into leading winning teams - and founded Effective Leaders to share those lessons. Sean’s books, Rapid Teamwork, The 10 Commandments of Winning Teammates, and STAYING COACHABLE: A Story With 4 Questions to Help You Thrive in Change and Enjoy Relentless Improvement are entertaining parables with powerful take-aways to improve team performance and leadership! The question that Sean asks, that gets to the core of his work is: What issues are you dealing with that would disappear if you had a workplace culture that emphasized connection, accountability, and a team-first attitude? Learn more about Sean: Company Website https://lnkd.in/e3kX_6eH Linkedin https://lnkd.in/eadwmEpP Twitter https://lnkd.in/eVSBsBb4 TikTok https://lnkd.in/eK3_SXY2 Facebook https://lnkd.in/eTWmSvvb Youtube https://lnkd.in/e9a6z3yB Email [email protected] Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 49: Greg Kettner & Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating monster to a Money-Making Machine by Mike Michalowicz Greg speaks to how this book changed his view on finances, which, let’s be honest, plays very much into our stress vs. peace of mind dynamic. It helped him organize and be disciplined about his business finances, freeing him to focus his energy for helping more people. I have a deep appreciation for Greg’s work because, well, I love laughing. Yes, I know, most people do. But I NEED a good laugh every day. That, honestly, is my measure of a great day: At some point in the day, did I enjoy what I was doing enough to let out a good laugh? Greg, a former professional comedian who is also the Founder of WorkHappy™ Nation, understands that power of happiness and laughter, and also how it’s residual ripple effect can enhance our work environments, success, and profits. In this world we’re living in, filled with tension, stress, anxiety, and chaos, we can’t leave our happiness to chance. Whatever level of happiness it is that each of us needs, we need to be proactive and intentional about setting the stage for it. In our conversation, Greg breaks down how his mission to bring more intentional happiness to the workplace began and the results he achieves for his clients. I also appreciate the awareness Greg brings to men’s mental health. For far too long the stigma of talking about mental health has kept men from both expressing ourselves and getting the help we need. I was introduced to Greg by Darrin Tulley, Founder and Chief of Possibilities at Ignite Happy, and I interviewed Darrin in Episode 21 of this series on his book, Live Your Possible: Ignite Your Happy, Authentic Self and Live a Fulfilling Life Rooted in Joy, Inclusion, Love, and Possibilities. Episode Highlights The question that set Greg on his current journey: “Why don’t you go and help other people work happy?” The Zone of Service is magical. How do we be more human? We’ve gotten away from it. Every point made about men’s mental health. What we can all learn from Billy Joel. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Greg is, Whether as an organization or an individual, what intentional steps are you taking to make your happiness and mental health a priority throughout the day? Greg’s Bio Greg Kettner is a TEDx Keynote Speaker, Trainer, and Coach who uses the WorkHappy Program to assist leaders and organizations in reducing stress, boosting productivity, and fostering a culture of mental health mindfulness. In his talk "The Power of Laughter" he shares how businesses can inspire and empower their workforce by putting people before profits. WorkHappy businesses succeed by ensuring that voices are heard, opinions and perspectives are valued, and that discussions about mental health take place in the workplace. Coca-Cola, RE/MAX, Ford Motor Company, iCIMS, TractionGuest, Vizier, SunLife Financial, and the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games are just a few of the companies that now WorkHappy. Learn more about Greg: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkettner/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gregory.kettner/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gregkettner/ Twitter https://twitter.com/gregkettner Podcast https://www.gregkettner.com/podcast Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 48: Edie Clarke &… Hello Fears: Crush Your Comfort Zone and Become Who You’re Meant To Be by Michelle Poler Practical Law of Attraction: Align Yourself with the Manifesting Conditions and Successfully Attract Your Desires by Victoria Gallagher I recently sat down with Edie, a Remote Video Producer & YouTube Strategist, to discuss two books which have impacted her life. Edie’s path began in studying and obsessing over the details and structure of educational TV shows as a young girl growing up in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s passion which, building off of that childhood fascination, continues today as she helps clients understand, craft, and reflect their own story on video by harnessing the power of YouTube. But that path was shaken by self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Edie shares that, during that period, she found these books, just at the right time, to help her step through fear and manifest what she wanted to deliver for herself and, therefore, for her clients. Fear can do most of us in. It paralyzes us at the core before we’re able to tap into what we’re really about and deliver that quality and value to our community, whether it be to our personal or business community. Hello, Fears helped Edie work through those self-imposed obstacles. Once we get beyond fear, what are we going to do with what we want for ourselves – our ideas, passions, dreams, and hopes? Navigating and overcoming the negative is one thing; designing and building the positive is yet another. So, once we overcome our fears, how are we going to design what we want to see happen? How will we manifest those visions? Edie covers both those areas in this conversation as it pertains to her journey. Episode Highlights · Another great story about how strongly some people know their passion early in life but spend part of their career ignoring the voice that keeps calling them back to that original love. · The power of detachment – knowing you did the best that you could in your craft and work, and letting go, not becoming crippled by wondering what people are going to draw from your effort. · “Everything happens for a reason, and it happens at the time that you need it, and you see it to do it when it’s right for you.” The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Edie is, What has fear kept you from accomplishing, and how are you going to get out there, beyond it, to make them happen anyway? Edie’s Bio Edie Clarke is a highly experienced and knowledgeable remote video producer and YouTube strategist who is dedicated to helping service-based entrepreneurs leverage the power of video to enhance their online presence and achieve their business goals. Through her expertise in video production, she empowers entrepreneurs to create effective YouTube videos that showcase their knowledge and expertise in their field, attract new customers, and build a loyal following. By providing her clients with the tools and guidance they need to produce high-quality videos without a steep learning curve, she helps them build the confidence they need to succeed. In addition to her technical expertise, Edie is also a skilled strategist who understands the nuances of YouTube and how to use it effectively to reach a target audience. She helps her clients to develop content that is tailored to their specific niche and optimized for the platform, ensuring that their videos are seen by the people who are most likely to be interested in their services. Whether you are a newbie or an experienced entrepreneur, her expertise and guidance can help you take your YouTube channel to the next level. Learn more about Edie: · Website: https://edieclarke.com · LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/VirtuallyInSync · Facebook: https://facebook.com/VirtuallyInSync Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 47: Andrew Beamon & From Promises To Progress: A Leadership Guide To Help Organizations Avoid Common Mishaps And Bring Their Racial Equity Aspirations To Life I recently sat down with Andrew, a Corporate Social Responsibility Professional, Author, and fellow University of Hartford Alum, to discuss his career and experiences leading up to his new book. Beyond continuing the conversation that seems to fade back into discomfort between major racist tragedies and murders, he's pushing it further so ompanies understand what they can do beyond instinctively grabbing for the low-hanging fruit of launching surface-level campaigns and reworking public perceptions. He wants them to dive deeper. These open, honest, and learning conversations are what I would love to see more of – where each person is sharing their experience and understanding. We’re not always going to get it perfect, but the conversations should be equal parts honesty and patience. As for companies operating in today’s society: No more lip service and facades. Do right by your people and community. Episode Highlights Examples of companies called out for racist practices and missteps; How companies can take their anti-racist responsibility seriously; His experience going to an HBCU; The difficulty he found in expressing what he was feeling after various senseless high-profile murders of black men; and The difficulty that exists in having these conversations in society. The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Andrew is, What steps are you and/or your company taking in the fight against racism? Andrew’s Bio Andrew Beamon is an experienced professional in Corporate Social Responsibility, Racial Equity, Human Resource Strategy, and Economic Development.  Prior to joining a global financial institution to lead the U.S. Corporate Citizenship Colleague Engagement Programs, he worked as the Director of Field Operations for the SCORE Association, and as a Human Capital Consultant with The Gallup Organization. Andrew earned his bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in hospitality and tourism administration from North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina, and his master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Hartford in Hartford, Connecticut. He completed Georgetown's Strategic Diversity & Inclusion Management Executive Certification and Boston College's Certification in Strategic Corporate Citizenship Management. Currently resides back in his hometown, Waterbury, Connecticut. Learn more about Andrew Beamon: Website: www.andrewbeamon.com  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Promises-Progress-leadership-organizations-aspirations-ebook/dp/B0BSSQDGML/ref=sr_1_1?crid=187C5PLQO81SW&keywords=from+promises+to+progress&qid=1681229599&s=digital-text&sprefix=from+promi%2Cdigital-text%2C2330&sr=1-1 Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 46: Ally Berthiaume & Dear Universe, I Get It Now: Letters on the Art and Journey of Being Brave and Being Me. I recently sat down with Book Coach, Writing Guide, and Ghostwriter, Ally Berthiaume, to discuss her career in and passion for writing, and her book. Here’s another creative in my circle who is sharing her story with me. This is yet another story of someone who goes down a path in life that just doesn’t feel right, all the while feeling something is whispering in her ear, beckoning her to take a different path. In our talk she shares with me that journey and what happened when everything finally clicked. Ally’s book is made up of letters she wrote to the universe, walking it through the emotions and experiences of various periods through her life, the good, the bad, the ugly. It’s amazing how we can look back at all we made it through and see it all with a different lens, even laughing at the chaos of the hard times, knowing we made it through and that we’re better for it. So many of us have similar over-arching themes to our lives but that remain so unique to who we are. We all have the opportunity to look back. We all have the opportunity to learn. We all have the opportunity to laugh. It looks different from one person to the next, but the answers to most of what we need are there – in the past. Episode Highlights ·Her work has a lot of cross-over between her loves of psychology and creative writing, for which the center of it all is the human story and experience. She talks about one of the most pivotal moments in her life, when she had 2 months of living expenses, a hope, and a dream, and never looked back. (Although she still thinks it was a bit insane.) “If you can impact one person, I know you can impact many more.” We’re all asked, “WHAT do you want to be when you grow up?” when it should be “WHO do you want to be when you grow up?” The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Ally is, If you could send the universe letters, how would writing about each of the major experiences in your life change you? Ally’s Bio Ally is the founder of The Write Place, Right Time, her virtual boutique of book coaching and ghostwriting services. As a writing guide or ghost, Ally serves leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries across North America and Europe who know they have the power to activate healing (their own and their readers’) by sharing their stories and spreading their message. She supports her clients in writing the book that will light up their world and ours. Ally is also the author of Dear Universe, I Get it Now: Letters on the Art and Journey of Being Brave and Being Me. She's co-authoring her next upcoming book, due out sometime this August of 2023 (which is currently still untitled) but that will focus on helping newbie nonfiction authors write, publish, and promote their books. When she's not at the keyboard or stuck inside a book, you'll find her drinking Maple Lattes, solving the most recent Hunt-a-Killer case, watching The Princess Bride for the umpteenth time, or spending time with her husband and son. Learn more about Ally: Website: thewriteplacerighttime.com Ally’s Book: ayberthiaume.com/dearuniverse Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠ Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 45: Jim Frawley & Adapting In Motion: Finding Your Place In The New Economy There are two major lessons I’ve learned from my conversations while hosting The Book Leads. First, preparation is everything. Getting ready before we have to be ready, not waiting until the urgency is upon us, sets us up in a better position for what’s coming. And second, just how much we can learn from the children around us – and even our own inner child. This episode’s conversation is no exception. During this talk with Jim, he walks us through what he conveys are the critical steps needed to adapt to unforeseen change. The two components I mentioned above come up in this conversation. First, the bulk of Jim’s work is preparing his clients and their workforces for unexpected change. Second, part of that preparation is knowing what we don’t know, being curious, and tapping into the wonder of children who are always exploring and always asking questions. Some highlights from this episode: One of my favorites: The importance of micro-interactions. To be active adapter, you have to have an opinion and belief system – most people don’t have it. Most questions come with judgements and assumptions. How do we shed those? The reason kids are so happy is because they’re asking questions, with awe and wonder, while adults are miserable because they have all the answers. Other Notable Mentions: Book: The Art of Focused Conversation: 100 Ways to Access Group Wisdom in the Workplace by R. Brian Stanfield Quote: “All human beings have three lives: public, private, and secret.” ― Gabriel García Márquez The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Jim is, What steps do you take to prepare yourself as best as possible today against changes you can’t see coming in the future? Jim’s Bio: Jim is the Founder of Bellwether, an executive development community, dedicated to helping both individuals and organizations build resiliency, adapt to change and thrive in rapidly-shifting contexts. Jim provides a range of services, including Keynote Speaking, Executive and Business Coaching and Workshop development and facilitation. He is the Author of "Adapting in Motion: Finding Your Place in the New Economy" and Host of the Bellwether Hub Podcast, Building a library of resources for teams and individuals to continually develop themselves. He has worked with clients in eight countries and thirty-nine states to date to create and implement change management, corporate training, and strategic planning programs, as well as organizational re-designs. His specialties include executive communications, self-efficacy and accountability, and preparing for change when we don’t know what change is coming. Learn more about Jim and his work: Twitter: https://twitter.com/jimfrawleyNY  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jim_frawley  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellwetherhub  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDoi8Pzqx5D-gL31aT_qWaA  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimfrawleyNY/  Website: https://www.bellwetherhub.com  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 44: Tia Hawkins & Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Tranforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent and Lead by Brene Brown I recently sat down with my childhood friend Tia Hawkins to talk about her journey to today and how Brene Brown’s book has influenced her path, development, and success. The book is about opening up with vulnerability and putting yourself out there in the arena of life. Sometimes we want to hold on to safety and familiarity, and in the process, we let ourselves down. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Tia seemed to find the book at the most challenging time in her life. Since that time, my friend, a Registered Nurse, Wellness Coach/Educator, Speaker and Author, has been sharing her message with others, helping them take care of themselves, to find that courage to move beyond their own perceived limitations. Some highlights from this episode: “It’s not about success or failure, because the journey is going to teach you.” Asking yourself, How do I live this way instead of getting the tools to not live this way anymore? Your passions as a kid don’t leave you; they are just hidden deep inside you. The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Lisa is, how have you been vulnerable, opening yourself up and stepping into the arena of life and into your greatness? Tia’s Bio: Tia is a Registered Nurse, Wellness Coach/Educator, Speaker and Author. Combining both education and life experiences, Tia has gained a social media presence for her wise quotes, relatable life stores, and transparent advice. Her words have been published online by some of the biggest parenting forums on social media today, including Today Parents, Scary Mommy, Love What Matters, and, Her View From Home. Tia has a passion to guide others through the wilderness of life’s journeys and extends a personal vulnerability others can relate to. Tia’s words will soon be going from virtual to bookshelves with her first published print piece in the book, “So God Made A Mother,” Written by Leslie Means and which hits shelves in April 2023. Learn more about Tia: http://www.teatalkswithtia.com  Social Media Platforms: @teatalkswithtia Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes: YouTube Page: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Spotify: https://lnkd.in/etCRYyc Google Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eu-Re-P Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/dxRSTXZX  The Book Leads - Blog Post: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 43: Lisa Hammet & From Burnout to Best Life: How To Take Charge Of Your Health & Happiness Because of the nature (and timeliness) of the book, I wanted to read it before our conversation. From Burnout to Best Life really is a manual and tool box of insights, experiences, and exercises to put the knowledge Lisa shares into action. Lisa has lived the burnt-out life. She’s used the personal challenges and struggles she endured as the foundation for this book, being open and vulnerable about her own journey. Some highlights from this episode: The power of how the past can shape us. How people look at joy and happiness as a destination, attaching value to the end. The power of mental fitness, shifting to the right brain in the positive right brain for a clear-headed focus, peace, calm, the ability to see the big picture, create great communication and optimal health. In this post I listed some takeaways I gained from Lisa’s book: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jmjaramillo_books-reading-writing-activity-7038539881790238720-3Vp-?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Lisa is, how are you taking care of yourself in the everyday to avoid burn out, preparing in advance of when you meet that challenge? SHARE BELOW! Bio: Lisa Hammett is the international best-selling author of From Burnout to Best Life, a TEDx speaker, and a Success Coach, helping stressed and burned out business owners and executives develop mental fitness to manage stress and get healthy.  After 26 years in the corporate retail sector, she reached burnout.  Upon leaving the industry she lost 65 pounds and became a Wellness Coach for one of the largest global weight loss companies.  For the past 11 years she has helped thousands of members develop sustainable healthy habits to lose weight and get healthy.  In May of 2020 she started her Success Coaching practice, incorporating Life Coaching.  She is currently working on her Positive Intelligence certification. Learn more about Lisa and her work: · The book: https://www.amazon.com/Burnout-Best-Life-charge-happiness/dp/1667866508/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3KWYWRUERVMDM&keywords=from+burnout+to+best+life&qid=1678805435&sprefix=from+burnout+to+best+life%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1 · https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGQY8WAdQsQnGlFRlIoEbA · https://www.facebook.com/healthylivinglisahammett · https://www.instagram.com/lisa.hammett/ · https://twitter.com/lisahammett Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 42: Alla Weinberg & A Culture of Safety: Building A Work Environment Where People Can Think, Collaborate And Innovate COVID-19 has shown us what kind of gap exists between what people want and need in the workplace and what the reality is they actually get. Compounding the workplace impact of the pandemic is the growing fear of a impending recession which is leading to preemptive steps by companies to streamline their operations by making cuts – tens of thousands of layoffs across major companies and throughout the country. What lessons have companies learned from previous recessions, if any, in how quickly they make those on their rosters expendable? The same can be asked from the shock to the economy caused by the pandemic. Disrespect, neglect, and toxicity on the part of and allowed in many companies is leading to a ripple effect of mental health issues, fear, and uncertainty through their ranks, from the top to the bottom. In this episode, Alla shares with me what it means to care for others in the work environment. Common courtesy, respect, and compassion – basic humanity – is free and effective. And aside from it being the right thing to do, an argument can be made that creating such an environment of safety, which Alla covers in her book, leads to innovative work and lasting results. Everyone wins. Everyone benefits. Some highlights from this episode: What if all the boxes society lays out for you are checked but you’re not fulfilled? As humans, fear is what we’re feeling most of the time. That’s just how we’re wired. A major problem: Although so much has shifted and evolved around us, our human body and nervous system have not changed or evolved in 10,000 years. The meaning of Post-Traumatic Growth. Mentioned or Applicable Books: The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth by Amy C. Edmondson The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek Leadership is Language: The Hidden Power of What You Say – and What You Don’t by L. David Marquet The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Alla is, to both receive the humanity you deserve and achieve the best work, how are you ensuring a culture of safety – of physical, emotional, and psychologically safety – for both yourself and those around you? Bio: Alla is the CEO of SPOKE & WHEEL, a culture design company that helps organizations build cultures of safety. She is a culture designer & author who has incorporated her design background with the principles of neuroscience, positive psychology, and relationship research to offer the most customized and compassionate cultural solutions available. In her book, A Culture of Safety: Building an Environment for People to Think, Collaborate, and Innovate, Alla delves into the tools, practices, and rituals that help leaders create physical, emotional, & psychological safety. Learn more about Alla and her work: · The book: A Culture of Safety: Building a work environment where people can think, collaborate and innovate: Weinberg, Alla: 9798985240207: Amazon.com: Books · Website: spokeandwheel.co Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

In most of the podcast episodes I’ve made mention about or been curious as to how the lessons of my guests, from the work they do, can be transferred and imparted on children. It’s a two-pronged approach: Beyond repairing what we need to as adults and building from there, how can we prepare the younger generations, providing them the right tools to make their arduous journey through life more efficient? Not easy, but more efficient. Not fewer obstacles or challenges, but smarter work and life habits to tackle them. For this episode, Katie walks me through both her career and the drivers behind her book. As a student athlete and then teacher, she recognized the power of mindset – how you’re thinking about your thinking. It was one thing to teach kids what to think, quite another to teach them a mindset and approach with which to handle all of life’s challenges and bullshit. I’ve begun this journey with my own son, working through the 100 tips Katie provides in the journal, each with its lessons, reflections, jokes, and question for  parents. And it makes sense that the exercises pull the parents in. For all the lessons we try to teach our kids, most of those we can stand to relearn ourselves. Some highlights from this episode: What the true deciding factor in a coin flip really is Katie, on kids: Why are we not spending this critical time in life teaching them how to center themselves and attract more positive and change their mindset…to not be afraid of failure? Regret is harder than failure, rejection, or anything else. It’s like the devil. “A U-Haul doesn’t follow a hearse” Mentioned or Applicable Books: Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D School of Grit: Unlock Your Potential Through Purposeful Adversity by Brad Ritter (Episode 37) The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Katie, is how are you preparing your children (or yourself, for that matter) by picking when to do the hard things? Do you do them now, controlling what you can, or put them off and deal with the unknown consequences later? SHARE BELOW! Bio: Katie Wood is a thought leader, entrepreneur, and author of "A Simple Seed" journal of growth, gratitude & giggles. In 2014, she transitioned from a 10-year career in teaching special education to fully embracing entrepreneurial life.  Katie speaks frequently at training events, schools and is also developing several business ventures. 'A Simple Seed' has been ranked a best-seller on Amazon, #1 in All Children’s Books, #1 in Happiness Self-Help, and #5 in ALL BOOKS. The journal has been featured on The TODAY SHOW, NBC, Entrepreneur Magazine and podcasts such as "The Story Behind Her Success" with Candy O’Terry. Additionally Katie was invited to "Entrepreneurs on Fire," an award winning podcast with over 100 million listens every month and has had guests such as Tony Robbins, Seth Godin, Gary Vaynerchuk, Barbara Corcoran, and Tim Ferriss. Among her successes, Katie credits her most rewarding role as that of mom to her 4 wild and fun-loving kids and fire-wife. Learn more about Katie & A Simple Seed: · simpleseedjournal.com · https://lnkd.in/eZQZ_2mP Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 40: Nicole Weyer & Her Chapter "Escaping the Leadership Trap: My Journey to and through burnout” in the book Cracking the Rich Code, Vol 8. For this episode, Nicole walks me through her background and experience, from familial influence to studying abroad to living and working at various educational institutions around the U.S., where she learned as much about herself as she did about her students and colleagues. Because of her own experience with burnout, Nicole felt called to help others understand – and avoid – their own. As a result of her education and diverse living experiences., Nicole’s path has been driven by her openness to others, understanding where they come from, seeing their humanity, and providing the tools they need to move forward. Until Nicole publishes her own book, we’re lucky enough to have her contribution to the Cracking The Rich Code anthology series in which her chapter specifically breaks down how the lessons she’s guiding others through she learned herself in own career journey and story. Some highlights from this episode: How the idea of travel, crossing cultures, and curiosity has been engrained in her by her family from a young age. What it means to choose to be the clear bubble dish water Instead of the dirty dish water The importance of bringing humanity back and taking connection to a different level The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Nicole is, How do you navigate your inner landscape as a means to bring your best to the world around you? Bio: Nicole Weyer is a coach, podcaster, and educator at her core. She has an M.A. in International & Intercultural Management and is the founder of Root to Rise Coaching. Nicole stepped out of the Dean’s Office on a mission to transform educational institutions from ones that foster depletion to ones that promote emotional and physical wellness, nurture healthy organizational cultures, and honor our individual needs. Learn more about Nicole: Twitter: @nicoleweyer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachNicoleWeyer Website: https://roottorisecoaching.com/ Link to grab a copy of the book: https://bit.ly/EscapingTheLeadershipTrap Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 39: Maureen Ross Gemme & Emerge: 7 Steps to Transformation (No Matter What Life Throws At You!) For this episode, Maureen shares with me the trauma that impacted her life, beginning with addiction, leading to the hard work of recovery addiction, and eventually using those lessons to help others. The method in which she helps others is fascinating – using both traditional tenets of addiction recovery and the lessons she herself learned and took away from that same healing journey. We may not all be trying to recover from the traditional ideas of addiction, but we all have some experience with trauma that’s hindering our path forward. But there are steps we can take to work through those obstacles and challenges to reach our best version. That’s the basis of Maureen’s work. Some highlights from this episode: Once you realize you have choices, you can live by design instead of default. The majority of us don’t have tools like people in recovery. What she means when she’s become the person she spoke to way back then. To deal with all the darkness in the world, we need more light work in the world. Mentioned or Applicable Books: The Four Agreement: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz Power vs. Force: The Hidden Determinants of Human Behavior by David Hawkins Conversations with God: An Uncommon Dialogue – Neale Donald Walsch The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Maureen is, How are you working to recover from past obstacles, and possibly trauma, to grow into the best version of yourself? SHARE BELOW! Bio: Maureen is CEO of Emerge Leadership Academy. She began training leaders across New England in 2015 after a 30-year corporate career. She loves riding motorcycles and is a leadership and life coach. She trains and coaches professionals who want to make an impact. As a personality expert, Maureen helps her clients own their own gifts and embrace the differences in the diversity of others to build better relationships. After living through her teenage years as a drug addict and alcoholic, Maureen stepped into recovery and created an awesome life. She has a deep compassion for helping others to emerge, evolve, and lead their best lives. She’s the author of Emerge: 7 Steps to Transformation (No Matter What Life Throws At You!) and she turned her book into an online program called Recovery@Work. Learn more about Maureen: www.EmergeLeadershipAcademy.com www.facebook.com/emergentleadership www.twitter.com/mrgmentor Podcast: Emerge. Evolve. Lead. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/emerge-evolve-lead/id1545422911

The Book Leads – Episode 38: Jill Siegel & Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience It’s fitting that Jill selected Atlas as the book she wanted to discuss. The subtitle of the book seems to perfectly describe the journey she’s undertaken since having left the corporate world to focus full-time on the desire to do good for others in her community and beyond. In this walk through her career, there are many points where she’s reborn, each time gaining insight into her next focus, including how her need for self-care lead to her study of mindfulness. I met Jill during our work with the American Marketing Association – CT Chapter board. Like so many others, she’s a great connection I made during the pandemic – a connection I haven’t met in person. Some highlights from the episode: · Jill’s work ethic is on display, mixing up a career in corporate life and being a stay-at-home mom with volunteering duties in various industries. · She breaks down the experiences that lead her to do what she felt good about, where she felt “This is making a difference in the world.” · The area of her life that she explains by saying, “Sometimes it is nature. Sometimes it is nurture.” · How any emotion can be both healthy and unhealthy. Mentioned or Applicable Books and Stories: · The Parable of the Trapeze by Danaan Parry · The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How to Get Good at Itby Kelly McGonigal · Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole by Susan Cain Bio: Jill is a branding strategist and marketing professional with 25+ years of experience in industries including advertising, hospitality, healthcare, media, nonprofit, publishing and law. She has worked in collaboration with key members of leadership teams and executive committees to develop and foster new strategic relationships and revenue streams for both public and private organizations. She has managed and cultivated hundreds of high profile client accounts, projects and events and has been recognized for launching notable strategic programs to optimize ROI, client experience and market engagement. Today, Jill focuses her work in environments where giving back is the driving force. She is Managing Director of the Connecticut Women’s Council, a Branding Strategist at J.Lauren Consulting, and a Cause Entrepreneur at One Hope Wine, an award-winning Napa Valley winery that gives back with every bottle. She’s is currently enrolled in Copper Beech Institute’s Mindfulness Facilitation Certification Cohort, and she will be certified as a Mindfulness Facilitator after she graduates this November. Jill is on the Development Committee for Mental Health Connecticut, she is certified in Mental Health First Aid, and after going through her own mental health crisis in 2016, she is an advocate for helping those dealing with a mental health challenge. Jill believes there is nothing more important than kindness and that we rise by lifting others. She is a mom to two daughters (age 24 and 21) and considers motherhood and her girls her greatest gift and life accomplishment.

The Book Leads – Episode 37: Brad Ritter & School of Grit: Unlock Your Potential Through Purposeful Adversity In this episode, Brad breaks down his book and career as a coach to his client’s physical, mental, emotional, intuitional, and warrior spirits, and how it all stemmed out of a calling he felt after he had already achieved success in the traditional sense. Before coaching others in those capacities, he sought out the hardest challenges possible to test himself and overcome. Mentioned/Applicable Books: Grit: The Power of Passion & Perseverance by Angela Duckworth Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover Embrace The Suck: The Navy SEAL Way to an Extraordinary Life by Brent Gleeson Some highlights from this episode: The power of asking “What’s next?” and being reborn. Why getting to good enough might be better than getting to perfect. How Brad crafts his definition of Grit to include perseverance, adversity, your why, and a worthy goal The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Brad is, Beyond what you have today, what’s next? SHARE BELOW! Bio: First and foremost, Brad is a husband, father, brother, son, and friend. Family is #1 to Brad. He enjoys training hard, endurance events, the beach, fishing, shooting, and food. Professionally, he’s held various positions in the medical device, higher education publishing, and specialty print industries. After graduating from Kokoro camp in 2015, he wanted to find a way to serve others and help people take control of their lives and get unstuck. He accomplishes this through a proven system that focuses on your physical, mental, emotional, intuitional, and warrior spirit. His job is to help you achieve a goal or produce a certain result. He will hold you accountable as well as celebrate your success. What Brad teaches is a lifestyle. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. It’s for anyone who despises mediocrity and is willing to do the daily work. If you’re ready to step into courage, focus on others, and train relentlessly, then you have found the right place. Learn more about Brad and School of Grit: www.schoolofgrit.org The book: https://schoolofgrit.org/book/  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 36: Cory Carlson & Rise & Go: How to Get Back Up with Courage and Move Forward with Confidence For this episode, Cory Carlson provides some background on his career and book. It’s been great to learn about what prompted his original journey into civil engineering and why he later pivoted away from that career, trading hats from being an executive himself to coaching executives instead.  What stood out most in my conversation with Cory is how much he admits his faults, humbling himself as a flawed man who is always moving forward, practicing the work of courage and confidence, both of which are based in his faith and that he covers in Rise and Go. The power of humility, I believe, is what makes a great coach – cutting the BS, dropping the veneer, admitting shortcomings, and building from a true, genuine base, not an unstable facade. We’re all works in progress. Knowing that and taking action is what matters most.  It's an open and honest conversation -- and yet another great path of life a guest has shared with me through this series.  Some highlights from this episode:  “When you’re in the valley, you don’t even know what you want.”  “Confidence is believing more in yourself and what you’re doing by getting your reps in.”  What Cory means when he says, “God has the night shift.”  The purpose of Cory’s regular routine of putting on his armor.  Mentioned or Applicable Books:  How To Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie  Win at Home First: An Inspirational Guide to Work-Life Balance by Cory Carlson  Grit: The Power of Passion & Perseverance by Angela Duckworth  The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Cory is, Where do you find the strength and motivation to get up and keep moving forward?  Cory’s Bio: As an entrepreneur, former executive, husband, and father of three, Cory Carlson understands the pressures working parents face. He is passionate about helping business leaders win at home and work. Twenty years in corporate America gave Cory amazing opportunities as he worked his way up to the executive level. But he also saw brokenness: work without purpose, burnout, lack of focus, strained marriages, and absentee parents. Business leaders especially were often not living life to the fullest. When Cory discovered coaching, it helped him become a better leader, husband, and father. So he left his corporate career to help other leaders win at work and at home. Cory does this through executive coaching, speaking, and writing. Cory has a Civil Engineer degree from the University of Missouri and an MBA from Rockhurst University. His first book released in June 2019 is titled, Win at Home First, and is an inspirational guide for work-life balance.  His book was Amazon #1 New Release in 3 Categories and listed in FORBES as ‘7 Books Everyone On Your Team Should Read’. Cory just released his second book, Rise and Go. This book is for leaders who get knocked down and want to get back up quicker. He hosts the leadership podcast, Win at Home First, a Top 1.5% global podcast per ListenNotes. Currently, Cory lives in Cincinnati with his awesome wife and three amazing children.  Learn more about Cory:  Website: www.CoryMCarlson.com  Email: [email protected]  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/cory.carlson.1023  Watch the episode on YouTube:https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe  Learn more about The Book Leads: http://lnkd.in/eFB76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 35: Drew T. Jackson & The Executive Leader’s Handbook: A Guide for the Daily Challenges of Leadership For this episode, Drew walks me through a career path that’s ranged from his faith-based work, including planting a church in Santa Barbara, CA, to his current career in leadership training, speaking, and coaching. His path to executive coaching was borne out of sharing the lessons of his sermons within networking groups. Little by little, the lessons of leadership he learned throughout his own leadership in faith-based organizations found an audience, a home, and application in the business world. Drew is another colleague whose career path and impact pivoted because of the pandemic, leading to his writing this “user manual for leadership,” where a leader can find insights from Drew on the specific challenge(s) they’re trying to overcome. Some highlights from this episode: What the metaverse means for the field of coaching. The famous quote, “If you want to avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.” Drew: “It’s not our responsibility to judge how many our voice resonates with. It’s just to go out and use our gift, use our skills, use our abilities, and let the cards fall where they may.” The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Drew is, Are you able to be yourself in your leadership and life? Do you afford others the same consideration? Bio: Drew is the author of the Amazon best new seller, The Executive Leader’s Handbook. He is an executive coach and a leadership trainer for companies including Chick-fil-A, Lennox, Habitat for Humanity, and many more. Drew believes that anyone can be a leader if they have the proper motivation and a clear path for development. Drew has also been married to his wife Heather for 20 years, and they have five kids and three dogs. Learn more about Drew: Website: drewtjackson.com Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/DrewTJackson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewtjackson/ Download The Executive Leader’s Handbook FREE at: theexecutiveleadershandbook.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 34: Jason Merchey & Wisdom: A Very Valuable Virtue That Cannot Be Bought For this episode, Jason walks me through his life’s curiosity, work, and writings as they pertain to Wisdom. From his decades of studying and appreciating the great philosophical thinkers, both those well- and lesser-known, Jason wants to bring Wisdom to the forefront, where it can achieve a new appreciation that would allow society to crawl out of the mire of confusion, tension, and discord that we’ve all been trapped in for years. We tend to choose sides, pick argument points, and stick firmly to and defend what we feel. So much of what we fight about is driven – and hindered -- by emotion. Wisdom can allow us to go a little past and rise above what we fear losing. It provides a clarity. Some highlights we touch upon: “Freedom always entails a sense of responsibility.” How the conversation about wisdom can impact kids. Why we can’t have wisdom without compassion. Mentioned or Applicable Books: Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Wisdom: From Philosophy to Neuroscience by Stephen S. Hall The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Jason is, What does wisdom look like to you, and where do you seek it in your life? SHARE BELOW! Bio: Jason is the founder of Values of the Wise. He is also a philosophical thinker, social critic, author / essayist / blogger, and a student of the tradition of arts and letters. After junior college, he earned a bachelor’s degree summa cum laude in psychology and social behavior from the University of California Irvine, and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa for excellence in liberal scholarship. Jason went on to earn a master’s degree in clinical psychology from California State University Fullerton. He then obtained thousands of hours of experience counseling clients of all types. It was in that capacity that Jason became intrigued by and began to study wisdom, values, and ethics. Jason has earned a graduate certificate in philosophy and ethics from Harvard University Extension. His fourth book is titled Wisdom: A Very Valuable Virtue That Cannot Be Bought (2022). Jason lives in the Hendersonville, NC area with his wife and pets. Learn more about Jason: ValuesoftheWise.com The book: https://www.amazon.com/Wisdom-Valuable-Virtue-Cannot-Bought/dp/057831679X/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=wisdom+book&qid=1659575019&sr=8-8 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 33: Stephanie Dalfonzo & Goodbye Anxiety, Hello Freedom: How to Build Resilience and Overcome Anxiety. For this episode, Stephanie walks me through her career path as a celebrity DJ, life coach, and hypnotist. She speaks about the challenges in her own life which led her to helping others live their best life in spite of their experiences with anxiety. As with so many of these episodes in the past, we get into the impact of early life trauma and experiences on later life living and anxiety. I’m grateful for this opportunity – and so many others -- to share so openly about my own experience with anxiety. We each have our story. Thank you, Kisha L.S. Zullo, MBA,CMP, for introducing me to Stephanie! Some highlights from this episode: The difference between “coping” and “living with”. The importance of breaking points, self-preservation, and taking small steps to move forward. We discuss the techniques we each utilize to live within our anxiety experiences. Mentioned or Applicable Books: Breathe: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How To Get Good At It by Dr. Kelly McGonigal The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Stephanie is, What steps have you taken to live with the anxiety you’ve experienced in your journey? SHARE BELOW! Stephanie's Bio: With over 20 years of research, Integrative Hypnotist Stephanie Dalfonzo combines the latest neuroscience with practical and simple skills and techniques to help you live your best life.  She is also the author of “Goodbye Anxiety, Hello Freedom,” available on Amazon. Stephanie’s first career was as Celebrity Radio DJ “Stevie Knox,” Back then, she “hypnotized” her listeners to come back day after day.  For the past 17 years, as an Integrative Hypnotist, she has been using her voice to literally hypnotize her clients into making incredible life changes. Learn more about Stephanie: www.StephanieDalfonzo.com www.ChatWithStephD.com Her book: https://stephaniedalfonzo.com/goodbye-anxiety-book/ Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 32: Carrie-Lynn Hotson & Knowing Who You Lead: Important Lessons On Why We Need To Understand Those We Lead For this episode, Carrie-Lynn walks me through her book, one built on her life and career, from her time as a police officer to her work in human resources. Those experiences (along with those found living on a farm) lead her to launch her businesses to help others through leadership coaching and facilitation and ultimately culminated in her book. It’s important to know who you lead. It sounds like common sense, right? Unfortunately, common sense is usually uncommon practice, and too many leaders only think about what they want to share and communicate without giving any thought to those they’re trying to lead. They’re constantly giving without understanding. Some highlights we touch upon: A lesson Carrie-Lynn learned as a child involving a penny is what laid the foundation for the work she does today. There is an interconnectivity to everything, as evidenced by the lessons she’s able to draw from farming into her work and business. “What is perfectionism? Not wanting to be vulnerable” Mentioned or Applicable Books: A Culture of Safety by Alla Weinberg Leadership Is Language by L. David Marquet The Thin Book of Trust: An Essential Primer for Building Trust At Work by Charles Feltman Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALS Lead & Win by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Carrie-Lynn is, Do you REALLY know and understand those you lead or even seek to influence? Carrie-Lynn’s Bio: Carrie-Lynn holds a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Psychology, a Certified Human Resources Leader accreditation (CHRL), and is a graduate of Interest-Based Mediation training. She has 25 years of experience as a coach, facilitator, and leader, including seven years as a senior human resources manager with extensive experience addressing workplace issues and organizational challenges. Carrie-Lynn’s expertise in interviewing, onboarding, and training informed her interview coaching business, jobinterviewcoach.ca. What she’s gleaned from meeting candidates, learning about their skills and abilities, and gaining insight into why they are seeking to leave their current employment has been integrated into her book, Knowing Who You Lead. These key lessons will help current and future leaders empower, engage, and retain employees. Carrie-Lynn has now expanded her services to include the coaching and mentoring of leaders in her second business inspiringorganizationalgrowth.ca. Learn more about Carrie-Lynn’s work: https://www.inspiringorganizationalgrowth.co/home https://www.jobinterviewcoach.ca/ The book:  https://www.knowingwhoyoulead.com/ Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 31: Karen Senteio & A Culture of Safety: Building A Work Environment Where People Can Think, Collaborate and Innovate For this episode, Karen and I cover a book that most organizations need and shouldn’t be without. Companies – and actually all of us in the business of relationships – look past this book at their own peril. (I’ll be recording an episode with the author, Alla Weinberg, in the coming weeks.) This is a book for which the topic and focus are timelier than ever, at this moment, considering what the world and its workplaces have been going through over the last few years. Organizational dynamics, the pandemic, social justice issues, school massacres, the great resignation, etc -- regardless of what the issue might be, there's a need to be open to and invite, foster and empower discussion. Safety first is what allows for that openness to occur. Although the book is focused on the workplace, there are so many lessons that can cross to the world outside work -- much in the same way the ripple effect of the issues of the outside world penetrate the workplace. Some highlights we touch upon: I learned what a “Smergologist” is. “Once you have that flame in your heart, you can’t put it out.” The meaning of the Hebrew word “Selah” and how we can utilize it in our chaotic lives. Mentioned or Applicable Books: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good For You And How To Get Good At It by Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D. The Spark, The Flame, And The Torch: Inspire Self. Inspire Others. Inspire the World Leadership Is Language by L. David Marquet The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Karen is, Whether in business, work, or personal relationships, how do you create an environment of physical, emotional, and psychological safety in order to move forward? SHARE BELOW! Bio: Karen is an Executive Coach and President of Karen Senteio Consulting, which focuses on inspired leading, working, and living. She has 30 years of corporate experience and close to 5 years of work in non-profits in leadership, project management, change management, facilitating, and COURAGING. Karen advocates for life reinvention and believes that a leader must be willing to change their mind and unlearn as well as learn. She works with leaders ready to UNAPOLOGETICALLY harness their greatest power for the greatest good, activating their internal compass to embody INSPIRATION and COURAGE as a daily practice. Learn more about Karen: www.KarenSenteio.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 30: Andrea Waltz & Go For No! Yes Is The Destination, No Is How You Get There For this episode, Andrea walks me through what the Go For No! strategy means and how it has evolved since she and her husband co-wrote the book over a decade ago. Although the book was written with business and sales in mind, our conversation on Going For No, failure, and rejection illustrates the evolution of that mindset into so much more -- a mindset of self-care and getting what we need. Some highlights we touch upon: Andrea breaks down what the Five Failure Levels are. The connection that crime scene investigation has to Going For No in sales. How our survival instincts play into our fears: “I’m warm, safe, and dry. This one ‘No’ is not changing my state right now.” Mentioned or Applicable Books: The Aladdin Factor: How To Ask For What You Want – And Get It by Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Andrea is, Do you ever wonder what your fear of “no” will cost you? Bio: Andrea Waltz is the co-founder of Courage Crafters, Inc. and co-author of the best-selling book, Go for No! Yes is the Destination, No is How You Get There. For almost two decades, Andrea has been teaching people in virtually every business and industry how to think and feel differently about failure, rejection, and the word, “no” to achieve their goals and dreams. A member of one of the highest regarded professional groups of women in sales, Women Sales Pros, Andrea is considered a top sales influencer online, featured on lists curated by Hubspot, Salesforce.com, Live Hive and many others. The book, Go for No! reached #1 on Amazon’s “Sales & Selling” list in 2010, and has remained in the top 50 Sales books for the last 12 years, selling nearly 500,000 copies. The “Go for No” strategy has been featured in online and offline magazines and journals including Success Magazine, Inc., Forbes, and many others. Today, "go for no" is a well-known methodology in the world of sales and widely recognized as the singular best program that deals with rejection in business. Learn more about Andrea’s work: www.GoForNo.com www.GoForNoKeynote.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/GoforNo Facebook: www.facebook.com/Goforno Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/GoforNo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goforno YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Goforno Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/goforno/ Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 29: Nike Anani & Lifetime to Legacy: A New Vision for Multigenerational Family Businesses For this episode, Nike Anani guides me through the nature of her work as a Succession Specialist who guides families in preparing family businesses to live on beyond this generation, the next and those that follow. Her career journey began after returning to her homeland of Nigeria, after having lived and studied abroad, to move the family business forward. What I took away from this great conversation is how we can all consider that successional mindset, to declare and work for what will be here beyond our work today and that of the generation that follows us. There’s being reactive to the world around us, and then there’s being proactive about what steps we’re going to take, how we’re going to work together, and how our name and mission will live – and thrive – beyond our lifetimes. Some highlights we touch upon in this episode: How society can tend to be about façade and veneers, but trauma can bring something beautiful, and that the failures and hardships allow us to learn so much – even in the family business. How perspective can be everything, allowing us to realize what we have when we step away and come back with fresh and opened eyes. The writing process and what worked for Nike The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Nike is, How do you go about setting up your legacy, whether individually, as a business, or as a family? SHARE BELOW! Bio: Nike is an international award-winning entrepreneur, succession specialist, and a legacy planning expert for future-focused business families. She is on a mission to help businesses move from lifetime to legacy, such that they build family enterprises of the future. Nike is the Author of "Lifetime to Legacy: A New Vision for Multigenerational Family Businesses,” She is the co-founder of African Family Firms, a pan-African association of family businesses that is focused on promoting generational wealth and generational legacies on the African continent, and host of "The Connected Generation" podcast - a top-10 Family Business podcast globally that is dedicated to NextGens that are seeking how to navigate building generational enterprises whilst leaving an impact. Nike has a global outlook, having lived and worked in three continents. She is a champion for diversity, passionate about improving age and gender diversity and inclusion in business families Learn more about Nike: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikeanani/ Website: https://nikeanani.com/ The Connected Generation Podcast: https://wavve.link/connectedgeneration Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 28: Gramps Jeffrey & I Don’ Want To Turn 3 For this episode, multi-title author Gramps Jeffrey walks me through what it was that prompted him to write his book. Simply put, it came out of spending more time with his grandkids, watching the way they think, negotiate, and navigate their way through life. Gramps is a veteran of business, spending decades in retail and sales – leading to his writing the book “The Secrets of Retailing…How to Beat Wal-Mart”  -- and catching the wave and harnessing the power of the internet in its infancy to both launch and consult for online businesses. Between his career in business and his love of being a grandfather, he can see the intertwined relationship between those early, formative years of childhood and how we can shape – or at least try to guide – how our society’s kids think. I loved having this conversation because I’m growing more fascinated about what the early years of our lives, even this young, mean for who we are later. Some highlights we touch upon in this episode: The behavior of children and how it translates to later in life, work, and business. How we lose ourselves (sometimes our best attributes) after adolescence. The power of learning from our mistakes, even if it takes a generation. The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Gramps is, How do you both proactively impact the lives of the youth around you while also learning from them? Bio: Gramps Jeffrey is the pen name for Marc Joseph whose first book “The Secrets of Retailing…How to Beat Wal-Mart” was written to help entrepreneurs and small businesses compete against the big guys. Arianna Huffington read his book and asked him to contribute to the Huffington Post, and so he has written over 100 articles about small businesses, education, the homeless and several other nonprofit topics dear to all of us. Gramps and his lovely wife Cathy live in Scottsdale, Arizona where 2 of his grandchildren live. 2 more live in Austin, Texas and 2 in Orlando, Florida. Learn more about Gramps: https://grampsjeffrey.com/ https://idontwanttoturn3.com/ https://turning3.net/ https://www.facebook.com/grampsjeffrey/?business_id=193853812379998 https://twitter.com/AuthorGramps https://www.instagram.com/authorgrampsjeffrey/ https://www.pinterest.com/hellogrampsjeffrey/_created/ [email protected] Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 27: Prati Kaufman & The Alchemist For this episode, Prati, a Marketing & Human Energy Expert – and close friend, collaborator, coach, and confidant of mine – breaks down The Alchemist with me. Books were her gateway to the world, both while growing up in India and in her travels across the globe before coming to the U.S. She shares how it was an innate curiosity with the support of family and community that influenced her to seek more, to discover what was always beyond that moment. She shares how she read this book later in life, but how it solidified her path, showing her the meaning in each step to now – and beyond. (It's about time I got around to this book. I've been hearing about it for years, with its consummate inclusion on top ten read lists.) Prati and I have covered various themes that are touched upon in The Alchemist in our podcast Mindset Talks: Life Beyond The Checkboxes, such as fear of failure, destiny, motivation. So many of our ongoing conversations run parallel to the spirit of the book – What are we here for? What are we meant for? What is our personal legend? (Check out the latest episode here: https://bit.ly/3auuFTW) Some highlights we touch upon in this episode: The fact that sometimes you don’t understand what you’re going through until you look back on your path at a later time. What it means to really live each day intentionally. The power of childlike innocence, wonder, and imagination, which we tend to have programmed out of us. Books Mentioned: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig Harry and the Terrible Whatzit by Dick Gackenbach The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Prati is, What is it we’re doing about our own personal dreams? Are we pursuing or forfeiting it/them? What is your dream? Bio: Prati is a leading Global Marketing and Human Energy Expert based out of West Hartford, CT. After 20+ years in marketing across the globe working with everyone from local entrepreneurs to Fortune 500+ corporations, she quit her job four years ago. In those four years she has grown from a one-person company to a full-service marketing agency. Her agency helps small business owners get in front of the right audience with laser-focused, integrated marketing Learn more about Prati: www.pratikaufman.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 26: Cornell Thomas& Oh, The Places You’ll Go! For this episode, Cornell, an international speaker and multi-title author, walks me through what this book means to him. It’s funny that he and I both shared the same reaction when the book was first introduced to us as impactful – to Cornell by one of his students years back and to me a few weeks ago when Cornell mentioned he wanted to cover it in this episode: Wait, what did this guy just say? But it all make sense. There’s big heart, great positivity, intentional impact, and an endless work ethic in Cornell’s story. He’s out to change the world in his own way, on his own terms, in his own skin, telling his own story. No one else’s. Now having learned his story, it makes sense that he’s the creator of the Positivity Summit. And his story has been crafted through up’s and downs, trials and tribulations, matching the journey in the book. One theme covered here, similar to that of other episodes, is how much we’re indoctrinated with a life of curriculum in our schooling, to get us ready for the work we’ll be asked to do by our employers, but we’re not empowered with the true lessons to prepare for what life really is – a journey of trial-and-error. This book does just that. It’s a jumping off point, a foundation, to that discussion. Some highlights from this episode: Legacy. We don’t have a lot of time on this rock. What it is that makes me and Cornell “griots” with a deep love of storytelling. How losing something you depended on every day can actually change your life. How a path different than what we desired the most can create a even bigger positive ripple effect. Books Mentioned: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (Covered with Prati Kaufman in an upcoming episode) Who Moved My Cheese? By Dr. Spencer Johnson (Covered with guest Kisha Zullo in Episode 25) Game of Death: A Survivor's Guide to Entrepreneurship by Cornell himself The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Cornell is, Have you been made aware of the up’s and down’s, the good, the bad, and the ugly that is life? SHARE BELOW! Bio: Cornell Thomas is an international speaker, multiple title author, mindset coach, speaker trainer, podcast host, basketball trainer, creator of the Positivity Summit, husband, and most importantly, father of two. Thank you to both Kisha Zullo and Maryann Cruz for introducing me to Cornell. Learn more about Cornell: www.CornellThomas.com Cornell will be speaking at the WIB Summit this Friday, May 20th: www.wibsummit.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

For this episode, entrepreneur Kisha Zullo breaks down the book and draws parallels between its lessons and the journey her career and life have taken. I’ve been hearing about the WIB Summit for years and have seen the resources Kisha and her partners have provided for its attendees in the areas of leadership, money management, entrepreneurship, and personal development. It creates a major ripple effect in the lives of the attendees as well as into our own network and community. I love how Kisha walks us through what it took to begin her journey of self-discovery – even before knowing what she wanted to do. That it took her own imagination from childhood, when she would create events and experiences for her family while still under 10 years of age, and support from both great bosses and wonderful family to carry out the work she’s meant to be doing in event planning, creating great experiences for all involved. Some highlights from this episode: How the show Dallas plays into Kisha’s current work Why great clients need to be celebrated How the WIB Summit was almost called the WIBPTBTTAB Summit Books Mentioned: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck The Leadership Challenge by Barry Posner and James Kouzes Q: The Autobiography by Quincy Jones The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Kisha is, How is it you proactively work to see what’s out there for you, fighting complacency and comfort to expand your comfort zone? Bio: Kisha is a multi-passionate entrepreneur.  She uses her 25 plus years of experience as an event professional to connect female leaders who are also entrepreneurs to the people and resources that they need to succeed through her annual Women in Business Summit.  She is the go-to event planner for busy executives who hire her event planning company, Events of Joy, to assist with the planning and execution of their signature live or virtual events.  She is a coach and cheerleader to an all-star team of women as a Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant.  Her favorite quote is “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” African Proverb Learn more about Kisha and register for the WIB Summit here: www.wibsummit.com http://www.eventsofjoy.com http://www.kishazullo.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

For this episode, cage-rattler, prolific author, and leadership advisor Dr. Bridget Cooper walks me through her career journey, from empowering her coaching clients to that same work taking on even greater meaning when she experienced life-altering changes after a traumatic motor vehicle accident. In her book Pain Rebel, Dr. B. shares the lessons of engaging and working through pain, utilizing both accountability and compassion, working from her own traumatic experience to enhance the purpose of the book. She shows – and has lived – that we can look to our past, no matter what it looks like or how unideal it may be, to learn, move on, and thrive. Who knew talking about pain could be so fun? In this conversation, we talk about how pain is a human experience we’ve all gone through in our own way. The more we talk about it, the more we can understand and get out of our own way. Some highlights from this episode: Why rage and other emotions we may consider unsettling are actually beautiful. The 3 Questions to ask in determining if you’ve lived your best life. “Borgiveness” – Dr. B’s take on forgiveness without the compromise The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Dr. B. is, No matter their level of severity, what do you do with the pain, trauma, and negativity you’ve experienced in your life? Bio: Dr. Cooper is a cage rattler. Change strategist. Thought shifter. Best-selling author of six books on communication, conflict, change, and empowerment. Her latest, “Pain Rebel” offers us a roadmap out of being buried by pain with no purpose and into empowerment and abundance. Her ambitious mission is to change the world, one hopeful life at a time. Born onto the welfare system and raised by wolves, she’s made her own success, one broken fingernail at a time. She knows heartache and hopelessness and she also knows the power of the mind and spirit to carry you upward. Bottom line: “Dr. B” sculpts the leader in all of us by making us better people first. Her clients run the gamut from the Girl Scouts to Vietnam Vets. From universities to jails. From insurance companies to massage therapists. Her secret mission is to bring all of these groups together someday and see what fun transpires! Learn more about Dr. B: · www.drbridgetcooper.com(primary) · Email - [email protected] · www.amazon.com/author/drbridgetcooper · YouTube - TEDx talk: https://youtu.be/XtsAuqu-TxI · Instagram: @drbridgetcooper · Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrBridgetCooper/ and https://www.facebook.com/bridget.cannoncooper Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

For this episode, muti-faceted, multi-talented, and fellow multipotentialite Randye Kaye walks me through the heart of her own book on happiness and what it took for her – through the up’s and down’s of her own life – to come to the realization of how much we can really enhance our own happiness. We can’t do what the self-help and development gurus suggest for us without a sound foundation of our own fulfillment to work upon. We all want to build more in our lives, working toward goals and dreams, but without that authentic and resilient foundation, anything we build today can more easily cave into itself and be undone tomorrow. I love that message most of all from my conversation with Randye: We need to have a sound foundation before we go out and try all the advice that’s out there for how to achieve more. I’ve seen it in my coaching when clients have finally gone back to who they’ve always been – their values, needs, and wants – and what they had forgotten and forfeited, but return to again, feeling more authentic and fulfilled. Some highlights from this episode: From Randye: “The combination of being comfortable with yourself -- that we’re more than just our achievements -- and that we’re lovable even being stripped of our achievements and titles, is also important at the end of the day with how your life has been lived.” The Stephen Sondheim quote, ““Anything you do, let it come from you. Then it will be new.” comes up and is pertinent to our conversation. This is a major lesson we need to hear and understand when it comes to how we express ours views in life. We learn what the acronym B.R.E.A.T.H.E stands for. This kind of happiness is not about Toxic Positivity – that everything has to work out 24/7. The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Randye is, Do you know what happiness really means to you, what your own definition and feeling of it are? About Randye: Connect, Create, Communicate - that’s the thread that runs through Randye’s work as radio personality, improv and stage actor, drama teacher, humorist, podcast host, writer, motivational speaker, voice talent, and audiobook narrator. Her latest book, Happier Made Simple: Choose Your Words. Change Your Life. reached #1 International Bestseller status on Launch Day. Her previous bestselling title, Ben Behind His Voices: One Family’s Journey from the Chaos of Schizophrenia to Hope, was nominated for a Publisher’s Weekly Award. She lives with her family in Connecticut. Learn more about Randy, her work, and her book at www.randyekaye.com and www.happiermadesimple.com Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

For this episode, the second of my discussions covering The Bible, Pastor Brown talks about the real messages in this sacred text, those that seem to get lost and even hijacked (my word) in the chatter and noise of today’s society. Through his early ties to Christianity via his father, who is also a Pastor, and his own work with youth, running a faith-based non-profit, teaching as a professor, and co-hosting his own podcast, Jordan has grown and enhanced his engagement and study of society and community, seeking out conversations to understand what it is people might need. Because he is realistic, understanding that a growing number of people is turning away from religion and that his own faith has been misinterpreted and misunderstood, he seeks to help people find its true meaning and applicability to all our lives, meeting people where they are. Some highlights from this episode: -- What TGI Friday’s (yes, the restaurant) has to do with empowering the effectiveness of Jordan’s pastoral duties. -- That it’s okay to wrestle with that in which we believe. We shouldn’t pledge blindly to a belief without questioning for our own understanding. Faith in anything doesn’t have to be all or nothing, perfectly tied up and neat. Instead, it mimics life, which is about chaos and struggle. -- I realize how much of my own leadership foundation is built from my own exposure to the stories in The Bible when I was a child. The Bible was also covered in Episode 19 of the The Book Leads with Karen Hinds, but each of these conversations is just as powerful, with my partners in conversation providing different voices and vantage points, experiences and stories when it comes to how the book has impacted their understanding of our tumultuous human lives. The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Jordan is, Are you willing to learn for yourself what others have already claimed to master, to take on and understand for yourself that which can be a point of contention and disagreement? Jordan’s Bio: Jordan Brown is the Lead Pastor of [OV]Church in Norfolk, VA. He’s been in this position since October, and was previously the director of the Urban Renewal Center, a faith based social justice non-profit. In addition to this, he’s a professor at Wave Leadership College in Virginia Beach as well as co-host of the I-2-I Podcast (short for Inspired to Inspire). He’s resides in Suffolk, VA where he lives with his wife, Michón and their dog, Little Bear the Muppet. He is glad to serve as a confrontational peace maker and conversationalist. Learn more about Jordan’s work: Inspired to Inspire (I-2-I) Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-2-i-inspired-to-inspire/id1464154967 Email: [email protected] Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck